What is the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa?

The Highly Skilled Migrant Visa is designed to attract professionals with specialized skills to The Netherlands, facilitating their ability to live and work in the country.

Who can apply for this visa?

Foreign professionals with a job offer from an approved Dutch employer, and who meet specific salary thresholds, can apply for this visa.

Is an MVV needed for this visa?

Yes, an MVV (provisional residence permit) is usually required to enter The Netherlands if you're planning to stay longer than 90 days.

How long can I stay with this visa?

The duration of stay is typically linked to the duration of your employment contract but can be extended as long as you meet the visa conditions.

Can I bring my family?

Yes, your spouse, partner, and children under 18 can join you under family reunion regulations.

How long does the application process take?

The processing time for the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa usually ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, but it can vary.

Do I need health insurance?

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all residents in The Netherlands, including those on a Highly Skilled Migrant Visa.

What happens if my job ends?

If your job ends, you will have a period of three months to find new employment from a recognized sponsor or you'll have to leave The Netherlands.

Is there an age limit?

There's no specific age limit for the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa but you must meet the employment and salary criteria.

Can I switch employers?

Yes, but your new employer must also be a recognized sponsor and a new application will be required.

The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Guide

Find out everything you need to know about The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa application process and requirements.

What Is the The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa?

The Highly Skilled Migrant Visa for The Netherlands is designed for foreign professionals who possess valuable skills and expertise that will contribute significantly to the Dutch economy. Aimed primarily at highly educated individuals, tech experts, researchers, and executives, this visa permits you to live and work in The Netherlands. The key benefit of this visa is that it allows you to bring your family members along, providing a holistic and enriching experience for everyone involved.

Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Requirements for The Netherlands

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your Highly Skilled Migrant Visa for The Netherlands. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Approved Sponsor
You must have a job offer from a Dutch employer who has been recognized as an approved sponsor by the IND.
Salary Threshold
You must meet the minimum salary requirements set by the Dutch government for highly skilled migrants. This is to ensure you can support yourself sufficiently.
Valid Passport
A valid passport is essential not just for the visa application but also for legal residence in The Netherlands.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for all residents, including those with a Highly Skilled Migrant Visa.
Proof of Qualification
Depending on the nature of your job, you might need to provide proof of your qualifications or educational credentials.

How to Apply for The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa

Understand the process of applying for an The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Find an Approved Sponsor
The first step is to secure a job offer from a Dutch employer who is recognized as an approved sponsor by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). This is crucial as only approved sponsors can submit an application for the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa on your behalf.
Submit Application through Employer
Once you have a job offer, your employer will submit the visa application to the IND. They will need to provide relevant documents, including your employment contract showcasing eligibility concerning salary thresholds.
Await IND Decision
After the application has been submitted, the IND will review your case. If everything is in order, the processing generally takes about 2-4 weeks.
Collect your MVV (Entry Visa)
If your application is approved, you'll receive an MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf) which acts as a provisional residence permit. This enables you to enter The Netherlands.
Register with Municipality
Upon arrival, you need to register with the local municipality (Gemeente) to get your residence permit. Also, don't forget to register with your local healthcare provider and get your BSN (Citizen Service Number).

Useful The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Resources

Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)

Government of the Netherlands – Immigration

Expat Centers Netherlands

Official Website of The Netherlands

The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Advice

When considering the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa for The Netherlands, ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria and have all necessary documents ready. It’s advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or an expert to avoid any hassles or delays. Keep in mind that your Dutch employer has to be an approved sponsor, so verify their credentials before initiating the process. This will make your transition smoother and strengthen your application.

The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Guide

What Is the The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa?

Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Requirements for The Netherlands

Approved Sponsor

Salary Threshold

Valid Passport

Health Insurance

Proof of Qualification

How to Apply for The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa

Find an Approved Sponsor

Submit Application through Employer

Await IND Decision

Collect your MVV (Entry Visa)

Register with Municipality

Useful The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Resources

The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

The Netherlands Passport Details and Ranking 2024