Immigration > Residence permit

Residence permit

If you want to move to the Netherlands to work, your employer can become your sponsor for a residence permit. If you are still looking for a job and are highly educated there are many options.

Residence permit
Immigration: Residence permit

We explore in this section

Applying for a residence permit without a job

If you want to apply for a resident permit but don’t live in a country mentioned in the below countries you will need a Provisional residence permit (mvv). You can apply for both at a Dutch embassy in your county.

If you only need a residence permit, you apply to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) for this permit once you have arrived in the Netherlands.

When do you need a Provisional residence permit (mvv)

Do you want to live in the Netherlands for more than 90 days? You need to apply for a residence permit. One condition for a residence permit is a provisional residence permit (machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf or mvv). A Provisional residence permit (mvv) is a special visa that allows you to enter the Netherlands. You can apply for the mvv and the residence permit at the same time.

You don't need a Provisional residence permit when your nationality is from below countries. 

  • Australia
  • Canada
  • Japan
  • Monaco
  • New Zealand
  • Vatican City
  • United Kingdom
  • United States of America
  • South Korea
  • Switzerland, or
  • countries that are in the EU and EEA

Working as a Highly skilled migrant in the Netherlands

To work as a Highly skilled migrant in the Netherlands you need a contract with an employer or research institution in the Netherlands. This employer is a recognised sponsor by the IND, you are going to earn suffienct income (see next section) and the agreed wage is in accordance with market conditions.

​Highly skilled migrants 30 years or older ​€4,752 gross per month
​Highly skilled migrants younger than 30 years ​€3,484 gross per month
​Reduced salary criterion ​€2,497 gross per month
​European Blue Card ​€5,567 gross per month

This page was last updated: 01/03/2022.