Netherlands highly skilled migrant permit
The Netherlands' highly skilled migrant permit requires an IND recognised sponsor, and its monthly salary thresholds are age-banded, exclude holiday allowance, and change every six months.
Core requirements
An employment contract with an employer or research institution in the Netherlands that is a sponsor recognised by the IND. Without that recognition the route does not exist.
Aged 30 and over: €5,942.00 gross per month, excluding holiday allowance.
Under 30: €4,357.00 gross per month, excluding holiday allowance.
Those who did the orientation year or graduated within the last three years use the reduced criterion of €3,122.00 gross per month, excluding holiday allowance.
The amounts are published in six-month windows, the current one running 1 July to 31 December 2026; the figure in force on the date of application governs.
Beyond the threshold amount, the agreed salary must also be in line with the market rate for the role.
The permit is valid for the same period as the contract or job, up to five years, and is a type I temporary regular residence permit.
Official sources
- Highly skilled migrantImmigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) · Reviewed 2026-09-06
- Required amounts income requirementsImmigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) · Reviewed 2026-09-06
How immigration works in Netherlands — the process in order, the current figures with their dates, and what commonly blocks an application.
General educational information only, not personalized immigration or legal advice. Requirements can change; confirm them with the responsible government authority before acting. Next scheduled review: 2026-12-06.