10 Common Questions About Work Permits and Visas in The Netherlands

The Netherlands is always looking for talented professionals! If you would like to work in the Netherlands, there are specific permits you have to have, but which ones do you need? And how do you apply for them? We’ve put together a list of common questions expats have about visas and work permits in The Netherlands.

Is it easy to get a work permit in The Netherlands?

Well, that depends on several things. Is there a Dutch company willing to hire you? If so, then it’s much easier, especially if they are a recognized sponsor with the IND (Dutch immigration service) and willing to offer you an employment contract. Your nationality will also play a role in the process.

Do you have to have an employment contract with an employer or research institution in the Netherlands that is a recognized sponsor at the IND?

The answer here is ‘no’ because it’s still possible to come and work here with the help of a payroll service provider. Payroll service providers will already have the paperwork to employ you while you provide your services to the company. Payroll companies have loads of links with many companies where you can work. So if you’re stuck, reach out to Payingit International because they even help find you a nice job!

What are the income requirements for highly skilled knowledge migrants?

If you are 30 years or older, you will need to earn at least 4.612 euros gross per month (55.344k per year). If you are younger than 30 years, you will need to earn at least 3.381 euros gross per month (40.572 per year)

How long can I stay in the Netherlands, and what type of visa or permit do I need?

Less than 3 months

If you intend on staying for less than 3 months (and are working, i.e., not tourism), You need to apply for a short-stay visa. This option is perfect if you are visiting the Netherlands for business. You can apply at the Dutch embassy in your own country.

If you are a resident outside the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland, you need to get a TWV (tewerkstellingsvergunning). This is a regular work permit. You don’t need a residence permit, but you do need this work permit. Please note that only your employer can apply for one. You, as an employee, can’t.

Please note EEA citizens don’t need a visa to stay in the Netherlands for less than 3 months.

More than 3 months

You will have to apply for a long-stay visa. This is a residence permit, which we call the MVV (in Dutch, it stands for machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf). Even though you are staying in the Netherlands longer, you still have to put down your reason for being here when you apply. If you stay longer than three months, you can get a combined residence/work permit that is the GVVA. The website of the Dutch government states: “The GVVA is a residence permit with an additional document stating for which employer they are permitted to work and under which conditions.” Note that there are exceptions for certain groups of researchers, highly skilled migrants, and trainees. Also, since October 1, 2020, family members of foreign self-employed professionals no longer need a work permit.

I’ve recently graduated from a Dutch university, and I love it here. How can I stay longer and settle?

You can apply for a “zoekjaar” visa or “orientation year” within three years of graduating. Before you apply, you must have a diploma or a declaration from your university (Dutch university or in the top 200 of the world) that you have fulfilled all the requirements for earning your degree. Your diploma and a valid passport are the only things the IND requires to apply for the orientation year status.

How do I apply for an MVV Visa?

You can apply for an MVV visa at a Dutch embassy or consulate or through a host in The Netherlands. Hosts are generally employers, families, or educational institutions. According to the Dutch authorities website, citizens of Andorra, Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, South Korea, UK, USA, or Vatican City do not need an MVV but do need a permit. EEA/EU citizens do not need an MVV.

Can I work in The Netherlands without a work permit?

In most cases, nationals outside the EEA and Switzerland will need a work permit.

How do I find a sponsor in The Netherlands?

Luckily the Dutch government keeps a public record of all the approved sponsors. Keep in mind that for a company to become a sponsor, it has to have been approved by the IND and meet certain criteria.

Keep in mind that if a company is not in the registry (and hence not a recognized sponsor), it’s a good idea to approach a company like Payingit International, as they can often help companies get that sponsorship and bridge the gap for the company, so they are more incentivized to hire you.

How does a company become a recognized sponsor?

To employ researchers or highly migrants, a company is obligated to be recognized as a sponsor. This process can be rather lengthy and involved, so many companies shy away from unless it’s essential for their business. The entire procedure is laid out on the Dutch government’s website. There’s even a nice video to help. If you are in HR or a manager and you would d like to have your company become a recognized sponsor, it’s advised to outsource that to the experts because of all the details and the time it takes. We’ve heard reports of it taking anywhere from a few months to over one year.

What is the EU Blue card?

Besides the Dutch highly skilled migrant scheme, there is a European one too: the EU Blue Card. To be eligible for an EU Blue Card, highly skilled migrants must:

• Earn the minimum of 5.160 euros gross per month
• Have a diploma at the Bachelor level recognized by the IDW

If you think after reading this: Oh my, I still don’t know where to start?! Payingit International is happy to help you with any questions you may have about your visa application, the 30% tax ruling, or your employer’s (maybe lack of) IND sponsorship.