Country guide · Netherlands
Working in the Netherlands: Highly Skilled Migrant permit
The Netherlands has one of Europe's most straightforward routes for international professionals — the Highly Skilled Migrant permit can be issued in as little as two weeks if the employer is a recognised sponsor.
Last updated May 1, 2026
Quick facts
Main route
Highly Skilled Migrant (kennismigrant)
Min. salary (under 30)
€3,672/month gross (2024)
Min. salary (30+)
€5,008/month gross (2024)
Employer requirement
Must be IND-recognised sponsor
Processing time
As fast as 2 weeks
30% ruling?
Tax benefit for qualifying expats
The Highly Skilled Migrant permit
The Highly Skilled Migrant (kennismigrant) permit is the Netherlands' fast-track route for international professionals. Your employer must be a recognised sponsor with the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service).
If your employer is a recognised sponsor, permit processing can be as fast as two weeks — one of the quickest in Europe. Check whether a company is a recognised sponsor on the IND website before applying.
Salary thresholds are reviewed annually. In 2024: €5,008/month gross for applicants 30 and over, and €3,672/month for those under 30. Reduced thresholds apply for graduates from Dutch universities within three years of graduation.
The 30% ruling — a significant benefit
The 30% ruling allows qualifying expats to receive up to 30% of their salary tax-free for the first 5 years. This effectively increases take-home pay significantly for higher earners.
To qualify: you must be recruited abroad, earn above a minimum threshold (€46,107/year in 2024 for most roles), and have lived more than 150km from the Dutch border for at least 16 of the 24 months before employment.
The Dutch government has periodically reviewed this benefit — confirm current rules with a tax adviser.
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