A route to research
Highly Skilled Migrant / orientation year
Check the recognised sponsor, salary category and your permit requirements.
Before you apply
Check the employer, the work route and the salary rules before accepting an offer. Plan housing and arrival costs separately.
Check the recognised sponsor
For the Highly Skilled Migrant route, your employer must be recognised by the IND and apply for your permit. Check the public register and confirm support for your specific role.
Compare the correct salary figure
In 2026, the initial Highly Skilled Migrant thresholds are €5,942 gross per month from age 30 and €4,357 below age 30, excluding holiday allowance. The €3,122 reduced threshold has separate eligibility rules. Renewals and employer changes need their own check.
Consider the EU Blue Card separately
The EU Blue Card has its own qualification or experience, contract and income requirements. Unlike the Highly Skilled Migrant route, it does not require the employer to be an IND-recognised sponsor.
Keep tax relief separate from work permission
The expat scheme, often called the 30% facility, is not automatic and does not grant work rights. You and your employer must meet the tax authority’s conditions and apply. Do not base your budget on unconfirmed tax relief.
Prepare for arrival
Check the registration process for your length of stay, the documents needed for a BSN and your health insurance duties. Arrange housing you can afford and confirm that you can register at the address.
Get the practical offer in writing
Confirm the working language, start date, holiday allowance, relocation support and who handles each application. You can find independent specialists for practical help before or after an offer.
Keep your research current
The IND publishes Highly Skilled Migrant salary thresholds, including the under-30 category. Check the category that applies to you.
Good to know
Do I need a diploma evaluation?
Qualification checks depend on the work route and profession. Check whether a diploma evaluation or professional recognition is required; nationality alone does not decide this. Immigration rules change often. This page is general information only (not legal advice). Confirm requirements with an official source or qualified adviser.
Is Dutch mandatory?
It depends on the role. Read the listing and ask the employer which language and level are required. Immigration rules change often. This page is general information only (not legal advice). Confirm requirements with an official source or qualified adviser.
Where are official visa rules?
Check the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) for authoritative requirements. Immigration rules change often. This page is general information only (not legal advice). Confirm requirements with an official source or qualified adviser.
