Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Jobs | Apply Now
The Netherlands has built one of the most efficient skilled migration systems in Europe through its Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) scheme, locally known as the Kennismigrant route. The system is purpose-built for technology, engineering, finance, and life sciences professionals: no Labour Market Test, applications routed through recognised sponsors, and decisions usually delivered within weeks. From 1 January 2026, salary thresholds are up by around 4.5% in line with Dutch wage indexation.
The HSM scheme is the route of choice for major Dutch employers including ASML, Philips, Booking.com, Adyen, and Shell, all of which rely heavily on international knowledge workers. The Netherlands also offers the well-known 30% tax ruling, which gives qualifying expats a significant break on income tax during their first years in the country, capped at €262,000 of income for 2026.
Programme Overview
- Hiring Country: Netherlands
- Sponsoring Body: Dutch employers registered as IND recognised sponsors
- Education Required: Generally a degree, with experience also considered
- Annual Salary Range: From €4,357 (under 30) to €5,942+ per month (30 and over)
- Open To: Non-EU and non-EEA citizens
- Permit Validity: Up to 5 years, renewable
Why the Dutch Route Works
- Under 30 minimum salary: €4,357 gross per month (excluding 8% holiday allowance)
- 30 and over minimum salary: €5,942 gross per month (excluding 8% holiday allowance)
- Recent graduate (orientation year) threshold: €3,122 gross per month
- EU Blue Card alternative: €5,942 standard or €4,754 reduced
- 30% tax ruling for qualifying expats (capped at €262,000 in 2026)
- Family reunification: spouse and children join immediately
- Spouse work rights granted automatically
- Permanent residency available after 5 years
Salary Thresholds for 2026
| Permit Category | Minimum Gross Monthly Salary |
| Highly Skilled Migrant / ICT (30 and over) | €5,942 |
| Highly Skilled Migrant / ICT (under 30) | €4,357 |
| Reduced threshold (orientation year graduates) | €3,122 |
| EU Blue Card (standard) | €5,942 |
| EU Blue Card (reduced) | €4,754 |
Eligibility Checklist
- Job offer from an IND recognised sponsor.
- Salary meeting the relevant minimum threshold.
- Salary at market level for the role.
- Salary paid monthly to a Dutch bank account in your name.
- Passport valid for the duration of your stay.
- Valid health insurance.
Documents to Submit
- Valid passport
- Signed employment contract
- Educational qualifications (where required)
- Antecedents certificate (declaration of no criminal record)
- Sponsor declaration from your employer
- TB test results (for nationals of certain countries)
- Recent passport-sized photo
Sectors Hiring HSM Workers
- Technology and software development
- Engineering and semiconductor manufacturing
- Financial services and fintech
- Life sciences and pharmaceuticals
- Logistics and supply chain
- Renewable energy
Where to Find Sponsored Jobs
- IamExpat Jobs: https://www.iamexpat.nl/career/jobs-netherlands
- Indeed Netherlands: https://www.indeed.nl/
- LinkedIn Netherlands: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/
- Together Abroad: https://www.togetherabroad.nl/
- Public Register of Recognised Sponsors: https://ind.nl/en/public-register-recognised-sponsors
Application Walkthrough
- Find a recognised sponsor: Use the IND Public Register to find approved Dutch employers.
- Receive a job offer: Confirm the salary meets the relevant threshold.
- Sponsor files the application: Your employer submits everything to the IND.
- Receive your entry visa (MVV): Required for most non-EU citizens.
- Travel to the Netherlands: Pick up your residence permit and register at your municipality.
- Get your BSN number: Your tax and citizen number for working in the country.
Useful Links
- IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service): https://ind.nl/en
- Government of the Netherlands: https://www.government.nl/
Good luck with your application!