How to Apply for a Work Visa in the Netherlands (2025 Guide)

Do you need a work visa?

Before you start the application process, check your status. If you are a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you do not need a work visa or residence permit to work in the Netherlands. You can start working immediately.

For everyone else (non-EU citizens), a work permit is mandatory. The most common route for professionals is the Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) visa.

Step 1: Find the right job (and sponsor)

Unlike some countries where you get a visa first and then find a job, the Netherlands works the other way around. You need a job offer first.

Crucial detail: Not every Dutch company can hire you. Ideally, you should look for a company that is a Recognized Sponsor (Erkend Referent) with the IND (Dutch Immigration Service).

• Why? Recognized sponsors can fast-track your application (often within 2-3 weeks).
• Where to look: Use LinkedIn, Indeed, or check the IND Public Register of Recognized Sponsors.

Step 2: Check the Salary Criteria (2025 Updates)

To qualify as a Highly Skilled Migrant in 2025, your gross monthly salary (excluding holiday allowance) must meet specific thresholds. These are strict requirements:

Note: If you do not meet these salary criteria, your employer must apply for a regular work permit (GVVA), which requires proving they couldn’t find a European candidate first. This is a much harder process.

Step 3: Gather your documents

Once you have the offer, your employer will typically start the application for you. You will need to provide them with digital copies of:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
• Antecedents Certificate: A form where you declare you have no criminal history.
• Diploma (optional): Often required for verification, though not always mandatory for the visa itself if the salary requirement is met.
• Legalized Documents: Depending on your country of origin, you might need a legalized birth certificate or marriage certificate (apostille) for city registration later.

Step 4: The Application & MVV

Your employer submits the application to the IND.

• The TEV Procedure: Usually, the employer applies for both the entry visa (MVV) and the residence permit (VVR) simultaneously.
• Wait time: If your employer is a Recognized Sponsor, the decision often takes only 2 to 4 weeks. For regular applications, it can take up to 90 days.

Step 5: Arrival and Permit Collection

Once approved:

1. Collect MVV: You pick up your entry sticker at the Dutch embassy in your home country.
2. Travel: You enter the Netherlands.
3. Collect Permit: You visit an IND desk to pick up your official residence permit card.
4. Register: You register at your local municipality (Gemeente) to get your BSN (Citizen Service Number), which you need to open a bank account and get paid.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Dutch work visa cost in 2025?

The application fee for a Highly Skilled Migrant visa is approximately € 405 (2025 rate). This fee is usually paid by the employer.

Can my partner work in the Netherlands?

Yes. If you hold a Highly Skilled Migrant visa, your spouse or registered partner is also allowed to work freely in the Netherlands without needing a separate work permit.

What is the 30% ruling?

This is a tax advantage for highly skilled expats where 30% of your gross salary is tax-free. In 2025, the minimum taxable salary required to qualify is € 46,660 (or € 35,468 if under 30 with a master’s degree).