Key takeaways
  • The employer applies, and it must be an IND recognised sponsor.
  • In 2026 the salary must be at least €5,942 gross a month from age 30, or €4,357 under 30.
  • A lower threshold applies to recent graduates, including after the orientation year.
  • Processing for recognised sponsors is usually fast.

The Netherlands is one of the easiest countries in Europe for skilled hires once you have an offer, because the process is fast and English is widely used. The catch is the sponsor rule.

The rules in 2026

Who appliesThe employer
Employer statusIND recognised sponsor
Salary from age 30€5,942 gross a month
Salary under 30€4,357 gross a month
Recent graduatesA lower reduced criterion
LanguageNo Dutch required

The amounts exclude holiday allowance and are updated every January by the IND.

Only companies on the IND register of recognised sponsors can hire you as a highly skilled migrant. Before you apply, search the register. On my job board, jobs from these companies carry the tag IND recognised sponsor.

Steps

  1. Get an offer that meets the salary rule. Check the threshold for your age.
  2. The employer submits the application. You provide passport, degree and, if needed, antecedents certificate.
  3. Collect the entry visa (MVV) if your nationality needs one. Indian citizens need it.
  4. Travel, register with the municipality and collect your residence card. Then apply for the 30% ruling if eligible.

Common questions

Can I change employers?

Yes, to another recognised sponsor, as long as the new job meets the salary rule.

Can my partner work?

Yes, family members of highly skilled migrants can work.

Is the EU Blue Card an alternative?

Yes. It has a similar salary threshold in the Netherlands and helps if you may move within the EU later.

Free PDF: Netherlands: check any employer in 60 secondsDownload it free in under a minute, or send NL to @swapnil_in_germany on Instagram.

Sources

Written by Swapnil (Samadhan Mule)

I moved to Germany for my master's, collected more than 1,000 rejections, and then got multiple job offers within six months. I work in digital marketing in Germany and help international professionals get hired in Europe. Read my story.