Highly Skilled Migrant Visa (Kennismigrant)
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 1825 days
- Processing time
- 14 days (recognized sponsors)
- Fee
- EUR 423
- Validity
- Duration of employment contract + 3 months (up to 5 years)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Employer must be an IND-recognized sponsor (recognition fee EUR 5,080 standard, EUR 2,539 for small businesses with 50 or fewer employees). The 30% tax ruling may apply, providing a tax-free allowance of 30% of gross salary for up to 5 years. MVV-exempt nationals (US, CA, AU, NZ, JP, KR, GB, MC, VA) can enter without MVV and apply for the residence permit directly in the Netherlands. 2026 salary thresholds: EUR 5,942/month (age 30+), EUR 4,357/month (under 30), EUR 3,122/month (reduced criterion for orientation year graduates).
Eligibility
-
Nationality
All non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals. Open to all nationalities.
-
Employment
Must have a valid employment contract with an IND-recognized sponsor employer meeting the minimum salary threshold for the applicant's age category.
Required status: Confirmed employment with IND-recognized sponsor
-
Financial
2026 minimum gross monthly salary: EUR 5,942 (age 30+), EUR 4,357 (under 30), or EUR 3,122 (reduced criterion for orientation year/zoekjaar graduates).
Minimum funds: EUR 4,357 - EUR 5,942/month
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 12
-
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Bank transfer; Amount: EUR 423
-
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
-
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.
Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No
How to apply
-
Document gathering
Employer gathers required documents: employment contract, passport copies, and any relevant diplomas.
-
Online application
The recognized sponsor employer submits the combined MVV and residence permit application to the IND online.
-
Fee payment
Pay the IND application fee of EUR 423.
-
Processing wait
IND processes the application. Processing time is typically 2 weeks for recognized sponsors.
-
Visa collection
Collect MVV sticker from Dutch embassy/consulate in country of residence (not required for MVV-exempt nationals).
-
Biometrics
After arrival, visit IND desk in the Netherlands to provide biometrics and collect residence permit card.