Visa requirements

Netherlands

General visa requirements for travelling to Netherlands. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Work / Immigration visa (Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar) - Dutch Graduates)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
365 days
Processing time
Up to 90 days
Fee
EUR 254
Validity
1 year (non-renewable)
Entry
Multiple entry

Also available to PhD graduates and post-doctoral researchers who completed their research in the Netherlands or at a recognized institution abroad. The orientation year can only be used once. When transitioning to a highly skilled migrant visa after the orientation year, a reduced salary threshold of EUR 3,122/month applies (2026). Must apply within 3 years of graduation.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    All non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who have completed a master's, post-doctoral, or doctoral programme.

  • Age

    Must apply within 3 years of graduation. No specific age limit.

    Max age: 0; Min age: 0

  • Purpose of visit

    Must have completed a master's degree, PhD, or post-doctoral research at a Dutch institution or a top-200 ranked international university (Times Higher Education, QS, or Shanghai Academic rankings).

    Includes
    • Search for employment or start a business

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 12

  • Proof of funds

    Accepted forms: Bank statements, savings proof; Minimum amount: Sufficient means for orientation year

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Bank transfer; Amount: EUR 254

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Gather degree certificate/diploma, transcript, passport, and proof of financial means.

  2. Online application

    Submit application online through the IND portal. If already in the Netherlands, apply directly. If abroad, apply through the Dutch embassy/consulate.

  3. Fee payment

    Pay IND application fee of EUR 254.

  4. Processing wait

    IND processes the application within 90 days.

  5. Visa collection

    If applying from abroad, collect MVV sticker from Dutch embassy/consulate.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometrics at IND desk in the Netherlands to collect residence permit card.

Sign in to apply

Work / Immigration visa (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
730 days
Processing time
28-42 days
Fee
EUR 423
Validity
2 years (renewable for 5 years)
Entry
Multiple entry

The DAFT visa is uniquely favorable: low investment threshold (EUR 4,500), no Dutch language requirement, spouse can work freely in the Netherlands without a separate work permit. The business must be registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK) and actively generate revenue from the Netherlands. US citizens are MVV-exempt so can enter the Netherlands without MVV and apply directly at the IND.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    Exclusively available to United States citizens holding a valid US passport.

    Eligible countries: United States of America

  • Purpose of visit

    Must intend to operate a self-employed business in the Netherlands. Cannot combine with regular paid employment.

    Includes
    • Self-employed business operation
  • Financial

    Minimum investment of EUR 4,500 in a Dutch business bank account. Must demonstrate ability to generate income from self-employment.

    Minimum funds: EUR 4,500

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 12

  • Proof of funds

    Accepted forms: Dutch business bank account statement; Minimum amount: EUR 4,500 in Dutch business bank account

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Bank transfer; Amount: EUR 423 (main applicant), EUR 254 (spouse), EUR 85 (child)

  • Business plan

    Provide a business plan showing the activity, funding, market and expected costs.

    Minimum investment: EUR 4,500; Must include financials: Yes

  • Private health insurance

    Coverage territory: Netherlands; Minimum coverage: Dutch basic health insurance (basisverzekering)

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Register business with Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK), open Dutch business bank account, deposit EUR 4,500, prepare business plan.

  2. Online application

    Submit application at the IND in the Netherlands (US citizens are MVV-exempt and can apply in person).

  3. Fee payment

    Pay IND application fee of EUR 423.

  4. Biometrics

    Provide biometrics at the IND desk.

  5. Processing wait

    IND processes the application. Typically takes 4-6 weeks.

  6. Visa collection

    Collect the residence permit card from the IND desk.

Sign in to apply

Work / Immigration visa (Intra-Corporate Transferee (ICT) Permit)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
1095 days
Processing time
14-90 days
Fee
EUR 423
Validity
Up to 3 years (managers/specialists) or 1 year (trainees)
Entry
Multiple entry

Based on EU ICT Directive 2014/66/EU. After the first ICT permit in an EU member state, mobility to other EU member states is facilitated. The transferee must have been employed by the company for at least 3 months (managers/specialists) or 1 month (trainees) prior to the transfer. 2026 salary thresholds: EUR 5,942/month (age 30+), EUR 4,357/month (under 30).

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    All non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals being transferred within a multinational company.

  • Employment

    Must be a current employee of the multinational company being transferred in the role of manager, specialist, or trainee. Must have been employed by the company for at least 3 months (managers/specialists) or 1 month (trainees).

    Required status: Current employee being transferred (manager/specialist/trainee)

  • Financial

    Remuneration must meet the minimum salary threshold: EUR 5,942/month (age 30+) or EUR 4,357/month (under 30) in 2026.

    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

  1. Document gathering

    Employer gathers assignment letter, proof of prior employment, passport copies, and salary details.

  2. Online application

    Recognized sponsor employer submits the application to the IND.

  3. Fee payment

    Pay IND application fee of EUR 423.

  4. Processing wait

    IND processes the application. Standard processing up to 90 days.

  5. Visa collection

    Collect MVV from Dutch embassy/consulate (MVV-exempt nationals skip this step).

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometrics at IND desk after arrival in the Netherlands.

Sign in to apply

Work / Immigration visa (Startup Visa)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
365 days
Processing time
Up to 90 days
Fee
EUR 423
Validity
1 year
Entry
Multiple entry

The facilitator must be approved by the RVO and provides mentoring and support. The business plan is assessed by the RVO for innovation and viability. After the 1-year startup phase, the entrepreneur must transition to a different residence permit (typically self-employed). The startup must offer an innovative product, service, or technology.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    All non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals.

  • Purpose of visit

    Must have a genuinely innovative startup concept and an approved facilitator registered with the RVO.

    Includes
    • Launch an innovative startup in the Netherlands
  • Financial

    Must have sufficient funds equivalent to 70% of the Dutch minimum wage per month of stay.

    Minimum funds: EUR 15,000-20,000

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 12

  • Proof of funds

    Accepted forms: Bank statements, savings proof; Minimum amount: EUR 15,000-20,000 (70% of Dutch minimum wage for 1 year)

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Bank transfer; Amount: EUR 423

  • Business plan

    Provide a business plan showing the activity, funding, market and expected costs.

    Minimum investment: N/A - assessed by RVO on innovation; Must include financials: Yes

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Secure an approved facilitator, prepare business plan, gather financial documentation.

  2. Online application

    Facilitator or applicant submits the combined MVV and residence permit application to the IND.

  3. Fee payment

    Pay IND application fee of EUR 423.

  4. Processing wait

    IND processes the application. Can take up to 90 days.

  5. Visa collection

    Collect MVV sticker from Dutch embassy/consulate (MVV-exempt nationals skip this).

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometrics at IND desk in the Netherlands.

Sign in to apply

Work / Immigration visa (European Blue Card (EU Blauwe Kaart))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
1460 days
Processing time
Up to 90 days
Fee
EUR 423
Validity
Up to 4 years
Entry
Multiple entry

Key advantage over kennismigrant: employer does not need to be a recognized sponsor, and the Blue Card facilitates transfer to other EU member states after 12 months. After 33 months of legal residence with an EU Blue Card, you can apply for an EU long-term residence permit. 2026 minimum salary: EUR 5,937/month. Reduced threshold for recent Dutch graduates: EUR 4,751/month (within 3 years of graduation).

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    All non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals.

  • Employment

    Must have an employment contract of at least 12 months with a salary meeting or exceeding the EU Blue Card threshold (EUR 5,937/month in 2026).

    Required status: Employment contract of at least 12 months

  • Financial

    Minimum gross monthly salary of EUR 5,937 (2026), or EUR 4,751 for recent Dutch graduates within 3 years of graduation.

    Minimum funds: EUR 5,937/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

  1. Document gathering

    Gather employment contract, higher education diploma (at least 3-year degree), passport, and CV.

  2. Online application

    Submit application to the IND. The employer or the applicant can submit the application.

  3. Fee payment

    Pay the IND application fee of EUR 423.

  4. Processing wait

    IND processes the application within 90 days.

  5. Visa collection

    Collect MVV sticker from Dutch embassy/consulate (not required for MVV-exempt nationals).

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometrics at IND desk in the Netherlands and collect residence permit card.

Sign in to apply

Work / Immigration visa (Highly Skilled Migrant Visa (Kennismigrant))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

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

  1. Document gathering

    Employer gathers required documents: employment contract, passport copies, and any relevant diplomas.

  2. Online application

    The recognized sponsor employer submits the combined MVV and residence permit application to the IND online.

  3. Fee payment

    Pay the IND application fee of EUR 423.

  4. Processing wait

    IND processes the application. Processing time is typically 2 weeks for recognized sponsors.

  5. Visa collection

    Collect MVV sticker from Dutch embassy/consulate in country of residence (not required for MVV-exempt nationals).

  6. Biometrics

    After arrival, visit IND desk in the Netherlands to provide biometrics and collect residence permit card.

Sign in to apply

Work / Immigration visa (Self-Employed Residence Permit)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay
730 days
Processing time
Up to 90 days
Fee
EUR 423
Validity
2 years (renewable)
Entry
Multiple entry

This is the general self-employed permit available to all nationalities except US citizens who qualify for the more favorable DAFT visa. The RVO assessment uses a points system covering three categories (personal experience, business plan, added value to Dutch economy) with a minimum of 90 points required out of 300.

Eligibility

  • Nationality

    All non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals (US citizens should use the DAFT visa which has lower requirements).

  • Financial

    Must demonstrate ability to generate sufficient income from self-employment. Minimum average gross profit of EUR 1,698/month.

    Minimum funds: EUR 1,698/month

  • Purpose of visit

    Must score at least 90 out of 300 points on the RVO assessment covering personal experience, business plan quality, and added value to the Dutch economy.

    Includes
    • Self-employment in the Netherlands

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 12

  • Proof of funds

    Accepted forms: Financial projections, bank statements; Minimum amount: EUR 1,698/month average gross profit

  • Visa fee payment

    Accepted methods: Bank transfer; Amount: EUR 423

  • Curriculum vitae

    Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.

  • Business plan

    Provide a business plan showing the activity, funding, market and expected costs.

    Minimum investment: Assessed by RVO on 300-point scale; Must include financials: Yes

How to apply

  1. Document gathering

    Prepare business plan, financial projections, CV, register with Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK).

  2. Online application

    Submit combined MVV and residence permit application to the IND.

  3. Fee payment

    Pay IND application fee of EUR 423.

  4. Processing wait

    IND and RVO process the application. RVO assesses the business plan. Takes up to 90 days.

  5. Visa collection

    Collect MVV sticker from Dutch embassy/consulate.

  6. Biometrics

    Provide biometrics at IND desk in the Netherlands.

Sign in to apply
This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.