Making the Move: How to Immigrate to the Netherlands for Work and Bring Your Family on the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa





Imagine a life where you work in a country known for its picturesque canals, world-class art, and cutting-edge innovation. The Netherlands, with its dynamic economy and high standard of living, offers a fantastic opportunity for highly skilled professionals looking to advance their careers while enjoying a rich cultural experience. And the best part? You don't have to do it alone. The Netherlands' Highly Skilled Migrant Visa, also known as the Kennismigrant Visa, not only opens doors for your professional growth but also allows you to bring your family along on this exciting journey.

Why Choose the Netherlands?

The Netherlands stands out as a top destination for international professionals due to its thriving job market, especially in sectors like technology, engineering, and finance. The country's forward-thinking policies, excellent work-life balance, and welcoming attitude towards expats make it an ideal place to build both your career and your family life.

What is the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa?

The Highly Skilled Migrant Visa is a residence permit designed to attract talented professionals from around the world to work in the Netherlands. This visa is particularly popular because it simplifies the immigration process for skilled workers and their families, providing a pathway to long-term residency in a vibrant, multicultural society.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa, you'll need to meet certain criteria. These typically include having a job offer from a recognized employer in the Netherlands, meeting a minimum salary threshold, and possessing relevant qualifications or experience in your field. Your prospective employer must also be recognized by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) as a sponsor.

The Application Process

1. Job Offer and Sponsorship: The first step is securing a job offer from a Dutch company that is an IND-recognized sponsor. Your employer will play a key role in the visa application process by submitting the necessary paperwork on your behalf.

2. Salary Requirements: Ensure that your salary meets the minimum threshold set by the Dutch government, which varies depending on your age and position. This is a critical requirement for the visa approval.

3. Submit Application: Once all documentation is prepared, including proof of employment, salary, and qualifications, your employer will submit your application to the IND. Processing times can vary, but decisions are typically made within a few weeks.

4. Family Inclusion: One of the major benefits of this visa is that it allows you to bring your immediate family members (spouse and children) with you. Your family can also apply for residence permits, which will be linked to your highly skilled migrant status.

Moving Your Family

Bringing your family to the Netherlands is a straightforward process if you have a Highly Skilled Migrant Visa. Your spouse will be allowed to work in the Netherlands without needing a separate work permit, and your children will have access to the Dutch education system, which is known for its high quality. The visa ensures that your entire family can start a new life in the Netherlands, with all the legal rights and protections provided to residents.

Settling In

Once you arrive in the Netherlands, you'll find a range of support services available to help you and your family settle in. From finding housing to enrolling your children in school, the Dutch system is designed to make the transition as smooth as possible. Expats are a vital part of the community in the Netherlands, and there are numerous resources available to help you integrate into Dutch society.

Long-Term Opportunities

The Highly Skilled Migrant Visa not only provides an immediate pathway to work and live in the Netherlands but also offers long-term benefits. After five years of residency, you and your family may be eligible for permanent residency, and eventually, you could apply for Dutch citizenship if you wish.

In addition, Moving to the Netherlands for work can be a life-changing experience, and the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa is your key to making it happen. This visa is crafted to attract professionals from across the globe, offering an opportunity to thrive in one of Europe's most dynamic economies. Whether you're an IT specialist, engineer, or academic, this visa is your gateway to building a prosperous career and life in the Netherlands.

What Makes the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Attractive and Beneficial?

Long-Term Residency Potential: One of the primary draws of this visa is the chance to secure a long-term future in the Netherlands. After five years of residing and working in the country, you may qualify for permanent residency, which allows you to establish deeper roots in Dutch society.

Inclusive Family Policy: The visa isn't just about your professional journey—it's about your family's future as well. You can bring your spouse or registered partner and dependent children with you. They'll be granted residence permits, and your partner will have the freedom to work in the Netherlands without needing a separate work permit.

Job Mobility:  Unlike some work visas that tie you to a single employer, the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa provides you with the flexibility to switch jobs within the country. As long as your new employer is a recognized sponsor, you won't need to reapply for a new visa.

Efficient Application Process:  The visa application process is designed to be quick and straightforward, with typical processing times ranging from just 2 to 4 weeks. This speed allows you to make your move to the Netherlands with minimal delays.

Access to Comprehensive Services:  As a highly skilled migrant, you and your family will enjoy full access to the Dutch healthcare system, top-tier education, and other social services. These resources will help you and your family adapt to life in the Netherlands, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transition.

Can You Apply for the Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa on Your Own?

The simple answer: Yes, you can apply for the Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) Visa independently, without the need for an agent.

One of the key aspects of this visa is that your Dutch employer, who must be registered as a recognized sponsor with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), handles the bulk of the application process. By choosing not to hire an agent, you can avoid paying hefty fees and maintain direct control over your application.

What Are the Savings?

Agent fees can vary, but it's not unusual for them to range between €1,000 and €3,000. By managing the process yourself, you save this money and ensure that you are fully involved in each step of the application. The process is user-friendly, and with a little preparation, you can manage it successfully.

Applying for the Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa for Your Family

Ready to move forward? Here's a guide to applying for the Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa, including instructions on how to include your family in the process.

Step 1: Secure Employment with a Certified Dutch Employer

Your journey begins with securing a job offer from a Dutch company that is certified by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) as a recognized sponsor. These sponsors are authorized to employ highly skilled migrants. To find such employers, you can consult the IND's public register or search for job listings on various platforms that mention recognized sponsorship.

Step 2: Verify Your Eligibility

Next, confirm that you meet the criteria for the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa. This includes satisfying the minimum salary requirements, which differ based on your age and experience. As of 2024, for instance, the gross monthly salary must be at least €5,008 for applicants aged 30 and over, and €3,672 for those under 30. Your job offer should align with or exceed these salary thresholds.

Step 3: Compile the Necessary Documentation

Collaborate with your employer to gather all the required documents for your visa application. Common documents include:

• A signed employment contract or assignment letter.

• Evidence of your educational qualifications (e.g., degrees, certificates).

• A valid passport or travel document.

• A completed application form, which can be found on the IND website. Here https://ind.nl/en/residence-permits/work/highly-skilled-migrant

• Documentation proving your salary meets the required minimum.

Step 4: Employer Submits Your Application

Your employer is responsible for submitting the visa application on your behalf using the IND's online portal. The processing time typically ranges from 2 to 4 weeks.

Step 5: Submit Applications for Family Visas

If your family is accompanying you, their visa applications can be submitted either simultaneously with yours or after your visa has been granted. You will need to provide documents such as marriage and birth certificates, proof of sufficient income to support your family, and evidence of suitable accommodation in the Netherlands.

Step 6: IND's Decision

The IND will review the application and notify both you and your employer of their decision. If approved, you will be granted a residence permit and, if necessary, a provisional residence permit (MVV) for entry into the Netherlands.

Step 7: Obtain Your MVV (if applicable)

If an MVV is required, it can be collected from the Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country. This visa allows you to enter the Netherlands.

Step 8: Arrive in the Netherlands and Register with the Local Municipality

Upon arrival, you must register with the municipality (gemeente) where you plan to live. During registration, you'll receive a BSN (Burgerservicenummer), which is necessary for working and accessing services in the Netherlands.

Step 9: Pick Up Your Residence Permits

Finally, visit the IND office to collect your residence permits. Your family members will also receive their permits, allowing them to reside legally in the Netherlands.