Europe
Netherlands immigration and visa guide
The Netherlands provides a streamlined Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) permit, Orientation Year for graduates, and the 30% tax reimbursement ruling.
Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)
- Processing time
- 2 – 6 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- No
- Digital nomad friendly
- No
Visa options in Netherlands
Key requirements
- Job offer with an IND-recognized sponsor employer (Erkend Referent)
- Monthly gross salary meeting the IND Highly Skilled Migrant threshold (based on age and status)
- Civic integration exam (Inburgeringsexamen) required later for permanent residence or naturalization
How to apply for a Netherlands visa: step by step
- 1
Recognized Sponsor Application with IND
The registered Dutch employer submits the digital application directly to the IND.
2 - 4 weeks
- 2
MVV Entry Visa & BSN Number
Collect MVV entry sticker at the Dutch embassy, travel to the Netherlands, and register at the Gemeente for a BSN.
1 - 2 weeks
- 3
Collect IND Residence Document
Pick up physical biometric residence card at an IND desk.
1 - 2 weeks post-arrival
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
What is the Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) visa in the Netherlands?
The Orientation Year permit allows recent graduates from top 200 ranked world universities (or Dutch universities) to reside in the Netherlands for 1 year to seek employment, with lower salary thresholds for subsequent Kennismigrant conversion.
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in Netherlands. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.
Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)General information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) on the official website before applying.