The highly skilled migrant scheme (kennismigrantenregeling)
The highly skilled migrant scheme (kennismigrantenregeling) allows employers to bring qualified non-EU workers to the Netherlands through a fast-track procedure. A kennismigrant (knowledge migrant) is a non-EU/EEA national who earns above a specified gross monthly salary threshold and is employed by a recognised sponsor (erkend referent). The scheme is administered by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) and does not require a labour market test (arbeidsmarkttoets), making it significantly faster and more flexible than the standard work permit route.
The salary thresholds are adjusted annually. There are two main thresholds: one for general highly skilled migrants and a lower threshold for migrants under 30 years old. There is also a reduced threshold for migrants who have graduated from a Dutch university within three years (the zoekjaarvisum or orientation year visa). Employers who regularly employ knowledge migrants can apply to the IND to become a recognised sponsor, which streamlines the permit process considerably.
Application procedure in the Netherlands
The employer (as recognised sponsor) submits the application to the IND on behalf of the employee. The IND aims to process applications within two weeks. The permit issued is a combined permit for residence and work (GVVA), valid for the duration of the employment contract up to a maximum of five years. The highly skilled migrant can bring family members to the Netherlands under a dependent permit.
Employment law protections in the Netherlands
A highly skilled migrant employed in the Netherlands is entitled to the full protection of Dutch employment law. This includes the transition payment in case of dismissal, protection against unlawful termination, and - where applicable - the 30% ruling. If the expat's employment ends and the GVVA is linked to that specific employer, the migrant must find a new recognised sponsor within a limited period or face the consequences for their residence rights. An employment lawyer experienced in international employment law can advise on the options.
Knowledge migrants must earn at least EUR 52,000 gross per year (EUR 38,000 for those under 30) to qualify for the scheme; these thresholds are adjusted annually. The IND aims to process applications submitted by recognised sponsors (erkend referenten) within two weeks. Non-EU workers who have worked legally in the Netherlands for at least five years become exempt from the work permit requirement altogether and may request an annotation on their residence permit to that effect.