Netherlands Work Visa: Types And How To Apply
Expanding into the Dutch market offers access to one of Europe's most innovative and globally connected economies.
The Netherlands boasts a highly educated, multilingual workforce and a strategic location that serves as a gateway to both the European Union and global markets.
Thanks to its high quality of life, strong labor protections, and demand for international talent, the Netherlands is an attractive destination for skilled workers looking to build a career in Europe.
But for organizations and professionals looking to do business there, understanding Dutch visa and immigration procedures is vital.
To ensure compliance and avoid potential legal issues, this guide outlines the primary Netherlands work visas, key requirements, and how to apply for them.
Who Can Legally Work in the Netherlands?
In the Netherlands, the right to work is determined by citizenship and residency status:
- EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens: Individuals from the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland can live and work in the Netherlands without a visa or work permit, thanks to agreements that promote freedom of movement within these regions.
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals must obtain a work permit to work in the Netherlands. Depending on the duration and nature of employment, this may involve a separate work permit (TWV) or a combined residence and work permit (GVVA) .
Types of Work Permits and Visas in the Netherlands
The Netherlands offers a variety of work permits and visas tailored to different employment needs and circumstances.
These permits vary based on factors like the applicant’s qualifications, the type of job, and the intended length of stay.
Below is a summary table of the main work permits and their characteristics:
| Permit / Visa Name | Length of Visa | Purpose | Application fee (EUR) | Approx. Processing Time |
| Tewerkstellingsvergunning (TWV) | Short-Term | For temporary employment in the Netherlands. | €0 | ~5 weeks |
| Gecombineerde vergunning voor verblijf en arbeid (GVVA) | Long-Stay | Combined residence and work permit. | €350 | 7-15 weeks |
| European Union Blue Card | Long-Stay | For highly skilled professionals from outside the EU. | €405 | 7-15 weeks |
| Highly Skilled Migrant scheme (HSM) | Long-Stay | For attracting international professionals to high-demand roles. | €350 | ~2 weeks |
| Orientation Year Permit (OYP) | Long-Stay | For recent graduates of Dutch universities. | €210 | 2-4 weeks |
| Scientific Research Visa (RU) | Long-Stay | For researchers under specific EU guidelines. | €210 | 2-4 weeks |
Tewerkstellingsvergunning (TWV)
The TWV is a short-term work permit issued for temporary employment in the Netherlands. Employers must apply for this permit on behalf of their non-EEA/Swiss employees, and it is typically valid for up to one year. Applicants must demonstrate that no suitable candidate is available within the EEA or Switzerland.
Gecombineerde vergunning voor verblijf en arbeid (GVVA)
The GVVA, or combined residence and work permit, is a long-stay permit for non-EEA/Swiss nationals planning to live and work in the Netherlands for over three months. It simplifies the process by combining residence and work authorization into one application. The employer must prove that hiring the applicant meets labor market conditions.
Who cannot apply for a GVAA in the Netherlands?
Not everyone is eligible to apply for a GVVA in the Netherlands. The following individuals cannot apply for a GVVA:
- Short-stay workers (i.e., those planning to stay and work in the Netherlands for less than three months)
- EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals (since they are exempt from these requirements)
- Highly-skilled migrant workers (they must apply under the
- Students or researchers
- Seasonal workers
- Asylum seekers
- Intra-company transferees
Understanding these exclusions helps ensure applicants follow the appropriate route based on their employment situation.
European union blue card
The EU Blue Card is a long-stay permit for highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries. Applicants must meet salary thresholds and possess a recognized higher education degree. The EU Blue Card allows for work mobility within participating EU countries under specific conditions.
Highly skilled migrant scheme (HSM)
The HSM program is designed to attract international professionals in high-demand roles. Employers recognized as sponsors can hire non-EEA/Swiss nationals without needing to prove a labor market search. Applicants must meet salary requirements, and the permit duration must align with their employment contract.
Orientation year permit (OYP)
The OYP is a long-stay visa for recent graduates from Dutch universities or recognized foreign institutions. It allows individuals to live and work in the Netherlands for one year without a job offer. This permit supports the country’s goal of retaining international talent post-graduation.
Scientific research visa (RU)
The RU Visa is a long-stay permit for researchers working under the EU’s directive for scientific research. Applicants must have a hosting agreement with a recognized research institution in the Netherlands. This visa facilitates mobility and collaboration across EU research projects.
What Are The Eligibility Requirements Obtaining A Work Visa In The Netherlands?
To successfully obtain a work visa in the Netherlands, applicants and employers must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- No Local Candidates Available: The employer must prove that the role could not be filled by a qualified Dutch or EU/EEA/Swiss national.
- Recruitment Efforts: Employers must demonstrate significant efforts to find talent locally, such as job advertisements or using recruitment agencies.
- Adherence to Labor Laws: The employer must comply with Dutch labor laws, including offering fair working conditions and paying at least the minimum wage.
- Alignment with National Interests: The job position must not conflict with Dutch economic or social interests.
- Valid Residence Permit: The applicant must have a valid Dutch residence permit or meet the conditions to apply for one simultaneously with the work visa.
- Submission of Required Documents: Applicants must provide necessary documentation, including a valid passport, proof of qualifications, a clean criminal record, and any other supporting documents requested by Dutch immigration authorities.
- Salary Thresholds: Certain visa types, like the Highly Skilled Migrant Scheme or EU Blue Card, require the applicant to meet specific salary thresholds.
Meeting these eligibility requirements ensures the application process complies with Dutch immigration and labor regulations.
How to Apply for a Work Visa in the Netherlands
Applying for a work visa in the Netherlands involves several steps that must be carefully followed to ensure compliance with Dutch immigration laws. Here’s an outline of the process:
- Confirm Eligibility: Verify that both the employer and employee meet the eligibility requirements for the specific work visa type.
- Employer Sponsorship: Ensure the employer is registered as a recognized sponsor with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND), if required.
- Select the Appropriate Visa: Identify the correct visa type based on the job role, duration of stay, and employee qualifications (e.g., GVVA, Highly Skilled Migrant Scheme, etc.).
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documentation, including the applicant's passport, proof of qualifications, employment contract, and evidence of meeting salary thresholds, if applicable.
- Submit the Application: Submit the work visa application to the IND. For long-stay visas, this may include applying for a combined residence and work permit (GVVA).
- Pay the Application Fee: Pay the applicable visa processing fee, which varies depending on the type of permit being requested.
- Await Processing: The IND will review the application, which can take several weeks or longer depending on the visa type.
- Receive Decision: Once the IND approves the application, the employee will receive a notification to collect their visa or permit.
- Register with Local Authorities: Upon arrival in the Netherlands, the employee must register with the local municipality and obtain a citizen service number (BSN).
- Begin Work: Once all steps are complete, the employee can legally start working in the Netherlands under the terms of their visa and permit.
Shorcut: Use An EOR Or Employee Relocation Service
Navigating the visa application process can be time consuming, which is why many organizations choose to use an employer of record or employee relocation service.
Technically, an Employer of record service (EOR) is a third-party service that acts as the legal employer for your international hires while you retain full control over day-to-day management.
EORs handle a range of services, including worker relocation, ensuring compliance with immigration and labor laws, managing work permit and visa processes, and providing global payroll services.
This makes them an invaluable partner for businesses navigating Spain’s complex legal requirements for hiring foreign employees.
Alternatively, specialized employee relocation services exist to help manage relocations specifically.
Below, we've shortlisted some of the best employer of record services in the Netherlands.
Best Employer of Record Services in the Netherlands
If you’re ready to use an EOR service in the Netherlands, these are my top 10 recommendations:
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about work permits and visas in the Netherlands.
Does the Netherlands offer a digital nomad visa?
No, the Netherlands does not currently offer a specific digital nomad visa. However, freelancers and self-employed individuals may apply for a residence permit under the Dutch self-employment scheme if they meet specific criteria, including demonstrating that their business provides economic value to the Netherlands.
What is a European Union Blue Card?
The European Blue Card is a residence and work permit for highly skilled non-EU nationals. It allows eligible professionals to work and live in the Netherlands and other participating EU countries. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including holding a recognized higher education degree and earning a salary above a set threshold.
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen Visa is a short-stay visa that allows individuals to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is primarily intended for tourism, business, or family visits and does not permit long-term residence or work in the Netherlands. For employment purposes, a work visa or permit is required.
The Schengen Area includes the following 27 countries:
Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
Note: While all Schengen Area countries are in Europe, not all EU countries are part of the Schengen Area, and some non-EU countries (like Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland) are included.
How long does it take to get a work permit in the Netherlands?
The processing time for obtaining a work permit in the Netherlands varies depending on the type of permit and individual circumstances. For example, the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks to process, while the Combined Residence and Work Permit (GVVA) can take up to 90 days.
I recommend starting the application process well in advance to account for these timelines and any potential delays.
What documents are required for a work permit application in the Netherlands?
The required documents for a work permit application in the Netherlands typically include:
- A valid passport or travel document
- A signed employment contract or job offer letter
- Proof that the employer attempted to hire local or EU/EEA/Swiss candidates first (if applicable)
- Academic qualifications, certifications, or proof of relevant experience
- Evidence of sufficient financial means or salary threshold compliance (depending on the visa type)
- A clean criminal record certificate
- Health insurance documentation (if required)
Specific requirements may vary depending on the type of work permit, so it’s essential to check with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) or a local Employer of Record for accurate guidance.
How much does it cost to get a work permit in the Netherlands?
The cost of obtaining a work permit in the Netherlands varies based on the specific permit type and individual circumstances. It’s important to note that fees are also subject to change and may vary depending on the applicant’s situation. Therefore, I recommend consulting the IND’s list of work permit and visa fees for the most up-to-date information. Fees are often adjusted on the 1st of January each year.
How do you renew a work permit in the Netherlands?
Renewing a work permit in the Netherlands requires timely action to ensure continued legal employment. Here’s a concise summary of the renewal process:
- Initiate Early: Begin the renewal process well before the current permit’s expiration to prevent any employment interruptions.
- Employer’s Role: Employers are responsible for initiating the renewal to maintain the employee’s work authorization.
- Application Submission: Submit the renewal application to the appropriate authority, such as the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) or the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV), depending on the permit type.
- Required Documentation: Provide necessary documents, including a valid passport, employment contract, proof of sufficient income, and any other relevant materials.
- Await Decision: Processing times vary, so apply early to accommodate any delays.
By adhering to these steps, employers and employees can ensure compliance with Dutch regulations and maintain uninterrupted employment.
Are family members included in work visa applications in the Netherlands?
Family members are not automatically included in a work visa application in the Netherlands, but they may apply for a family reunification visa. This allows eligible dependents, such as spouses, registered partners, and minor children, to join the primary visa holder.
The family reunification visa grants the right to live in the Netherlands and may include permission to work, depending on the specific circumstances and the type of visa held by the primary applicant.
How much does an Employer of Record charge in the Netherlands?
The cost of EOR services in the Netherlands varies based on factors such as the number of employees and the specific services required. Typically, EORs charge either a percentage of the employee’s salary or a fixed monthly fee per employee.
In the Netherlands, this fee generally ranges between 5% to 18% of the employee’s total compensation, or between $599 to $2,000 per employee, per month.
Some EOR service providers, like Skuad and Remofirst, offer services starting at $199 USD per employee per month, whereas others, like Remote, charge between $599 and $699 USD per employee per month, depending on your payment frequency (monthly or annually).
Other EOR companies, such as Velocity Global, don’t actually disclose their EOR prices publicly, requiring you to request a personalized quote instead.
I recommend consulting directly with several Dutch service providers to obtain a thorough breakdown of all potential EOR costs tailored to your company’s requirements.
What are the risks of using an Employer of Record service?
While EOR services simplify international hiring, potential risks include loss of direct control over certain HR functions, reliance on the EOR’s compliance accuracy, data security concerns, potential variations in service quality, and unexpected fees for additional services.
Mitigating these potential EOR risks requires thorough due diligence to select an experienced EOR with a proven track record. It’s also crucial to maintain clear communication about your expectations and the extent of their responsibilities.
The Bottom Line
Hiring or relocating talent to the Netherlands offers exciting opportunities but comes with complex legal and administrative challenges.
Ensuring compliance with immigration and labor laws, securing the right work permits and visas, and navigating the Dutch regulatory environment require careful planning and attention to detail.
If your organization is considering expanding its team into the Netherlands, partnering with an Employer of Record can be a strategic move.
An EOR would handle all the heavy lifting of compliance, visa applications, and payroll, freeing you to focus on onboarding top talent and driving your business forward.
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This content is for informational purposes only, and should not be relied upon as legal advice. We recommend always following the advice of an employment lawyer or EOR partner before making any decisions to hire employees in the Netherlands.
