Highly Skilled Migrant permit
The fastest decision timeline in Europe. If the employer is on the IND recognised sponsor register, there is no labour market test and permits are typically decided in a fortnight. The 30% expat tax ruling can lift net pay significantly in the first years.
Processing time
About 2 weeks with a recognised sponsor
Potential residence pathway
Potential permanent residence route after 5 years
Employer sponsorship
Required, employer must be IND recognised
Job offer
Required
Salary threshold
Age-banded thresholds, lower band for recent graduates
Cost
Employer covers the permit fee
Permit duration
Length of contract, up to 5 years
Criteria to verify
- Employment contract with an IND recognised sponsor.
- Gross monthly salary above the applicable age band.
- Valid passport and clean immigration record.
Indicative employer steps
- Hold recognised sponsor status with the IND.
- File the combined residence and work application.
- Apply for the 30% ruling within the deadline.
Watch out for
- Falling below the salary threshold invalidates the permit.
- Housing scarcity in Amsterdam is the practical bottleneck.
- The 30% ruling has a strict application window - do not miss it.
General educational information only, not immigration or legal advice or an eligibility assessment. Rules change. Confirm current criteria, thresholds, fees and outcomes with the relevant authority or an independent qualified adviser before you act.