Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Permit: Employer Guide

For employers hiring international talent in the Netherlands, the highly skilled migrant (HSM) permit is one of the primary work authorization routes. It allows recognized Dutch employers to sponsor non-European Union (EU) nationals for skilled positions without first proving that no local worker is available for the role.

The process is generally straightforward, but employers must meet sponsorship requirements, salary thresholds, and record-keeping obligations. Here's what employers and applicants need to know in 2026.

Hiring international talent in the Netherlands? Boundless helps employers navigate sponsorship requirements, salary thresholds, and IND applications. Talk to our team today.

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What the Permit Covers

The HSM permit is designed for foreign nationals who contribute to the Dutch knowledge economy. Eligible positions include:

• High-level professional roles
• Guest lecturers
• Medical specialists in training
• Scientific researchers

Applicants cannot apply independently. A recognized employer must sponsor and submit the application on their behalf.

The permit is typically issued for the length of the employment contract, up to a maximum of five years. After five years of continuous legal residence, some permit holders may qualify for permanent residence.

Eligibility Requirements

Employer Requirements

To sponsor an HSM permit, employers must:

• Be registered as a recognized sponsor with the IND
• Have an active employment contract with the applicant or, in the case of researchers, a contract with a recognized research institution

2026 Salary Thresholds

As of January 1, 2026, the IND increased salary thresholds by 4.46% compared with 2025.

The figures below represent minimum gross monthly salary requirements, excluding the 8% holiday allowance.

*Must have graduated within the past three years from a Dutch university or a qualifying top-200 university abroad.

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General Applicant Requirements

Applicants must also:

• Hold a valid passport or travel document
• Submit a criminal history declaration
• Complete a tuberculosis (TB) test unless exempt based on nationality

Additional requirements may apply for scientific researchers, trainee specialists, intra-company transferees, and Turkish nationals.

New for 2026: Employers Must Retain Salary Payment Records

Beginning January 1, 2026, recognized sponsors must keep proof that salaries were actually paid to employees.

Payslips alone are no longer sufficient.

Acceptable records include:

• Business bank account statements
• Payroll payment confirmations
• Batch payment reports showing salary transfers

Employers must be able to provide these records immediately if requested by the IND.

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Application Process

Whether an applicant needs a provisional residence permit (MVV) determines which process applies.

Countries Exempt From the MVV Requirement

Nationals of the following countries can travel directly to the Netherlands and do not need an MVV:

• Australia
• Canada
• Japan
• Monaco
• New Zealand
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Vatican City
• European Union member states

Path 1: If an MVV Is Required

1. The employer submits both the MVV and residence permit applications.
2. The IND reviews the application and issues payment instructions.
3. The IND makes a decision within 90 days.
4. The applicant collects the MVV from the Dutch embassy.
5. The applicant travels to the Netherlands.
6. The applicant collects the residence permit card from the IND.

Path 2: If an MVV Is Not Required

1. The applicant travels to the Netherlands.
2. The employer submits the residence permit application within 90 days.
3. The IND reviews the application and issues payment instructions.
4. The IND makes a decision within 90 days.
5. The applicant collects the residence permit card.

Steps After Arriving in the Netherlands

After arrival, permit holders must:

• Register with the Municipal Personal Records Database (BRP)
• Complete a TB test if required
• Obtain Dutch health insurance within four months

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Permit Validity and Unemployment

The HSM permit remains valid for the duration of the employment contract, up to five years.

If employment ends, permit holders generally receive a job-search period of up to three months to find a new position with another recognized sponsor. If the residence permit expires sooner, the search period may be shortened.

Extending the Permit

Employers can submit renewal applications up to three months before the permit expires.

To qualify, the employee must continue to meet the core requirements, including:

• Holding a valid Dutch residence permit
• Maintaining their main residence in the Netherlands
• Working under a valid employment contract with a recognized sponsor

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