Netherlands highly skilled migrant visa 2026: salary thresholds and sponsor rules
The Netherlands' highly skilled migrant (kennismigrant) permit is one of the most popular work routes in Europe. It works through an employer who is a recognised sponsor of the IND, and the key test is a gross monthly salary threshold that depends on your age and situation.
2026 thresholds (gross, excluding holiday allowance)
As published by the IND and summarised by advisers:
- Highly skilled migrant, under 30: EUR 4,357 per month.
- Highly skilled migrant, 30 and older: EUR 5,942 per month.
- Reduced threshold for recent graduates and orientation-year permit holders: EUR 3,122 per month.
- EU Blue Card: EUR 5,942 per month, with a reduced threshold of EUR 4,754 for recent graduates.
The figures apply to new applications and extensions in 2026 and are indexed every year. The salary is calculated excluding the 8% holiday allowance.
Who can sponsor
Only employers registered as recognised sponsors can apply on your behalf. Before accepting an offer, ask your employer whether it is recognised, which you can check on the IND's public register.
Orientation year
Graduates of leading universities, or recent Dutch graduates, may be eligible for a zoekjaar (orientation year) to look for work. It leads to the reduced salary threshold once you find a job.
The 30% ruling
Many highly skilled migrants also ask about the 30% ruling, a tax advantage for qualifying incoming employees. The rules have been narrowed in recent years, so check the Dutch Tax Administration's current conditions.
Family
Partners and children can usually join you, and partners generally have the right to work.
Common mistakes
- Accepting an offer from a non-recognised employer.
- Assuming the threshold is net, not gross.
- Forgetting the threshold rises each January.
- Moving to a lower salary after approval, which can affect your permit.
Confirm the current figures with the IND before you sign a contract.
Visa Ray is a rule-based reference tool, not a law firm. Rules and fees change, so always confirm current figures with the official government source before you apply. You can run a free assessment on Visa Ray to see which pathways fit your profile.