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What Is the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme?
The Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (Kennismigrantenregeling) is a Dutch immigration route that allows IND recognised sponsor companies to hire skilled non-EU professionals through a streamlined, employer-driven work permit process. Eligibility is based primarily on meeting a minimum gross monthly salary threshold, rather than a points-based skills assessment.
Unlike many countries' skilled worker visas, the Dutch programme uses salary as its main qualifying test; there is no separate points system based on qualifications or job type.
Highly Skilled Migrant Programme at a Glance
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Sponsor Requirement | Must be an IND recognised sponsor |
| Main Eligibility Test | Minimum gross monthly salary, age-dependent |
| 2026 Threshold (30+) | Approximately €5,942/month, excluding holiday allowance |
| 2026 Threshold (under 30) | Approximately €4,357/month, excluding holiday allowance |
| Permit Duration | Tied to the employment contract, up to 5 years |
| Common Pairing | Often combined with the 30% ruling for tax benefits |
Why Does It Matter?
The programme gives Dutch employers a relatively fast and predictable way to hire international talent, compared to more discretionary immigration systems elsewhere. Because it hinges on a clear salary threshold, employers can determine eligibility early in the hiring process, rather than waiting on a lengthy case-by-case assessment.
When Is It Used?
The Highly Skilled Migrant Programme applies when a company:
- Wants to hire a qualified non-EU candidate for a Dutch role.
- Has, or is prepared to obtain, IND recognised sponsor status.
- Can offer a salary that meets the applicable age-based threshold.
A Canadian AI startup wants to hire a machine learning engineer from Brazil for its new Rotterdam office. The company, as an IND recognised sponsor, offers a salary above the 30-and-over threshold, allowing it to sponsor the engineer's Highly Skilled Migrant permit without navigating a separate points-based skills test.
Common Misconceptions
No. Eligibility is based primarily on meeting the statutory salary threshold, not on academic or professional credentials alone.
No. The IND adjusts thresholds annually, and employers must apply the rate in effect on the application date.
No. The full monthly threshold applies regardless of contracted hours; it cannot be reduced for part-time positions.
No. Sponsors must continue meeting salary and compliance obligations for the duration of the employee's permit.
The Highly Skilled Migrant Programme offers a salary-based, employer-driven path for hiring non-EU talent in the Netherlands. Companies need IND recognised sponsor status and must meet the current age-based salary threshold to sponsor a candidate successfully.
Hiring skilled migrants in the Netherlands?
We'll help you meet IND recognised sponsor requirements and the salary thresholds behind every Highly Skilled Migrant hire.
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