The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa is a work permit designed to attract talented professionals from outside the European Union (EU). It offers a fast-track process for skilled workers to live and work in the Netherlands. One of the main requirements for this visa is meeting a minimum salary threshold, which ensures that highly skilled migrants are paid fairly according to Dutch standards.
Who Can Apply for the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa?
Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa is open to professionals in fields like IT, engineering, healthcare, academia, and research. To qualify, you must:
- Have a job offer from a Dutch employer recognised as a sponsor by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
- Meet the minimum salary requirements.
- Hold a valid passport and meet health and character requirements.
Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa Salary Requirements
The thresholds are set by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) and reindexed every 1 January against the collective labour agreement wage index. For 2026 the indexation was 4.46 per cent, giving these figures for any application the IND received after 31 December 2025:
| Applicant | 2026 gross monthly | 2025 gross monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Aged 30 or older | EUR 5,942 | EUR 5,688 |
| Under 30 | EUR 4,357 | EUR 4,171 |
| Reduced criterion, recent graduates | EUR 3,122 | EUR 2,989 |
| EU Blue Card, standard | EUR 5,942 | EUR 5,688 |
| EU Blue Card, graduated within 3 years | EUR 4,754 |
Two details that catch people out. Every figure above excludes the 8 per cent holiday allowance, so an offer that only clears the bar once you count holiday pay does not clear it. And the threshold has to be met by fixed, guaranteed pay: your contractual monthly salary plus allowances that are unconditional, agreed in writing and paid monthly. A bonus you might earn does not count.
The reduced criterion is narrower than it sounds, and it is commonly described wrongly. It is not a shortage occupation discount. It applies to people who recently graduated from a Dutch institution or a listed university abroad, and to former orientation year permit holders. If you do not fall in one of those groups, the age based figure is your number even if your occupation is in desperate demand.
Because the thresholds move every January, an offer negotiated in the autumn can fail in the new year. Check the current figure before you sign, not before you apply.
How to Calculate Your Gross Annual Salary
Your gross annual salary includes:
- Base salary.
- Bonuses (if guaranteed).
- Allowances (e.g., holiday pay).
It does not include:
- Overtime pay.
- One-time payments (e.g., relocation bonuses).
Make sure your employment contract clearly states your gross salary to avoid any issues during the visa application.
5 Employer Requirements for the Visa
Your employer plays a key role in your visa application. They must:
- Be a recognised sponsor registered with the IND.nd.nl/en
- Provide a detailed employment contract.
- Ensure your salary meets the minimum threshold.
If your employer is not a recognised sponsor, they can apply to become one, but this process can take time.
Tips to Meet the Salary Requirements
- Negotiate your salary: Research average salaries for your role in the Netherlands and use this information during negotiations.
- Explore shortage occupations: Some professions, like healthcare and IT, may have lower salary thresholds due to high demand.
- Consider additional benefits: Some employers offer allowances or bonuses that can help you meet the salary requirement.
Where to Find Jobs in with Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa and Salary Requirements
The best websites to search for factory jobs are:
- Shortage Jobs (shortagejobs.com)
- Indeed Germany (indeed.de)
- StepStone (stepstone.de)
- Make it in Germany (make-it-in-germany.com)
- LinkedIn (linkedin.com)
- Federal Employment Agency (arbeitsagentur.de)
Tips for Successful Applications
- Write a clear CV focusing on relevant experience
- Mention any technical skills or certifications
- Include your English language level
- Explain your availability to start work
- Show willingness to relocate to Germany
- Highlight any experience with German companies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I include my partner and children in my visa application?
A: Yes, your family members can join you in the Netherlands under the same visa.
Q: What happens if my salary is below the threshold?
A: Unfortunately, you will not qualify for the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa. However, you can explore other visa options or look for jobs that meet the salary criteria.
Q: How long does the visa process take?
A: The process usually takes 2–4 weeks if all documents are in order.
Ready to find visa-sponsored jobs in the Netherlands? Stay Updated:
- Sign up for our weekly job alerts
- Follow us on social media for the latest opportunities
- Email us at mail@shortagejobs.com with questions
The Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Visa is an excellent opportunity for skilled professionals to build a career in one of Europe’s most dynamic countries. By understanding the salary requirements and preparing your application carefully, you can take the first step towards your new life in the Netherlands.
Worth reading alongside this: the Dutch highly skilled migrant scheme in full, and the orientation year that feeds the reduced criterion.
When the numbers make sense, the next step is an offer. Browse shortage jobs with visa sponsorship on our board.
