What is Kennismigrant?

Become a Highly Skilled Migrant in the Netherlands

Are you a highly skilled professional from outside the European Union seeking work in the Netherlands? Discover the benefits of the Kennismigrant program, designed to attract and facilitate the employment of individuals with specialized knowledge. We can assist you every step of the way!

How to Become a Highly Skilled Migrant?

The skilled migration procedure offers a pathway to obtaining a residence permit before arriving in the Netherlands. To qualify, you must meet certain conditions, including:

• There are certain conditions that apply to everyone:
  • You have a valid passport or other travel document.
  • You do not pose a danger to public order or national security. Everyone over the age of 12 must completely fill in an Appendix Antecedents Certificate and enclose it with the application. 
  • After you arrive in the Netherlands, you must take a TB (tuberculosis) test. You do not need to take a TB test in these situations:
    • You have the nationality of a country listed in the Appendix Exemption from the obligation to undergo a tuberculosis (TB) test 7644 (PDF)
    • You already have a valid residence permit in the Netherlands and you are applying for a different residence permit.
  • You took a TB test in the Netherlands less than 6 months ago.
• In addition, you and your employer have to meet the following:
  • you have an employment contract with an employer or research institution in the Netherlands. This employer is a recognised sponsor by the IND. Recognised employers are listed in the Public Register of Recognised Sponsors;
  • you are going to earn sufficient income;
  • the agreed wage is in accordance with market conditions.

Employment of Highly Skilled Migrants

Companies wishing to employ highly skilled migrants (Kennismigrant) must be recognized as an IND sponsor. The employer is responsible for applying to the IND (Immigration and Naturalization Service), which incurs costs and may take time. Once the application is submitted, the IND has 90 days to make a decision, followed by an additional 2-week period for permit issuance. Meanwhile, the migrant must register with the municipality, obtain health insurance, and undergo a TB test if required.

Benefits for Knowledge Migrants

As a highly skilled migrant, you can enjoy the following benefits:

• Eligibility for a 30% ruling, compensating for additional relocation expenses
• Possibility for your family members to obtain residence permits (through your employer’s application)

Have questions or need further assistance? Don’t hesitate to contact us today!

Note: This document provides general information. For detailed inquiries and accurate advice, please consult the official Netherland’s Government website or get an assistance from NL.works professionals.