07 · Knowledge Migrants Program
First recognised sponsor, then the permit
This program can be used for non-EU employees who will be employed by the applying Dutch entity, which must be a recognised sponsor at the IND.
Financially healthy and economically active entities of good standing that have existed for more than one and a half years can file an application to become a sponsor. Younger entities must provide a business plan, or can qualify with the help of the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency.
Conditions
Salary requirement and duration
When a company is recognised as sponsor, a work permit for a non-EU employee can be obtained if the minimum salary is paid. This salary was EUR 56,039 per year (2017) for employees aged 30 and over, and EUR 41,083 (2017) for employees below 30 years. These amounts are adjusted yearly for inflation.
In case of an international transfer from a non-EU group company, it is important that the employee receives a new employment contract directly from the Dutch group company. Otherwise the EU ICT program will apply, forcing the employee to leave the Netherlands after three years.
The work permit as knowledge migrant is valid for five years and can be renewed indefinitely. Family members can also apply for a residence permit linked to the knowledge migrant permit. They will be free to work in the Netherlands without the need of a work permit.
Often, the employee can benefit from the 30% tax ruling. With this ruling the employee receives 30% of their salary free of taxes, or the employer saves on wage taxes if a net salary has been agreed with the employee.
Foreign students can qualify
After completing a bachelor's or master's degree, non-EU students can obtain a search year to stay in the Netherlands and find a job. Dutch entities can hire them as knowledge migrant, with a lower salary requirement of EUR 29,445 per year (2017), regardless of their age. This lower amount also applies after they turn 30 or change employer.
The amounts mentioned are the 2017 standards and are indexed every year. Ask us for the current figure before you commit to a salary.
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