Visa & Permits: Your Complete Guide to Moving to the Netherlands

Who Needs a Visa?

If you're an EU/EEA citizen or Swiss national, you have the right to live and work in the Netherlands without a visa. Simply register at your local municipality (gemeente) within 5 days of arrival. You will receive a BSN (Burgerservicenummer) — your Dutch citizen service number that unlocks everything from banking to healthcare.

Non-EU nationals need to apply for the correct visa before arrival. The Netherlands offers several permit types depending on your situation.

Types of Residence Permits

Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant)

The most popular permit for expats moving to the Netherlands for work. Your employer must be recognized by the IND (Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst). Salary thresholds apply — in 2026, you must earn at least €5,008/month (under 30) or €6,245/month (30+). The permit is tied to your employer.

Orientation Year (Zoekjaar)

Graduates from a top-100 university or Dutch graduates can apply for a 1-year orientation permit to search for work or start a business. This gives you time to explore the job market without needing a job offer first.

Self-Employment (Zelfstandige)

Starting a business in the Netherlands? You can apply for a self-employment residence permit. The IND assesses your business plan, added value to the Dutch economy, and financial sustainability.

Student Visa (MVV + VVR)

Non-EU students must first apply for an MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf) — a provisional residence visa — from a Dutch embassy in their home country. Once in the Netherlands, you apply for a VVR (Verblijfsvergunning Regulier). Your educational institution typically assists with this process.

Family Reunification

Non-EU spouses and children of Dutch residents can apply to join them. The Dutch partner must meet income requirements (at least 100% of social welfare level).

The IND Process

The IND (Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst) is the government body that handles all residence permit applications. Processing times vary:

• Highly Skilled Migrant: 2 weeks (expedited through recognized sponsors)
• Standard permits: 3–6 months
• Family reunification: 3–6 months

Step-by-step:

1. Determine which permit you need

2. Check if your employer is an IND-recognized sponsor

3. Gather documents: passport, photo, employer contract, proof of income

4. Submit application online via ind.nl or through your employer's HR

5. Attend biometrics appointment (for MVV holders)

6. Receive your permit card (verblijfspas)

Registration at the Gemeente

Once in the Netherlands, register at your local gemeente (municipality) within 5 days. Bring your passport and rental contract. You'll receive your BSN within 1–2 weeks. This number is required for everything: bank account, health insurance, salary payments, and tax filing.

Important Tips

• Start the IND process before arriving — some permits take months
• Keep copies of all documents submitted
• The 30% ruling (belastingvoordeel) may apply if you're a highly skilled migrant — saves significant income tax
• Track your application status via the IND website
• Join expat Facebook groups or forums (Expat Center Utrecht, Expatica Netherlands) for real-world advice