Home / Netherlands highly skilled migrant
Netherlands highly skilled migrant salary in 2026
The Dutch highly skilled migrant route depends on salary and on your employer. Only an employer recognised by the IND can apply for you.
Ask us on WhatsAppUpdated 6 November 2026. Figures checked on 6 November 2026. Rules change, so confirm them with the official source.
Salary requirements in 2026
| Age 30 and over | €5,942 a month |
|---|---|
| Under 30 | €4,357 a month |
| Reduced criterion | €3,122 a month |
| EU Blue Card | €5,942 a month |
| EU Blue Card, reduced | €4,754 a month |
These are gross monthly amounts, without holiday pay. The amount that applies is the one on the date the application is submitted, and the IND updates them regularly.
How it works
A recognised sponsor hires you
The employer must be recognised by the IND.
The employer applies
The employer submits the application to the IND.
No separate work permit
On this route you do not need a TWV work permit from UWV.
What about jobs without a degree?
This route is about salary level, so it rarely fits warehouse, farm or construction work. Lower-paid jobs usually need a work permit through UWV, and those are hard to get for non-EU workers. Be careful with any offer of a Dutch warehouse job with visa sponsorship from outside the EU.
Questions
What is the highly skilled migrant salary in the Netherlands in 2026?
€5,942 a month at age 30 and over, €4,357 under 30, and €3,122 on the reduced criterion, gross and without holiday pay.
Who can apply for a highly skilled migrant permit?
Only an employer recognised by the IND.
Do I need a separate work permit?
No, not on this route.
Official sources
More guides
Have a question?
Tell us your citizenship, your job and where you want to work. We will tell you honestly whether we can help.
Message us on WhatsApp