The Highly Skilled Migrants Scheme serves as an improved solution for employers based in the Netherlands who intend to recruit professionals from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
This program facilitates a quicker and simpler process for the acquisition of both residence and work permits for these employees, simplifying what can often be a complex process. One of its key benefits is the expedited timeline; typically, applications are processed within approximately four weeks after submission.
However, it’s important to note that in order to make use of this scheme, specific conditions outlined by the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) must be met.
These conditions vary depending on the unique circumstances of each skilled professional seeking entry into the Dutch labor market. Therefore, while the scheme offers an efficient pathway for skilled migrants, compliance with the IND’s requirements is crucial for eligibility.
Conditions of the Highly Skilled Migrants Scheme
Eligibility for the Highly Skilled Migrants Scheme depends on meeting specific criteria for both the employer and the employee. The general requirements for obtaining a residence permit in the Netherlands include possessing a valid identification document, a completed antecedent certificate, and, in certain cases, undergoing a medical examination for tuberculosis (TB).
There are additional conditions mandated by the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) for admission to this scheme:
Moreover, depending on the circumstances, supplementary conditions may apply, particularly for roles such as scientific researchers, trainee doctors, or intra-company transfers. In certain cases, these specific requirements can require a comprehensive understanding of the IND’s guidelines to ensure compliance and successful application.
Employer as a recognized sponsor
Access to the Highly Skilled Migrants Scheme is for recognized partners of the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). Prior to application submission, employers must attain the status of an “acknowledged sponsor.” This designation entails demonstrating financial stability, intended to ensure the capability to meet the skilled worker’s salary requirements.
Maintaining a positive standing with both the IND and the Tax Authorities is principal, as any history of payment discrepancies, fraud allegations, or fines can impede sponsorship recognition. Thus, businesses must uphold impeccable financial integrity to access the benefits of the scheme.
For newly established businesses, navigating the requirements of the Highly Skilled Migrants Scheme presents unique challenges. Lacking historical data, these enterprises are subject to different regulations. Instead of relying on past financial records, they are expected to present a comprehensive business plan for evaluation by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency. Approval depends on the ability to demonstrate sufficient confidence in the firm’s long-term viability, a process that can often span months or even years.
Securing skilled personnel in a competitive labor market can be crucial for a growing business. In light of these challenges, Rock Payroll B.V. offers its support. We assist companies in their search for talented individuals and help mitigate the impact of prolonged approval processes, ensuring businesses can swiftly access the skilled workforce they need to thrive.
Employee’s salary = Highly Skilled Migrant
The eligibility for the Highly Skilled Migrants Scheme is predominantly determined by the Dutch salary of the employee.
The IND uses the salary as a basis in order to determine if the employee is a skilled worker and, therefore, brings unique value to the Dutch economy. The IND salary requirements differ based on the age of the migrant, as well as past residency and employment in the Netherlands.
The essentials of the Highly Skilled Migrant scheme
In summary, the Highly Skilled Migrants Scheme streamlines the process for employers in the Netherlands to recruit professionals from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, offering expedited acquisition of residence and work permits. Compliance with the IND’s requirements is essential, including employer sponsorship status and meeting specific income norms. Newly established businesses face unique challenges, requiring careful planning and adherence to IND guidelines. The scheme’s cornerstone is the determination of a Highly Skilled Migrant’s eligibility based on salary criteria, reflecting their value to the Dutch economy. Overall, this program fosters economic growth and innovation by facilitating the integration of global talent into the Dutch labor market, benefiting both employers and employees alike.
We at Rock Payroll understand that this can be overwhelming and challenging, and that is exactly why we are here to help your businesses gain a competitive advantage by tapping into the global talent pool. We want you to focus on what you are best at while we help you onboard new talent.
Get in touch with us to hear more about our service, and explore our process.
We created a FREE guide to “How to employ foreign personnel in the Netherlands, to help you understand and navigate the process. You can download it from here.