Work visas and residence
Questions, answers and WorkMarket.eu guides about working and living in Netherlands.
12 questions
- GuideWork visas and residence
Can a recruiter guarantee a permit or appointment?
Workmarket should reject unconditional guarantees. Request the identifiable employer, actual route, application stage and itemised service terms. A commercial payment should never be represented as evidence of government
WorkMarket.eu Team21 Oct 2026 - GuideWork visas and residence
What happens if a highly skilled migrant loses the job?
The usual search period is up to three months. For unemployment on or after 22 May 2026, IND provides up to six months after at least two years on the permit, and also for labour-exploitation victims. Permit expiry can s
WorkMarket.eu TeamSources checked 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026 - GuideWork visas and residence
Can agricultural seasonal residence be used year-round?
The seasonal route covers agricultural work for up to 24 weeks. It is not a general year-round permit for logistics, construction or hospitality.
WorkMarket.eu TeamSources checked 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026 - GuideWork visas and residence
What is the 2026 Blue Card salary criterion?
IND publishes EUR 5,942 gross monthly, excluding holiday allowance, or EUR 4,754 where the reduced Blue Card criterion applies. The lower criterion has separate eligibility conditions; it is not the HSM graduate amount.
WorkMarket.eu TeamSources checked 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026 - GuideWork visas and residence
How is the EU Blue Card different?
Recognised-sponsor status is not mandatory for the Blue Card. Qualifying education or experience, salary and a contract of at least six months are required. It is distinct from Dutch highly skilled migrant residence.
WorkMarket.eu TeamSources checked 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026 - GuideWork visas and residence
What highly skilled migrant salary criteria are published for 2026?
The main monthly gross criteria are EUR 5,942 for age 30 and over, EUR 4,357 under 30 and EUR 3,122 for qualifying reduced-criterion applicants. Holiday allowance is excluded. Check application, extension and employer-ch
WorkMarket.eu TeamSources checked 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026 - GuideWork visas and residence
Does highly skilled migrant status require a recognised sponsor?
Yes. IND requires a recognised employer, the applicable salary criterion and market-conform pay. A high salary alone does not establish eligibility.
WorkMarket.eu TeamSources checked 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026 - GuideWork visas and residence
Can I change employer on a GVVA?
Have the new employer assess the required new permission before your first shift. Existing permission names the employer and conditions; do not assume the card authorises any job.
WorkMarket.eu TeamSources checked 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026 - GuideWork visas and residence
When can a GVVA holder start work?
IND says the worker must receive both the residence document and additional document before starting. The additional document identifies the employer and conditions.
WorkMarket.eu TeamSources checked 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026 - GuideWork visas and residence
Is an ordinary warehouse vacancy enough for sponsorship?
Ordinary GVVA assessment includes prior recruitment in the Netherlands and EU/EEA, applicable pay and suitable housing. An unfilled vacancy alone does not establish eligibility.
WorkMarket.eu TeamSources checked 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026 - GuideWork visas and residence
What is the difference between a TWV and GVVA?
A TWV is employer-requested work permission through UWV. A GVVA combines residence and employment permission through IND. Duration, status and work type determine the appropriate procedure.
WorkMarket.eu TeamSources checked 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026 - GuideWork visas and residence
What is a GVVA?
A GVVA combines residence and work permission for qualifying paid employment. Other employment routes and exemptions exist; choose the route before applying.
WorkMarket.eu TeamSources checked 21 Oct 202621 Oct 2026
General information, not a decision about your individual case. Laws change — check the official source and the review date.