Amsterdam Dutch

Highly Skilled Migrants
Since October 2004 the IND has been phasing in a streamlined process and permit for “Highly Skilled Migrants” which is dependant on income levels and agreements between the IND and the employers, and includes a streamlined process for the MVV. To qualify you must be entering the Netherlands for the prime purpose of employment, earning a minimum gross salary of EUR 45,000, or EUR 32,600 if under the age of 30. This income criterion does not apply if you are being employed by an educational or research institute, or are a postgraduate student or university lecturer under the age of 30. Employers are no longer required to apply for work permits as the entire procedure is now in the hands of the IND. Permits are normally granted for five years, or the duration of the employment contract, and should be dealt with in two weeks.

Students
Undergraduates are not considered to be Highly Skilled Migrants, but their educational institute may apply the accelerated MVV procedure for admissions. Stringent regulations govern permissibility to study in the Netherlands which include; health insurance, a declaration that you have no criminal record or pose a threat to public order, in some cases are willing to undergo a TB test, and have sufficient funds for duration of your stay. After graduation, students will be now granted a three-month grace period (which may be increased this year) in which to find employment as a Highly Skilled Migrant. Also, the obligation to apply for a work permits has been abolished.