Work Permit in Netherlands

The Netherlands attracts many foreign professionals due to its developed economy, high standard of living and many international companies based in the country. In order to work in the Netherlands, foreigners, with the exception of European Union citizens, are required to obtain a work permit. In this article, we will look at what types of work permits exist in the Netherlands, what requirements apply to applicants, and how the process of obtaining them works.

Types of work permits in the Netherlands

There are several types of work permits in the Netherlands, each of which is designed for certain categories of workers:

1. GVVA (Combined Permit for Stay and Work): This is a combined permit that includes both a residence permit and a work permit. It is usually issued for up to three years and is intended for foreigners who come to the Netherlands for employment.
2. TWV (Work Permit for Employees): This permit is required for short-term work of up to 24 weeks for seasonal work or in cases where the employer can prove that the vacancy cannot be filled by a local or European employee.

Requirements for obtaining a work permit

To obtain a work permit in the Netherlands, a candidate must fulfil the following requirements:

• Having an employer in the Netherlands who is willing to take responsibility for the authorisation.
• Confirmation of unique skills or qualifications that cannot be found among locals or EU citizens.
• Conclusion of a labour contract with a Dutch employer.
• Documents confirming qualifications and work experience in the relevant field.
• Health insurance covering the whole time you are in the Netherlands.

Procedure for obtaining a work permit

The process of obtaining a work permit begins with the Dutch employer having to submit an application to the Immigration and Naturalisation Office (IND) or the regional employment agency. The procedure usually involves the following steps:

1. Application by the employer: The employer must provide all necessary documents, including details of the employment contract, job description and evidence that the position cannot be filled by a local or European employee.
2. Application Review: The review process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the completeness of the documents submitted and the current workload at IND.
3. Issuing a work permit: Once the application has been approved, the employee can obtain a work permit and, if necessary, a visa to enter the Netherlands.

What is the Netherlands work visa?

A work visa in the Netherlands allows foreign professionals to legally work and reside in the country on the basis of a labour contract with a Dutch employer. For citizens of countries outside the European Union and the European Economic Area, obtaining such a visa is a prerequisite for employment. In this article we will look at the key aspects related to a work visa in the Netherlands, including the types of visas, requirements for obtaining one and the application procedure.

Types of work visas in the Netherlands

There are several types of work visas available in the Netherlands, each corresponding to specific employment purposes and conditions:

1. General work visa (GVVA – Gecombineerde Vergunning voor Verblijf en Arbeid): This visa combines a residence and work permit. It is usually issued for up to three years and is intended for professionals employed by Dutch companies for a long term.
2. Visa for highly skilled migrants: A special visa is available for highly qualified professionals who are invited to work in the Netherlands in a highly paid position. The criteria for this category are stricter, including a minimum salary level.
3. Seasonal work and short-term employment: For temporary work on seasonal or short-term projects, there is a separate visa that is issued for up to 24 weeks.

Requirements for obtaining a work visa

In order to successfully obtain a work visa in the Netherlands, a candidate must fulfil a number of requirements:

• Possession of a valid passport.
• Evidence of suitable qualifications for the position, such as diplomas and certificates.
• A labour contract with a Dutch employer, which should include information about the position, salary and working conditions.
• Health and Judicial Clearance: The candidate must provide a medical certificate of health and a certificate of no criminal record.

Procedure for applying for a work visa

The process of applying for a work visa starts with an application for a work and residence permit (GVVA) or a temporary work visa (TWV), if required. The application is usually submitted by the Dutch employer on behalf of the candidate.

1. Filing of documents by the employer: The employer must submit to the Immigration Department (IND) all necessary documents, including the employment contract.
2. Waiting for a decision: Processing times can vary, but generally range from a few weeks to a few months.
3. Obtaining a visa: Once the application has been approved, the candidate can apply for a visa at the Dutch consulate or embassy in their home country.

How to apply for the Netherlands work visa in 2024?

Obtaining a work visa to the Netherlands is a process that requires careful preparation and attention to detail. The Netherlands attracts many foreign professionals with its innovative technology and quality working environment. In this article, we will look at the steps you need to take to apply for a work visa to the Netherlands in 2024.

Step 1: Determining the type of visa

The first step is to determine the type of visa that is appropriate for your case. The Netherlands has different categories of work visas, including:

• GVVA (Gecombineerde Vergunning voor Verblijf en Arbeid) – Combined residence and work permit.
• Highly Skilled Migrant Visa – for professionals earning high salaries.
• Seasonal and short-term work visas – for temporary work.

Step 2: Find an employer in the Netherlands

To obtain a work visa, you must have a job offer from an employer registered in the Netherlands. The employer must confirm that the vacancy cannot be filled by a candidate from the Netherlands or another EU country.

Step 3: Gathering the necessary documents

The following documents must be collected before applying for a visa:

• A passport valid for at least three months after the expected date of return.
• Labour contract with a Dutch employer.
• Diplomas and certificates confirming qualifications.
• A resume reflecting professional experience.
• Health insurance covering the entire period of stay.
• Certificate of absence of a criminal record.

Step 4: Submitting an application

The application for a work visa is made through the Dutch consulate or embassy in your country. In some cases, the process can be started online via the official portal of the Netherlands Immigration Service (IND).

Step 5: Payment of visa fee

The visa fee must be paid at the time of application. The amount of the fee may vary depending on the type of visa and the economic policy of the Netherlands at the time of application.

Step 6: Getting an interview

After submitting the documents, you may be required to attend an interview at the embassy. The interview will check the validity of the information provided and the seriousness of your intentions.

Step 7: Obtaining a visa

Once your application has been approved, your work visa will be issued and stamped into your passport. From this moment on you can plan your move to the Netherlands. 

How can I get a Netherlands work visa and permit?

The Netherlands attracts many foreign professionals due to its dynamic economy, innovative business environment and high quality of life. For citizens of countries outside the European Union, a work visa and work permit are required for legal employment. In this article, we will look at the steps you need to take to obtain a work visa and work permit in the Netherlands.

Step 1: Determining the appropriate type of visa

The first step is to choose the type of work visa, which depends on the length of your stay and the nature of the work:

• GVVA (Combined Permit for Stay and Work): Combined Permit for Stay and Work, suitable for those who plan to work in the Netherlands for more than 90 days.
• TWV (Temporary Work Visa): A temporary work permit that is required for short-term employment of up to 90 days.

Step 2: Finding an employer in the Netherlands

To qualify for a work visa, you must have a job offer from an employer registered in the Netherlands. The employer must prove that he or she could not find a suitable candidate among local residents or EU citizens.

Step 3: Gathering the necessary documents

The list of required documents may include:

• A valid passport.
• Labour contract with a Dutch employer.
• Diplomas and certificates confirming qualifications.
• Biographical note.
• Health insurance.

Step 4: Submitting an application

The application for a GVVA is submitted directly by the employer to the Immigration and Naturalisation Office (IND). If a TWV is required, the employer must also apply to the Employment Service.

Step 5: Waiting for a decision

The application process can take from several weeks to several months. During this time, the IND checks the submitted documents and makes a decision on whether to issue a visa.

Step 6: Obtaining a visa

Once your application has been approved, you must go to the Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country to apply for a visa. In some cases an additional interview may be required.

Step 7: Arrival in the Netherlands

Once you arrive in the Netherlands and start working, you need to make sure that all migration procedures are followed and that you have all the necessary documents to stay and work legally.

What documents do I need for Netherlands work visa application?

In order to successfully apply for a work visa to the Netherlands, it is crucial to properly collect and complete the entire set of required documents. A well-prepared application speeds up the application process and increases the chances of a favourable outcome. Below is a list of the main documents that will be required to apply for a work visa to the Netherlands.

1. Foreign passport

The passport must be valid for at least three months after the planned visa expiry date. At least two free pages for visas and stamps are also required.

2. Photo for visa

An up-to-date passport-size colour photograph that meets all standard requirements for visa photographs is required.

3. Application form

A completed and signed visa application form. The form can be downloaded from the official website of the embassy or can be obtained directly from the visa application centre.

4. Proof of legality of stay

If the application is not from the applicant’s home country, documents proving legal residence in the country of application (e.g. residence permit) must be provided.

5. Labour contract

An original and a copy of the contract with the Dutch employer stating the terms and conditions of employment, position, salary and the duration of the contract.

6. Work authorisation

A document issued by the Dutch immigration authorities (if applicable) proving the right to work in the Netherlands.

7. Educational and professional documents

Diplomas, certificates and other documents confirming the applicant’s qualifications, translated into English or Dutch and notarised.

8. Health insurance

A health insurance policy covering the entire period of stay in the Netherlands for at least €30,000.

9. Proof of financial solvency

Bank statements proving that you have sufficient funds to live in the Netherlands for the first time or a letter from your employer to cover your expenses.

10. Certificate of no criminal record

An official document from the police of the country of origin and the country of current residence (if applicable) confirming that there is no criminal record.

11. Summary

An up-to-date CV showing the applicant’s education, qualifications and professional experience.

Where and when can you apply for a Netherlands work visa?

For many foreign professionals seeking to work in the Netherlands, it is important not only to determine what documents are required to obtain a work visa, but also to understand where and when to apply for one. In this article, we will look at the process of applying for a work visa in the Netherlands, including information on where to apply and the best time to do so.

Places to apply

1. Dutch embassies and consulates Foreign nationals can apply for a work visa at the Dutch embassy or consulate in their country of residence. This is the most common option and involves applying in person to submit the necessary documents and attend an interview, if required.
2. Visa centres In countries where there is no Dutch embassy or consulate, you can use the services of visa centres, which operate on behalf of the Dutch diplomatic service. Visa Application Centres facilitate the application process, but they charge an additional fee for their services.

3 Online platforms In some cases, the initial stages of the application can be completed online via the official portal of the Netherlands Immigration Service (IND). This may involve filling in forms and pre-booking a time to visit the embassy or consulate.

Optimal deadlines for submission

1. It is recommended to start the application process 2-3 months before the expected date of departure. This is because the application process and the processing of all necessary documents can take a considerable amount of time.
2. Consideration of the working and calendar year. It is best to plan your application to take account of holidays and holidays both in your country of residence and in the Netherlands. During the summer and national holidays, processing times may be longer.
3. Seasonal fluctuations During peak periods (e.g. at the beginning of the school year or during summer holidays) waiting times may be longer due to an increase in the number of applicants.
   

For how long is the Netherlands work visa valid?

A work visa in the Netherlands is a key element for foreign professionals wishing to work in the country. Depending on the type of visa and the specifics of the employment contract, the duration of the visa can vary considerably. In this article, we will take a closer look at how long the different types of work visas in the Netherlands are issued for and what factors affect their duration.

Main types of work visas in the Netherlands

1. Visa for highly skilled migrants This category is intended for specialists occupying highly paid positions. The period of validity of this visa usually coincides with the duration of the labour contract, but cannot exceed five years. After this period, the visa can be extended.
2. GVVA (Combined Permit for Stay and Work) GVVA is a combined permit for stay and work, which is issued for a period of up to three years. After the end of this period it is possible to apply for an extension if the conditions of employment remain unchanged.
3. Seasonal work visa For seasonal workers, such as agricultural or tourist workers, the duration of the visa is limited to the period of the contract, but not more than six months per year.

Factors affecting the validity of a visa

Duration of the employment contract. The main factor determining the validity of a work visa is the duration of the concluded employment contract with the employer. The visa cannot be granted for a period longer than the duration of the contract.

Legislative restrictions. Some visa categories have statutory limits on the duration of validity. For example, seasonal visas are limited to six months, which corresponds to the seasonal nature of the work.

Extension Policy. In the Netherlands, it is possible to extend a work visa if certain conditions are met, such as continued employment with the same employer and proof of appropriate salary levels and working conditions. 

Are foreigners allowed to work in Netherlands?

The Netherlands, known for its developed economy and innovative business climate, attracts many foreign professionals. The question of whether foreigners are allowed to work in the Netherlands often arises for those who are considering this country as a possible location for their professional activities. In this article, we will look at the conditions under which foreign nationals can legally work in the Netherlands and what steps need to be taken to obtain a work permit.

Legislative framework

Foreign nationals who are not citizens of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) are required to obtain a work permit in order to be legally employed in the Netherlands. Dutch law regulates the process of obtaining work visas and work permits while protecting the rights of foreign workers.

Main categories of foreign workers

1. EU and EEA nationals. EU and EEA nationals are entitled to work in the Netherlands without the need for a special permit. A valid passport or identity card is sufficient for them.
2. Highly qualified specialists. There is a special programme for highly qualified specialists that allows them to obtain a simplified work permit. The main requirements include higher education with qualifications and a labour contract with a certain salary level.
3. Temporary and seasonal workers. Foreign nationals hired for temporary or seasonal work must obtain a work permit (TWV), which is issued for up to 24 weeks.
4. Start-ups and entrepreneurs. Foreign entrepreneurs and start-up founders can apply for a residence and work permit, provided that their business plan is approved and they can prove that their activities will contribute to the Dutch economy.

The process of obtaining a work permit

1. employment contract. The first step to obtain a work permit is to have a job offer from an employer registered in the Netherlands. The employer must prove that the vacancy cannot be filled by a local or European professional.
2. Filing an application. The application for a work permit and visa (GVVA) is filed with the Immigration and Naturalisation Office (IND). The employer may submit the application on behalf of the employee.

3 Waiting for a decision. The application process can take several weeks or months. During this time, all documents submitted and the applicant’s eligibility are checked.

The types of work visas in Netherlands

The Netherlands, a country with a developed economy and a favourable business climate, attracts many foreign specialists. To be legally employed in this country, foreign citizens need to obtain an appropriate work visa. In this article we will look at the main types of work visas available in the Netherlands, their peculiarities and requirements.

Main types of work visas in the Netherlands

1. GVVA (Gecombineerde Vergunning voor Verblijf en Arbeid) – Combined residence and work permit

The GVVA combines a residence and work permit. This visa is suitable for most foreign workers who wish to take up long-term employment in the Netherlands.

Features:

• Valid for up to three years.
• A labour contract with a Dutch employer is required.
• The application process includes verification of qualifications and terms and conditions of employment.

2. Visa for highly skilled migrants

This visa is designed for professionals in highly paid positions with unique skills that are in demand in the Netherlands.

Features:

• High level of wages set by the legislation.
• Availability of higher education and proven qualifications.
• The advantage is the fast processing of applications.

3. Visa for startups

The Netherlands actively supports innovative start-ups by offering a specialised visa for entrepreneurs planning to develop their business ideas in the country.

Features:

• A business plan approved by an expert committee is required.
• Confirmation of financial solvency to implement the project.
• Possibility of visa extension upon successful implementation of the project.

4. Temporary Work Visa (TWV)

TWV is for workers hired for short-term projects or seasonal work such as agriculture or tourism.

Features:

• Valid for up to 24 weeks.
• Obligatory confirmation that there are no suitable candidates among local residents and EU citizens.
• Easy to obtain if all conditions are met.

5. Visa for academics and researchers

The Netherlands also offers specialised visas for academics and researchers working in universities and research institutes.

Features:

• An invitation from the host organisation is required.
• Confirmation of academic qualifications and research objectives.
• Opportunity to participate in international scientific projects.

Requirements and process for obtaining visas

Employment contract: Regardless of the type of visa, it is necessary to have an employment contract with a Dutch employer that meets all the requirements.

Proof of qualification: The applicant must provide documents confirming his/her professional skills and qualifications.

Health insurance: It is a prerequisite that you have health insurance covering the entire period of your stay in the Netherlands.

Application: The visa application is made through the Dutch embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence or directly to the Dutch immigration authorities.

Netherlands work permit requirements

The Netherlands is famous for its developed economy, innovative technologies and favourable business climate. In order for foreign specialists to legally work in this country, it is necessary to obtain a work permit. In this article we will look at the main requirements and conditions that need to be fulfilled to successfully obtain a work permit in the Netherlands.

Basic requirements for obtaining a work permit

1. Existence of a valid labour contract

One of the key conditions for obtaining a work permit is the existence of an employment contract with a Dutch employer. The contract must include a detailed job description, working conditions and salary level.

2. Confirmation of qualifications and work experience

The applicant must provide documents confirming his/her professional skills and qualifications. Such documents include diplomas, certificates and letters of recommendation from previous employers.

3. Knowledge of languages

Some jobs may require a certain level of knowledge of Dutch or English. This condition depends on the specifics of the job and the requirements of the employer.

4. Health insurance

Before starting work in the Netherlands, you must have health insurance that covers the entire period of your stay in the country. This is a mandatory requirement for all foreign workers.

5. Financial solvency

The employer must provide proof that the employee’s salary fulfils the minimum requirements set by Dutch law. This ensures that the employee is financially secure for the duration of their employment.

Application process for a work permit

1. Preparation of documents

Before submitting an application, you need to collect a complete set of documents including:

• Valid passport.
• Labour Contract.
• Documents confirming qualifications.
• Health insurance.
• A criminal record certificate (if required).

2. Submitting an application

The application for a work permit is submitted to the Netherlands Immigration Service (IND) by the employer. In some cases, the application can be submitted through the Dutch embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence.

3. Awaiting a decision

Once the application is submitted, the review process begins, which can take from several weeks to several months. During this period, the IND checks all the documents submitted and makes a decision on whether to issue a work permit.

4. Obtaining a work permit

Once the application is approved, the applicant receives a work permit, which allows him/her to legally work and reside in the Netherlands on the basis of an employment contract.

Special conditions and categories of employees

1. Highly qualified specialists

There are simplified procedures for highly qualified specialists to obtain a work permit. The main requirement is higher education and a proven salary.

2. Seasonal workers

Special conditions for work permits apply to workers employed in seasonal industries such as agriculture or tourism. The validity of such permits is limited to the period of seasonal work.

3. Academics and researchers

Researchers and scientists invited by universities and research institutes in the Netherlands can expect a work permit if they have the appropriate invitation and proof of qualifications.

Conclusion

Obtaining a work permit in the Netherlands is a process that requires careful preparation and fulfilment of all requirements. If all the conditions are met, foreign specialists have the opportunity to work in one of the most dynamic countries in Europe, which opens up a wide range of prospects for professional and personal growth.