The Netherlands in numbers:
As a country with a strong demand of highly skilled foreigner in the Netherlands, there are several things you may need to successfully settle and work in the country:
A valid visa or work permit:
You will need to obtain a visa or work permit to legally work in the Netherlands. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay, you may be eligible for a residence permit for highly skilled migrants, which grants you the right to work and reside in the Netherlands for a certain period of time.
Dutch language skills:
While many Dutch people speak English, learning Dutch will make it easier for you to integrate into the Dutch society, culture and work environment. It may also improve your job prospects and increase your chances of building relationships with Dutch colleagues and friends. Fit4Taal specializes in teaching foreign professionals the language with tailor made Dutch online courses.
Knowledge of the Dutch culture and work environment:
Understanding the Dutch culture and work environment will help you to adapt quickly and effectively to your new surroundings. It is important to learn about the Dutch work-life balance, communication styles, business etiquette and social norms.
Professional qualifications and experience:
The Netherlands has a highly skilled workforce, and as a foreigner, you will need to have the necessary qualifications and experience to compete in the job market. You may also need to have your qualifications recognized by Dutch authorities to be able to work in certain professions.
Housing:
Finding suitable housing can be a challenge in the Netherlands, particularly in major cities. As a highly skilled foreigner, you may need to budget for higher rent prices and be prepared to navigate the Dutch housing market.
Support network:
Building a support network of colleagues, friends and other expats can help you to adjust to life in the Netherlands and overcome any challenges you may face. Fit4Taal has a network of 4500 professionals in the Netherlands and can provide support and advice during your initial stages in the Country.
Let's talk about the salary
So how does this work?
The Netherlands has several laws and policies in place to attract highly skilled workers from around the world. The main law that governs the entry and stay of highly skilled workers in the Netherlands is the Dutch Act on the Entry and Residence of Foreign Nationals (Vreemdelingenwet).
Under this law, highly skilled migrants can apply for a residence permit for the purpose of working in the Netherlands. To be eligible for this permit, you must meet the following criteria:
You have an employment contract or a job offer from a Dutch employer who is recognized by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) as a sponsor of highly skilled migrants.
You earn a gross salary above a certain threshold, which is adjusted annually. In 2023, the minimum threshold is € 4,830 gross per month for those aged 30 or older.
You have the necessary qualifications and experience to perform your job.
You have health insurance coverage in the Netherlands.
The residence permit for highly skilled migrants is valid for a maximum of five years and can be extended. After five years of legal residency in the Netherlands, you may be eligible for permanent residency.
The Netherlands also has a policy called the 30% ruling, which provides a tax exemption for a portion of the salary of highly skilled migrants. This policy aims to compensate for the higher cost of living and the additional expenses incurred when relocating to the Netherlands. The 30% ruling can be granted for a maximum of five years.
Overall, the Netherlands has a welcoming environment for highly skilled workers and offers several incentives to attract and retain them.