The Netherlands is a member of the European Union (EU); therefore, citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland do not need a work permit to work in the country. However, they are still required to register with the municipality where they reside. The following documents are required as part of the registration process:
- Valid passport or national ID
- Original birth certificate
- Lease agreement
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals will need to obtain a residence and work permit to work legally in the country. Employers are required to act as recognized sponsors and register with the Chamber of Commerce.
Types of work visas in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has several work permits, including:
- GVVA or single permit: Individuals wishing to work in the Netherlands should apply for this combined residence and work permit. This document states that the employee is from another country with permission to work in the Netherlands.
- Highly skilled migrant scheme: Companies can bring talented professionals from other countries to the Netherlands and train them with this permit.
- Residence permit for orientation year (zoekjaar): This permit is for international students that are either studying in the Netherlands, graduates from a top university outside the Netherlands, or international scientific researchers who have carried out research in the Netherlands.
- Entrepreneur permit: Individuals who want to come to the Netherlands and start their own business can apply for a residence permit for self-employment. They must meet certain requirements related to their business or profession.
- EU Blue Card: Third-country nationals in the EU can apply for this residence permit for highly qualified employment. EU Blue Cards require a valid work contract or job offer for at least 1 year that meets the minimum salary requirements, as well as a university diploma in the relevant field.
Requirements to obtain work visas in the Netherlands
The requirements for a work visa in the Netherlands depend on the type of permit and the worker’s country of origin. The Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) processes all applications, which need to be in English, Dutch, German, or French. The process can often be complicated and confusing, so it’s best to work with a professional who has local expertise with submitting work visas.
Other requirements include:
- A valid passport
- A clean criminal record
- A medical test for tuberculosis
- A copy of the employment contract
- Travel insurance
- Proof of address in the Netherlands
Application process
All applicants must submit their visa application in person at the Netherlands mission, embassy, or consulate in their country of residence. If, for any reason, this isn’t an option, workers can contact a Netherlands mission in a neighboring country. Once the application is approved, the Netherlands mission will add a visa sticker in the employee’s passport.
Other important considerations
Within 5 days of arriving to the Netherlands, employees will have to make an appointment with the local city office to obtain a citizen’s service number (BSN number). The BSN is a crucial identification number used for various administrative and governmental purposes.
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At this moment, G-P does not sponsor or offer support in the processing of work visas or permits in this particular location.