Country Profiles

Netherlands

February 2012

This summary is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered an authoritative guide on how to obtain work authorization in the Netherlands. The intent is to give the reader a general overview of the process only. Procedures and requirements may have changed since the writing of this article. For current and detailed information regarding the topics below, as well as documentary requirements, processing times, post-arrival and departure requirements, penalties for non-compliance, allowances for accompanying family members, and any other information pertaining to your specific needs, please contact your Pro-Link GLOBAL immigration professional.

Overview

BUSINESS VISITOR

Permitted Activities - Business visitors must generally limit their activities to the following:

  • Attending business meetings or discussions;
  • Making sales calls to potential clients provided that the visitor represents a commercial entity outside of the Netherlands;
  • Attending seminars or "fact-finding" meetings;

Type of Business Visas - The Schengen "C" visa is the typical visa issued to business travelers. Note that many nationalities benefit from a visa waiver arrangement with the Schengen area and are permitted to enter visa free for business visits of up to 90 days in a 180 day period.

Basic Requirements

  1. Intention of a genuine visit for business and not for paid employment;
  2. Proof of medical coverage of at least EUR 30,000;
  3. Evidence that there are no restrictions on his or her traveling to the Netherlands;
  4. No intention to permanently reside in the Netherlands;
  5. A ticket for onward travel from the Netherlands;
  6. Proof of funds.

Estimated Processing Times - This varies by diplomatic post and country.

Maximum Time On Visa - This visa allows business people to make a short business visit to the Netherlands for up to 90 days out of 180 days during the visa validity period. Visas cannot be extended in country.

Typical Documents Required -
All travelers need to present the following documents to officers in immigration clearance:

  • a valid passport or other acceptable travel document and in some cases;
  • a valid visa or authority to enter the Netherlands.

EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION

Basic Requirements - The principal visa category for temporary employment inthe Netherlandsis the Knowledge Migrant residence permit. This is a category for employers to sponsor approved skilled workers to work the Netherlands on a temporary basis. Note that minimum salary requirements are in place, and are adjusted annually.


Process Overview - The process for obtaining a knowledge migrant residence permit is as follows:

  1. Machtiging Voorlopig Verblijf (MVV) Approval and Knowledge Migrant Residence Permit Application (submitted in the Netherlands);
  2. MVV application at Dutch consulate in home country (this step can be waived for certain nationals);
  3. Knowledge Migrant Residence Permit collection and Town Hall Registration (done post arrival).

Estimated Processing Time - three to five weeks.

Validity periods - Visas are valid for up to five years. Renewals are possible.

Family Members -Secondary/ family dependents of Knowledge Migrant residence permits are granted permission to work in the Netherlands.