When it comes to living and working in the Netherlands, many people find visa rules confusing. Myths and misinformation often make the process seem harder than it really is. Whether you are an employer bringing international talent or an expat planning your move, understanding the types of visa and how the Netherlands visa system truly works is key.
In this edition, we debunk five common myths about Dutch visas and permits and help you navigate the process with confidence.
Understanding the Netherlands Visa System
Before we dive into the myths, it’s helpful to know that the Netherlands visa framework includes several types of visa, depending on your purpose of stay. These include work visas, study visas, residence permits for partners, and short-stay tourist visas. Each comes with its own eligibility rules and application process.
Knowing which visa applies to your situation helps you avoid delays and misunderstandings. Now, let’s look at the most common misconceptions about living and working in the Netherlands.
Visa Myth 1: “I can relocate my non-European workers to the Netherlands without extra steps.”
Not quite! Moving your business to the Netherlands does not automatically allow you to bring all your non-European employees.
To hire international workers, your company must first become a recognised sponsor. This means proving to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) that you are a trusted partner. Only after gaining this recognition can you apply for highly skilled migrant visas for your employees.
While recognition offers many benefits, such as faster visa processing, fewer required documents, and no limit on applications, it also involves a significant application fee. Plus, the IND makes the final decision on approval.
Don’t stress, Octagon can support you through this process. As an IND-recognised sponsor, we offer payrolling services that help companies hire qualified non-European staff under the highly skilled migrant scheme.
Visa Myth 2: “I don’t need to apply for an entry visa if I want a residence permit in the Netherlands.”
This is not always true. In many cases, you must apply for a long-stay entry visa, officially known as machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf (MVV). The MVV allows you to travel to the Netherlands to collect your residence permit.
However, there are exceptions. You may not need an MVV if you already hold a residence permit from another EU country or if your partner or family member has EU or Swiss nationality. Always check your eligibility first, skipping steps can delay your stay in the Netherlands.
Visa Myth 3: “To qualify for the reduced salary criterion for highly skilled migrants, the company must apply during the employee’s orientation year.”
Not entirely correct! The reduced salary criterion for the orientation year still applies even after that year ends. If a highly skilled migrant continues employment after their orientation year, a new employer can also use this benefit, even if the employee changes jobs or turns 30.
Remember, continuous employment is key to maintaining eligibility under this rule.
Visa Myth 4: “I can work if I move to the Netherlands with my partner while they study.”
It depends on your situation. If your partner is pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree, you generally cannot work freely. Students from outside the EU can only work up to 16 hours per week, and their partners must obtain their own work permit, the tewerkstellingsvergunning (TWV), through an employer.
However, if your partner is doing a Ph.D., the rules are different. Ph.D. candidates are classified as researchers, and their residence permits include the right to work. This permission extends to their partners and family members too, allowing them to work freely in the Dutch labour market.
Visa Myth 5: “I need to get married or register a partnership to obtain a partner visa.”
This is one of the most common myths about types of visa for couples. In the Netherlands, you don’t have to be married or registered to live with your partner. As long as you can prove a long-term exclusive relationship, you may apply for a Netherlands visa or permit based on partnership.
That said, the IND is very thorough. You must provide detailed evidence of your relationship, including a declaration of relationship form with personal questions. Accuracy and honesty are vital here, as the IND checks every detail carefully.
Contact Us
Are you hiring international professionals or planning your move to the Netherlands but unsure where to start? Our HR experts at Octagon are here to guide you through every step of the visa and permit process.
Contact us today, and make your move to the Netherlands smooth, simple, and compliant.
