Brazilian applicants · Kingdom of the Netherlands
Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) for Brazilian citizens
Primary sponsored work route for high-skill workers hired by IND-recognised sponsors.
- Processing time
- Typically 2–4 weeks after complete application by recognised sponsor.
- Government fees
- Approximately €380+ per application; sponsor also pays a one-off recognised-sponsor registration.
- Typical duration
- Matches contract, up to 5 years; renewable.
- Sponsor required
- Yes
- Leads to settlement
- Yes
Bilateral context
- Schengen Area
Consular processing: Applicable consular post in origin country
Tourist entry vs. this route
Brazilian nationals require a visa for any entry into Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.
Visa overview
The Kennismigrant route is the Netherlands' main high-skill work visa. The employer must be a recognised sponsor (erkend referent) registered with the IND. The critical test is meeting the salary threshold, which is age-tiered and updated twice annually.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Employment offer from an IND-recognised sponsor.
- ✓Gross monthly salary meeting the age-tiered Kennismigrant threshold. Thresholds are updated each January and July.
- ✓Valid passport and clean background.
Common blockers
- !Employer not an IND-recognised sponsor.
- !Salary below the age-tiered threshold — particularly strict for over-30 applicants.
Typical evidence
- ·Signed employment contract.
- ·Passport.
Application pathway
Confirm sponsor status
Employer must appear on the IND public register of recognised sponsors.
Sponsor submits MVV/TEV application
For most nationalities, sponsor files the combined residence permit and entry visa application.
Applicant collects MVV and travels
Pick up MVV at Dutch embassy, enter the Netherlands within the MVV validity.
Collect residence card and register
Register at the municipality (BRP), pick up residence card at IND.
Other Kingdom of the Netherlands routes covered for Brazilian applicants
Orientation year (Zoekjaar)
Unrestricted 1-year residence permit for recent graduates of Dutch or top-ranked international universities.
EU Blue Card (Netherlands)
Dutch implementation of the EU Blue Card for highly qualified non-EU workers.
Startup Visa (Netherlands)
1-year residence permit for founders working with a recognised Dutch startup facilitator.
Partner residence (Dutch national or resident sponsor)
Residence permit for partners, spouses, and registered partners of Dutch residents and citizens.
Comparable routes in other destinations
Frequently asked questions
Are Brazilian citizens eligible for the Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant)?+
Eligibility for the Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) is set by Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) and is not nationality-restricted beyond the general criteria, though Brazilian applicants may also have access to the following bilateral or treaty frameworks: Schengen Area. See the criteria below for the published requirements.
Where do Brazilian applicants typically file the Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant)?+
Applicable consular post in origin country. Specific intake (online portal, biometrics centre, or in-country lodgement) is determined by Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) — confirm the current intake channel on the primary source linked above before filing.
Do Brazilian applicants need a tourist visa for Kingdom of the Netherlands as well?+
Brazilian nationals require a visa for any entry into Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.
What is the Kennismigrant salary threshold?+
The threshold is tiered by age: one figure for applicants 30 and over, a lower figure for under-30s, and a reduced figure for graduates within 3 years of Dutch-degree completion (orientation-year transitions). Thresholds update twice yearly — always check the current IND figures.
Can my family join on a Kennismigrant visa?+
Yes. Partners and children under 18 can apply as family members and typically receive unrestricted right to work.