Kingdom of the Netherlands · work sponsored
EU Blue Card (Netherlands)
Dutch implementation of the EU Blue Card for highly qualified non-EU workers.
Last reviewed:
Overview
The Netherlands implements the EU Blue Card alongside the national Kennismigrant route. Blue Card benefits include intra-EU mobility and a path to EU long-term residence; Kennismigrant is often simpler and faster for IND-recognised sponsors. Employers choose based on employee mobility plans and salary positioning.
Government fees
Approximately €350+.
Typical duration
Matches contract, up to 4 years plus 3 months; renewable.
Primary source
IND — European Blue Card · Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Recognised higher-education qualification (3+ year degree).
Employment contract of at least 6 months.
Salary meeting the Blue Card threshold (higher than Kennismigrant 30+ threshold).
Common blockers
Degree not recognised by IDW / Nuffic.
Salary below Blue Card threshold.
Typical evidence
Degree certificate with IDW assessment.
Employment contract.
Application pathway
Step 1
Evaluate Kennismigrant vs Blue Card
Employer or employee chooses based on mobility plans and thresholds.
Step 2
Sponsor files application with IND
Standard IND flow.
Step 3
MVV and residence card
As for Kennismigrant.
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Frequently asked questions
Kennismigrant or EU Blue Card — which is better?
Kennismigrant is faster and tightly aligned with Dutch employers. Blue Card offers EU-wide mobility and clearer path to EU long-term resident status after 5 years across Member States. For workers wanting optionality across Europe, Blue Card is often preferable.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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