The Netherlands is a popular destination for expats who want to work and enjoy Europe’s culture. If you are also looking to work in Netherlands, it is necessary to apply for an Alien’s Work Permit. While this requirement is meant to be an obstacle and make it difficult for expats, in reality the application process is not so tough if you follow these steps.
As per the Dutch law, when a person applying for a work permit in Netherlands if he /she is aged less than 18 years then the same needs to be accompanied by one of the parents. The individual has to produce a certified copy of the passport along with an application and obtain from the officer who is responsible for issuing working licenses in Netherlands.
Who Needs a Netherlands Work Visa?
Whether you need a visa to enter the Netherlands depends on your nationality.
You do not need a work visa/residence permit to enter the Netherlands if you are from an EU or EEA country or from Switzerland. Even so, if you want to stay in the Netherlands for longer than four months, you have to register with the personal records database in your local area and get a Citizen Service Number.
You also do not need a Dutch residence permit if you are a family member of an EU, EEA, or Swiss national but you will have to get a Verification against EU Law (certificate of lawful residence).
All other foreign nationals need a Dutch residence permit in order to live in the Netherlands and an additional Work Permit to be allowed to work. Some can apply for a Single Permit which combines the residence and work permits into one.
Some nationals also need to apply for an MVV visa (type D visa or “provisional residence permit”) along with their Dutch residence permit. If you need an MVV, you may also be required to take a civic integration exam which tests your knowledge of the Dutch language and culture.
Click here to see if you are subject to an MVV and/or the civic integration exam.
How to move to the Netherlands?
What are the requirements for a Netherlands Work Visa?
The requirements for a Netherlands work visa change depending on which of the Dutch residence permits that are available for work you are applying for. However, there is a set of standard requirements for any Dutch visa for that you will have to meet. Then, depending on the type of work visa you will need, there will be additional requirements as shown in the following sections.
Types of Netherlands Work Visas
Each type of Netherlands work visa has its own set of requirements and conditions.
For regular paid work (as an employee)
If you want to work in the Netherlands as a regular employee (a labour migrant), you will need a Netherlands Work Visa for regular paid work.