Route 01
Netherlands — Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM)
Highly Skilled
30dEmployer required
Country library
Western Europe
NL · Amsterdam
Netherlands
Tech hubEU MemberSchengen Area
30% ruling tax break for skilled migrants. English-language workplaces are the norm.
Key facts
What to know about Netherlands
Capital
Amsterdam
Language
Dutch (English widely spoken)
Currency
EUR
Corp. tax
25.8%
Min. wage
EUR 2,070
per month
Avg. net salary
EUR 3,000
per month
Major cities
AmsterdamRotterdamThe Hague
Why move here
- 30% ruling tax break for skilled migrants
- English-language workplaces are the norm
- Highly Skilled Migrant route is one of the fastest in Europe
- Excellent work-life balance culture
Cost of living
Approximate monthly costs for a single person in Amsterdam (EUR equivalent).
Rent (1-bed, city centre)€1,600
Groceries€300
Transport pass€95
Indicative · subject to city
Visa routes
Your paths into Netherlands
Typical processing: 2–4 weeks. Choose the route that matches your role and qualifications.
Route 02
Orientation Year (Zoekjaar)
JOB_SEEKER
90d
- 1Submit application + biometrics at consulate
- 2Embassy review + interview
- 3Visa issued
Labour law
The Dutch Civil Code governs employment. Working hours are capped at 12 hours/day and 60 hours/week, averaging 48 hours over 16 weeks. Fixed-term contracts automatically convert to permanent after 3 renewals or 3 years, and dismissal requires approval from UWV or the courts.
Worker rights
Employees are entitled to at least 20 days of annual leave (4× weekly hours). Sick pay is mandated at 70% of salary for up to 2 years. The 30% ruling offers a tax advantage for highly skilled migrants, reducing the effective income tax burden.
What you can do here
From inspiration to application
Ready to move
Let’s plan your move to Netherlands
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