Thinking about immigrating to the Netherlands? In recent years, the Netherlands has become one of the top choices for those who dream of living in Europe. And it’s easy to see why.
This country is known for being open-minded, modern, and full of opportunities. Even better? You don’t need a big budget, perfect English, or to be a certain age to get started. Many people apply every year, and many succeed.
So if you’ve been wondering where to start, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the main ways to move to the Netherlands.
The Easiest Paths for Different Needs: If you’re young and your budget is tight, studying in the Netherlands might be your best option. On the other hand, if you have savings and are ready to start something new, the Netherlands’ Startup Visa or investment options can open exciting doors.
have made the Netherlands a popular destination for immigrants.
This guide, prepared by Sugimoto Visa experts in fall 2025, covers everything you need to know about immigration to the Netherlands, including how to get permanent residency, costs, and key requirements.
| Pathway | Requirements | Key Benefits | Estimated Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study Visa | - University admission letter - IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 85 - GPA above 14 (out of 20) | - Fast and simple process - Flexible age limits - Part-time work allowed (up to 16 hrs/week) | - Visa fee: €207 - Tuition: €6,000–€12,000/year - Proof of funds: €10,000 |
| Work Visa | - Job offer from a Dutch employer - Relevant skills and work experience | - Low unemployment rate - Strong job market - Access to global markets | - Visa fee: €210–€350 - Proof of funds: €2,000 |
| Investment Visa | - Sufficient investment funds - Clear and viable business plan | - Government support - Excellent infrastructure - Strong business ecosystem | - Visa fee: €2,394 - Minimum investment: €1,250,000 |
| Startup Visa | - Innovative business idea - Approved facilitator (startup mentor) - Business plan - Proof of funds | - Bring your family - Fast processing (around 6 months) - No language test required - Lower cost than traditional investment | - Visa fee: €350 |
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Why People Choose the Netherlands?
High Quality of Life
The Netherlands consistently ranks high in quality of life indexes thanks to excellent healthcare, safety, a clean environment, and well-developed infrastructure. Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht offer a great balance of urban amenities and green spaces.
Strong Work-Life Balance
Dutch culture highly values a balanced lifestyle. Many workplaces offer flexible hours, generous vacation time, and a supportive environment for family life, which helps expats adapt smoothly.
International and Multicultural Environment
The Netherlands is very international, with a large expat community and many companies operating globally. English is widely spoken, making it easier for foreigners to live, work, and socialize without needing full Dutch fluency right away.
Excellent Education System
For expat families, the Netherlands offers high-quality education options, including many international schools and universities with programs in English. This makes it a great destination for families with children or students looking to continue their studies.
📢 2025 Update: Important Changes to Immigration Rules
As of 2025, the Dutch government has introduced several important updates to its immigration policies. These changes are meant to better manage borders and improve how asylum applications are handled. Here’s what’s new:
- Stricter border controls to monitor better who enters the country
- Temporary pause on accepting new asylum applications
- End of unlimited asylum permits. Permits are now time-limited
- Family reunification is now limited to immediate family members only
- Faster and simpler asylum process through new efficiency measures
If you’re planning to move to the Netherlands, keep in mind:
- The rules vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay
- For example, students or researchers follow different processes than someone reuniting with their spouse
- You may need either a Schengen visa (for short stays) or a long-term residence permit
Immigrate to the Netherlands Pathways
1. Highly Skilled Migrant Scheme
- For skilled workers with a job offer from a recognized sponsor employer.
- Fast processing and allows bringing family members.
- Salary requirements apply based on age and experience.
2. Startup Visa
- For entrepreneurs who want to launch innovative startups in The Netherlands.
- Requires collaboration with a recognized facilitator (business mentor/incubator).
- Valid for one year, with the possibility to switch to a regular residence permit if business develops well.
3. Regular Work Permit (GVVA or TWV)
- For workers without a highly skilled migrant status.
- The employer must apply for a work permit on behalf of the employee.
- Subject to labor market tests in some cases.
4. Orientation Year Permit for Graduates
- Graduates from Dutch universities or top international universities can stay for 12 months to find work or start a business.
- Can switch to a highly skilled migrant or entrepreneur residence permit after.
5. Family Reunification
- For spouses, registered partners, or dependent family members of residents or citizens.
- Requires the sponsor to meet income and housing conditions.
6. Permanent Residency and Citizenship
- After 5 years of continuous legal residence, one can apply for permanent residence.
- Citizenship by naturalization is possible after 5 years, with integration and language requirements.
7. Study Visa
- For international students admitted to recognized Dutch educational institutions.
- Often allows part-time work and can lead to an orientation year permit after graduation.
8. EU Blue Card
- For highly qualified non-EU workers with a job offer paying above a certain salary threshold.
- Enables residence and work in the Netherlands with the possibility of moving within the EU.
9. Business or Investor Visa
- For individuals investing a substantial amount in a Dutch company or economy.
- Must meet strict financial criteria and business plans.
Immigration to the Netherlands Requirements
No matter which immigration route you choose, there are several common documents and conditions required:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Clean criminal record certificate (Police clearance)
- Health insurance valid in the Netherlands (if applicable)
- Medical certificate (for certain visa types)
- Motivation letter or statement of purpose
- Identity documents (e.g., birth certificate, national ID, recent passport-sized photos)
- Payment of visa or residence permit application fees
1. Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant)
- Employment contract from a recognized sponsor in the Netherlands
- Salary meeting the required minimum threshold (varies by age)
- Proof of employer’s registration with the IND as a recognized sponsor
- Academic qualifications or work experience supporting the role
2. Startup Visa
- Collaboration agreement with a recognized Dutch facilitator/incubator
- Innovative business plan
- Proof of sufficient funds to live in the Netherlands for at least one year
- Registration in the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK)
- Description of the product/service’s innovative nature
3. Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar) for Graduates
- Diploma or proof of recent graduation from a Dutch university or top international university
- Application within 3 years of graduation
- No job offer required at the time of application
- Sufficient financial means to support yourself
4. Work Permit (GVVA or TWV)
- Job offer from a Dutch employer
- Employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf
- Sometimes labor market test (to prove no EU candidate is available)
- Valid employment contract with clear role and salary terms
5. Family Reunification
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate for children)
- Sponsor must have legal residency and sufficient income in the Netherlands
- Evidence of suitable housing
- Completed MVV (entry visa) application if required
6. Student Visa
- Letter of admission from a recognized Dutch educational institution
- Proof of payment of tuition fees
- Sufficient financial means to support your stay
- Health insurance covering your entire stay in the Netherlands
- Tuberculosis test (in some cases)
7. EU Blue Card
- Valid employment contract with a Dutch employer for at least 1 year
- Higher education qualification (bachelor’s degree or above)
- Gross salary meeting the EU Blue Card threshold
- Proof of professional experience in some cases
8. Entrepreneur/Investor Visa
- Detailed business plan
- Minimum investment amount (usually €1.25 million for investor visa)
- Proof of economic benefit to the Netherlands
- Chamber of Commerce registration
- Sufficient personal funds
✅️ Your First Step to a Successful Immigration Journey
Sugimoto Visa is here to help you move to the Netherlands. We make the process simple and guide you step by step. Our team knows all the ways to move to Europe and Canada, especially through business and startup visas. Want to start your new life? Fill out our free assessment form today!
