Hiring highly skilled migrants? Become a recognised sponsor with the IND as an employer.

Are you, as an employer, planning to hire a highly skilled migrant or foreign employees?

With the status of recognised sponsor with the IND, you can speed up the process of applying to the IND for highly skilled migrants, reduce administrative burdens and demonstrate that your organisation is a reliable sponsor.
On this page, you will discover what recognised sponsorship entails, how you can apply for it, and what it means for you as an employer.

Joinwise provides support with IND applications for highly skilled migrants, residence permits and legal obligations for employers and recognised sponsors.
Rejection of residence permit for highly skilled migrant due to error in IND application

Why becoming a recognised sponsor with the IND is often difficult for employers

πŸ“„ Too much paperwork
You have to collect all kinds of documents, upload them and submit them correctly.

βš–οΈ Strict conditions
The IND takes a critical look at reliability, administration and financial situation.

⏳ Slow and unclear process
You often don’t know where you stand or when you can expect a response.

🧭 No clear explanation
It is difficult to find out exactly what you need and what is expected of you.

πŸ“‰ Prone to errors
A small mistake can cause delays or even lead to rejection.

πŸ“Œ Responsibilities afterwards
Once granted, there are obligations that many employers are not prepared for.

How we help you become a recognised sponsor as an employer

You don’t have to go through the application process alone. We guide you from A to Z and make sure you know exactly what to do and when.

What you can expect from us:

 

βœ”οΈ Personal advice
Tailored to your industry, organisation and situation.

πŸ“‹ Clear checklist
You know exactly which documents are required and how to submit them correctly.

πŸ”„ Guidance throughout the entire process
From preparation to submission to the IND – including checking for errors.

πŸ”’ Certainty and peace of mind
You avoid delays, ambiguities and unnecessary rejections.

🎯 Would you like to know if your organisation is eligible?
Schedule a free consultation without obligation – we will look into it with you right away.

Two individuals celebrate successful IND application for a highly skilled migrant residence permit
Personal contact between highly skilled migrants and Joinwise advisors

Why employers trust us when hiring highly skilled migrants

As an employer, you want to hire international talent quickly and without unnecessary obstacles. However, applying for a residence permit through the IND is often complex and time-consuming. With our expertise and guidance, we ensure that you, as an employer, go through the process smoothly and do not run the risk of errors or delays.

Our approach for employers:

βœ… IND-proof preparation – We ensure that all documents and data are submitted correctly the first time.

βœ… Clear overview of obligations – You know exactly what is expected of you as a recognised sponsor.

βœ… Guidance in communicating with the IND – We are your point of contact with the IND and keep you informed of every step.

βœ… Control and certainty – We identify risks and ensure that you do not make any mistakes that could jeopardise your recognition.

βœ… Continuity for your organisation – Even after the application, we support you with reporting obligations, administration and compliance.

πŸ‘‰ Would you like to hire highly skilled migrants without any worries and retain your accreditation?
Schedule a free consultation and discover how we can take care of everything for your organisation.

Our services for employers

Assistance with applying for recognised reference status

Frequently asked questions for employers about recognized sponsorship

What does it mean to be a recognised sponsor?

A recognised sponsor is an employer that has been approved by the IND to hire highly skilled migrants or foreign employees more quickly and easily.

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Why should I become a recognised sponsor?

As a recognised sponsor, you benefit from faster procedures, less administrative burden and greater certainty for international candidates.

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How can my organisation become an recognised sponsor?

You submit an application to the IND. The IND will assess your reliability, financial situation and whether your paperwork is in order.

How long does the application process take?

On average, a few months, depending on the completeness of your application and the workload at the IND.

What conditions apply to recognised sponsors?

The IND sets requirements for financial stability, reliability and compliance with laws and regulations.

Are there any costs associated with the application?

Yes, you have to pay a fee to the IND for the application. The amount varies per organisation.

Last update by Joinwise: 18 August 2025

Recognition as a sponsor € 4866,00
​Recognition as a sponsor – small businesses with up to 50 employees € 2432,00
Recognition as a sponsor for exchange programmes (including au pairs) € 2432,00
Recognition as a sponsor – change in the legal form of a recognised sponsor € 2432,00

 

What happens after approval as a recognised sponsor?

Once approved, you will be subject to obligations such as reporting requirements, duty of care and administrative requirements.

Can my application also be rejected?

Yes, if you do not meet the conditions or your documents are incomplete, the IND may reject your application.

Are recognised sponsors obliged to hire highly skilled migrants?

Yes, for the highly skilled migrant scheme, your organisation must be a recognised sponsor.

How can I be sure that my organisation is eligible?

With a free consultation, you can immediately assess whether your organisation meets the conditions.