Applying for a residence permit for highly skilled migrants

Start your future in the Netherlands with the right guidance

Applying for a highly skilled migrant residence permit does not have to be complicated. At Joinwise, we guide you and your employer step by step, so that your application is approved quickly and without errors.

Avoid delays β€” the sooner you start, the sooner you can get started here.

Highly skilled migrant arrives at Schiphol Airport after successfully applying for a residence permit with the help of Joinwise

Why highly skilled migrants arrange their residence permits with Joinwise

πŸ›‚ Correct and fast IND application
We know exactly what the IND expects. No hassle with missing documents or vague instructions. You provide the documents, we take care of the rest.

πŸ‘₯ Guidance from A to Z – by people, not a chatbot
You will be assigned a dedicated contact person who understands you. We think along with you in clear language and are available whenever you have questions.

πŸ’Έ The 30% ruling? We take care of that too
Many highly skilled migrants leave money on the table. We ensure that you not only apply for your tax benefit, but also actually use it.

πŸ•’ Personal contact within 24 hours
You never have to wait long: we will contact you within one working day to start your application. This way, you don’t lose any valuable time and you know immediately where you stand.

Applying for a residence permit for highly skilled migrants – comprehensive IND guidance

What other highly skilled migrants say about Joinwise

β€œWithin one conversation, I knew exactly which documents I needed. No stress, everything was clear.”

Raj

Software Engineer, from India

β€œJoinwise gave me the confidence that my application would be approved on the first try. And they were right.”

Elena

Data Analyst, from Brazil

β€œFast, clear and friendly. They knew exactly how to handle my situation.”

Tom

Researcher, from South Africa

How to apply for your residence permit step by step via Joinwise

πŸ—“οΈ 1. Intakegesprek

We bespreken jouw situatie, nationaliteit, werkgever en wensen. Jij krijgt helderheid over wat er nodig is.

πŸ“‘ 2. Documentcheck en planning

We controleren samen alle documenten, vertalingen en deadlines. Geen verrassingen achteraf.

πŸ›‚ 3. Aanvraag bij de IND

Wij begeleiden je of je werkgever bij het correct indienen van de aanvraag. Jij hoeft alleen aan te leveren.

πŸ“¬ 4. Begeleiding tijdens de beoordeling

We houden je op de hoogte, schakelen met de IND als dat nodig is en zorgen dat alles soepel verloopt.

πŸŽ‰ 5. Je verblijfskaart is binnen – en nu?

Ook na goedkeuring helpen we je verder: van inschrijving tot BSN en eventueel de 30%-regeling.

Frequently asked questions about your residence permit

How long does it take on average to receive a residence permit as a highly skilled migrant?

The IND has a statutory decision period of 90 days for highly skilled migrants, but in practice it often takes 2 to 4 weeks if your employer is a recognised sponsor. With Joinwise’s guidance, the application is submitted without errors, which almost always prevents delays.

Can I work while my application is still being processed by the IND?

No, you may only start working once the IND has approved your application and you have received your residence permit (or a positive notification). Joinwise ensures that this process runs as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Can I bring my family (partner, children) with me on the highly skilled migrant permit?

Yes, partners and children up to the age of 18 can move to the Netherlands with you. Joinwise also helps with these family applications, so that you can start your new life in the Netherlands together without any worries. For more information, see: residence permit for partner and/or residence permit for child.

What are the current salary conditions for highly skilled migrants (under and over 30 years of age)?

In 2025, the following salary criteria will apply to highly skilled migrants:

Under 30 years of age: minimum €3,909 gross per month (excluding 8% holiday pay).

30 years of age or older: minimum €5,331 gross per month (excluding 8% holiday pay).

After completing a search year for highly skilled migrants: minimum €2,801 gross per month.

Joinwise ensures that your contract and application meet these IND requirements.

What is the difference between the highly skilled migrant permit, the EU Blue Card and the search year for highly skilled migrants?

Highly skilled migrant: for international employees who have an employment contract with a recognised employer in the Netherlands.

EU Blue Card: European residence permit with higher salary and education requirements, but also broader mobility within the EU.

Search year for highly educated people: 1-year residence permit to look for work in the Netherlands after graduating or obtaining a doctorate.

Joinwise advises you on the route that best suits your situation.

What happens if my passport is valid for less than the duration of my residence permit?

The IND always links the validity of your residence permit to the validity of your passport. If your passport is about to expire, your permit may also be issued for a shorter period. It is wise to renew your passport in good time before submitting your application.

What happens if my application is rejected? Can Joinwise help me with that?

If the IND rejects your application, we will immediately look into why and how we can resolve this. Often, it is a matter of missing documents or unclear contract terms. We can help you lodge an appeal or submit a new, correct application.

Do you also help with the 30% ruling and other tax benefits?

Yes, the 30% ruling is an important tax benefit for highly skilled migrants. Joinwise not only handles the application, but also ensures that you make optimal use of this ruling in your payroll administration.

What should I do during the assessment of my application?

During the assessment, we ask you to:

Make an appointment with the IND for biometric registration (photo, fingerprints, signature).

Provide any additional documents requested by the IND.

We will keep you informed and contact the IND where necessary. All you need to do is make sure you are available.

Will my highly skilled migrant status remain valid if I change employers?

No, your residence permit is always linked to the recognised employer who submitted your application. If you start a new job, you will need to submit a new application. Joinwise helps you arrange this without any risks, so that your residence status is not at risk.

Klaar om jouw kennismigranten-verblijfsvergunning zorgeloos te regelen?

Joinwise begeleidt jou en je werkgever stap voor stap. Geen vertraging, geen gedoe, 100% volgens IND-eisen. Start vandaag nog en krijg snel duidelijkheid.

Binnen 1 minuut aangevraagd – wij nemen snel contact op

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