Written by FirmEU Team
The Netherlands, with its dynamic cities, modern society, and strong economy, has long been an appealing destination for persons seeking new opportunities and a good quality of life. In recent years, the country has seen a substantial influx of highly skilled migrants (HSM), who offer their skills to the Dutch workforce and society as a whole. If you are considering moving to the Netherlands as a highly skilled migrant, this detailed guide will help you negotiate the procedure successfully.
The Netherlands has implemented the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) scheme, which provides a streamlined process for eligible individuals to obtain a residence permit for employment purposes. Under this scheme, highly skilled migrants can enjoy several benefits. However, even with the benefits offered by the HSM scheme, navigating the Dutch immigration system and settling into a new country can be daunting. This is where the support of a corporate service provider like FirmEU becomes invaluable.
In this article, we will delve into the specific avenue of moving to the Netherlands as a Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM), and highlight the invaluable role that corporate service providers, such as FirmEU, can play in making this transition seamless and successful.
The highly skilled migrant scheme is also called the HSM visa, highly skilled migrant program, and highly skilled migrant permit. We will be using this interchangeably in this post. So don’t get confused, it’s the same thing. The Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) scheme, implemented by the Dutch government, is a program specifically designed to attract and retain highly skilled professionals from around the world. This scheme offers an expedited and simplified pathway for eligible individuals to live and work in the Netherlands by granting them a residence permit. Moreover, understanding the key aspects of the HSM scheme is crucial for those considering a move to the Netherlands as highly skilled migrants.
There are several steps to take regarding moving to the Netherlands as a highly skilled migrant. Some of these steps are:
Now, let us delve into these steps in detail.
There are precise requirements that aspiring Highly Skilled Migrants must meet in order to be eligible for the HSM system. These requirements are set by the Dutch government in order to ensure that indeed highly skilled professionals who can contribute to the Dutch economy can live and work in the Netherlands. Individuals considering the HSM scheme as a means of moving to the Netherlands must first understand the eligibility conditions. Let’s delve right in.
The salary threshold is one of the key eligibility requirements for Highly Skilled Migrants to move to The Netherlands.. The exact threshold varies based on factors such as age, education level, and if the applicant holds a Master’s or PhD degree. The salary threshold is updated on a regular basis by the Dutch government to reflect changes in the cost of living and income levels.
HSM visa applicants must have relevant qualifications and experience in their profession. The HSM permit aims for highly skilled professionals who can contribute to the Dutch labor market. Depending on the occupation and industry, the specific qualifications and previous experience required may differ. To verify eligibility, educational credentials, professional certifications, and work experience are often evaluated.
To apply for the HSM permit, applicants must have a job offer from a recognized sponsor in the Netherlands. A recognized sponsor is an employer that has been approved by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) and meets specific requirements. The employer must demonstrate compliance with Dutch labor laws and regulations, ensuring fair working conditions and appropriate contracts for employees.
The contract must include details such as the position, salary, working conditions, and duration of the employment contract. The offer must align with the requirements of the HSM permit, including meeting the minimum salary threshold. It is mandatory to have a clear and valid job offer from a recognized sponsor to proceed with the application process.
In addition to the above criteria, Highly Skilled Merchant permit applicants may need to fulfill additional requirements depending on their specific circumstances. For example, individuals with a PhD degree may be eligible for a reduced salary threshold. Language proficiency may also be required in certain occupations or industries, although this is not a universal requirement for the HSM scheme.
Navigating the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) system and associated immigration procedures can be difficult, especially for those inexperienced with Dutch legislation and processes. Hiring an HSM specialist or corporate service provider might be really beneficial in this situation. These experts specialize in immigration services and are well-versed in the HSM scheme, providing a smooth and efficient relocation process.
Let’s quickly look into the significance and benefits of employing an HSM expert:
The application process consists of multiple stages, and understanding each stage can assist ensure a smooth and successful application. If you hired the services of Highly Skilled Migrant experts, you may not need to bother about this process as they know the in and out of this. However. let’s have a look at the main components of the HSM application process:
It is critical to have a job offer from an authorized sponsor in the Netherlands before beginning the HSM application process. Your prospective employer will function as your sponsor and must meet specific conditions stipulated by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) during the application procedure. The employer must demonstrate conformity with Dutch labor laws and regulations by providing fair working conditions, proper contracts, and a salary that reaches the HSM scheme’s level.
With the support of your employer and an HSM expert or corporate service provider, gather the necessary documents for your application. These documents typically include:
Ensure that all documents are up to date, translated into Dutch or English if required, and meet the IND’s specifications. Your HSM expert or corporate service provider will review and verify the completeness and accuracy of the documents.
The Highly Skilled Immigrant application is submitted online on the IND’s website. Your HSM specialist will walk you through the procedure and help you correctly fill out the necessary forms. The application form requires the applicant’s information, educational background, career history, and the job offer from the recognized sponsor. Before submitting the application, double-check all of the information.
After submitting your online application, you will have to pay the necessary processing cost. The fee amount is determined by several factors, including the type of residency permit and the length of stay. Following payment, you may be asked to make an appointment with the IND or a Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country for the collection of biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph.
When the IND receives your HSM application, they will analyze the documents you have submitted, check the information you have provided, and determine your eligibility for the HSM visa. The processing duration varies, but a decision is usually made within a few weeks to a few months. If necessary, the IND may seek additional documentation or explanation during this time. Your HSM specialist or corporate service provider will keep track of your application’s progress and offer updates as needed.
If your application is approved, you will receive a notification from the IND stating that your residence permit has been granted. It is essential to ensure that all the details on the residence permit are accurate. If there are any discrepancies, inform the IND immediately for correction.
After receiving your residence permit, you can make arrangements to travel to the Netherlands. Upon arrival, you must register with the local municipality (gemeente) within a specific timeframe to obtain a citizen service number (burgerservicenummer or BSN). This number is necessary for various administrative tasks, including opening a bank account and accessing healthcare services.
Once your application for the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) scheme is underway, it’s crucial to start searching for suitable accommodation in the Netherlands. Here are some steps to help you find a place to live:
Congratulations on successfully moving to the Netherlands as a Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM)! Now that you have completed the necessary steps and have found suitable accommodation, it’s time to settle in and embrace your new life. Here are some tips to help you navigate this exciting phase:
The HSM scheme is a program designed to attract highly skilled professionals from outside the European Union to work in the Netherlands. It provides a simplified process for obtaining a residence permit for employment purposes.
To qualify as a Highly Skilled Migrant, you must have a job offer from a recognized sponsor in the Netherlands, meet the minimum income threshold, possess relevant education or work experience, and satisfy other eligibility criteria outlined by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND).
The HSM scheme offers several benefits, including a streamlined application process, a faster residence permit decision timeline, the ability to bring family members, access to the Dutch labor market, and a pathway to long-term residency in the Netherlands.
The application processing time can vary depending on various factors, including the workload of the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). In general, it takes a few weeks to a few months for a decision to be made.
Yes, it is possible to change jobs while on the HSM permit. However, you will need to inform the IND and meet the new employer’s requirements to ensure compliance with the scheme.
Yes, your family members, including your spouse or registered partner and children under the age of 18, can accompany you to the Netherlands under the HSM scheme. They will be eligible for dependent residence permits.
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