5 Highly skilled migrants – who are they?

Highly skilled professionals play a vital role in driving innovation and economic growth in the Netherlands. To attract top talent, the country has developed the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) program. In this article, we break down who these specialists are, the key requirements for eligibility, and the many benefits of this program.

Definition and context

The term Highly Skilled Migrant comes from the Dutch kennismigrant, meaning “migrant with knowledge.” In other words, it refers to highly qualified specialists.

The Dutch job market is carefully protected from an influx of (excessive) foreign workers, as the unemployment rate in the country (currently around 3.5%) decreases too slowly. Therefore, jobs are prioritized for Dutch nationals.

However, exceptions are made for companies needing highly specialized or skilled workers. The Netherlands has its own national “knowledge import” program alongside a less common European initiative, the European Blue Card program. You can read about the differences between these programs in a separate article.

Most incoming HSMs work in IT-related fields such as programming, engineering, administration, quality assurance, architecture, and analytics. However, the program also caters to other sectors like energy, creative industries, and other technical professions.

Requirements and benefits

To come to the Netherlands as an HSM, there are only two main requirements:

• A high enough salary level: Approximately three times the national minimum.
  • The salary level depends on the employee’s age (under or over 30) and is indexed annually. Check the latest salary requirements on the salary history page.
• Company accreditation: Employers must be accredited to hire foreign specialists by the Dutch Ministry of Justice. The public list of accredited companies is available on the IND website. Look for the monthly updated *Arbeid Regulier Kennismigranten* list.

Obtaining accreditation usually takes around six months, and companies are not guaranteed approval. Companies without accreditation can hire through a payroll company as an alternative solution.

Benefits of HSM status

• No education requirements: Contrary to popular belief, a university degree is not necessary to obtain highly skilled migrant status; relevant work experience in the field suffices.
• No need to prove uniqueness: Employers do not need to prove the uniqueness of the employee. The government assumes that if a Dutch company offers a high salary, it validates the employee’s qualifications.
• Fast processing: The entire process, from submitting documents to receiving an entry visa permit, typically takes 2–3 weeks.
• Family inclusion: Civil partners or spouses and children can obtain dependent residence permits, granting them free access to the Dutch job market.
• No language exams: Neither the specialist nor their family members need to take language exams until applying for permanent residency or naturalization (usually after five years in the Netherlands).
• Additional perks: Eligibility for the 30% ruling, access to mortgage loans, duty-free import of family vehicles, and free education for children.

Did you know?
HSM status opens doors to unique benefits beyond a work visa. For instance, you can bring your family to the Netherlands with ease, enjoy reduced taxes via the 30% ruling, and access loans for purchasing property. Additionally, your children gain access to the country’s excellent free education system.

Final thoughts

The Highly Skilled Migrant program offers an excellent pathway for skilled professionals to work and settle in the Netherlands. With its streamlined processes, broad eligibility criteria, and family-friendly policies, the HSM program is one of the most attractive options for relocating talent worldwide.