The Dutch Government has announced a major reform of the Highly Skilled Migrant Scheme (kennismigrantenregeling), the system that enables the Netherlands to attract highly qualified professionals from outside the European Union. The goal of this reform is to maintain the Netherlands as an attractive hub for international talent while preventing misuse of the system and strengthening control over labor migration.

Main proposed changes in the regulation

1. Increase in salary thresholds
   • Professionals aged 30 and over: the minimum gross monthly threshold remains €5,688, in line with the EU Blue Card standard.
   • Professionals under 30: the required salary will rise to approximately €4,551, up from the current €4,171.
   • Recent graduates: the current threshold of €2,989 will be revised to align with the average salary of Dutch graduates (between €3,373 and €4,231 depending on education level).

In addition, the duration of reduced thresholds will be restricted:

• Upon turning 30, the higher threshold will automatically apply.
• Recent graduates may benefit from the reduced threshold for a maximum of three years after completing their studies, even if they change employers.

1. Stricter requirements for sponsoring companies
   Companies wishing to maintain their recognized sponsor status with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) will be subject to more thorough checks regarding their financial solvency, stability, and credibility.
   • The IND may withdraw sponsor status if a company has not applied for a highly skilled migrant permit for two consecutive years (previously three).
   • The salary compliance test will be reinforced, in coordination with the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV), to ensure that the conditions offered to highly skilled migrants are truly in line with market standards.
2. Objectives and next legislative steps
   With these measures, the Dutch government aims to continue attracting high-level professionals, prevent fraudulent hiring practices, and maintain a sustainable balance in migration flows.
   The reforms have been submitted to Parliament and are subject to consultation with the Social and Economic Council (SER). Some provisions may be enacted through Royal Decrees, though the main elements of the reform are not expected to take effect for at least a year.

Impact on employers and international workers

These reforms represent a significant shift for Dutch companies employing international talent. Employers will need to adjust salary policies, update employment contracts, and regularly verify their recognized sponsor status.
For foreign professionals interested in moving to the Netherlands, access to the program will become more demanding, making it essential to carefully assess compliance with the new salary thresholds and sponsorship requirements.

How Feliu N&I can help you prepare

At Feliu N&I, we specialize in international mobility, immigration, and global taxation. This regulatory change in the Netherlands may affect both companies seeking to attract foreign talent and professionals planning to develop their careers there.

We can assist you with key aspects such as:
• Reviewing employment contracts and ensuring compliance with the new salary thresholds.
• Managing recognized sponsor status with the Dutch authorities.
• Migration and tax planning for seconded employees.
• Comprehensive support for immigration procedures and labor compliance.

Our team of specialists can help you anticipate the impact of these reforms and ensure that your organization or professional project is fully aligned with upcoming Dutch regulations. Contact Feliu N&I, and we will guide you through every step of the process.

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