Netherlands Visa & Policy Updates
The Netherlands has simplified residence procedures by removing MVV issue forms and extending job search windows to six months for two-year permit holders. Recent updates include a 2026 salary threshold increase for highly skilled migrants to €5,942 for those over 30 and new eight-month absence allowances for their families. Proposed status tests for freelancers and stricter Schengen limits for Russian travelers further define the current Dutch immigration framework.
Netherlands proposes 2 status tests for freelance nomads
Freelance nomads working under Dutch rules could gain advance status certainty through 2 proposed tests. Consultation remains open through Oct. 29.
Netherlands gives 6 month job search window to 2 year permit holders
Under EU Directive 2024/1233, the Netherlands has extended the period foreign workers can remain in the country to find a new job after unemployment. The update also introduces longer decision windows for certain residence and work permit applications.
Netherlands joins 11 nations to tighten Russian Schengen tourist visa limits
The Dutch government has joined a coalition of EU member states calling for stricter curbs on Russian travel. This policy shift may lead to increased border scrutiny and changes to Schengen visa processing for Russian nationals and those traveling from the region.
Netherlands allows family of highly skilled migrants to stay abroad 8 months
Accompanying family members of highly skilled migrants can now remain outside the Netherlands for up to 8 months if the main permit holder is abroad for work. Additionally, the MVV entry visa process has been simplified for new residence permit applicants.
Netherlands Drops a Step in the MVV Process
The IND dropped the MVV issue form for applications approved from March 2, 2026 and now accepts a salary self-declaration for highly skilled migrant renewals.
Netherlands Cuts MVV and HSM Paperwork for Expats
On April 17, 2026, the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) announced further simplifications to provisional residence permit (MVV) and Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) procedures. As of April 1, 2026 (with transition completed), approved MVV applications no longer require the MVV issue form at Dutch representations abroad, reducing paperwork for long-stay visas including work, family reunification, and study. For HSM permit renewals (relevant to many expats and skilled professionals, including those in tech/digital roles), applicants no longer need to submit detailed salary documentation. Instead, they provide a self-declaration confirming that the migrant meets the salary criterion, the salary is market-aligned, is paid into the migrant’s own bank account, and is transferred within one month. These changes streamline processes, shorten timelines, and reduce administrative burden for expats and international talent.
Preparing for Netherlands Travel and Residency Changes
The Netherlands will implement the ETIAS travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers starting in late 2026. Additionally, the gross monthly salary requirement for highly skilled migrant workers under age 30 will rise to €4,357.
Staying Ahead of Recent Policy Shifts in the Netherlands
Starting January 2026, the Netherlands will implement new minimum salary requirements for the Highly Skilled Migrant visa, set at €5,942 for those over 30 and €4,357 for those under 30. The update also includes a higher VAT on overnight stays and new permit requirements for second homes in Amsterdam.