EU Blue Card for the Netherlands. Your route into Europe.

For highly qualified professionals with a Dutch job offer – no recognised sponsor needed.

€5,942 gross / month (2026)Contract of 6+ monthsPartner may workMove within the EU after 12 months

Requirements

Do you qualify for the Blue Card?

You need to meet all four conditions. We check them with you in the free consultation.

A job in the Netherlands

An employment contract or binding job offer for paid work of at least 6 months. Self-employed work does not count.

A qualifying salary

At least €5,942 gross per month in 2026 – or €4,754 if you graduated or obtained a PhD within the last 3 years.

Degree or experience

A relevant degree from a programme of at least 3 years, or at least 5 years of relevant experience at that level. IT professionals: 3 years within the last 7.

A bona fide employer

A real business with economic activity – no recent fines under Dutch labour or tax law. It does not have to be a recognised sponsor.

Key facts

TypeResidence permit for work

Entry visa (MVV)Depends on nationality

Salary 2026€5,942 gross / month

Recent graduates€4,754 gross / month

ValidityContract + 3 months, max. 5 years

IND decisionUp to 90 days

IND fee 2026€423

Salary criterion

What counts towards the €5,942?

The IND looks at the fixed gross monthly salary in your contract. Small details decide whether you pass.

Counts

What counts

Fixed gross monthly salary in the contract
Fixed allowances and expense payments in the contract, paid monthly
A 13th month – only when paid in 12 equal monthly parts
Salary paid into a bank account in your own name

Does not count

What does not count

The 8% holiday allowance
Bonuses, overtime and tips
Payments in kind, such as a car or housing
Payments from funds

The amount that applies is the one on the date of your application. Since 1 January 2026, employers must also be able to show that salary is paid into your own account within one month.

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