Netherlands work visa

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Posted on November 13 2025

Is a job offer mandatory to apply for a Netherlands work visa?

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By  Editor
Updated November 13 2025

Is a job offer mandatory to apply for a Netherlands work visa?

Yes, a job offer is mandatory to apply for a Netherlands work visa. You must have a valid employment or job contract from a verified Dutch employer, who will then initiate the work visa process on your behalf. Having a job offer is one of the primary requirements to qualify for a Netherlands work visa. To be eligible for a work visa in the Netherlands, you must obtain a job offer from a Dutch employer, who must also be a recognized sponsor. Suppose you wish to move to the Netherlands without a job offer in hand. In that case, you can, however, apply for a Netherlands Orientation permit, which allows highly qualified nationals to enter the country and look for employment for a maximum of 12 months.
 

*Want to apply for a Netherlands work visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
 

What are the requirements for a work visa in the Netherlands?

To be eligible for a work visa in the Netherlands, you must meet specific requirements, which include:

  • An original passport with at least 6 months of validity
  • A job offer or an employment contract with a Dutch employer/company
  • Proof of qualifications, such as a degree certificate and professional certificates
  • Proof of sufficient finances to support your stay in the country (bank statements)
  • A valid medical insurance
  • A criminal clearance certificate
  • Copies of your latest passport-sized photographs (as per the Dutch standards)
  • A signed visa application form

Requirements for a Work Visa in the Netherlands

You will also need to fulfil additional requirements based on the type of Netherlands work visa you are applying for, some of which include:

  • Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) Visa: The salary offered to you must meet the minimum salary threshold (may vary depending on your age)
  • EU Blue Card: You must hold a higher-level diploma from a study program of at least 3 years, along with a job contract with a minimum duration of 12 months.
  • Intra-Company Transfer (ICT): Must have worked in your current company/organization for a minimum of 3 months before getting transferred. You must also have a job contract with a one-year validity.

Also, read…

Top in demand occupations in Netherlands
 

How to apply for Netherlands work visa from India?

You can follow the steps below to apply for a Netherlands work visa from India:

Step 1: Get a job offer from a registered Dutch employer, who must also offer sponsorship

Step 2: Arrange the documents required for the visa

Step 3: Your Dutch employer initiates the process by submitting your work visa application

Step 4: Upon approval, you can schedule a visa appointment at the nearest Dutch consulate or embassy

Step 5: Attend the interview, submit your biometrics (photos and fingerprints), and complete the fee payment

Step 6: Await a decision (may take a few weeks to months)

Step 7: Upon success, you will be issued a provisional residence permit (MVV)

Step 8: Fly to the Netherlands

Netherlands Work Visa Application Process

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with overseas immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance

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