The Netherlands, for Indians

Why Indians move to the Netherlands

The Netherlands is one of the main European destinations for Indian IT and engineering professionals. Most come on the highly skilled migrant permit, which needs a job with an IND recognised sponsor and a salary of at least €5,942 a month at age 30 or over in 2026 (€4,357 under 30), or on the EU Blue Card. English is widely used at work, and many people recruited from abroad get the 30% ruling, which makes part of their salary tax-free for up to five years; from 2027 the maximum drops to 27% for most people.

Costs are high in the Randstad cities, especially rent, and health insurance is compulsory: about €159 a month for the basic package in 2026 plus a €385 yearly deductible. Use the tools below to check whether an offer meets the permit rules and what you will take home, then follow the guides for registration and insurance after you land.

If you are still studying in the Netherlands, the orientation year for highly educated persons lets you stay and work for one year after graduating, and a highly skilled migrant permit afterwards needs only €3,122 a month under the reduced criterion in 2026.

Your first weeks

1. Your employer applies to the IND for your permit and entry visa (MVV).
2. After arrival, book a municipality appointment within 5 days to register your address and receive your BSN.
3. Apply for DigiD, open a bank account and take out Dutch health insurance within 4 months.
4. Ask your employer to apply for the 30% ruling within 4 months of your first working day.