Find the Best Visa for Moving to the Netherlands

It depends on your situation. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens generally do not need a visa. For non-EU citizens, the “easiest” route is the one that fits your profile: if you have a job offer from a recognized sponsor, the Highly Skilled Migrant route is common; if you are a US citizen and self-employed, DAFT may be an option; if you are joining a partner, the partner visa applies. Use the visa checker to see which routes may fit you.

Yes, but you need another basis for residence. Options include the self-employed route (or DAFT for US citizens), the student visa if you are admitted to qualifying education, or the partner/family visa if you have a sponsor in the Netherlands. Work-based routes like Highly Skilled Migrant and EU Blue Card typically require a job offer.

If you have a job offer from a Dutch employer that is (or can become) a recognized IND sponsor, the Highly Skilled Migrant permit is one of the most common routes. The EU Blue Card is an alternative with different salary and framework rules. Use the visa checker and compare both guides to see which fits your offer and goals.

US citizens can consider the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) route for self-employment. Non-US citizens use the general self-employed residence permit, which has viability and profit requirements. Use the visa checker and read the DAFT and self-employed visa guides to compare.

Yes. Non-EU students admitted to qualifying Dutch education typically apply for a study residence permit; the institution usually submits the application. You will need to meet financial and document requirements. See the student visa guide for details.

Yes. The partner or family residence permit allows you to join a spouse, registered partner, or family member who lives legally in the Netherlands. The sponsor must meet income and other requirements. See the partner & family visa guide for full details.

Yes. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) route is only for US citizens who want to live in the Netherlands as self-employed persons. Other nationalities use the general self-employed residence permit.

Both are work-based residence permits for qualified non-EU employees. The Highly Skilled Migrant permit is a Dutch scheme with its own salary thresholds and sponsor rules. The EU Blue Card is an EU-wide framework with different salary and eligibility rules. Some employers and roles fit one better than the other; compare both guides and use the visa checker to see which may fit your situation.

No. This tool gives planning guidance only, not legal advice. Eligibility and approval depend on the IND and your full circumstances. Always confirm with official sources or a qualified adviser before making decisions.

Read the full guide for each recommended route, confirm requirements and fees on the IND website, then use the relocation cost estimator, moving checklist, and first 90 days planner to build a practical move plan. If your situation is complex, consider advice from an immigration professional.