Association of Universities in the Netherlands Lange Houtstraat 2 | PO box 13739 | 2501 ES THE HAGUE | T: +31 (70) 3021400
VSNU
In October 2004 the Netherlands introduced a fast-track procedure for admission and residence of knowledge migrants. The Dutch government is committed to a welcoming migration policy towards knowledge migrants and has one of the fastest procedures in the European Union. In 2006 more than 3500 knowledge migrants have entered the Netherlands through the fast-track procedure and this amount is still increasing. The government is continuously working to improve migration procedures to make it even more attractive for knowledge migrants to start working in the Netherlands.
Knowledge migrants do not need a work permit. They apply for a temporary entry permit through their employer, e.g. the university or research institute. The employer enters into an agreement for this accelerated procedure, the so-called MVV procedure, with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). By signing this agreement, the employer assumes a number of guarantee obligations in the context of the knowledge migrant policy and the MVV procedure for processing applications, handling fees and providing information. The IND in return will deal with the MVV application within two weeks, which makes it possible to for the employee to start working almost immediately.
All knowledge migrants coming to the Netherlands have to apply for a residence permit (VVR). Residence permits for knowledge migrants are granted for the duration of five years if migrants are or will be holders of employment contracts for an indefinite period. Holders of employment contracts for a definite period are granted permits for the duration of their contract, with a maximum of five years. The application for a residence permit can be done simultaneously with the MVV procedure and will be done in cooperation with the employer.
Within the category of knowledge migrants there is a special sub-category for researchers, comprising PhDs, postdocs and faculty members. In order to be included in this category you have to fall within the university standardized model for function classification as a member of the research area. Since november 2006, no other criterium applies to researchers.