Hiring international talent in the Netherlands requires the right permits and compliance with Dutch immigration laws. As a Recognised Sponsor, your company can directly employ non-EU Highly Skilled Migrants, making the process faster, more efficient, and reducing administrative burdens.
We will break down the key aspects of becoming a Recognised Sponsor, including eligibility criteria, benefits, compliance obligations, and alternative solutions for companies looking to hire international talent.
In this article, we will cover:
- The categories of recognised sponsorship
- The benefits for employers
- The criteria and obligations for recognised sponsors
- The 30% ruling for highly skilled migrants
- Compliance responsibilities
What is a Recognised Sponsor?
A Recognised Sponsor is an organisation officially approved by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) to hire and sponsor non-EU employees for residence and work permits. Recognition provides companies with significant advantages in hiring international professionals, ensuring smoother and faster immigration processes.
Companies can apply for recognition in four categories:
- Study: For organisations sponsoring students.
- Exchange: For cultural exchange programmes or au pair visas.
- Research: For scientific research under Directive (EU) 2016/801.
- Labour: For hiring Highly Skilled Migrants and other work-related permits.
Organisations can apply for multiple categories depending on their needs.
Benefits of Becoming a Recognised Sponsor
Becoming a Recognised Sponsor is a strategic investment in your company’s global hiring capabilities. Key benefits include:
✅ Faster Processing: The IND aims to process applications from Recognised Sponsors within two weeks instead of the standard 60-day period.
✅ Simplified Application Process: Fewer supporting documents are required when applying for Highly Skilled Migrant permits.
✅ Online Submissions: Recognised Sponsors can submit applications digitally, streamlining the process and reducing paperwork.
✅ Stronger Employer Branding: Being recognised signals credibility and compliance, making your company more attractive to international talent
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Become a Recognised Sponsor?
To be approved as a Recognised Sponsor, companies must meet the following requirements:
- Registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK).
- Financial stability with proven solvency and continuity.
- No history of bankruptcy or major legal infractions.
- Compliance with IND’s Code of Conduct.
- Reliability of legal representatives and company leadership.
For research, study, and exchange sponsorship, additional conditions may apply.
How to Apply for Recognised Sponsor Status
Applying for recognised sponsorship involves the following steps:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure your company meets IND’s requirements.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather financial records, compliance documents, and registration details.
- Submit Application: The application is submitted to the IND along with the required fee.
- IND Review: The IND processes the application, typically within 90 days.
- Decision & Recognition: If approved, your company gains Recognised Sponsor status and can hire international talent efficiently.
Compliance: Your Responsibilities as a Recognised Sponsor
Once approved, companies must fulfil ongoing compliance obligations:
📌 Duty of Care: Ensure that the Highly Skilled Migrant meets all IND requirements, including salary thresholds.
📌 Duty to Provide Information: Notify the IND of any relevant changes, such as employment termination or contract amendments.
📌 Duty to Maintain Records: Keep detailed records of employment contracts, salary details, and any changes for at least five years.
Failure to comply may result in fines or loss of Recognised Sponsor status.
Salary Requirements for Highly Skilled Migrants in 2025
As of 1 January 2025, the new salary thresholds for Highly Skilled Migrants are:
| Category | Monthly Salary (Excl. 8% Holiday Allowance) |
|---|---|
| Highly Skilled Migrants (30+ years) | €5,688 |
| Highly Skilled Migrants (under 30 years) | €4,171 |
| Reduced Salary Threshold (recent graduates/orientation year) | €2,989 |
| EU Blue Card Holders | €5,688 |
| EU Blue Card Holders (within three years after graduating) | €4,551 |
These salary standards are indexed annually by the Dutch government.
30% Ruling for Highly Skilled Migrants
The Netherlands remains attractive to international professionals due to the 30% ruling, a tax advantage allowing Highly Skilled Migrants to receive 30% of their salary tax-free.
However, changes are coming:
🔹From 2027, the tax-free portion will gradually reduce to 27%.
🔹 A salary threshold of €46,660 applies to qualify for the ruling in 2025.
🔹 Expats under 30 with a master’s degree have a lower threshold of €35,468.
Considering these changes, businesses should plan ahead to ensure their global hiring remains competitive.
Alternative Solutions: Hiring Highly Skilled Migrants Without Recognised Sponsor Status
If your company is not yet a Recognised Sponsor but needs to hire international talent, there are alternatives:
- Employer of Record (EOR): EMG can legally employ your international hires on your behalf while you complete your Recognised Sponsor application.
- Payroll Services: We manage payroll and compliance for your international employees, ensuring all legal requirements are met.
Both options provide flexibility while keeping your hiring process on track.
Thinking Internationally: Why Recognised Sponsorship Matters
For companies in tech, finance, engineering, and research, access to global talent is essential. Becoming a Recognised Sponsor allows you to:
- Hire international professionals faster.
- Secure niche skills unavailable in the local market.
- Reduce administrative hurdles in work permit processing.
- Strengthen your company’s position in the global labour market.
As workforces become increasingly international, having Recognised Sponsor status is a competitive advantage in attracting top-tier talent
With You All The Way
Navigating the Recognised Sponsor process requires expertise and precision. At EMG, we specialise in helping companies obtain and maintain Recognised Sponsor status while ensuring full compliance with Dutch immigration laws.
Need support with your application? Looking for a fast-track solution while awaiting recognition?
Get in touch with our experts today and streamline your global hiring process.
