Knowledge Migrant Policy Changes in the Netherlands
New restrictions for recognized sponsors and employment agencies explained.
The Dutch government is implementing significant policy changes for knowledge migrants, impacting how companies hire and manage highly skilled international employees. These proposed changes, outlined in a letter to Parliament in November 2024, aim to increase oversight and reduce abuse of the knowledge migrant scheme.
Key Changes for Recognized Sponsors
Under the new policy, employment and payrolling agencies will no longer be allowed to supply knowledge migrants commercially—unless the hiring company urgently needs one (e.g., due to a merger) or qualifies as a start-up or scale-up. These cases will be assessed individually and may result in non-extendable residence permits of up to two years. Alternatively, agencies may second knowledge migrants on a one-year permit.
In addition, recognized sponsors and agencies must now:
- Disclose the non-recognized company hiring the migrant
- Report loss of contact with the migrant employee
- Inform employees of their rights (with proof)
Focus on Technology and Security
The Ministry of Economic Affairs is also piloting new safeguards to prevent the misuse of knowledge migrants for technological espionage. Companies working in sensitive tech sectors may be evaluated under these new protocols starting late 2024.
These policy updates could have major implications for recognized sponsors, hiring companies, and employment agencies. Businesses are encouraged to review their sponsor status or consider alternative permits, such as the EU Blue Card, to prepare for future limits.
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