With effect from January 1, 2014 it will be more difficult to obtain a Dutch work permit for foreign employees. It will become more important to pay a salary at market level to those requiring a work permit for their employment in the Netherlands. A work permit will no longer be granted for a period of maximum 3 years, but for a period of max 1 year. Furthermore, please note that those requiring a work permit will need to participate on the Dutch labour market for a period of 5 years before they may continue their work without a work permit. This used to be 3 years.

The procedures for highly skilled migrants will not change. However, please note that the requirement that highly skilled migrants need to receive a salary at market level will still apply.