Highly Skilled Migrant permit
Job offer neededProfessionals hired by an IND-recognised sponsor.
Gross salary per month (2026): €5,942 if 30 or older, €4,357 if under 30. No degree required.
Official page →Country guides / Netherlands
NLNetherlands
The EU country that takes the most new South African arrivals. The Highly Skilled Migrant route is fast and needs no degree, but the employer must be a recognised sponsor.
Already made the move
The Netherlands granted 3,729 first residence permits to South Africans in 2024, more than any other EU country (Eurostat).
Working in English
English is widely used in international companies. Dutch helps, and is needed for many public-facing roles.
Visiting for interviews
South Africans need a Schengen visa for short visits, including interviews.
Main routes for professionals
EU Blue Card
Job offer neededDegree-holders in highly skilled roles.
Gross salary of €5,942 a month (2026), or €4,754 for recent graduates.
Official page →Orientation year
No job offer neededRecent graduates of top-ranked universities.
A master's or PhD from a top-200 institution in the last 3 years. One year to look for work, no offer needed.
Official page →These are the routes most relevant to mid-career professionals, not a complete list. Official source: IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service).
Worth knowing
- Salary thresholds change every 1 January.
Getting your qualifications recognised: Nuffic. Verify your South African qualifications with SAQA first.
Some of the largest employers
ASMLPhilipsINGABN AMROHeinekenAhold DelhaizeWolters KluwerProsusAdyenBooking.comdsm-firmenichAkzoNobelKPNNN GroupRandstadStellantis
Major listed companies and multinationals operating in Netherlands. A listing does not mean a company is hiring or sponsors visas.
Does Netherlands fit you?
Check your profile against these routes and seven other countries.
Other countries
Checked against official sources on 16 October 2026. General information, not immigration advice.