Work and Legal Basics

Work Permit Checklist for Amsterdam Newcomers

What non-EU citizens need to work legally in the Netherlands.

Action checklist

Complete these steps in order for the fastest, safest setup.

1EU citizens: no permit — register at gemeente within 5 days
2Non-EU: employer must hold TWAU (work permit) before you arrive
3Kennismigrant (Highly Skilled Migrant): most common expat route — employer sponsors
430% ruling application: submit within 4 months of employment start

City context: Amsterdam

These steps are tailored for newcomers in Amsterdam. Costs, availability, and requirements may differ in other cities — switch the city selector above to switch context.

Read what residents say about Work and Legal Basics in Amsterdam

Work and Legal Basics

Work Permit Checklist for Amsterdam Newcomers

What non-EU citizens need to work legally in the Netherlands.

Action checklist

Complete these steps in order for the fastest, safest setup.

1EU citizens: no permit — register at gemeente within 5 days
2Non-EU: employer must hold TWAU (work permit) before you arrive
3Kennismigrant (Highly Skilled Migrant): most common expat route — employer sponsors
430% ruling application: submit within 4 months of employment start

City context: Amsterdam

These steps are tailored for newcomers in Amsterdam. Costs, availability, and requirements may differ in other cities — switch the city selector above to switch context.

Read what residents say about Work and Legal Basics in Amsterdam