The Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) has officially announced the new salary thresholds and legal fees for 2026. These updated requirements apply to Highly Skilled Migrants (HSM), EU Blue Card holders, Intra-Company Transferees (ICT), and other non-EU professionals planning to work in the Netherlands.
Important Updates for 2026 Applications
The new salary thresholds will apply to all residence permit applications submitted on or after January 1, 2026, including:
- New employment applications
- Permit extensions
- Change of employer cases with a start date in 2026
This means that the applications filed in 2025 must still comply with the 2025 salary thresholds, even if the employment continues into 2026. However, change of employer notifications submitted in 2025 for a job starting in 2026 must meet the 2026 thresholds.
Furthermore, the IND adjusts minimum salary requirements annually to reflect economic and labor market conditions in the Netherlands.
Salary Thresholds for Highly Skilled Migrants in 2026
All salary thresholds represent the minimum gross monthly salary (excluding holiday allowance) and are mandatory for approval.
2026 Minimum Salary Requirements (Gross per Month)
| Category | Minimum Salary (EUR) | Approx. USD |
| Highly Skilled Migrants & ICT (30 years and above) | € 5,942 | ~$6,966 |
| Highly Skilled Migrants & ICT (under 30 years) | € 4,357 | ~$5,108 |
| Graduates from the Netherlands or Top International Universities | € 3,122 | ~$3,660 |
| EU Blue Card Holders | € 5,942 | ~$6,966 |
| EU Blue Card Holders (Degree obtained within last 3 years) | € 4,754 | ~$5,573 |
Important to remember is that all applications received by the IND after December 31, 2025, must comply with these updated salary thresholds.
IND Legal Fees for 2026
In addition to salary requirements, the IND has revised its application and sponsorship fees for 2026. These fees apply to employers and applicants submitting residence permit requests.
IND Legal Fees – Category Wise
| Application Type | Fee (EUR) |
| Recognised Sponsor Application (Companies with < 50 employees) | € 2,539 |
| Recognised Sponsor Application (Companies with > 50 employees) | € 5,080 |
| Highly Skilled Migrant / EU Blue Card / ICT Permit Application | € 423 |
| Family-Based Dependent Permit Application | € 254 |
Why These Updates Matter
Failing to meet the minimum salary threshold or submitting an application with incorrect fees can result in delays or rejection by the IND. Employers and applicants are strongly advised to:
- Review employment contracts carefully
- Budget for updated IND fees
- Plan applications early to avoid compliance issues
The 2026 IND salary thresholds and legal fees reflect the Netherlands’ ongoing efforts to regulate skilled migration while maintaining fair labor standards. Whether you are an employer sponsoring international talent or a professional planning to work in the Netherlands, understanding these updates is essential for a successful application.