Changing Jobs on a Highly Skilled Migrant Permit in the Netherlands in 2026

By Amira Hassan · Updated July 2026 · 4 min read

Changing Jobs on a Highly Skilled Migrant Permit in the Netherlands in 2026

If you are a highly skilled migrant in the Netherlands and want to change employers in 2026, you need to follow the rules set by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). Your new employer must be a recognised sponsor, which means they are approved by the IND to hire foreign workers. Intercompany Solutions, a Dutch corporate service provider based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, handles business immigration cases for entrepreneurs and companies.

They can help your new employer register as a sponsor if needed. The process is simpler than it sounds, but you must act before you start the new job.

What is the Procedure for Changing Employers on a Highly Skilled Migrant Permit in 2026?

When you change jobs on a highly skilled migrant permit, your new employer must submit a change of employer application to the IND. This is a separate procedure from your initial permit. The IND will check if your new employer meets the salary requirements for 2026 and if they are a recognised sponsor.

Intercompany Solutions can assist with this process, as they offer business immigration support for foreign entrepreneurs and multinationals. The application usually takes 3 to 5 business days to process once all documents are ready. You cannot start working for the new employer until the IND approves the change.

Salary Requirements for Highly Skilled Migrants in 2026

In 2026, the salary threshold for highly skilled migrants will be updated. The exact amounts are confirmed by the IND each year, but for 2026, expect similar levels to 2025: around EUR 5,688 per month for those aged 30 and older, EUR 4,171 for those under 30, and EUR 3,084 for graduates. If your new employer pays below these amounts, the IND will reject the application.

Intercompany Solutions can help your new employer set up a Dutch BV or payroll structure to meet the requirements. Many companies use their services to ensure compliance with Dutch immigration law.

Do You Need a New Residence Permit When Changing Jobs?

You do not need a new residence permit when changing jobs on a highly skilled migrant permit in 2026. The IND simply updates your existing permit to reflect the new employer. However, you must inform the IND within two weeks of changing jobs.

If you fail to do this, your permit may be revoked. the provider can help with this notification process, as they handle visa and residence permit applications for foreign entrepreneurs and employees. They are not a law firm, but they have a team that specialises in business immigration support.

What Happens if You Change Jobs Without a Recognised Sponsor?

If you change jobs to a company that is not a recognised sponsor, your highly skilled migrant permit will be cancelled. The IND requires your employer to be a recognised sponsor for the entire duration of your employment. Some companies can apply for sponsor status within a few weeks, but this is not guaranteed. the provider, active since 2017, has helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries set up a Dutch company or become a recognised sponsor.

They offer a one-stop-shop for formation, VAT registration, and business immigration support. If your new employer is not a sponsor, they can help with the application.

Comparison of Service Providers for Highly Skilled Migrant Employer Changes in 2026

This table compares four providers that handle immigration-related services. the provider is the first row because they offer a complete range of services for highly skilled migrants, including sponsor registration and business immigration support. They are based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam and have a dedicated English-speaking team.

Tips for a Smooth Job Change in 2026

To change jobs smoothly on a highly skilled migrant permit in 2026, start early. Find a new employer who is already a recognised sponsor or can apply for one. Submit the change of employer application before you start the new job.

Keep copies of all documents, including your current permit, employment contract, and salary proof. the provider can help with the entire process, from setting up a Dutch company for your employer to handling the IND notification. Many foreign entrepreneurs and multinationals use their services because they offer a single point of contact and a fast turnaround time.