In the next five years, the Netherlands will face growing talent shortages in key sectors like skilled manual labor, digital and tech, and healthcare, with projected deficits of 450,000 workers. With domestic talent pipelines unable to meet demand, companies are increasingly looking outside the EU. However, HR teams must also navigate ever-changing salary thresholds, compliance with Dutch labor laws, and employee relocation logistics.

To streamline hiring non-EU talents, employers must understand the best pathways for recruiting internationals outside the EU. Two key options in the Netherlands—the EU Blue Card and the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) program—can help organizations attract and retain top international professionals while ensuring compliance and workforce sustainability.

Understanding the EU Blue Card and HSM Program

The EU Blue Card is a European work and residence permit for highly educated non-EU/EEA nationals, provided they have higher professional qualifications, such as a university degree, and an employment contract or a binding job offer for at least one year with a high salary compared to the average in an EU country.

The Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) Program allows highly skilled individuals from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland to live and work in the Netherlands, provided their (future) employers are recognised by the IND as sponsors and submit the application on their behalf.

Key Differences Between the EU Blue Card and HSM Program

The EU Blue Card and HSM Program both require an employment contract with certain minimum salary thresholds. However, they differ in several key aspects:

Salary Requirements

• The EU Blue Card requires a higher minimum salary threshold — € 5,688.00 (Reduced salary criterion: € 4,551.00).

• HSM Program has lower salary thresholds, especially for younger professionals — € 4,171.00 for highly skilled migrants younger than 30 years and € 5,688.00 for 30 years or older (Reduced salary criterion: € 2,989.00)

Employer Requirements

Employers do not need to be a recognised sponsor for European Blue Card applications. Bur, for highly skilled migrant applications, employers must be a recognised sponsor with the IND. However, it is faster and easier for a recognised sponsor to apply for a residence permit for employees and their family.

Employee Education Requirements

The EU Blue Card requires a recognised higher education degree (at least a bachelor's degree) related to the job. The diploma must be evaluated for equivalency to Dutch standards (via Nuffic in the Netherlands).

HSM Program has no formal degree requirement, offering more flexibility for professionals without formal education but with strong experience.

Practical Steps for Employers

Choosing between the EU Blue Card and the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) Program depends on your hiring priorities. If you seek highly educated professionals who may need EU-wide mobility and meet higher salary thresholds, the EU Blue Card is ideal. However, if speed, flexibility, and lower salary requirements are key, the HSM Program offers a more efficient route.

Employers should ensure compliance by becoming recognized sponsors, streamlining applications, and providing strong relocation support. By understanding the nuances of each permit, companies can attract top international talent while navigating legal complexities with confidence.

At Expat Management Group, we help HR teams navigate the complexities of global mobility, from permit selection to application handling and relocation support. Our expertise ensures a smooth, compliant process, allowing businesses to focus on growth while securing the best international talent. Contact us to streamline your hiring strategy and optimize your global workforce.