2016 salary thresholds set for highly skilled migrants

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Netherlands has set the 2016 salary thresholds index for highly skilled migrants.

What does the change mean? The gross salary thresholds will rise by 1.6 percent over this year’s thresholds.

• Implementation time frame: Jan. 1, 2016.
• Visas/permits affected: Work permits.
• Who is affected:Highly skilled migrants, EU Blue Card holders, foreign students graduating in the Netherlands.
• Business impact: Companies should budget for the higher salary levels.
• Next steps: New and renewal applications for 2016 must incorporate the new salaries.

Background: For 2016, the estimated gross monthly thresholds, exclusive of a mandatory 8 percent holiday allowance, are as follows:

€4,257 for highly skilled migrants ages 30 and over.

€3,121 for highly skilled migrants under 30.

€2,237 for students graduating from higher education institutions in the Netherlands.

€4,987 for EU Blue Card holders.

BAL Analysis: Employers are reminded that an 8 percent holiday allowance should be added to the salary minimums. The government will publish exact amounts in December. BAL will follow up if the amounts change significantly.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in the Netherlands. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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