On November 8, 2024 Minister Faber, of Asylum and Migration, sent a letter to the House of Representatives in which she presented a series of new measures to tighten the knowledge migrant regime in the Netherlands.
The proposed changes are designed to prevent or reduce abuse and promote national security. The letter, which will be discussed on Dec. 19, includes reforms to ensure that the scheme better suits the country's economic needs.
The government is tackling abuse by revising the regulations governing certified references. The focus is on minimizing improper lending arrangements, tightening reporting requirements, and increasing the general duty of care for employers.
The proposed changes are as follows:
| Policy Change | Impact on Businesses | Impact on Highly Skilled Migrants |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Restrictions on the Lending Arrangement | Options for temporary staffing and payroll services will be severely restricted (exceptions apply to startups). | Permits issued through payroll agencies or staffing agencies are strictly temporary. |
| 2. Strict Reporting Requirements | Companies must provide detailed information and immediately escalate the matter if contact is lost. | Improved registration ensures a more transparent and secure legal status. |
| 3. More Rigorous Background Check | Future designated sponsors undergo an intensive national security screening. | Working with reliable, certified employers reduces the risk of exploitation. |
| 4. Length of Temporary Stay | Companies can hire a migrant for up to two years through flexible payroll arrangements. | The permit for these structures has a strict two-year limit and cannot be extended. |
| 5. Enhanced Duty of Care | Accredited referrers bear full responsibility for ensuring fair and market-based treatment. | Stronger legal protections against underpayment and poor working conditions. |
The knowledge migrant scheme, introduced in 2004, has played a key role in attracting highly skilled workers from outside the European Union, especially in sectors such as technology, finance and engineering. The goal was to attract talent that could help strengthen the Dutch economy and maintain its competitive position worldwide.
In recent years, however, the scheme has come under criticism and scrutiny, as seen in the adjustment of the 30% rule. Minister Faber noted that while the program has been successful in attracting top talent, its rapid growth has also brought new challenges, including cases of abuse, exploitation and even risks to national security. Therefore, the government will discuss how to ensure that the program continues to contribute to the Dutch economy while minimizing the risk of abuse.
With parliamentary discussions intensifying in the coming weeks, attention will be focused on the Dutch government.
