Residence permit for researchers
For scientific researchers who come to the Netherlands to do research at a recognised research organisation – under the European researchers’ directive.
Last checked: 24 October 2026 · 4-minute readThe conditions
Recognised research organisation
Your university or research institute must be recognised by the IND as a sponsor for researchers.
Hosting agreement
You sign a hosting agreement with the research organisation that describes your research project.
The organisation applies
The recognised organisation files the application – often with the MVV entry visa in one procedure.
Valid for your project
The permit is valid for the duration of your research.
Your family and your next step
Partner and children
Your family can join you. Your partner may work in the Netherlands.
Mobility in the EU
Researchers can do part of their research in another EU country under the mobility rules.
After your research
You may qualify for the orientation year to find a job or start a business – see orientation-year.nl.
Other routes
A researcher can also come as a highly skilled migrant. We check which route fits best.
Sources: IND – Work · EUR-Lex – Directive (EU) 2016/801. This page is general information, not legal advice. Yari Immigration Services is an independent advisory firm and not part of the IND.