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NetherlandsWeek ending January 28, 2026

Netherlands Immigration Update: IND Delays & Right-to-Work Checks

The Dutch IND is preparing for the new EU Migration Pact, likely causing processing delays for business visas. Meanwhile, stricter right-to-work enforcement requires employers to audit HR records.

Netherlands citizenshipresidency newsimmigration newsDutch citizenshipDutch residence

Key takeaways

  • The IND's adaptation to the new EU Migration Pact will likely increase processing times for investor and startup visas.
  • Stricter European right-to-work enforcement means Dutch business owners face higher fines for non-compliance.
  • The India-EU Mobility Pact may bring highly skilled talent but will increase competition for housing and IND appointments.
  • No changes to the 5-to-10-year citizenship timeline were confirmed this week.

IND Prepares for EU Migration Pact

The Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) is adapting to the requirements of the new European Pact on Migration and Asylum. Additionally, the IND has released updates regarding family reunification procedures for asylum seekers.

While these changes focus on humanitarian cases, they are processed by the same inspectors handling business immigration. Investors and startup founders should anticipate a strained system and factor in extra months of waiting time for their residence permits.

Heightened Right-to-Work Enforcement

Across Europe, authorities are tightening controls on right-to-work compliance, creating new legal risks for employers. European regulators are shifting from issuing warnings to imposing real sanctions.

Founders of startups and owners of Dutch BVs hiring expats must ensure strict compliance. Fines for illegal labor are increasing, making it essential to conduct internal audits of all employee HR documents to verify legal work rights.

India-EU Mobility Pact

A summit on January 27 discussed the Mobility Pact between India and the EU, which aims to open new routes for work and study. This agreement is expected to facilitate an influx of highly skilled professionals.

While this provides an excellent talent pool for local startups, it will also intensify competition. Expats should prepare for a tighter rental housing market in cities like Amsterdam and fewer available appointment slots at the IND.

Next Steps for Applicants and Businesses

Given the anticipated bureaucratic strain, proactive measures are highly recommended. There are currently no confirmed changes extending the citizenship timeline from five to ten years, but applicants should remain vigilant.

  • Check the expiration dates of current residence permits and apply for renewals as early as possible to offset IND delays.
  • Business owners should immediately audit employee documentation to ensure full compliance with right-to-work regulations.

Sources

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