Netherlands Tightens Salary Proof Rules for Skilled Migrant from January 2026

Starting January 1, 2026, companies in the Netherlands that hire highly skilled migrants or European Blue Card holders will face stricter salary verification rules. The Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) will now require recognised sponsors to provide solid proof that salaries have actually been paid, not just payslips.

What’s Changing

At present, employers who hire foreign workers only need to submit payslips as proof of salary payment. The new rule goes a step further. From 2026, recognised sponsors must show that the salary was actually received by the employee in their personal bank account.

Acceptable documents may include:

• A statement from the company’s business bank account showing the transaction.
• A summary or overview of the monthly salary batch payments.
• Any other record that clearly confirms the employee has received the salary.

The IND’s goal is to ensure that highly skilled migrants are genuinely paid the salaries promised in their employment contracts, rather than only appearing compliant on paper.

Why the Change Matters

This update aims to strengthen the integrity of the Dutch skilled migration system. Some companies reportedly issued payslips without making the full payments, which undermines both workers’ rights and the credibility of the recognised sponsor system.

For employers, the new requirement means more administrative work. Payroll teams will need to adjust their documentation processes to include proof of salary transfer. Internal record-keeping systems might also need upgrades to store and retrieve payment evidence easily.

What Employers Should Do Now

Companies hiring skilled migrants should start preparing early. Here’s how:

1. Audit payroll systems: Check whether current records clearly show salary transfers to employees’ accounts.
2. Update procedures: Ensure HR and payroll staff know how to collect and store the required proof.
3. Communicate with banks: Coordinate with your financial department or bank to get clear payment statements when needed.
4. Review contracts: Make sure employment agreements specify payment terms that align with IND rules.

Failing to comply could lead to penalties or even suspension of recognised sponsor status, which could impact the ability to hire foreign talent in the future.

In Summary

From January 2026, payslips alone won’t be enough. Dutch employers must prove that salaries were actually paid to skilled migrants’ personal accounts. The change may seem small, but it carries big compliance consequences.

For businesses relying on international talent, now is the time to tighten payroll controls and stay ahead of the new immigration compliance standards.