From China to the Netherlands
Work, study, start a business or join your family: we guide Chinese nationals and Chinese companies through every Dutch residence route – from the first document to your residence permit.
Last checked: 25 October 2026 Book a free callYour route to the Netherlands
Highly skilled migrant
A job offer from an IND-recognised sponsor and a salary above the threshold.
hsmvisa.nl →Intra-corporate transfer (ICT)
For managers, specialists and trainees moving within a Chinese company group to its Dutch branch.
ictvisa.nl →EU Blue Card
For highly qualified workers with a higher education degree – with mobility inside the EU.
bluecardvisa.nl →Start-up visa
One year to launch an innovative business with a recognised Dutch facilitator.
startup-visa.nl →Study and orientation year
Study at a Dutch university, then a year to find work – also for graduates of top-ranked Chinese universities.
study-visa.nl →Self-employed
Work for yourself in the Netherlands, assessed on your business plan and Dutch interest.
selfemployed-visa.nl →What Chinese nationals need to know
MVV entry visa
For a stay longer than 90 days you usually need an MVV first, collected at the Dutch embassy in Beijing or a Dutch consulate in China.
Apostille instead of legalisation
Since 7 November 2023 China is part of the Apostille Convention. Chinese birth, marriage and other civil documents now need an apostille, often with a sworn translation.
TB test
Chinese nationals usually have to take a tuberculosis test at the GGD within 3 months of arrival.
Civic integration abroad
For a partner or family permit you normally pass the civic integration exam abroad before you apply.
Dual nationality
China does not allow dual nationality. If you later become Dutch, you lose your Chinese nationality – plan this step with care.
For Chinese companies
Sending staff to a Dutch branch? We help with ICT permits, recognised sponsorship and the whole relocation.
How we work
- 1
Free 30-minute call
We look at your situation and tell you which route fits – honestly, also when a route is not realistic.
- 2
Document check
We check every document, the apostille and the translations before anything is filed.
- 3
Application
We prepare the application with you or your employer and follow it until the IND decides.
- 4
Arrival
Residence permit, municipal registration, BSN and TB test – we guide you through your first weeks.
Source: IND and Netherlands Worldwide – legalisation. This page is general information, not legal advice. Yari Immigration Services is an independent advisory firm and not part of the IND.