When can performers from abroad work in the Netherlands?

Performers working in the theatre, opera, musical, classical music or dance may, under certain conditions, work for Dutch employers. Elite performers can apply for an employment permit through a fast-track procedure. Elite status is determined by the performer’s salary.

Free movement for European performers

Performing artists who are a national of one of the following countries do not need a visa, resident permit or work permit:

However, a valid passport or identity document is always required.

Visa and residence permit required for performers from outside Europe

Performers who do not come from one of the countries listed above will need the following documents:

  • a visa. This can be either a Schengen visa (for stays up to 90 days) or an authorisation for temporary stay (MVV) and a residence permit (for stays of 90 days or more); and
  • a combined residence and work permit (GVVA). 

Sponsor required

Performers from outside Europe will need their Dutch employer to act as their sponsor

UWV must be notified of job vacancy

Dutch employers must first give jobseekers in the Netherlands an opportunity to apply for the job in question. They do this by informing the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV) of the vacancy. If they cannot find a suitable candidate in the Netherlands, the employer can sponsor a performer from outside Europe. 

Fast-track procedure for elite performers

Performers who are among the best in their field can get a work permit under a fast-track procedure. In this case, employers do not first need to inform UWV about the vacancy.

Admission and residence application (TEV)

Performers from outside Europe can apply for an authorisation for temporary stay (MVV) and GVVA through the Entry and Residence Procedure (TEV). There are 2 options:

  • the performer submits an application to a Dutch embassy or consulate-general outside the Netherlands; or 
  • the Dutch employer submits an application to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) in the Netherlands. 

The IND recommends the second option. 

Performers’ salaries

There is a list on the IND website of gross monthly salaries for different types of performers. Elite performers earn more than these reference amounts. An example of an elite performer is an opera soloist.