Your rights grow over time
Under Decision 1/80, Turkish workers build up stronger rights the longer they work in the Netherlands.
After 1 year
More than a year with the same employer: your permit cannot be withdrawn retroactively, except in cases of fraud.
After 3 years
Three years with the same employer: no work permit needed – free access to the labour market.
Looking for work
After 3 years you may look for a new job for at least 6 months without losing your residence right.
Family after 3 years
Your spouse or partner can get an independent residence permit after 3 years in the Netherlands.
Turkish route or regular route?
What the Agreement changes for you.
| Turkish citizens | Regular route | |
|---|---|---|
| Self-employed: points test | Not applied | Required (RVO) |
| Highly skilled migrant: sponsor | Not needed | Recognised sponsor required |
| IND fees | Lower | Standard |
| Free on the labour market | After 3 years with the same employer | After 5 years |
| Minimum age spouse / partner | 18 | 21 |
| Children who can join | Under 21, or dependent | Under 18 |
From first call to residence card
Free intake check
We look at your plans and choose the best route: self-employed or highly skilled migrant.
Plan or contract
A business plan with forecasts – or an employment contract that meets the salary criterion.
Application
KVK registration where needed, the MVV and the IND application – with all Agreement benefits.
Decision
The IND decides within 90 days. Your residence card follows.
Arrival and growth
Register at the municipality, start your work and plan your extension.
Stronger rights for your family
Who can join
Your spouse or registered partner, children under 21 – or older if dependent – and dependent parents.
Age 18, not 21
When bringing a spouse or partner, both must be at least 18 instead of the usual 21.
Independent permit
After 3 years, a spouse or partner can get a residence permit of their own.
Lower fees
Family members of Turkish citizens often pay lower IND fees too.
What it costs
Fees 2026
Other routes to the Netherlands
Self-employed
Run your own business in the Netherlands – the regular route with the points test.
selfemployed-visa.nl Open website WorkHighly Skilled Migrant
The fastest work route, for professionals hired by an IND recognised sponsor.
hsmvisa.nl Open website FamilyPartner visa
A residence permit for your spouse or long-term partner.
partner-visa.nl Open website FamilyFamily reunification
Bring your children or other family members to live with you.
family-visa.nl Open websiteFigures valid for 2026, based on ind.nl. Amounts change every 1 January – always check the latest amounts with us or on ind.nl.