Last updated 16 October 2026, 00:00 (UTC+0)
Start-up visa for essential personnel in Netherlands for Canadian citizens
Start-up visa for essential personnel — what you need to know
Issued to individuals working for innovative Start-up companies with a maximum of 15 employees. The employee must be an expert in a special field that the start-up needs in this start-up stage.
The programme operates as a pilot project until 1 June 2028
The company must be an innovative and scalable start-up
The start-up may have no more than 15 employees
No more than 5 foreign key employees may receive permits under the programme
The employee must have specialised knowledge essential to the start-up
An employment contract with the start-up is required
Gross monthly salary of at least €3,122, excluding holiday allowance, in 2026
The employee must receive at least 1% equity in the company or an equity interest valued at €65,000 or more
The residence permit is issued for the duration of the employment contract, up to a maximum of 3 years
A separate TWV work permit is not required to work for the specified start-up
The employee can receive equity or stock options in the start-up
Family members can relocate with the main applicant and may work without a separate TWV work permit
After 5 years of residence, the holder may apply for permanent residence
Another employer may also hire the employee after obtaining a separate TWV work permit
Eligible individuals:
- Employee of start-up
How does this visa work?
Don’t postpone the application
The visa is processed 3 months. Many people contact us 3–5 days before their trip, so start the process in advance
How can you prove the basis for the visa?
They clarify the purpose of the visit and future activities in the country
What must be prepared?
Basic package — always required, regardless of the application conditions
What additional documents may be required?
Documents required vary depending on individual circumstances, specific visa conditions, the place, and the method of application.
*Foreign official documents must be apostilled and legalized in accordance with the regulations of the country whose consular or diplomatic mission they are being submitted to. Additionally, they must be accompanied by a certified translation into the official language of that country or into English, unless otherwise specified by the mission's requirements.
**Prior to submitting the documents, it is strongly advised to verify the specific procedures and requirements with the relevant mission.
Are you eligible for this visa?
Clear purposes of the visit and documents confirming them, in accordance with the visa conditions.
Sufficient means to support oneself and their dependents for the duration of their stay in the country.
The applicant does not pose a threat to public order, internal security, public health or international relations of one or more member states.
Insurance policy for the entire period of stay, meeting the minimum mandatory or recommended requirements for the country.
Official visa information
English international
Category code
D
Type of visa
Residence visa
Category
Work visas