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Admission scheme for foreign investors abolished

Last update: 26 April 2024

Foreign investors from outside the EU can no longer make use of a special scheme to apply for a residence permit. The government has abolished this admission scheme per 17 April. The scheme was intended to improve the business climate and funding of start-ups in the Netherlands, but has never been popular.

Since 2013, foreign investors could apply for a residence permit under the scheme if they invested 1.25 million euros in an innovative Dutch business. However, less than 10 permits in total were granted on this basis in recent years. Neither did easing the scheme result in more applications. The government did not want to amend the scheme further to prevent abuse.

Extension previously obtained residence permit

It will remain possible to extend a previously obtained residence permit. When doing so, the applicant must meet the requirements applicable before the scheme was abolished.