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Business & work route · Turkish citizens

EU–Turkey Association Agreement: easier routes for Turkish citizens

Turkish entrepreneurs and professionals enjoy more favourable rules in the Netherlands – no points test for self-employment and no recognised sponsor needed for highly skilled migrants.

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Key facts

WhoTurkish citizens and their families
Self-employedNo points system
Highly skilled migrantNo recognised sponsor needed
IND feesReduced for Turkish citizens
First permit (self-employed)2 years
Entry visa (MVV)Usually required

What do you need as a Turkish entrepreneur?

The points system does not apply – but your business must still convince the IND.

Turkish citizenship
The Association Agreement applies to holders of a Turkish passport and their family members.
A viable business
Your company must be viable, meet a need in the Netherlands and contribute positively to the Dutch economy.
A thorough business plan
You submit a solid business plan with financial forecasts and supporting documents.
KVK registration
Your business is registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce, with the required permits for your sector.

Turkish route or the regular self-employed permit?

The Association Agreement gives Turkish citizens clear advantages.

Turkish citizens (Association Agreement)Regular self-employed permit
Points system (RVO)Not appliedRequired
Business planRequired, assessed by the INDRequired, scored with points
IND feesReduced feesStandard fees
Highly skilled migrant routeEmployer does not need to be a recognised sponsorRecognised sponsor required
Free on the labour marketAfter 3 years as self-employedNo
First permit2 years2 years

How we handle your application

It starts with a free 30-minute consultation.

1

Intake check

We assess your business idea and choose the strongest route – self-employed or highly skilled migrant.

2

Business plan

We help you build a convincing business plan with financial forecasts.

3

Application

KVK registration, MVV entry visa and the IND application – including the Association Agreement benefits.

4

Arrival and growth

Register at the municipality, start your business – and plan your extension.

Costs

First consultation (30 min)Free
Our service feeAsk for a quote
IND application fee (2026)Reduced fee
Partner / child (per person)Ask for a quote

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to pass the RVO points test?

No. The points system does not apply to Turkish citizens. You do need a solid business plan that shows your company is viable.

Can I also take a job as an employee?

With a self-employed permit you need a work permit for paid employment at first. After 3 years as a self-employed person you are free on the Dutch labour market.

Can a Dutch company hire me as a highly skilled migrant?

Yes – and for Turkish citizens the employer does not need to be an IND recognised sponsor. The salary requirements still apply.

Can my family come with me?

Yes. Family members of Turkish workers and entrepreneurs also benefit from the Association Agreement.

Do I need to pass the civic integration exam?

Not for a self-employed or work permit. For permanent residence, Turkish citizens now also need the civic integration diploma – we explain the rules for your situation.

Book your free consultation

The first 30 minutes are free. Send your details, or contact us directly.

WhatsApp +31 6 5700 6565info@yari-immigration.nl

Other routes to the Netherlands

EU Blue Cardbluecardvisa.nl Highly Skilled Migranthsmvisa.nl Intra-Corporate Transferictvisa.nl Startup visastartup-visa.nl Family & partnerfamily-visa.nl EU long-term residenceeu-permanent.nl