Living and Working in the Netherlands as a Turkish Citizen: The Expat Scheme and Association Agreement
The Netherlands is a top destination for professionals worldwide, including Turkish nationals, thanks to favorable policies like the 30% ruling and the EU-Turkey Association Agreement. These frameworks offer Turkish employees, self-employed individuals, and their families unique advantages when relocating to the Netherlands. At BlueStone, we specialize in guiding highly skilled migrants through this process. So, how do these systems work together?
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The 30% Ruling: A Tax Boost for Expats
The 30% ruling is a tax benefit for skilled expats, allowing employers to pay 30% of their salary tax-free to cover extraterritorial costs like housing. To qualify, you need scarce expertise and a minimum salary. For Turkish expats, this can significantly increase net income over its five-year duration, making the Netherlands even more appealing.
The EU-Turkey Association Agreement: A Special Edge
Signed in 1963, the EU-Turkey Association Agreement fosters economic ties and grants Turkish nationals easier access to Dutch residence and work permits. Unlike other non-EU citizens, Turkish employees don’t need a recognized sponsor, and application fees are lower. After three years with one employer, they gain free labor market access—no work permit (TWV) required, compared to five years for others. Family members, including spouses (18+), dependent children, and parents, also benefit, with exemptions from integration requirements for permanent residency (until January 1, 2025).
Who Benefits and How?
Employees: Turkish workers need only legal employment, 50% of the welfare income threshold, or 40% of full-time hours to qualify for a residence permit. After one year with an employer, they can extend their permit without a TWV; after three, they’re fully flexible.
Self-Employed: Turkish entrepreneurs skip the usual points-based assessment, needing only a solid business plan showing financial stability and market value.
Families: Dependents can secure independent permits after three years or an orientation year permit post-divorce to stay and work.
Additional perks include a six-month job search period (versus three for others) and a “3-year policy” for delayed IND decisions, granting permits if delays aren’t your fault.
Synergy and Strategy
Combining the 30% ruling with the Agreement offers Turkish expats financial perks and flexibility. However, the tax benefit may lapse before residency rights if a new qualifying job isn’t found within six months of unemployment. Self-employed Turks also enjoy streamlined applications, enhancing entrepreneurial opportunities.
How BlueStone Helps
Navigating these benefits can be complex. BlueStone ensures Turkish professionals and families maximize their rights, handling immigration, payroll, and tax compliance seamlessly. Whether you’re an employee eyeing the 30% ruling or an entrepreneur leveraging the Agreement, we make your transition smooth.
Conclusion
The 30% ruling and the EU-Turkey Association Agreement create a powerful combo for Turkish citizens in the Netherlands. With lower costs, fewer hurdles, and expert support from BlueStone, you’re set to thrive. Ready to explore your options? Let’s make it happen!
