Netherlands to enforce stricter salary-receipt proof for skilled workers from January 2026

The Netherlands is introducing a new rule from January 1, 2026. Companies must now prove highly skilled workers and EU Blue Card holders have received their salaries. This replaces the old payslip system. Employers will need to show bank statement...

By ET Online | Nov 17, 2025, 05.02 PM IST

The Netherlands will introduce a new compliance rule on January 1, 2026, requiring recognised sponsors to show clear proof that highly skilled workers and EU Blue Card holders have actually received their salaries. The change replaces the current requirement of submitting payslips, which authorities note do not always confirm payment.

Under the new rule, employers must provide evidence such as company bank account statements or batch-payment overviews. These documents must show that the salary reached a payment account registered in the employee’s name.

The government aims to tighten oversight of payroll compliance. The update is expected to increase administrative work for companies, prompting them to review payroll systems, payment records and internal processes to avoid penalties once enforcement begins.

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