Visa options for non-EU athletes & equestrians in the Netherlands 

This article explains the visa option for athletes, equestrians and other sport professionals who are from outside the EU/EEA who wish to compete in the Netherlands on a short or long term basis.

Dutch immigration law largely mirrors EU immigration law. However, there are national nuances to be aware of.  In general, the Netherlands doesn’t have a comprehensive sports/athlete immigration policy, like countries such as Australia, the US and the UK. 

However, there are some specific rules for certain athletes - notably professional football players - and a more lenient regime exists for those performing at the “highest tier” of sports.  Outside of this, most athletes may have to explore other legal avenues if they wish to stay longer term, and much depend will depend on the purpose of the athlete’s stay.[1]

• Short term stays (e.g. one-off competitions)
  • A short stay visa (type C) or Schengen visa
  • A multiple entry Schengen visa (MEV)
• Longer term residence as an athlete
  • EU Athletes & Family Members TFEU Treaty Rights
  • Rights from other Treaties
• Other types of residency
  • The Dutch Single Permit (‘GVVA’)
  • Professional athletes competing in the ‘highest tier’ of sport
• Imposition of fines in the absence of a Single Permit or work permit
• Professional football players: specific rules
• Alternative purposes of residence in other sports (e.g., equestrian): students, highly skilled migrants, self-employed and start-ups
  • Foreign students
  • Highly Skilled Migrant
  • Residence permit for start-ups
• Further considerations