Expat income tax break can attract top talent abroad, but obstacles remain

The tax benefits for knowledge migrants, otherwise known as the expat scheme or the 30 percent scheme, are seen as attractive by the target group. However, the scheme "appears to be a reason for knowledge migrants to stay in the Netherlands rather than to come to the Netherlands in the first place," research agency Regioplan reports in a report on the Netherlands as a country of residence for knowledge migrants.

There have been many political discussions regarding this expat scheme. Coalition party NSC previously obtained a majority to essentially phase out the scheme, but the new Cabinet has reportedly decided to almost completely reverse this austerity measure.

It is mainly the Netherlands’ reputation as a "safe and tolerant country with a culture of equality" that puts the country on the map for knowledge workers as a potential country to work. It is also a fact that other knowledge migrants are here, and many Dutch people speak English.

Various visa arrangements, the ease with which people can bring their partner to the country, and good labor conditions also make the Netherlands an attractive place to come and work.

The housing shortage is the most important reason that some doubt the Netherlands’ suitability as a place to live and work. Researchers claim that employees may be able to help with this.

Knowledge workers also said that they need "more structural support." They allegedly helped with one website with information about housing, language courses, government services, health care, and schooling.