A Recognised Sponsor, or erkend referent, is an organisation that has been approved by the Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst (IND) to sponsor residence permit applications on behalf of foreign nationals. The framework is set out in the Vreemdelingenwet 2000 and the Modern Migration Policy Act. Employers, educational institutions, au-pair agencies, and cultural-exchange organisations can apply.
Recognition is mandatory for the highly skilled migrant scheme and for most research and student routes. Applicants file a one-off request with the IND, pay a fee, and demonstrate continuity, solvency, and reliability. Approved sponsors are listed in the public register maintained by the IND.
Recognised Sponsors benefit from accelerated processing, typically two to four weeks for most applications, and submit most permits electronically. In return, they accept duties of care, information, and administration: they must notify the IND of changes, keep records for five years, and cooperate with inspections. Breaches can result in fines or revocation of recognition.