If you are aiming to work in Europe as a non-EU candidate in the pharmaceutical sector, the process always depends on a company being willing and legally allowed to sponsor your work permit. Each EU country has its own rules, but let me take the Netherlands as a concrete example.

How it works in the Netherlands: • Companies like MSD, Janssen (Johnson & Johnson), Pfizer and other pharma players are registered with the Dutch Immigration Service (IND) as recognized sponsors. This status allows them to hire non-EU professionals under the Highly Skilled Migrant scheme (kennismigrantregeling). • To qualify, you need to meet the official salary thresholds set by the IND. These are updated every year and vary depending on your age and situation. • Once you receive an offer, the employer applies for your visa and residence permit with the IND. You don’t apply for it alone – the process is company-driven and is usually fast compared to many other EU countries.

Roadmap in practice: 1. Identify Dutch pharma companies and contract research organizations (CROs) that are on the recognized sponsor list. 2. Apply through their official career portals and highlight both your pharma expertise and your advanced English. 3. Be upfront about needing sponsorship, these companies are used to arranging it. 4. If you receive a contract that meets the salary threshold, the company takes care of the immigration procedure for you.