Who decides my Self-employed Key Worker application and how long does the assessment take?

The decision involves two bodies. The Public Employment Service (AMS) examines whether your self-employed activity provides the required macroeconomic benefit and issues an expert opinion, generally within about three weeks.

The residence authority then issues the Red-White-Red Card on the basis of a positive opinion from the AMS, provided the other legal requirements are met. Because the AMS assessment is decisive, a well-documented business case that clearly shows the economic benefit is essential.