How to get the job in the Netherlands and become a resident or a citizen in a fast way.

7 min read and watch•How to get the job

Hi guys! What's up? We've decided to create a chain of posts "How to get the job in..." different countries of the world. And the next post will be dedicated to the Netherlands.

In this post we'll share with you the best tips and ways to get the job in the Netherlands, adapt to the local culture and become a resident or a citizen.

✅ Let's start with the Visa options and Work permits:
  • If you're under 30 years old and earn €3,108/month+ or you're over 30 years old and earn €4,840+, your employer can apply for a Highly Skilled Migrant Visa.
  • Another option is the Orientation Year Visa for graduates from Dutch universities or Job Seeker Visa (it allows recent graduates to stay in the country for up to 1 year to find a job or start a business).
✅ A couple of words about required Education & language:
  • IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, etc. typically require at least a bachelor's degree. Professions like doctors, lawyers and teachers require specific Dutch-recognized qualifications. A degree helps, but if you're in tech, logistics or customer service, experience can be enough.
  • Many jobs in IT, finance and startups require only English (B2-C1). But for local jobs in government, healthcare, service — Dutch (B1-B2) is needed.
✅ Where to start looking for a job:
  • At the beginning, try to use the following platforms: LinkedIn, Indeed.nl, government portal UWV Werk.nl, Undutchables for expats.
  • Next but not least: networking is key! Dutch companies prefer hiring through connections.
✅ Local mentality & attitude to migrants:
  • Like Germans, the Dutch value structure, reliability and planning. Your Resume must be professional, relevant and up to date (ATS-friendly CV templates for free are available here).
  • No overtime culture: work-life balance is always a priority. The Netherlands has one of the shortest average workweeks in Europe — about 36 hours.
  • The Netherlands is one of the most migrant-friendly European countries. Expats are welcome and many companies are used to hiring foreigners. However, learning Dutch increases your chances of getting a job and helps with integration.
  • International and multicultural: the Netherlands is one of the most English-friendly countries in Europe. Many companies have international teams and expect open-mindedness and adaptability from employees.
🏡 How to get a Residence permit & Citizenship step by step (in 4 steps):
  • 1. Get a Work visa (e.g., Highly Skilled Migrant Visa, Orientation Year Visa).
  • 2. Obtain a Residence permit: register with the municipality and apply through IND (Immigration and naturalisation service).
  • 3. Your next step is to get Permanent residency (PR): after 5 years of living and working in the Netherlands. By the way, you also must pass the Dutch integration exam (language + culture).
  • 4. And finally — get Citizenship: after 5 years of residence you have to pass a Dutch language test (A2-B1) and a citizenship test.
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