Finding a job as international in the Netherlands

Finding a job in a different country can prove somewhat of a challenge. Where do you start your search? What should you take into account when you have a job interview? Which cultural differences could you encounter? Where do you find vacancies aimed at international talent? We are eager to help you answer these questions. 

Two people having a conversation

Two people having a conversation

Discover your career opportunities

There is a lot involved when looking for a job. We give you some practical tips and information below on how the application process in the Netherlands is progressing.

Our organization provides information about the region for people who are currently living here and for people who are interested in moving here. The Life Net does not offer actual jobs or mediate with companies. Click on the company logos below to get redirected to their career pages and vacancies. Each vacancy will provide relevant details of the contact person who can give additional support and help you with all your questions.

We also give you an overview of organizations that can lend you a hand in your job search below. The logos you see on this page link to international-minded companies in the region. Click on their logos to visit their websites.

A suitable CV for the Netherlands

Every country has its own style and preferences when it comes to CVs. The Dutch prefer them to be brief and to the point. A CV hardly ever takes up more than two pages and shows you the most important information at a glance. In this article, we give you all the ins and outs when it comes to writing your CV. Here below you can find a brief summary of most important rules of thumb:

  • Personal details (address, e-mail address, etc.)
  • Education (list of diplomas and certificates — don't include your results)
  • Work experience (reversed chronological order, from most to less recent), including tasks and responsibilities.
  • Recreative activities / hobby's / societal responsibilities
  • Other relevant skills or experiences (computer skills, languages, accreditations, etc.)

A cover letter is often attached to the CV. This letter should make clear why you're suited for the position concerned. A cover letter should be clearly worded, confident and professional. It's your way of positively representing yourself to the company.

Salary

Various factors determine the salary you will receive. Experience plays an important part, but the exact function, responsibilities, level of education, size of the organisation, sector etc. will also be taken into account. You may want to read into this in order to be in a better position when you are negotiating your salary.

You salary is expressed by means of a monthly compensation for the work you do. It is important to make clear in advance whether your salary includes 8% holiday allowance, or if you receive an annual bonus at the end of the year.

Organisations that operate internationally often provide higher salaries than organisations that do not. Expatistan collected the average living costs in the Netherlands.

Vacancies database

We also provide a vacancies database. It provides you with a current overview of all non-Dutch speaking vacancies and projects in the region. You can search on job title, industry, location, employer and date of publication. It is also possible to look for a job yourself, by means of contacting an recruitment agency for instance. We have written an article to get you started. 

 

Recruitment agencies in the Netherlands