Job searching in the Netherlands for international students
This page provides information for international students who want to work in the Netherlands.
From or outside EU/EEA?
If you are an EU/EEA member, you can work in the Netherlands without restrictions. If you come from outside the EU/EEA, you need to have a work permit and sometimes you need additional insurance.
- The Student Service Centre can inform you about the specific regulations that apply to you.
- View a list of recognised sponsors for the residence purpose ‘Labour’.
- Information about insurance.
Orientation year
If you are an international student (non-EU) and you want to look for work in the Netherlands after your graduation, doctorate or research, then you need an ‘orientation year’ residence permit.
Find out what the requirements are and how to apply for the residence permit via:
Helpful websites
For reliable and up-to-date information about working in the Netherlands, visit:
Other helpful websites:
- International jobs in the Netherlands
- Dutch Start-up scene and regulations
- The relocation process app
- Succes stories: moving to the Netherlands
- Werkclub: personal coaching, workshop and support to find work in the Netherlands
Working while studying
If you want to work alongside your studies while staying in the Netherlands, there are some things to keep in mind. Do you need a work permit when you are self-employed? How about when you do an internship? And how many hours are you allowed to work as an international student? In their flyer Working while studying in the Netherlands the Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment answers these questions and more.
Insurance during a paid internship or job
Please be informed that if you are employed in the Netherlands, you are required to take out a Dutch Basic Health insurance.
You can apply for a Dutch Basic Health insurance online through AON:
Learning the Dutch language
If you want to stay in the Netherlands, we advise you to learn the Dutch language, this increases your chances of finding a job. Here you can find some options for learning Dutch: