Jobs in the Netherlands for Foreigners in 2026: Job Openings, Salaries, and Work Permits

The Netherlands remains one of Europe’s most promising job markets for foreigners: employers are facing a shortage of specialists in technical fields, medicine, logistics, IT, and a number of other sectors. Learn more about the most in-demand jobs in the Netherlands, salary levels, opportunities for candidates who don’t speak Dutch, and the rules for obtaining a work permit in 2026

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It is still relatively feasible for a foreigner to find a job in the Netherlands, even amid a gradual slowdown in the European labor market. At the beginning of 2026, labor shortages persisted in the country across nearly all major occupational groups: according to estimates by the Dutch employment service UWV, the market remained tight or very tight in 87 out of 93 occupational groups. The shortage of workers is particularly acute in technical fields, medicine, and the social sector.

Opportunities for foreign nationals vary greatly depending on their profession and citizenship. EU citizens have free access to the labor market, while workers from non-EU countries often require a permit or a special residence permit. At the same time, international companies are actively recruiting IT specialists, engineers, and other highly skilled workers, and through agencies, foreign nationals often find jobs in logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, and the service sector.

In this article, we’ll examine which professions will be in highest demand in the Netherlands in 2026, what salaries you can expect, where to look for job openings, whether knowledge of Dutch is required, and what documents are needed for legal employment.

Earlier, we talked about the European countries where it is easiest to get a work visa and start a career abroad.

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Jobs in the Netherlands for Foreigners: What the Labor Market Offers in 2026

The Dutch labor market in 2026 is gradually becoming less tight, but the labor shortage has not gone away. In the second quarter, there were approximately 95 job openings for every 100 unemployed people in the country, and the unemployment rate stood at just 3.9%. By comparison, in the first quarter of 2026, the unemployment rate was 4%.

This means that employers are still competing for workers in many sectors. The Dutch government explicitly acknowledges that the country is facing a serious labor shortage and that employers are struggling to fill some critically important positions.

The best opportunities are currently available to candidates working in fields where the labor shortage is structural: technical and engineering professions, healthcare and nursing, construction, transportation and logistics, IT, and manufacturing. At the same time, foreigners can find work even without a narrow specialization, particularly in warehouses, manufacturing, agriculture, the hospitality and restaurant sector, and the service industry.

For foreigners, employment opportunities depend primarily on citizenship, profession, qualifications, and language skills.

Citizens of EU and EEA countries have significantly easier access to the labor market, whereas candidates from third countries must verify before moving whether they need a visa, a residence permit, or a work permit. The official government checklist for foreigners coming to work in the Netherlands specifically highlights this point.

At the same time, it is important to note that high demand for workers does not guarantee automatic employment. For regulated professions, proof of qualifications and knowledge of the Dutch language may be required, and for workers from non-EU countries, employers often have to assist in obtaining a work permit or residence permit.

In our previous article, we discussed new tax relief rules for foreign professionals in the Netherlands.

The Most In-Demand Professions in the Netherlands

In 2026, professionals in fields where there has been a labor shortage for several years will have the best chances of quickly finding a job in the Netherlands. According to the UWV, employers are finding it particularly difficult to fill vacancies in technical professions, healthcare and nursing, ICT, transportation, and logistics. In total, there are about 193 shortage occupations in the country, so opportunities exist for both highly qualified professionals and candidates with vocational education.

Among the professions with good employment prospects in 2026 are:

1. Engineers and technical specialists — mechanics, auto mechanics, electricians, installers, construction technicians, and industrial equipment specialists

2. Healthcare workers — nurses, doctors, physical therapists, and care specialists

3. Transportation and logistics workers—truck and bus drivers, warehouse workers, logistics specialists

4. IT professionals—system administrators, cybersecurity specialists, software developers, network specialists, and other professionals with advanced digital skills

5. Construction workers—bricklayers, finishers, installers, technical workers, and foremen in various specializations

6. Hospitality workers—cooks and some other professions in the HORECA sector

7. Agriculture and horticulture specialists, including gardeners and workers in specific agricultural fields

Demand for technical workers and drivers remains particularly strong. The UWV forecasts that by 2030, the shortage will continue to worsen for a number of professions, including engineers, mechanics, construction workers, and truck drivers. In the medical field, staff shortages will also increase for nurses, doctors, and physical therapists.

At the same time, not all fields popular among foreign workers offer the same prospects. For example, the number of ICT vacancies has been declining in recent years: by the end of 2025, there were about 18,800. However, the shortage of qualified IT specialists persists, especially when it comes to specialized technical skills.

Another important factor for foreign workers is that a shortage of workers in a particular profession does not always mean that an employer is willing to hire a candidate from abroad. The UWV notes that only about 6% of Dutch employers with job openings are looking for staff outside the country.

The main barriers remain language, differences in professional requirements, and the need for diploma recognition.

We previously discussed, what to do if you’re sick for a long time and can’t work in the Netherlands: a step-by-step guide.

How much will people earn in the Netherlands in 2026?

Wage levels in the Netherlands depend significantly on the profession, experience, region, and the terms of the specific collective bargaining agreement. At the same time, even for low-skilled jobs, there is a fairly high statutory minimum wage. As of July 1, 2026, the minimum wage for workers aged 21 and older is €14.99 gross per hour. Separate, lower rates apply to younger workers.

If working a full workweek, the minimum wage amounts to approximately €2,340–2,600 gross per month, depending on the number of working hours. The actual take-home pay will be lower due to taxes and social security contributions, and the final net salary depends on the employee’s income, tax benefits, and personal circumstances.

As a reference, in 2025, the average hourly wage for salaried employees in the Netherlands was approximately €26.59 gross, while the median was €23.51 per hour. In addition, wages stipulated in collective bargaining agreements increased by an average of another 5% during 2025.

Approximate salary levels in sectors popular among foreign workers are as follows:

- Warehousing, packaging, and manufacturing — often €14.99–18 per hour

- Logistics and drivers — approximately €2,500–3,500 gross per month, depending on category and experience

- Construction and technical professions—around €2,800–4,000+

- Nurses and healthcare professionals—approximately €2,700–4,000+

- Engineers—approximately €3,500–5,500+

- IT professionals — often €3,500–6,000 or more

- Highly qualified specialists and senior positions — salaries may exceed €6,000–7,000 gross per month

These figures should be viewed as a guideline, as compensation in the Netherlands is often determined not only by the position but also by the CAO—a collective bargaining agreement that may establish salary scales, bonuses, vacation time, and other conditions.

In addition to the base salary, there may be extra pay for night shifts, weekend work, or overtime. Many employees are also entitled to a holiday allowance, so when comparing job openings, it’s important to look not only at the base monthly rate but at the entire compensation package.

This is especially important for foreigners: a job with a slightly lower base salary can sometimes be more advantageous if the employer covers housing, transportation to work, insurance, or offers substantial shift allowances.

In our previous article, we discussed, the best places to live in the Netherlands: 5 cities with the best infrastructure and logistics.

How can a foreigner find a job in the Netherlands?

It’s best to start looking for a job in the Netherlands before you move. This is exactly what the UWV recommends: candidates can browse job openings in advance, submit their resumes, and contact employers. This is especially important for non-EU citizens, since the possibility of moving often depends directly on finding an employer willing to assist with obtaining a work or residence permit.

You can search for job openings through several channels:

1. EURES—the official European employment network, where job openings are posted and EURES Adviser consultations are available;

2. UWV and Werk.nl—the Dutch government’s labor market services;

3. Employers’ own websites and their career pages;

4. LinkedIn and major Dutch job platforms;

5. Itzendbureau—temporary employment agencies that often hire workers in logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, and the hospitality sector;

6. Professional recruitment agencies, especially for IT, engineering, finance, and other skilled professions.

EURES is one of the safest options for those seeking work abroad. In the Netherlands, the network is coordinated by the UWV, and candidates can not only browse job openings but also obtain information about working and living conditions in the country.

Recruitment agencies are often used for temporary and seasonal positions. The UWV notes that foreign workers are regularly hired through uitzendbureaus, particularly in agriculture, horticulture, and the hospitality industry. In such cases, the agency itself is the official employer and is responsible for paying wages, even though the person is actually working for another company.

At the same time, you should be careful when choosing an intermediary. The official Work in NL portal recommends verifying the employer or agency and, in particular, checking whether the company is registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK). For candidates from non-EU countries, it’s also helpful to find out whether the employer has experience hiring foreign nationals and whether they are a recognized sponsor, particularly when it comes to highly skilled migration..

In our previous article, we discussed which IT professions most often offer salaries starting at $5,000.

Is it possible to find a job without knowing Dutch?

Yes, but your options depend heavily on your profession. In international companies, IT, the tech sector, certain engineering fields, logistics, warehouses, and manufacturing, English is often sufficient. Seasonal work may also not require a high level of Dutch.

It’s more challenging without knowledge of the local language in fields where you need to constantly communicate with clients or work in accordance with Dutch professional standards. These include, first and foremost, healthcare and social services, education, the public sector, certain administrative positions, and customer-facing jobs.

In our previous article, we discussed which EU countries are leading in remote work in 2026.

Who needs a work permit in the Netherlands?

Employment rules in the Netherlands depend primarily on the employee’s citizenship. For citizens of the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland, access to the labor market is significantly easier, whereas most third-country nationals require a work permit or a combined residence and work permit.

Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland

Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland may work in the Netherlands without a separate work permit. Employers are also not required to apply for a TWV on their behalf.

After moving to the Netherlands, depending on the length of stay, the employee must complete certain administrative formalities: register in the Netherlands, obtain a BSN, arrange health insurance, and settle tax matters.

Workers from Non-EU Countries

For third-country nationals, the rules are more complex. Most often, one of two main types of permits is used:

- TWV (tewerkstellingsvergunning) — a separate work permit, which is usually obtained by the employer;

- GVVA (gecombineerde vergunning voor verblijf en arbeid) — a single permit that combines the right to reside and work in the Netherlands

Which specific document is required depends on the duration of employment, the type of employment, and the employee’s immigration category. In some cases, an MVV—a long-term entry visa—is also required; this is applied for together with the application for a residence permit if such a requirement applies to a specific applicant.

For standard employment of a third-country national, it is not enough for an employer to simply offer a contract. In many cases, the employer must meet the established requirements for hiring a foreign worker and complete the relevant procedure through the UWV or IND.

Separate rules apply to highly skilled professionals, researchers, intra-company transferees, graduates, and certain other categories. For example, highly skilled migrants do not require a separate TWV, but they may only be hired by an employer with “recognized sponsor” status, and the employee’s salary must meet the minimum set by the IND.

An important exception applies to Ukrainians residing in the Netherlands under the EU Temporary Protection Directive. They may work as employees without a TWV; however, the employer is required to notify the UWV of their employment.

We tell you where it is best to build a life in the long term — here.

Highly Skilled Migrant: Employment for Highly Qualified Professionals

For IT professionals, engineers, financial specialists, researchers, and other qualified workers, one of the most convenient ways to move to the Netherlands is through the “highly skilled migrant” (kennismigrant) status. This status allows citizens of non-EU countries to obtain a residence permit for work without applying for a separate TWV. However, this scheme can only be used if the employer has “recognized sponsor” status with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND).

The main requirements for candidates are as follows:

- A valid employment contract with a company or research institution in the Netherlands

- The employer must be listed in the IND’s official registry of recognized sponsors

- The salary must meet the minimum set for highly skilled migrants

- The offered salary must be in line with market rates for the relevant position

- The candidate must meet the general immigration requirements for obtaining a residence permit

In 2026, the minimum salary for a highly skilled migrant is €5,942 gross per month, excluding holiday allowance, for employees aged 30 and older, and €4,357 for candidates under 30. For those who meet the conditions of the reduced salary criterion—including certain recent graduates—the threshold is €3,122 per month.

A key advantage of this program is that the employer handles the main immigration process: the recognized sponsor submits the application to the IND. Following a positive decision, the employee receives a residence permit granting the right to work as a highly skilled migrant for that employer. The IND also notes that, under certain conditions, the employee may begin working even before receiving the physical residence card.

Before accepting a job offer, be sure to check the company in the Public Register of Recognized Sponsors. A high salary or job title alone does not qualify you for the kennismigrant scheme if the employer does not have the required status.

An alternative for some highly skilled candidates may be the EU Blue Card. In 2026, the standard salary threshold for the EU Blue Card is also €5,942 gross per month, while the reduced criterion is €4,754. At the same time, the EU Blue Card offers specific advantages for those who plan to work or obtain long-term resident status in other EU countries in the future.

To learn more about the ranking of minimum wages in Europe in 2026, please follow the link.

What documents are required to work in the Netherlands?

The list of required documents depends on your citizenship, profession, and the basis for your stay in the country. The procedure is simpler for citizens of the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland, while workers from third countries may need a residence permit, TWV, GVVA, or another document granting the right to work. The IND separately provides for different types of permits for regular salaried employment, highly skilled migrants, researchers, graduates, and other categories.

In general, the following may be required before employment and after relocation:

- A valid passport or ID card

- An employment contract or official job offer

- A TWV, GVVA, or applicable residence permit, if required by your status

- An MVV for those categories of citizens who require a long-term entry visa

- Diplomas, certificates, and proof of professional qualifications, if required by the profession

- Civil status documents, such as a birth or marriage certificate, if required for registration

- A BSN (burgerservicenummer), a personal identification number for interacting with government agencies

- Dutch health insurance, if the employee is required to obtain it

For certain immigration categories, the list may be more extensive. For example, when applying as a highly skilled migrant, an employment contract with an employer who holds IND-recognized sponsor status is required.

What do you need to do after moving?

If a person is moving to the Netherlands for an extended period, one of the first steps is to register with the municipality. When moving to the country, you must register within 5 days of arrival. The municipality may ask you to provide additional documents, such as a birth or marriage certificate, so it’s best to check the exact list in advance with your specific municipality.

After registration, the employee’s information is entered into the BRP (Personal Records Database), and the person receives a BSN. This number is required for many everyday procedures in the Netherlands, including applying for health insurance and interacting with government agencies.

Another important step is health insurance. For individuals who are required to have Dutch health insurance, it must be obtained no later than 4 months after the residence permit takes effect, and coverage must be valid from the start date of the residence permit.

If you are planning to work abroad in 2026 and want to better understand the rules of employment, work permits, taxes, and basic employee rights, it is worth preparing for the move in advance. Visit World's practical working guide will help you navigate the current requirements, types of work permits, and steps to take upon arrival to avoid common mistakes and feel confident in your new life abroad.

We remind you! New economic indicators show which countries have been able to increase their GDP and which have lost ground due to inflation and slowing growth. Ranking of the richest countries in the world in 2026 — follow the link.

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