How to Get Jobs in the Netherlands with Visa Sponsorships (2025 Guide)

The Netherlands, often known as Holland, is one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for job seekers. With its booming economy, international work environment, and open approach to skilled migration, the country offers numerous opportunities for foreigners looking for jobs with visa sponsorships. Whether you are a skilled worker, IT professional, healthcare specialist, or engineer, the Netherlands provides structured pathways to live and work legally.

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to get jobs in the Netherlands with visa sponsorship, the industries that hire foreigners, the types of work visas available, and practical tips to increase your chances of success.

Why Work in the Netherlands?

Before diving into the visa sponsorship process, it’s important to understand why the Netherlands is such a hotspot for foreign job seekers:

High Salaries – Professionals in IT, engineering, and healthcare earn between €40,000 and €90,000 annually.
Work-Life Balance – Dutch culture values flexible working hours and personal time.
English-Friendly Environment – Most companies use English in the workplace, making it easier for foreigners.
Strong Economy – With a GDP of over €1 trillion, the Netherlands is home to major global companies like Philips, Shell, ASML, Heineken, and ING.
Central Location – The country’s location makes it easy to travel across Europe.

Types of Work Visas in the Netherlands

If you are not an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, you will need a work visa and residence permit to live and work in the Netherlands. The main categories include:

Highly Skilled Migrant Visa (Kennismigrant Visa)
- For professionals with specialized skills in IT, finance, engineering, or healthcare.
- Requires a minimum salary threshold (around €3,600 to €5,000 per month depending on age and experience).
Regular Work Permit (GVVA)
- A combined residence and work permit for employees hired by Dutch companies.
- Typically applies to lower- or medium-skilled positions.
Intra-Company Transfer Visa
- For employees of multinational companies relocating to their Dutch branches.
Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar)
- For international students who graduated from Dutch universities, allowing them to stay for one year to look for work.
Startup Visa
- Designed for entrepreneurs who want to establish innovative businesses in the Netherlands.

Most foreigners apply through the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa, which requires a sponsoring employer recognized by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Jobs in the Netherlands with Visa Sponsorship

1. Identify In-Demand Professions

The Dutch labor market has shortages in specific industries. The most in-demand sectors for foreigners include:

Information Technology (IT & Software Development) – Developers, data scientists, cybersecurity experts.
Engineering – Civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineers.
Healthcare & Nursing – Doctors, nurses, elderly care specialists.
Finance & Banking – Accountants, auditors, and financial analysts.
Logistics & Supply Chain – Operations managers, drivers, warehouse specialists.
Agriculture & Food Industry – Skilled farm workers, food technologists.

If your background matches one of these fields, your chances of sponsorship are significantly higher.

2. Find Recognized Sponsoring Employers

Only employers approved by the IND can legally sponsor foreign workers. Some major Dutch companies and multinationals that often provide visa sponsorship include:

Philips (technology & healthcare)
ASML (semiconductor technology)
Shell (energy & engineering)
Heineken (brewing industry)
ING Bank (finance & banking)
Booking.com (tech & hospitality)
Unilever (consumer goods)

👉 You can find the full list of recognized sponsoring employers on the official IND website.

3. Search for Jobs Online

Several job portals specialize in visa-sponsored jobs in the Netherlands. The best platforms include:

LinkedIn – Widely used by Dutch recruiters.
Glassdoor.nl – For international job seekers.
IamExpat.nl Jobs – Specializes in English-speaking roles.
Undutchables.nl – For foreigners living in the Netherlands.
Monsterboard.nl – Dutch version of Monster Jobs.
Expatica Jobs – Tailored for expats.

Pro Tip: Use keywords like “visa sponsorship,” “relocation support,” or “highly skilled migrant” in your job search.

4. Tailor Your Application

Dutch employers expect professional CVs and motivation letters that highlight your skills. To stand out:

Use a European CV format (Europass is common).
Focus on skills in demand – IT tools, project management, healthcare certifications.
Highlight international experience – Employers value multicultural adaptability.
Write a clear motivation letter – Explain why you want to work in the Netherlands.

5. Prepare for Interviews

Interviews in the Netherlands are typically structured and professional. Employers look for:

Technical skills – Can you do the job?
Soft skills – Communication, teamwork, adaptability.
Cultural fit – Dutch workplaces are egalitarian; show openness and collaboration.
Language – English is usually enough, but basic Dutch is a plus.

6. Secure a Sponsorship Offer

Once you get a job offer, the employer will:

Apply for your work permit with the IND.
Assist with your residence permit application.
Provide relocation support (housing, flights, etc. in some cases).

7. Apply for Your Work Visa

The process usually involves:

Employer application – They submit documents to the IND.
IND decision – Approval can take 2–6 weeks.
Collecting visa at Dutch embassy – If approved, you get a provisional residence permit (MVV).
Travel to the Netherlands – You can start work immediately upon arrival.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Sponsored Job

Learn Basic Dutch – Not always required, but it increases employability.
Network on LinkedIn – Connect with Dutch recruiters and hiring managers.
Target Multinational Companies – They are more open to hiring foreigners.
Apply Early – Recruitment cycles peak in spring and autumn.
Highlight Flexibility – Willingness to relocate and adapt boosts your chances.
Use Expat Communities – Platforms like Meetup and Expatica help with connections.

Salaries and Cost of Living in the Netherlands

Average Salary: €36,000 – €65,000 per year (depending on industry).
Highly Skilled Migrants: €55,000 – €80,000 annually.
Healthcare Workers: €2,800 – €5,000 per month.
IT Professionals: €3,500 – €6,500 per month.

Cost of Living:

Rent: €900 – €1,500/month (Amsterdam is higher).
Food: €300 – €500/month.
Transportation: €80 – €120/month.

Despite higher living costs, salaries in sponsored jobs provide a comfortable lifestyle.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Competition – Many foreigners apply; tailor your CV to stand out.
Visa Processing Time – Plan 2–3 months in advance.
Housing Shortage – Start looking for accommodation early, especially in Amsterdam and Utrecht.
Salary Thresholds – Make sure the job meets the IND minimum salary requirement.

Conclusion

Getting a job in the Netherlands with visa sponsorship is possible if you have the right skills, determination, and strategy. By focusing on in-demand sectors, applying to recognized sponsors, and preparing strong applications, you can secure a career in one of Europe’s most dynamic countries.

The Netherlands offers not just jobs but a better lifestyle, career growth, and international exposure. Whether you are in IT, engineering, healthcare, or finance, opportunities are open for skilled professionals ready to make the move.

If you want to start your journey, begin by researching recognized employers, updating your CV, and applying through trusted job portals. With the right approach, your dream of working in the Netherlands can become a reality.