Thinking about moving to the Netherlands for studies or work? Well, you’re not alone. More and more people are packing their bags for a fresh start in this small but mighty European country—and honestly, it’s not hard to see why.
The Netherlands offers top-notch education, countless job opportunities, and a quality of life that makes you wonder why you didn’t move sooner. And the best part? The process is a lot more straightforward than most people think.
So, whether you’re dreaming of studying in Amsterdam or landing that dream job in Rotterdam, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about moving to the Netherlands—step by step.
The Two Main Ways to Move to the Netherlands
There are two popular routes for moving to the Netherlands:
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The Academic Route – If you want to come as a student.
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The Job Route – If you’re looking to work in the Netherlands directly.
Both have their perks, but let’s start with the academic side of things because, honestly, that’s the easiest door for most people.
Moving to the Netherlands as a Student
Here’s some good news: The Netherlands is one of the most inclusive countries in Europe. Almost everyone speaks English, so you won’t feel completely lost even if you can’t say more than “Hallo.”
Plus, the country is home to top universities offering hundreds of programs in English. And guess what? These schools actively welcome international students.
Here’s how it works:
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You visit studyinnl.org. That’s the official website with everything you need—how to find a school, how to apply, deadlines, and requirements.
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Applications are submitted via Studielink, the central application portal. That’s where you send your documents, pay fees, and track your application.
There are at least 20 universities in the Netherlands, so you’ve got options—lots of them.
Admission Requirements
Now, what do you need to apply? Pretty standard stuff:
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Your transcripts
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A degree certificate (if applying for postgraduate studies)
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Your passport
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English proficiency test results (IELTS is the common one)
Here’s one thing to note: A few years back, students from some countries didn’t need IELTS, but now it’s required for almost everyone. So, prepare for that exam early.
Costs of Studying in the Netherlands
Tuition fees vary depending on the program and university, but on average, you’re looking at between €9,000 and €20,000 per year for international students.
Sounds like a lot? Compared to the UK or the US, it’s actually cheaper. In the UK, for example, tuition fees often start around £12,000 per year—and that’s for the cheaper schools.
So, the Netherlands gives you quality education without completely draining your bank account.
Bringing Your Family Along
Here’s something many people don’t realize: You can bring your family along while studying in the Netherlands.
This is a huge plus, especially now that some other countries are tightening family visa rules. In the Netherlands, as long as you can show proof of funds and meet the requirements, your spouse and kids can join you.
What Happens After Graduation
Okay, so you’ve graduated. What next?
The Netherlands has something called a Search Year Visa. It gives you 12 months after graduation to find a job.
And here’s the thing: most people actually find jobs even before the year is up. Why? Because while studying, you’ll meet people, attend networking events, and connect with companies looking for fresh talent.
Once you land a job, your employer can sponsor you for a Highly Skilled Migrant Visa, which allows you to stay and work long-term. After five years (including your student years), you can even apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
Not bad, right?
Moving to the Netherlands for Work
Now let’s talk about the second route: getting a job in the Netherlands directly.
This one takes a bit more effort because the job market can be competitive. But if you have the right skills and approach things correctly, it’s very possible.
Here’s what you need to know:
In-Demand Skills
Some industries are always looking for talent:
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Tech (software developers, data analysts)
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Engineering
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Healthcare
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Manufacturing & Production
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Project Management
If you have experience in these areas, your chances are even better.
Where Most People Go Wrong
Here’s the thing: many people apply for jobs without setting themselves up properly first.
Two big mistakes recruiters always talk about:
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Poor LinkedIn Profiles – Some people don’t even have LinkedIn accounts, and those who do often leave them empty. Big mistake. Recruiters check LinkedIn before calling you for an interview.
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Weak Resumes – A generic CV that doesn’t highlight your skills properly will get lost in the pile.
The goal is to sell yourself professionally—on paper and online.
How to Improve Your Chances
Here’s a simple checklist:
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Create a strong LinkedIn profile with your experience, skills, and a professional photo.
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Tailor your CV for each job application. Highlight your achievements, not just duties.
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Practice interview confidence. Learn how to talk about your experience clearly and confidently.
Oh, and here’s a tip most people overlook: when interviewing, you’re not just being assessed—you’re also assessing the company. Changing that mindset helps you present yourself better because you know it’s a two-way street.
Best Websites for Job Applications
Some popular job websites for the Netherlands include:
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Indeed.nl
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LinkedIn Jobs
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Local platforms depending on the region (especially for specialized roles)
Apply widely and don’t limit yourself to just one city. The more applications you send, the better your chances.
Courses and Coaching
If you need extra help, there are online courses on platforms like Udemy that teach:
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How to craft a winning CV
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How to optimize your LinkedIn profile
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Interview preparation strategies
Some even offer one-on-one coaching if you want personalized guidance.
Final Thoughts: Start Now
Whether you’re coming as a student or for work, the key is to start early.
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If you’re studying, check out studyinnl.org and apply via Studielink.
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If you’re job hunting, fix your CV, build your LinkedIn profile, and start applying today.
And remember, moving abroad isn’t free. Even if tuition is cheaper, or you find a job quickly, you’ll need some savings for visa fees, relocation costs, and the first few months of living expenses.
But if you plan well, the Netherlands can be the start of a whole new life—better opportunities, better income, and a brighter future for you (and possibly your family).
So why wait? The best time to start is now. The second-best time? Still now.
