By Ekram, with research by Nahid
When I first moved to the Netherlands as an international student, I didn’t think too much about what would happen after graduation. I figured if I worked hard, gained relevant experience, and built the right skills, eventually I’d find a job.
But the reality? It was a lot more complicated than I expected.
The Struggle is Real.
Job hunting in the Netherlands as a non-EU graduate with limited Dutch skills (baby Dutch speaker here, I’m learning, I promise!) has been one of the most emotionally exhausting and character-building experiences of my life.
I’ve stared at my inbox after sending application after application. I’ve prepped for interviews that never happened. I’ve questioned whether I was doing something wrong.
And yes, sometimes that awful thought crept in: “Maybe I’m just not good enough.”
Still, the feedback, when I got any, was often vague or contradictory:
– “You’re too experienced.”
– “You don’t have enough experience.”
– “We don’t sponsor visas.”
It felt like there was a secret formula I hadn’t been told.
What Actually Helped Me
There was no magic fix. But here’s what made a difference:
– Talking to others in the same boat.
– Saying yes to small opportunities.
– Attending events and meetups.
– Applying only to IND-recognised sponsors.
– Learning that rejection isn’t always personal.
Job Hunting Tips and Research
- What to Know Early On
Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar):
• Dutch Hiring Culture: Employers appreciate direct, honest communication. Confidence is good, but modesty is preferred.
• Dutch Language: Demonstrating some Dutch (even A2 level) shows commitment to integration.
- What to Know Early On
• Ask for Feedback – After a rejection, politely ask for feedback.
• Tailor Every Application – Customise your CV and cover letter.
• Use the IND Sponsor List:
Public Register of Recognised Sponsors
• Try Freelance or Project Work – Upwork, Fiverr, or Hoofdkraan.nl
Resources & Links
Job Platforms (English-Friendly)
Adams Multilingual Recruitment
CV & Cover Letter Support
Networking & Community
The Hague International Centre
Bonus Tools & Communities
Job Boards:
Networks & Slack Groups
– Dutch Startup Jobs
– Women in Tech NL
– Slack groups – TechNL, ExpatsNL
– Young Capital International
Final Words
– Everyone’s journey is different, and that’s okay.
– Rejection is often not personal.
– Your international background is a strength, not a barrier.
– Keep applying. Keep learning. Keep showing up.
– Persistence pays off.