Work permit in the Netherlands: useful links to resources

As a non-EU citizen wanting to work in the Netherlands you need to obtain a valid work permit. Either the potential employee or the prospective employer may request the permit, although it is usually the employer who makes the request. When granted, a work permit is only valid for the employer who applies and ceases the application. The work permit is not valid for other employers.

Want to find out more about work permits in the Netherlands? Take a look at the useful links to resources.

Who needs a work permit?

If you are a national of a country that is part of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are legally entitled to stay, work and look for work in the Netherlands. You do not require a residence permit; a valid passport (or ID card) from the country where you are a national is proof that you legally entitled to stay and work in the Netherlands. Please note: You must have the financial means to support yourself for as long as you have not yet found work.

Useful links:

Immigration and Naturalisation Service: Working in The Netherlands

Werk.nl: Do I need a permit to work and live in the Netherlands?

Work permits for foreign nationals

Foreign nationals who would like to work in the Netherlands must meet a number of requirements. Depending on their country of origin, they may need a work permit to work in The Netherlands.

Useful links:

Government of the Netherlands: Work permits for foreign nationals

I Am Expat: Complete article on different work permits