Employment and Internships
Finding work and internships in the Netherlands can be an enjoyable aspect of your foreign student experience. The country provides a variety of chances for students, whether they are looking for part-time jobs to supplement their education or excellent internship experiences to advance their careers. The Dutch job market is well-known for its openness, and many organisations are keen to hire overseas candidates. To boost your chances of success in the competitive job market, familiarise yourself with Dutch labour regulations, build a great CV, and utilise university career services. Furthermore, networking and understanding the Dutch work culture might be beneficial as you begin your career adventure in this dynamic and forward-thinking country.
Finding a Part-Time Job In The Netherlands
Exploring part-time job alternatives in the Netherlands as an international student has numerous benefits, including the ability to fund studies and living costs, obtain useful work experience, and immerse in society while perhaps improving language abilities.
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Work permit requirements differ depending on your country. Students from the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and Japan have complete freedom to work, whereas those from Croatia and other countries require a work permit (which the employer must apply for) and are limited to 10 hours of work per week, except during the summer months of June, July, and August, when full-time work is permitted.
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Consider approaching bars, restaurants, and retail businesses to get a student job, especially in large cities like Amsterdam, where Dutch language ability is not necessarily required. Be proactive, bring a well-prepared CV or a brief statement of motivation, and ask about employment possibilities directly. If this approach fails to produce results, you can look into hiring agencies like Randstad or Tempo Team, recruitment websites like Undutchables or studentjobs.nl, or inquire with your university's career services or international office about potential job opportunities, such as language tutor or receptionist. Student Mobility is also offered to help overseas students settle into their new life in the Netherlands.
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Students can expect to be paid different salaries based on age, number of working hours per week, and whether you have a fixed or zero hour contract. In June 2024, this is what you can expect to be paid:
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Age 18: €6,64 per hour
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Age 19: €7,96 per hour
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Age 20: €10,62 per hour
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Age 21: €13,27 per hour
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Keep in mind that these figures represent the minimum wage and that your earnings may differ based on the number of hours that you work!
An internship is an important component of your educational journey because it provides practical experience as well as a view into the professional world. Many organisations in the Netherlands hire interns, typically giving them major duties in addition to their learning objectives. Internships can be obtained through your school institution, which usually provides dedicated help, or by searching job search engines, industry websites, and professional groups.
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Internships are available to students studying in the Netherlands who have EU citizenship or a valid study-related residence visa. Non-EU/EEA and Swiss citizens must sign a tri-party internship agreement, which includes their employer and educational institution's signatures. Receiving a stipend or income can have an impact on health insurance and taxation, with potential implications for tax liabilities, social security status, and the like.
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After finishing their education, non-EU citizens can apply for a 'Orientation Year permit,' which allows them to work on internships and in paid or voluntary positions. Citizens of the EU/EEA and Switzerland have the right to live, work, and intern in the Netherlands. It's critical to think about the payment structure for internships because there are no hard and fast laws, and payment options can affect tax obligations and social security. If you just get reimbursement for expenses, you will not be taxed; however, any other type of remuneration requires the internship provider to handle taxes and social security payments. Depending on the nature of your internship, you may also be needed to obtain Dutch public health insurance. Refer to the government website business.gov.nl for detailed information on tax and social benefit implications.
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While internships provide significant professional experience, it is crucial to understand that not all are paid. Some internships in the Netherlands are unpaid, mainly in the charitable and academic sectors. However, for paid internships, pay can vary greatly depending on criteria such as industry, level of responsibility, and location. Part-time internships pay between €300 and €600 per month on average for international students. Full-time paid internships typically pay greater monthly stipends of €800 to €1,500 or more. Before accepting an offer, it's critical to investigate and understand the facts of your internship, including whether it's paid or unpaid. Remember that paid internships in the Netherlands not only provide money support, but they also help you build your career and provide significant networking chances.