Working in European countries for non-EU citizens

Thinking about working in another European country? For each of 32 countries – all 27 EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom – you will find the key labour market figures, where the jobs are, how to apply, pay and working conditions, student jobs and what to do in your first weeks. General advice on job search, your CV and your rights: How to find a job abroad – 10 practical guides »

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Netherlands

If you are not an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, you need a residence permit, and in most cases your employer applies for it. The main routes:

Orientation year (zoekjaar hoogopgeleiden): if you completed a master’s, PhD or research in the Netherlands – or a qualifying degree from a top-200 university abroad – in the last 3 years, you can get a residence permit for 1 year. You may work freely during this year; your employer does not need a work permit.
Highly skilled migrant (kennismigrant): your employer must be a sponsor recognised by the IND and applies for you. Minimum gross monthly salary in 2026: €5,942 (age 30+), €4,357 (under 30) and €3,122 if you apply during your orientation year or within 3 years of graduating. Holiday allowance does not count.
EU Blue Card: for graduates of higher education programmes of at least 3 years with a contract of at least 6 months. Minimum gross monthly salary in 2026: €5,942, or €4,754 under the reduced criterion.

All conditions and fees are on the website of the Immigration and Naturalisation Service: ind.nl.

Common questions about job applications and interviews

Key figures: Eurostat (population on 1 January 2026; unemployment and employment rates 2025; minimum wages July 2026); for the United Kingdom – Office for National Statistics; for Liechtenstein – national statistics. Country information: EURES – Living and working conditions, public employment services and the official government websites listed under each country. Rules, thresholds and amounts can change – check the official sources before you move. Updated: October 2026.

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