High Demand Jobs in Netherlands 2024 – Work Visa

by Tayyab Khan Foreigner Jobs

Substantial modifications have been implemented in the Netherlands’ immigration policies in response to recent reports of skill shortages. The Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) now allows employers in the Netherlands to engage competent and qualified workers from abroad for a variety of positions. This development will generate new employment prospects in the Netherlands for individuals who are considering immigration.

To employ a foreign national, Dutch corporations are required to apply for IND sponsorship recognition. Visa sponsorship positions are accessible in both the public and private sectors, although the private sector offers a greater abundance of them to resolve skill shortages that are specific to that industry.

The objective of this article is to furnish an all-encompassing account of visa sponsorship employment opportunities in the Netherlands, encompassing details such as the average salary anticipated and the cost of living.

Check Also: Visa Sponsorship Farm Jobs in Netherlands for Foreigners

Labor Market Jobs in Netherlands:

By 2024, the Dutch labor market will have witnessed substantial expansion, as more than 350,000 new positions are being generated each year. IT/AI engineers, production workers, industrial technicians, customer service representatives, transport drivers, shelf stackers, warehouse laborers, and janitors are all essential positions.

It will come as no surprise that a substantial number of these positions do not necessitate a formal academic degree. An advantageous initial step towards commencing a professional career in the Netherlands may be to investigate opportunities via the Arbeidsmarktinformatie platform if one possesses the requisite credentials or experience.

Dutch Work visa Types Offered to Skill shortage job applicants:

In the Netherlands, applicants for skilled shortage jobs have access to two primary categories of work visas:

  • Highly Skilled Migrant (kennismigrant) Visa: Appropriate for exceptionally qualified individuals whose expertise is in high demand. Applicants are required to possess a job offer from a duly recognized Dutch sponsor and receive a salary that satisfies the minimum requirements for their particular position (typically surpassing €4,844 per month in 2024). Additionally required are qualifications and experience pertinent to the position.
  • Orientation Year (oriëntatiejaar) Visa: Designed for individuals with a high level of education who intend to secure employment in the Netherlands within a year. It permits a one-year stay for employment hunting with a sponsoring organization. Prerequisites comprise a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, adequate financial means to support oneself (approximately €880 monthly), and health insurance coverage that is sufficient.

Presently, we shall examine the most critical talent shortage positions that will be available in the Netherlands in 2024:

1# ICT Skill Shortages in Netherlands

Applicants seeking employment in the Netherlands’ ICT sector should be cognizant of the fact that there are severe skill shortages in a number of critical domains. Possessing expertise in any of the subsequent fields could potentially lead to abundant employment prospects in the Netherlands.

  • Software Developers: Software developers, specifically those proficient in cloud computing, back-end, front-end, full-stack, and mobile application development, An advantageous qualification for a candidate is a Computer Science or Software Engineering degree in conjunction with programming expertise in Java, Python, or C++.
  • Data Analysts and Scientists: There is a significant demand for data analysts and scientists with expertise in data visualization, machine learning, artificial intelligence, data warehousing, and business intelligence. Typically, candidates must possess a strong foundation in statistics, mathematics, or computer science, in addition to being proficient in R, Python, or SQL.
  • Proficient in cybersecurity: In high demand are cybersecurity experts with expertise in cloud security, network security, information security, penetration testing, and incident response. A degree in computer science or information security, familiarity with IT infrastructure, and pertinent certifications such as CISSP, CISA, or CEH are typical requirements.
  • IT Project Managers: IT project managers should possess significant experience overseeing software development and IT infrastructure initiatives, with a specific focus on Agile methodologies. Generally, an advanced degree in business administration or project management is required, in addition to exceptional leadership abilities.
  • Cloud Engineers: Cloud engineers must have a comprehensive understanding of the AWS, Azure, and GCP platforms, cloud infrastructure design and deployment, and cloud security. Frequently required are a computer science or IT degree and cloud computing experience.

2# Healthcare Sector Jobs in the Netherlands

Presently, there is considerable interest in the healthcare industry in the Netherlands among professionals, and competitive compensation is a major factor in this. Particularly coveted are nursing positions, where monthly compensation in some hospitals can range from €4,000 to €8,000. Nevertheless, the industry additionally pursues proficient technicians, specialists, physicians, and medical technicians, indicating a more extensive demand within the healthcare system.

Applications to prestigious institutions like BovenIJ Ziekenhuis, Alrijne Hospital Leiden, and Slingeland Hospital are encouraged for those interested in pursuing a career in this discipline. These medical facilities are renowned for their exceptional care standards and provide healthcare professionals with auspicious prospects. Due to the expansion of the healthcare industry in the Netherlands, now is an excellent moment to investigate these lucrative career paths.

3# Skill Shortages Trades in Netherlands

In addition to product sales, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work, the Netherlands also faces a dearth of expertise in the painting industry. Candidates who possess mid-level educational credentials (e.g., MBO-2/3/4, HAVO, diploma, or VWO) along with pertinent work experience in these domains might qualify for the “Highly Skilled Migrant” program. This program is intended for non-EU/EFTA nationals who can contribute to sectors where qualified labor is scarce in the Netherlands.

In order to be eligible for the HSMP, candidates generally must possess a job offer from an employer recognized in the Netherlands and satisfy predetermined salary requirements. Employers typically initiate the application procedure for this category of visas; however, they are required to be recognized sponsors. Permission to reside and work is frequently granted concurrently under this program; permits are valid for a maximum of five years and are subject to extension. It is noteworthy that, while certain nationalities may not be subject to the requirement of a separate entry visa (MVV) to enter the Netherlands, a residence permit remains necessary for extended stays.

Benefits of High Demand Jobs in Netherlands:

  • Job Security: Professions that are in high demand generally experience a scarcity of proficient personnel. Opting for a profession in a sector characterized by a dearth of requisite competencies bolsters one’s employment stability, given that employers are proactively pursuing competent candidates to occupy these positions.
  • Competitive Salaries: Professionals specializing in particular disciplines frequently receive higher salaries due to the increased demand for their skills. In general, competitive compensation packages accompany high-demand positions, thereby elevating the quality of life for employees and their families.
  • Prospects for Professional Growth: Industries that are in high demand for proficient personnel may offer abundant avenues for professional development. Careers in these domains may present opportunities for individuals to assume managerial positions, specialize in specialized disciplines, or assume leadership roles.
  • Obtaining Employment Easily: Applicants for positions in disciplines that are in high demand have a greater likelihood of securing employment promptly. The job search process can be facilitated by the demand for particular talents, which enables candidates to obtain positions that are in line with their credentials.
  • Visa and Work Permit Support: The Netherlands is a nation that places significant emphasis on specialized labor; consequently, the Dutch government frequently promotes the immigration of professionals possessing such in-demand abilities and work permit assistance. As a result, obtaining work visas and permits may be comparatively simpler for individuals employed in high-demand occupations.
  • Quality of Life: The Netherlands maintains a high standing in quality of life rankings. By securing a high-demand occupation in the country, individuals can avail themselves of the outstanding healthcare, education, public services, and overall high standard of living that the nation has to offer.
  • Work-Life Balance: An exemplary practice in Dutch workplaces is the promotion of a harmonious work-life balance. A considerable number of employers in the Netherlands emphasize family-friendly policies, flexible work arrangements, and part-time employment, all of which contribute to employees leading more balanced lives.
  • Working in a Multicultural Environment: As a result of the Netherlands’ international and diverse nature, working in multicultural environments is a requirement for many in-demand occupations. Engaging in this endeavor can provide individuals with a valuable opportunity to expand their cultural knowledge and collaborate with peers who hail from diverse contexts.
  • Proximity to Innovation and Technology: Sectors that are industries that are leading the way in innovation and technology frequently correspond with high-demand occupations. Operating within these industries may present professionals with the chance to utilize state-of-the-art technologies, thereby enhancing their professional growth and enabling them to remain updated on developments in the field.
  • Social Benefits: Healthcare coverage, pension programs, and additional perks are included in the social benefits that accompany employment in the Netherlands. These advantages contribute to the financial security and general welfare of individuals employed in high-demand occupations.

Where to find skill shortage jobs and trades in Netherlands?

To identify employment opportunities and vocations in areas of limited skill development in the Netherlands, the following resources may be of assistance:

Official Government Resources:

  • UWV (Dutch Unemployment Agency): The Dutch Unemployment Agency (UWV) provides a segment titled “Vacancies with high labor market tensions” that enumerates sector-specific positions that are in high demand. Please visit UWV for further information.
  • Government.nl: A resource that offers insights into professions that are future-proof and in high demand, including a “job market monitor” that tracks labor market trends and shortages. Consult their analysis on Government.nl.
  • EURES Netherlands: A component of a European network that assists job candidates in locating employment throughout the EU, with an emphasis on skill-deficient sectors. EURES Netherlands contains additional details.

Specialized Resources:

  • TechLeap: TechLeap is an organization that organizes information technology-related events and an employment board for Dutch technology professionals. Peruse TechLeap.
  • DutchTechScene: DutchTechScene contains job postings and news about the Dutch technology sector. Further details are available at the DutchTechScene.
  • Buildbase: Buildbase specializes in engineering- and construction-related projects in the Netherlands. To discover the most recent construction-related employment opportunities in the Netherlands, please visit Buildbase.

More Info

List of Companies in Netherlands Allowed to Hire Foreigners:

The Dutch government has granted authorization to several Dutch companies in 2024 to employ foreign nationals on work visas. This creates employment opportunities in the Netherlands for educated professionals from around the globe. A concise enumeration of prominent corporations authorized for this intent follows:

  • ING
  • ZIVVER
  • Hilton
  • DSM
  • ManpowerGroup
  • Picnic
  • Orange Quarter
  • ASML
  • ABN AMRO Bank
  • Tripaneer
  • AkzoNobel
  • Infosys Limited
  • Coolblue
  • Jefferson Frank
  • USG People
  • Alpha FX Group
  • Shell
  • Unilever
  • Stafide
  • Philips
  • Robert Half
  • Adecco
  • Heineken
  • Booking.com
  • Randstad
  • Optiver
  • Experis

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Is it difficult to get a job in the Netherlands? 

    The Netherlands has a relatively small job market, making it highly competitive. To increase your chances of landing a job, you need to make sure that you have a well-written resume and cover letter. You should also make sure that you are adequately prepared for interviews.

  2. What is the Netherlands main income?

    The service sector accounts for more than half of the national income, primarily in transportation, distribution and logistics, financial areas, software development, and the creative industry.

  3. Is the Netherlands looking for foreign workers? 

    Companies in the Netherlands hiring foreign workers go through a lot to make sure that the positions to be filled are vetted by the Dutch employment agency. These positions are open to all applicants around the world and can be applied for through each company’s online portal.