Working in Amsterdam

Getting a work permit for the Netherlands is a difficult affair. Usually the only way to get into the country is to find employment before departure. However for a Dutch company to hire a prospective employee, it has to prove that there is no better applicant within the nation and the entire European community. Obviously this is seldom the case and any prospective expat will have to hold a significant amount of unique skills.
 

The Dutch take personal recommendations seriously, and this will always be the best way to find a job. Of course the Internet is a fantastic source for those who do not have a network in place. Expats moving to the Netherlands must immediately visit the local tax office and get a BSN number.
 

The Dutch only allow an employee to work up to 45 hours per week, meaning that there is very little of the American style of working. Most people who move to Amsterdam comment on how relaxed their lifestyle has become. Daytime breaks usually amounts to two hours over the day. By law one is entitled to at least one day off per week. An employee is entitled to twenty days of paid leave per year, with an employer entitled to five days extra. 
 

The average salary in the Netherlands is between €25,000 - €35,000 per year, but this will vary depending on profession. In Amsterdam this rises to match the cost of living. Expats traditionally earn more due to their participation in skilled professions. Expats working in Amsterdam can expect up to 30 percent tax rebates for the first period of their residency.  
 

Some other prices: Internet and TV – €75 per month, meal at a bistro or average restaurant €10 – 30, a beer €2-3, public transport per month €60, cigarettes €3, property insurance €100-300 per year.