Working in Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s major industries include technology, finance, engineering, logistics, fashion, and media. If you have experience in areas like AI, fintech, or sustainable energy, your skills will be in high demand here.

By and large, Amsterdam is a vibrant city with a thriving economy. Like many places, its economy faced challenges during the pandemic, but key sectors such as technology and healthcare have led the recovery.

Note that if you’re from outside the EU, you’ll need a work permit to legally work in the Netherlands. These can be tricky to obtain because the Dutch employer must prove that an EU citizen could not fill the role in question.

Work Permits for the Netherlands

Job market in Amsterdam

The job market in Amsterdam is shaped by its finance and technology sectors. The finance industry has a rich history of innovation, from creating the world’s first central bank to becoming a global leader in fintech, attracting top-tier talent from around the world.

Amsterdam’s tech scene is equally dynamic. With major companies like LinkedIn, Tesla, and Netflix operating here, the city offers fantastic opportunities for IT professionals. AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity skills are trending, especially in fintech and startups, as companies embrace digital transformation.

Finding a job in Amsterdam

Many professionals move to Amsterdam with a job already secured or through an intra-company transfer, which involves relocating within the same company to an overseas branch. If you’re starting your job search locally, competition can be stiff, particularly for roles requiring specialised skills.

Being fluent in Dutch can be a game-changer, particularly in client-facing roles or industries such as healthcare and public services. While many companies operate in English, knowing Dutch gives you access to more opportunities and helps you integrate into the workplace culture.

Consider online job portals like LinkedIn, which is ideal for professional networking, Monsterboard for local roles, and Indeed for a wide range of opportunities. The UWV (Employee Insurance Agency) also offers job listings and essential resources on work permits. Registering with reputable recruitment agencies can connect you with hidden opportunities tailored to your expertise.

Useful links

• Monsterboard
• Indeed
• UWV Job Listings

Work culture in Amsterdam

Work-life balance is highly valued in Amsterdam. You’ll find that while hard work is appreciated during office hours, your personal time is respected through policies such as strict limits on overtime and clear boundaries between work and leisure. The city’s culture encourages a healthy separation between work and leisure.

Dutch labour law supports employees with favourable conditions. Maximum working hours are nine hours a day or 45 hours a week. While Dutch law guarantees 20 days of paid leave annually, most companies extend this to 30 days, along with public holidays. There’s a growing trend of flexible work arrangements, such as remote work policies and compressed workweeks, helping employees balance professional and personal commitments.

Whether you’re working in a multinational corporation or a local business, you’ll notice that collaboration and equality are central to the Dutch workplace ethos. Multinational companies often provide structured career progression and international opportunities, while local businesses embrace egalitarian and consensus-driven approaches.

Business Culture in the Netherlands