Just ten days after the House of Representatives reluctantly approved a new wealth tax on savings, investments, and real estate, the Jetten cabinet is moving to scrap it.
Finance Minister Eelco Heinen has taken matters into his own hands, announcing that the new Box 3 tax system should be amended — before it even reaches the Eerste Kamer (Senate).
According to AD, Heinen claimed that “something simply didn’t go right,” adding that the bill needs some serious adjustments before it can go to the Eerste Kamer.
What exactly is this new law?
At the moment, the Belastingdienst taxes people based on assumed returns from their assets, rather than what they actually earn. This is dubbed “Box 3 income.”
In 2021, the Hoge Raad (Supreme Court) ruled that taxing people on fictitious returns was unlawful.
Since then, the House of Representatives has been scrambling to find a way to tax our capital gains.
The new Wet werkelijk rendement box 3 (Act on Actual Box 3 Returns) was designed to fix this, taxing real income rather than an imaginary interest rate of an economy we no longer live in.
But helaas, the fix that was meant to go into effect starting in 2028 is already being questioned.
What’s wrong with it?
Perhaps a better question is, “What’s not wrong with it?”
The heart of the problem remains the same: you are taxed on income that is not yet tangible.
Under the new legislation, investors would owe tax on assets that have risen in value — even if they haven’t sold them yet.
Say you hold €10,000 worth of Bitcoin. The price surges, and your portfolio jumps to €15,000. You haven’t sold a single coin, so that €5,000 gain exists only on paper. Yet under the new policy, you would owe tax on it regardless.
Rich people around the world seem to have a problem with it.
Heinen specifically named the lack of loss offsetting as a legitimate concern. If your shares drop in value the following year, the Belastingdienst won’t give anything back.
The Finance Minister also flagged that it’s almost impossible to convert paper gains into cash. You may end up having to liquidate your entire portfolio just to pay your taxes.
Who else is unhappy?
Aside from backlash from other parties in the coalition, some of whom called Heinen’s move “downright inappropriate,” several investors might be glad that the new policy has already been scrapped.
Prince Constantijn of Orange, who leads TechLeap (a government body that helps Dutch startups grow), also spoke out against the law.
Prins Constantijn, speciaal gezant van Techleap, is niet blij met de nieuwe box 3-belasting. Die raakt ook beleggers. "Dit wil je niet", zegt Constantijn. "Dit is jezelf in de voet schieten. Je moet belasten op het moment dat je aandelen verkoopt." #WNLOpZondag#WNLpic.twitter.com/YKveqoqSqv
Translation: Prince Constantijn, Techleap’s special envoy, is not pleased with the new box 3 tax. It also affects investors. “You don’t want this,” says Constantijn. “This is shooting yourself in the foot. You should tax at the moment you sell your shares.” #WNLOpZondag#WNL
His concern? Many startups pay staff partly in shares. If those shares increase in value, employees could face a substantial tax bill on money they haven’t yet received.
The bill did try to address this with an exception for startup shares. But the rules were considered too strict, reports NOS.
“There has been a lot of criticism on the Wet werkelijk rendement,” says a spokesperson for Heinen. “We’re not deaf to that. The bill needs to be amended,” he adds.
With spring right around the corner and sunny weather making a comeback, we all want to spend more time outside. Now is high time to go for a ride along one of the seven most scenic bike paths in the Netherlands.
It’s no secret that the Netherlands is known as the bicycle capital of the world — and cycling is a cherished part of the Dutch way of life.
From the sandy dunes of Scheveningen to the stunning views of Kinderdijk’s windmills, this remarkably flat country holds some of the world’s most beautiful bike paths.
This scenic bike route will take you from Weesp to Utrecht, though you can of course decide exactly how much of it you want to do yourself.
Along the river Vecht, you’ll see mansions built by merchants from the Dutch Golden Age, lots of dairy farms, and beautiful Dutch nature.
The biking path is very peaceful and you end up biking the last leg by the Old Canal of Utrecht, which is frankly one of the most stunning places in the whole of the Netherlands.
3. From Leiden to The Hague
Cycle from the gorgeous town of Leiden to another beautiful city, The Hague. Image: Lyna Meyrer/Supplied
Now, this might be a familiar daily train commute for many of us, but biking this journey is an entirely different experience. Don’t take the shortest route — instead, take the one that brings you through Vlietland.
Known as the Riviera of the Randstad, this stunning area is filled with nature, lakes, and gorgeous quaint Dutch houses.
It’s a really nice idea to reserve a table at a restaurant at one of our vegan hotspots in The Hague for a delicious meal after your arduous journey.
4. Explore Texel National Park
Texel is an island in the very north of the Netherlands, and its coastline is absolutely beautiful. Biking around it will take you through Texel National Park and lots of beautiful dunes.
This is a biologically diverse landscape that is really best appreciated by bike.
Plus, if you do want to take a longer bike ride and explore even more of the island, you can always head east from the dunes. This is a particularly lovely bike ride on a hot summer’s day, with the sea breeze keeping you cool.
5. Around Waterland (near Amsterdam)
Visit the beautiful town of Waterland, near Amsterdam, by bike. Image: Depositphotos
But this scenic bike route also takes you to the seaside if you follow it through.
You end up at Marken, a historic fishing village, which is only connected to the mainland by a road that was added in 1957.
6. Past the Enkhuizen Dyke
A beautiful bike ride along the Dutch sea! Image: Snempaa/Wikimedia Commons/CC4.0
A list of scenic bike paths in the Netherlands would not be complete without at least some dyke-and-dam content.
This bike ride up in Lelystad will take you across the sea in a way that is really mind-blowing for those of us new to living in a land created by dykes.
You cycle away from the main road for most of this path, which only increases the otherworldly sensation of cycling along a thin piece of land in the middle of the sea (well, not quite the middle).
7. Along Kinderdijk’s Windmills
Another Dutch cliché that we simply can’t resist recommending is the bike path by the Kinderdijk windmills. Tourists usually flock here every year.
You can go during the off-season to bike slowly around this historic sight and soak it in without worrying about running over some hapless sight-seer.
You were doing so well. “Dus ik dacht dat…” you began confidently, conjugating verbs, forming sentences, thriving. And then, without a single warning, the Dutch person in front of you replies in flawless English.
It’s one of the most universally shared experiences among expats in the Netherlands.
But there’s more going on beneath the surface than impatience or pity. Let’s unpack it!
It’s called code-switching, and it’s completely normal
Linguists call this code-switching: flipping between languages mid-conversation, sometimes even mid-sentence. It’s a well-documented phenomenon in bilingual communities, and it’s actually a sign of high fluency, not rudeness.
When someone speaks two languages well, their brain doesn’t keep them in separate, neatly labelled boxes.
Think of it more like two apps running in the background at once. Sometimes the wrong one pops to the front. In the Netherlands, that “wrong” app opens constantly, because the Dutch are extraordinarily good at English.
The Netherlands is basically cheating at English
According to the EF English Proficiency Index, the Netherlands has ranked number 1 in the entire world among non-native English-speaking countries for six consecutive years.
Amsterdam, specifically, scores higher than any other non-native-English-speaking capital city on the planet.
So when a Dutch person switches to English mid-conversation, they’re not making a conscious effort. English is just… there. Fully loaded, always ready, requiring almost zero mental overhead.
They assume English is the most considerate choice in mixed settings, the linguistic equivalent of holding a door open.
The problem? It often doesn’t land that way. Ameka argues that many migrants and language learners actually experience the switch as exclusion: a signal that their Dutch isn’t welcome in the Dutch community.
The intention is kindness; the effect is the opposite.
Efficiency is basically a Dutch personality trait
There’s also a broader cultural explanation. Dutch communication prioritises directness and efficiency above almost everything else.
If English is the fastest route from A to B, most Dutch people will take it, not out of arrogance, but out of reflex.
That switch is often triggered by tiny signals: a slight hesitation, an accent, a half-second pause while searching for a word. The Dutch brain reads these as cues to “help,” and help it does, whether you wanted it to or not.
The good news: most Dutch people will happily stay in Dutch if you just ask. Directly. Which, again, is very on-brand for them.
There are ways to keep people talking in Dutch. Image: Freepik
Try one of these early in the conversation:
“Mag het in het Nederlands? Ik wil oefenen.” (Can we keep it in Dutch? I want to practise.)
“Laten we Nederlands praten, alsjeblieft.” (Let’s speak Dutch, please.)
“Ik probeer mijn Nederlands te verbeteren.” (I’m trying to improve my Dutch.)
Confidence is key. Dutch culture genuinely respects directness, so a clear, friendly request almost always works.
Another tactic: when they switch to English, just respond in Dutch anyway. That gentle nudge often brings things back without any awkwardness.
You can also ask for clarification instead of a translation. “Kun je dat langzamer zeggen?” (Can you say that more slowly?) keeps the interaction in Dutch while showing you’re engaged.
When switching to English is the right call
There are moments when English genuinely is the better choice. Complex medical conversations, legal documents, or anything where a misunderstanding could have real consequences. In those cases, clarity matters more than practice.
But for a chat at the bakker (bakery) or a casual coffee with a colleague? Push back. Politely, persistently, in Dutch.
You’re not being difficult. You’re doing exactly what Professor Ameka wishes more people would do, and what your Dutch language journey depends on anyway.
Have you ever successfully kept a Dutch person speaking Dutch with you? Or did they outlast you in English? Share your strategy, or your defeat, in the comments below.
Every bank customer in the Netherlands is getting a new debit card. But what exactly is changing, and do you actually need to do anything?
Many internationals will be ecstatic to hear that the baffling debit card system of the Netherlands is being modernised and replaced with a more useful alternative.
The old Maestro and V PAY cards that Dutch residents have used for years are being phased out, replaced by Debit Mastercard and Visa Debit cards.
Finally, you’ll be able to pay on international websites without jumping through six or seven hoops!
So what can the new card do that the old one couldn’t?
The most significant upgrade is that the new cards work far more like the bank cards you might be used to from your home country.
They can be used anywhere Mastercard or Visa is accepted — which means far fewer awkward moments at foreign checkout counters.
You’ll also be able to pay online using just the card details. Unlike the previous cards, the new ones will have the more globally used style of a 16-digit card number, expiry date, and a CVC or CVV security code.
The new card also enables deposit payments — useful for things like car rentals — and recurring subscription payments.
Is it the same as a credit card?
Not quite. The key difference is that money comes straight out of your bank account — there’s no credit facility.
So, if the funds aren’t there, the payment won’t go through (seems logical, right?)
It’s also important to note that the new debit card also doesn’t come with purchase insurance, which credit cards typically offer for 180 days after a purchase.
However, online payments with the new card are covered by a chargeback policy, meaning you can dispute a payment if you don’t receive what you ordered. This is also known as a ‘delivery guarantee.’
This protection doesn’t apply to iDEAL or Wero payments, so it’s actually a step up for shoppers if they use the new card details when paying online.
When will you get yours?
That depends on your bank. As RTL Nieuws reports, smaller banks have moved faster. Triodos Bank and Knab customers already have the new cards, according to the Consumers’ Association.
ING began replacing expiring cards in November and expects most customers to have the new card by the end of this year, though no exact timeline has been given. For ING customers, the CVC code won’t be printed on the card itself. You’ll need to find it in the ING app.
Rabobank has been issuing new cards since 2024 on a natural expiry basis, with no estimate on when the full rollout will complete.
ABN AMRO started the transition in mid-2025. The bank estimates it’s currently at just over 10% of customers, based on the five-year card expiry cycle, and is looking into whether it can accelerate the rollout.
ASN Bank expects its rollout to be complete by October 1, with roughly 418,000 of its 3 million customers already using the new card. You don’t need to request the upgraded card, it’ll arrive automatically when your current one is up for replacement.
Happy shopping!
Have you already received your new debit card? Let us know in the comments whether it’s made paying abroad any easier.
We know what you’re thinking: between work permits, language barriers, and hefty competition, finding work in Amsterdam can be quite the challenge.
But whether you’re just planning to move or already live here, getting a job in the Netherlands doesn’t have to be that hard.
In fact, as an international in the Netherlands, the capital city is probably your best bet. The job market in Amsterdam is booming, and many international companies have set up their headquarters along its gorgeous canals. 😍
Ready to find your dream job in Amsterdam? All you need is that certain know-how — so strap in for our best tips and tricks on how to make it happen!
Ready to find work in Amsterdam? Jump to a section below!
First things first: the bureaucracy (boooo-ring!). 🥱
But yes, before you can start your journey of finding work in Amsterdam, you’ll need a valid permit to work in the Netherlands. You will most likely fall under one of the two following categories: EEA and Swiss nationals, and everyone else.
EEA or Swiss nationals: You are free to work in the Netherlands
If you’re already a citizen of an EEA (European Economic Area) or Swiss country, you’re free to move to the Netherlands and start working immediately. No extra permits are needed. Hoera! 🥳
The only thing that these lucky people must not forget is to set up their burgerservicenummer (BSN) upon arrival in the Netherlands.
You will get this handy number when you register at your municipality, and it lets you apply for almost everything you need for life in the Netherlands — including a job.
Residents from the Schengen zone can simply pack their bags, move to Amsterdam, and find a job! Image: Depositphotos
Non-EEA nationals: You need a permit to work in the Netherlands
For non-EEA passport holders, things are a little more complicated. If you fall under this category, you must get a valid residence and working permit before finding a job in Amsterdam. 🪪
If you’re a highly-skilled migrant, you have a higher level of education and/or a specific expertise in your field, you might come to the Netherlands on a so-called highly-skilled migrant visa.
In a city where almost one in every three people is an international, it’s no surprise that English is spoken everywhere. Add to that the thousands of tourists that flock to Amsterdam each year, and boom: you have the perfect conditions for a highly international and English-speaking job market.
Many companies in Amsterdam have a majority of non-Dutch speaking employees. Image: Depositphotos
As a result, working in Amsterdam often requires zero to minimal Dutch; hospitality and retail jobs, in particular, are easily available to non-Dutch speakers, thanks to the many tourists. 🙌
It’s worth mentioning, however, that your native-Dutch-speaking competition in the job market also speaks near-impeccable English.
That means that if an employer has to choose between you and a Dutchie, chances are that they might be inclined to go with the latter — unless you can outshine them with your skills and experience, of course.
It’s also nice to learn at least some Nederlands for various reasons, such as the social aspects of your job (did anyone say after-work borrels?), client contact, in-company growth opportunities, and general integration into your new home. 🇳🇱
🔎 Where to look for work in Amsterdam
Now for the nitty-gritty: where do you start looking for your Amsterdam dream job? How do you navigate the Dutch job market? And what the frikandel is a vacature?
There are plenty of options for anyone on their “finding work in Amsterdam” journey, so let us help you out.
👩💻 Check Dutch job-search websites
The first and most obvious place to start looking for work in Amsterdam is on Dutch job-search websites, also called vacaturebanken (vacancy banks) in Dutch.
The Netherlands has plenty of these websites regularly updated with the freshest job offers.
The best part? Most of them let you filter by language and location — so just select ‘English’ (or any other language you speak) and ‘Amsterdam’ and ta-da! Alternatively, you can simply put ‘English’ as a keyword into your search bar.
The most popular job-search sites for internationals to find a job in Amsterdam include:
Have a company in mind that you would love to work for? Great, make sure to keep an eye on their own website to see their latest openings!
This can be advantageous because it allows you to search for jobs within your chosen company and find vacancies that may not have been posted on regular job-searching websites.
You can usually find this information by scrolling all the way to the bottom of a company’s website. In fine print, it should say something along the lines of “Careers at [company]” or “Werken bij [company]” (Work for [company]).
🤝 Meet with a recruitment agency
When it comes to finding work in Amsterdam, especially if you don’t already live in the Netherlands, your best bet may be to reach out to the pros — a recruitment agency.
Recruitment agencies act as the bridge between employees and employers. Their agents assist job-seekers in finding new opportunities, preparing their applications, and negotiating contracts.
When it comes to recruitment agencies, we recommend you meet with the best of the best: Undutchables. A pioneer in multilingual recruitment, Undutchables helps internationals navigate the Dutch job market and advance their careers in the Netherlands. Explore job openings in Amsterdam 👉.
🙋♂️ Get in touch with your network
If you know other internationals who successfully found a job in Amsterdam, reach out to them! They know the struggles and may be able to give you leads you haven’t considered yet.
It is especially useful if you know someone who works within your field or at a company you’d like to work with. They might have heard of positions that are about to open or can pass your resume on to a superior. It’s worth a shot!
📲 Use social media
No network? No problem! The wonders of social media are just a click away and can help facilitate your journey to finding a job in Amsterdam.
Turns out a smartphone can be used for something other than scrolling TikTok. 🤯 Image: Depositphotos
The obvious choice here is LinkedIn, the business and employment-focused social media platform where you can easily look up a company’s employees and directly reach out to them.
Besides LinkedIn, good ol’ Facebook can help you in your quest to find work in Amsterdam. It has plenty of groups for internationals, where English-speaking jobs in the Netherlands are regularly posted.
Facebook can also be extremely handy in finding student jobs, such as babysitting or dog walking gigs. 🦮
🎓 Make use of your university’s career centre
If you’re a recent graduate from a Dutch university, your school’s career centre should be your go-to place for anything career-related.
Universities often have their own job boards targeted to recent alumni, and sometimes, they even have partnerships with companies to connect their students with potential employers.
But the benefits don’t stop there, and university career centres offer many great services to give students and alumni the tools necessary to make successful career choices. Some of their services likely include resume and cover letter reviews, interview preparation, and career counselling.
📧 Put yourself out there
This one may require some big bitterballen (if you know what we mean), but it’s worth giving it a shot! Instead of waiting for the perfect job to find you, you can simply reach out to companies you’d like to work with.
This is called cold-emailing or cold-calling and is about as direct as it gets — even in the Netherlands. The best that can happen? You get an interview. The worst? You get no response. But as the Dutch say, “Niet geschoten is altijd mis” (You miss all the shots that you don’t shoot).
But even if the company of your choice has no suitable openings at that moment, they might get back to you when they do. And if not, they’ll remember you as someone eager to work hard — and that’s a good reputation to have!
💼 Check out job fairs
If all else fails, why not go the old-school way by attending a job fair? The Amsterdam area hosts events like these quite regularly, many directly aimed at internationals.
Job fairs are also a great way to network. Image: Depositphotos
Here, you can talk to recruiters, connect with employers from the area, get to know new companies, and attend interesting workshops and presentations from within your field.
You can find upcoming job fairs in the Amsterdam area by simply typing “job fair Amsterdam” into Google.
🗂️ Types of jobs in Amsterdam
Where you look for work in Amsterdam will also depend on the job you are in the market for.
If you’re looking for a student job at a restaurant, for example, it may be easiest to just walk through the streets of Amsterdam and be on the lookout for recruitment flyers or posters.
However, finding a job in Amsterdam in tech is probably easier on the world wide web. 💻
Broadly speaking, there are four categories of jobs that you may encounter in your Amsterdam job search.
🛠️ Skilled jobs in Amsterdam
A skilled job is any kind of work that requires a formal education — be it a university degree, technical training, or a special certification.
Those majestic Amsterdam buildings have to be maintained somehow. Thanks, painters! Image: Depositphotos
💸 Sponsored jobs in Amsterdam
If you fall in the pool of non-EEA residents, you probably have heard of sponsored jobs in Amsterdam. A sponsored job refers to employment where your employer helps sponsor your work visa.
The employer, who must be recognised by the IND, thinks you’ll do such an amazing job at their company that they’re willing to vouch for you at immigration. These jobs are typically well-paid and, therefore, highly sought after. Competition is tough!
💪 Jobs that require no vocational training
Besides jobs that demand vocational training, Amsterdam also has lots of work that doesn’t necessarily require specific education.
Here, you’ll mostly be trained on the job, where you learn to do all the tasks you’ll be responsible for. Under this category, you’ll find positions like sales associates, cleaners, and waiters.
Amsterdam always has many such positions available, and thanks to the many tourists and internationals, English is usually enough to land one of them. Whether you want to work at a bar, a clothing store, in a hotel, or as a delivery driver, the options are (pretty much) endless!
🧑🎓 Student jobs in Amsterdam
Last but not least, student jobs. Yup, those of you who are attending university in Amsterdam have to find some way to pay for rent (and the occasional beer or three 👀)!
Student jobs in Amsterdam are usually part-time or weekend-based and typically range from anywhere between five and 20 hours per week. Many students work for stores or restaurants, their university, or use apps to dogsit, tutor, or babysit.
Exploring Amsterdam with a cute dog AND getting paid for it? Sign us up! Image: Depositphotos
Besides that, many internships in Amsterdam are also open to English-speaking applicants and can be a great way to kick-start your career. 💪
If you’re unsure about your student-work limitations in the Netherlands, make sure to check your visa requirements thoroughly!
📈 What jobs in Amsterdam are in high demand?
Depending on your industry or field of interest, finding a job in Amsterdam may be harder or easier.
Currently, the following fields are most in-demand in Amsterdam, so if you have experience or training in one of them — good for you!
In-demand positions in Amsterdam that require no specific training:
Cleaners
Waiters and waitresses
Sales associates and customer service representatives
Movers and delivery drivers
In-demand jobs in Amsterdam that require some form of vocational training:
Electricians
Plumbers
Painters
Mechanics of industrial or agricultural machines
Carpenters
In-demand fields in Amsterdam that require a university degree:
IT and data science
Business
Finance
Aerospace
Health and life sciences
Engineering
Project management
Science and research
🌍 Companies based in Amsterdam that hire internationals
One of the reasons why Amsterdam is so densely populated by internationals is because plenty of English-speaking companies (that we all know and love) have their headquarters here.📍
And if you’re already a loyal customer, why not become an employee too? Here’s your pick of companies in Amsterdam that hire internationals:
Booking.com
Nike
Adidas
Netflix
ING
Heineken
Under Armour
TikTok
Liberty Global (Vodafone, Ziggo, Virgin Media, etc.)
Have you found an interesting vacancy? Time to apply! The job application process in Amsterdam is generally the same across most companies and can consist of anywhere between two and five steps.
Step 1. The job application
First things first: the application. Of course, in the process of finding a job in Amsterdam, the first step is to apply for the vacancy of your choice.
For this, you’ll generally be asked to submit your CV to a recruiter (often accompanied by a cover letter) via e-mail or a job application form.
Step 2. The (first) interview
If the company you’re applying to likes your CV, they’ll invite you for an interview. This is when you’ll get to talk to either a manager (if you’re applying for a job in a store or a smaller company, for example) or a person from HR (in most bigger corporations).
“My biggest weakness?” “Probably the cheese aisle at Albert Heijn.” Image: Depositphotos
The hiring manager’s main goal here is to simply get to know you and find out if you’re a good fit for their team and the position. In some sectors, this first interview will also be the last; you’ll shortly know whether or not you’re hired.
Step 3. The second interview
For many jobs that require a university education, the job application process goes into the next phase with a second interview.
During this meeting, you’ll be interviewed by people higher up in the company’s hierarchy, and the questions will revolve more around your professional skills and expertise. 🤓
Step 4. The assignment
The hardest stage is often the third and last: an assignment for the company. Not every kind of job will ask for one of these, but if they do, this is your chance to blow their socks off.
An assignment often comprises two or three tasks that ask you to demonstrate knowledge across various topics related to your desired position. Bring your A-game!
Don’t panic now, you’ve got this! Image: Freepik
If you impress the hiring managers in all stages, the job is yours! All that’s left is to sign your paperwork and get to work.
👌 Tips on how to land your dream job in Amsterdam
We know what it’s like: Once you’ve got your heart set on working in Amsterdam, hypnotised by spinning bike wheels and turning windmills, there’s no going back.
Let’s ensure you can stand out from the crowd and make that dream come true!
🗣️ If you speak languages other than English, use them to your advantage
Amsterdam-based companies are at the heart of Europe and do business with firms from all across the globe. If you speak any language other than English, that’s a huge asset to your resume!
Languages from the Netherlands’ closest neighbours are in the highest demand: German, French, or Scandinavian languages in particular — so, if you are a master of any of these languages, make sure to not keep it a secret.
🗺️ Look (just a tiny bit) beyond Amsterdam
Many companies that hire internationals operate from places just outside of Amsterdam, such as Hoofddorp, Schiphol, or Amstelveen.
These locations are just a stone’s throw away from the capital, but they can seriously increase your potential job options. The best part? The Dutch public transportation network is super reliable and accessible.
Trains from within Amsterdam depart very frequently, making the lives of commuters easy as pie! Image: Depositphotos
If you have your heart set on living in Amsterdam (and don’t mind a short commute), you should consider slightly expanding your search radius. Oh, and if you’re lucky, your company will even pay for your travel costs!
💻 Step up your LinkedIn game
LinkedIn is HUGE in the Netherlands — and it’s almost guaranteed that HR will look you up there before inviting you in for an interview. Therefore, your profile should look fresh as a tulip at all times. 🌷
If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile yet, this is your sign to make one. If you do have one, this is your sign to update it.
📝 Polish up your resume
Time to Dutchify your CV! Yup, the Netherlands has its very own practices when it comes to resumes. Ensure you follow them to increase your chances of finding work in Amsterdam.
✍️ Stand out by getting referrals from previous jobs
The Amsterdam job market may be booming, but so is your competition. We’ve gotta make sure you stand out!
A great way to do so is by getting referrals from a previous supervisor. This will give your future employer a better impression of who you are and how you work and help you stand out from other candidates.
Tip: If you don’t want to ask your old boss for a letter of recommendation, maybe one of your old colleagues will be happy to write you a LinkedIn referral. They can endorse certain skills or leave a full review of your work. This will make your LinkedIn profile shine!
🤔 What’s it like to work in Amsterdam?
Congrats, you landed your dream job in Amsterdam! Time to get ready for your first day — but what can you expect?
Working in Amsterdam can be quite different from working in other places, and the Dutch working culture is generally considered pretty laid-back and informal.
While this is great, it may take some time to adjust, especially if you come from a country with a more formal work culture.
🏝️ Dutch jobs have a great work-life balance
The Dutch don’t live to work; they work to live! The Netherlands consistently ranks in the top 10 countries that enjoy the best work-life balance IN THE WORLD.
In most workplaces, by 5 PM sharp, laptops are closed, the brain is shut off, and people head out the door. Where to? A bar. A coffeeshop. A boat. A friend’s house. Paris? The possibilities are endless.
The best part? Full-time workers also benefit from a minimum of 20 days of paid vacation!
🍻 Drink with co-workers at after-work borrels
An integral part of your new career in Amsterdam will be after-work borrels. These get-togethers among co-workers usually occur on Fridays and even have their own fun name: VrijMiBo, a.k.a. Vrijdag Middag Borrelen (Friday afternoon drinks).
What’s your borrel-snack of choice? Bitterballen, or nachos? Image: Freepik
Here, you’ll be sharing a cold biertje(beer), a borrelplank (snack platter), and some great chats with your team — all to unwind from a busy working week.
👑 Hierarchy? We don’t know her
Speaking of drinking with your co-workers, be prepared to have a very amicable relationship with your boss.
While work hierarchy is a given in most other countries, it typically isn’t that big of a factor when working in Amsterdam. Here, people are appreciated for the work they do, not the position they hold. How leuk!
👫 Team-building is essential
Many businesses in Amsterdam emphasise the importance of team-building. HR departments are very proactive in putting together activities that will help you get to know your co-workers and improve the overall relationship within the team.
This can range from a nice dinner among colleagues to a weekend trip to the Dutch coast.
💰 Salaries when working in Amsterdam
Like any major city, Amsterdam has a very wide range of salaries. If you succeed at finding a job in Amsterdam, your wage will largely depend on factors such as job type, industry, level of experience, and your company’s size.
That being said, according to Payscale Inc., the median gross salary (before taxes) of an expat in Amsterdam is €56,000 per year.
However, salaries can vary significantly between industries and levels of experience. The average salary for entry-level positions or jobs requiring minimal qualifications might be lower, ranging from €25,000 to €40,000 annually.
On the other hand, highly skilled professionals in sectors such as IT, finance, or engineering may earn somewhere between €70,000 and €100,000 or more per year. 💸
Although the process of finding work in Amsterdam can be quite a challenge, all your sweat and tears will have been worth it once you sign that sweet, sweet work contract.
Finally, we wish you the best of luck — you’re in for an adventure of a lifetime!
Do you have any valuable tips for finding a job in Amsterdam? Tell us in the commentsbelow!
🙋♂️ Finding a job in Amsterdam: Frequently asked questions
Can I work in Amsterdam if I don’t speak Dutch?
While speaking Dutch is a big asset for your career in the Netherlands, you most certainly can find work in Amsterdam without speaking Dutch.
In fact, Amsterdam is probably your best bet if you’re looking for a job in the Netherlands without speaking Dutch, thanks to its huge expat community. If you speak other languages besides English, this can also be a huge asset for you!
Do I need a work permit to work in Amsterdam?
Yes, to be able to get a job in Amsterdam, you’ll need a valid permit to work and live in the Netherlands. If you’re an EEA or Swiss national, you automatically have one.
If you’re a non-EEA passport holder, you must get the proper permission from the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Services.
Does Amsterdam have good job opportunities?
The job market in Amsterdam is booming! As an ever-growing city that is popular among tourists and expats alike, many companies have decided to set up shop here.
Whether you’re looking for a job in IT, hospitality, retail, plumbing, sales, entertainment, or health sciences, Amsterdam has some great opportunities available.
How can I find a job in Amsterdam?
There are various ways to go about finding work in Amsterdam. Some of the best places to start looking are:
Dutch job search websites
Company websites
Within your own network
On social media
Recruitment agencies
Job fairs
What’s it like to work in Amsterdam?
Working in Amsterdam is different than in other cities and countries, but in a good way!
The Netherlands is known for its excellent work-life balance, where full-time workers are guaranteed to have at least 20 days of paid leave per year. Road-trip through Europe, here we come!
On top of that, you can prepare for a very informal work atmosphere, where your co-workers turn into your friends, and your life outside of work is respected.
What jobs are in demand in Amsterdam?
Depending on your training and experience, you may be more qualified for some jobs than others. However, since Amsterdam is a big city, there are some jobs that are pretty much always in high demand.
In-demand positions in Amsterdam that require no specific training:
Cleaners
Waiters and waitresses
Sales associates and customer service representatives
Movers and delivery drivers
In-demand jobs in Amsterdam that require some form of vocational training:
Electricians
Plumbers
Painters
Mechanics of industrial or agricultural machines
Carpenters
In-demand fields in Amsterdam that require a university degree:
IT and data science
Business
Finance
Aerospace
Health and life sciences
Engineering
Project management
Science and research
What is a good salary in Amsterdam?
Good question! This will largely depend on your industry and position. Generally, a monthly net income (after taxes) between €2,500 and €3,500 is considered a decent salary.
According to Payscale Inc., the median gross salary (before taxes) of an expat in Amsterdam is €54,000 per year.
The small, unassuming town of Geldrop in Eindhoven has every street named after J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. It’s the moment all fans of the epic trilogy have been waiting for!
Why make this a Lord of the Rings village? Simple: consistency. The streets needed some sort of theme, and the best idea they could come up with was Lord of the Rings! And we’re here for it!
Every Lord of the Rings character has their moment in the spotlight! Image: DutchReview
In the heart of the city is Laan von Tolkien (Tolkien Avenue). From this centre, the streets branch out into names of hobbits, elves, dwarves and even a few ents (the talking trees). 🌳
A Lord of the Rings town
The street-naming system is pretty well executed: all the streets are organised in clusters of characters that are related to each other. For example, in the north of the neighbourhood are the Gondorian streets with names like Aragon, Denethor, and Palantir.
To the west is the dwarf section, which includes Bifur, Bofur, Bombur, Balin, Dwalin, Dori, Ori, Fili and Kili.
A touch down south are Pippin, Peregrin and Gimli. Gandalf and Samwise are together in the centre. 🧝
This is Hobbiton in New Zealand, not Geldrop. Image: Unsplash
But as much as we hate to be the bearers of bad news, Geldrop doesn’t exactly look like a village in Lord of the Rings. Really, it looks more like most Dutch towns but with a bit more pizzazz, to say the least.
Bilbo is nowhere to be found
Bilbo Baggins, despite being a protagonist in the series, doesn’t have a single street named after him. Neither does Gollum or any other ‘evil’ character — except for Saruman.
Maybe they put on the ring and became invisible.
Have you visited this Lord of the Rings village? Tell us in the comments!
For me and millions of others, drinking tea is a ritual involving a big homey mug (or china if you’re fancy), a strong brew, a little milk, and a prolonged amount of time to enjoy it.
In the Netherlands, this is not the case.
Expectations versus reality
The British way of making tea involves a strict procedure:
To be honest, even if you left the teabag in the glass for 10 minutes, it still wouldn’t get any stronger because Dutch teabags are inherently weak.
So, if you want a proper cup of tea, you’re gonna have to import your teabags. 😉
No time for tea
Another major difference between the British and Dutch ways of tea culture is the way they drink it from the cup.
When you drink that full-bodied brew with milk, it becomes a special part of your day — something you look forward to. Feeling down? Your cup of tea will cheer you up. 🥳
In the Netherlands, however, efficiency is everything. Nobody’s got the time to savour a nice cuppa tea!
Tiny shots of super sterk (super strong) black coffee that taste like ash from a cigarette is the Dutch way.
Dutchies should stick to their koffie Image: Freepik
What’s with the transparent teacups?
While drinking tea out of a transparent glass may not seem all that bad, I experienced a major disadvantage when I found myself stuck in a boring conversation with my colleague.
When the chat was over, I gulped down my peppermint tea. I was ready to leave.
My colleague, on the other hand, savoured his drink ponderously — forcing me to make the uncomfortable small talk. I couldn’t even pretend to sip my tea to avoid it. 😳
There’s one redeeming quality
Although I will always be a loyal supporter of drinking tea the British way, I will admit that four years down the line, my go-to order at cafés has become the verse muntthee (fresh mint tea) in a glass. 😅
Doesn’t it just look so refreshing? Image: Depositphotos
If there’s one tea-related thing the Dutch are not so bad at, it’s their mint and gember (ginger) teas.
There’s no settling for a simple teabag. If you wanted mint, you’re getting the real thing. The same goes for ginger.
Managing your finances can be tricky, but when you’re an expat, it becomes even more complex.
With bank accounts, investments and financial commitments spread across different countries, keeping everything in order can be overwhelming.
That’s why having a solid financial plan is crucial — not just to stay on top of your money but to make the most of it.
To help you overcome these challenges, ING is offering expats in the Netherlands a completely free, no-commitment consultation to give you expert guidance on the topic you need help with.
Why should you book a free ING consultation?
If the fact that it’s free doesn’t already convince you, it’s good to know that ING is also the largest bank in the Netherlands — so their experts know what they’re doing.
But besides that, there are heaps of reasons why you shouldn’t say nee to a free financial consultation. Let’s get into them. 👇
Gain an understanding of your financial situation
Not exactly sure where you stand financially? Or whether you’re on track to meet your financial goals? That’s where an “Insight conversation” with ING comes in.
During this meeting, a financial expert will help you assess your current financial situation — reviewing factors like your income, expenses, savings, and debts — to identify areas for improvement.
Know where you stand — and where you’re going. Image: Depositphotos
Together, you’ll figure out where you stand financially and create a plan for your next steps, whether that means cutting unnecessary costs, increasing your savings, or exploring better investment options.
Explore your investment options
Investing is popular amongst expats and can help grow your money over time. But I get it — it can be intimidating to get started or know where to go next.
During a financial consultation with ING, you can ask all the questions you may have about investing, including whether you might be in a good position to get started and how to do so.
Naturally, there are also risks associated with investing, and a financial consultation can help you understand them and determine your risk tolerance.
If you’re considering investing €50,000 or more, ING’s personalised Portfolio Management may be a great choice. Determine your strategy together with an Asset advisor and review it periodically, if necessary, in consultation.
Plan for major life events
Are you starting a family? Buying a home? Starting a business? How exciting! These major life events often come with major financial decisions, and it’s normal to want some guidance in making them.
If homeownership is on your radar, ING’s mortgage consult can help you understand what you can afford and what mortgage options are available for you.
Life changes come with financial responsibility. Image: Depositphotos
After the meeting, you can even get an orientation certificate that tells you how much you can borrow, so you are well prepared when you put in an offer on a property or register for a new build.
Thinking of launching your own business? Then an ING expert can help you determine how to get started with their business banking services. They can also provide insights on managing cash flow, securing funding, and establishing a solid financial foundation.
Get expert guidance and personalised advice
Do you have any other questions regarding your Dutch finances? Great! The whole point of ING’s financial consultation is to get personalised advice tailored to your situation.
As Dutch economy experts, ING can guide you through the ins and outs of Dutch finances, ensuring you make informed choices that align with your goals.
Whether you’re looking to optimise your budget, start investing, or ensure you have the right insurance coverage, an insight conversation provides valuable guidance tailored to your situation.
Ready to book a free consultation with ING? Each conversation lasts 45 minutes and can be done either online or in an ING branch near you.
Note that insight conversations are only available to ING customers — luckily, ING has a whole range of banking solutions for internationals in the Netherlands. Take that as a sign. 😉
The COVID-19 pandemic was a breeding ground for misinformation, and one Dutch man made a business out of it. Now he’s in trouble.
Pieter Kuit from Hillegom posed as the director of a committee investigating the Dutch Parliament’s coronavirus policies.
The 61-year-old scammed countless people by soliciting donations for his “research.” The investigation? False. The money? Spent on holidays abroad.
Now he has been ordered by the Hague District Court to pay €302,000 to the state, reports NU.nl.
How did he pull it off?
The made-up tribunal was called the Buitenparlementaire Onderzoekscommissie 2020 (BPOC2020), loosely translated as the Extraparliamentary Investigation Committee 2020.
On its dedicated website, “doezelfnormaal.nl,” he claimed to have sworn statements from police officers documenting violence at protests against the government’s corona policy.
The whole charade was propped up by a forged notarial deed, which claimed to verify the officers’ identities and confirm that their video testimonies were locked away in a safe.
Donors could pay to access an “interim report” containing these alleged testimonies or simply contribute what they wished.
Where did the money go?
Although the operation ran for two and a half years, the Hague District Court was unable to establish exactly how many “donations” the perpetrator collected.
What they did establish, however, was that three-quarters of the incoming funds were spent on holidays to Aruba, Austria, and Sweden, with additional cash transfers to his son and daughter.
In an earlier ruling, the judge found that the man exploited people’s fear and distrust during the pandemic. He “exploited sentiment,” the court said.
In terms of money matters, the verdict was clear. His total illicit profit was estimated at €302,000. Should he fail to pay the powers that be, he faces up to three years behind bars.
It’s happened to the best of us. You’re walking along, innocently minding your own business, your eyes absent-mindedly turn towards a window, and BAM — you just saw someone’s bare ass cheeks.
You would wonder why this person didn’t decide to — I don’t know — maybe draw the blinds before they hopped out of their clothes and into their birthday suit?
Well, strange as it might seem, this little habit is a classic Dutch quirk.
What is it?
This phenomenon is fairly self-explanatory. Instead of being met with curtains or blinds, most Dutch windows will readily reveal various inner lives and ecosystems — often decked out with some very IKEA furniture.
Walk through almost any Dutch town or neighbourhood, and you’ll find that the experience is quite similar to a visit to an aquarium.
While this is great for some interior decor inspiration, it’s not so fun when you’re met with a scene that probably could have remained private — bonus points if you make awkward eye contact.
Why do they do it?
There are many theories as to why the Dutch are happy to take the risk of flashing a complete stranger.
Perhaps it’s their tolerance (it’s an ass cheek, never seen one, eh?) or perhaps their directness (I don’t mind making eye contact with you, in fact, let me hold it.)
But what many Dutchies would argue is simple: they have nothing to hide. And there’s a bit of history behind that statement.
The Netherlands was once a very Calvinist country. Part of the religion’s policy was that you had to prove to people that you were a good person — someone who would wind up in the good place above.
And you’d do this by showing that you had nothing to hide! Closed curtains implied that there was something sneaky happening that you had to hide from your neighbours.
And while many Dutch people may claim to be atheists nowadays, one theory is that this habit just stuck.
Why is it quirky?
If you’ve ever lived in any other country, you’ll get why this is a quirky move by the Dutch.
Many countries keep the eyes of passersby out using curtains, window stickers, and blinds — because who wants to make eye contact with a stranger while you’re lying burrito-style in bed? The Dutch, apparently.
Should you join in?
It’s less of a question of should you join in and more a question of when will you join in?
In my experience, it took just a few months to grow used to the fact that I am observable from three different angles when chilling in my studio.
Given that the Netherlands is such a tightly packed country, you’ll very quickly find that if you want to let a bit of sunlight in, you also need to let your neighbours in.
You may even get used to the occasional eye contact! Perhaps, next time, you will be the one to flash a few innocents.
What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!
