The Netherlands has become one of the top destinations for international students, especially from India, not just for higher education but also for career opportunities. With its strong economy, English-friendly work environment, and global companies, the country offers a wide range of opportunities for those looking for jobs in Netherlands for Indian students.
From part-time roles during studies to full-time employment after graduation, the demand for skilled professionals in sectors like IT, engineering, healthcare, finance, and logistics continues to grow.
In 2025, the Dutch government has introduced several updates in job visa policies and work regulations, making it easier for international graduates to transition into the workforce.
Whether you aim to gain experience while studying or want to explore full-time jobs in Netherlands after completing your degree, the country provides a vibrant job market, high-quality work culture, and competitive salaries that attract thousands of professionals every year.
Can Indian students legally work in the Netherlands?
Certainly! Indian students can officially work in the Netherlands when studying, and there are certain regulations put forth by the Netherlands government that they have to follow.
In order to work in the Netherlands for Indian students, you need to have a residence permit and work permit (TWV) from an employer to work for. Students can do part-time work while studying (for either academic year) or full-time (during the summer).
Indian students seeking jobs in Netherlands can work according to their requirements when there are increasingly more flexible opportunities, as well as demand for international talent.
What are the rules for part-time jobs during studies?
Indian students can have jobs as long as they meet legal requirements at their employer. The employer must obtain work permit (TWV) with the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV). Considerations about working part-time include:
You can either work 16 hours per week during the academic year, or work full-time during the summer months (June, July, August).
You must have a health insurance policy that is valid in the Netherlands.
Students can work as freelancers (self-employed) without a TWV but must be registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.
Following these guidelines ensures you can work legally while studying, giving you access to diverse opportunities and hands-on experience in the Dutch job market.
How many work hours are allowed for non-EU students?
Non-EU/EEA students, including Indians, must follow strict work-hour regulations in the Netherlands. According to Dutch labor laws, if you want to do jobs in Netherlands for Indian students, you have two choices:
Maximum of 16 hours per week during the academic year.
Full-time (up to 40 hours/week), but only in June, July, and August.
It’s important to note that you cannot combine both options within the same year. Employers are responsible for applying for a TWV permit for part-time roles. These rules ensure that academics remain the primary focus while still allowing students to gain valuable international work experience.
What is the average pay for student jobs?
The average pay for student jobs in Netherlands depends on age, type of work, and employer. On average, international students earn between €8 to €12 per hour, which can cover basic living expenses. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Age Group
Average Hourly Wage (€)
18–20 yrs
€6 – €9
21–22 yrs
€8 – €11
23+ yrs
€10 – €12
Popular part-time roles include hospitality, retail, delivery services, and campus assistant jobs. With rising demand for bilingual workers, Indian students with English proficiency often find jobs more easily. These wages make jobs in Netherlands an attractive option for managing student life expenses.
Which fields hire Indian graduates in the Netherlands?
The demand for skilled professionals is very high in the Netherlands, which means there will be many opportunities for jobs in Netherlands for Indian graduates. Whether it is a multinational company or a startup, Dutch employers are looking for international talent in sectors such as IT, engineering, healthcare, finance, logistics, and research. The prevalence of English in the workplace makes it an easier adjustment for Indian graduates and a better chance to get hired. In 2025, new work visa procedures will also make it easier to access jobs in Netherlands, especially in fields with a talent shortage.
What industries are most open to fresh graduates?
For recent graduates the most open fields will be those with skill deficiencies. If Indian graduates are searching for jobs in Netherlands for students, these industries stand out:
Information Technology (IT): Software development, Cyber-security, Cloud computing
Engineering: Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, renewable energy
Research & Education: Universities & Research & Development organizations
Dutch employers are looking for English-speaking graduates more than ever, especially in international companies.
As the economy is based on innovation, the opportunities created for jobs in Netherlands are numerous, providing Indian graduates with the chance to make a contribution with their unique international qualifications.
Are tech and data jobs in demand for Indians?
Definitely, tech and data roles in Netherlands are among the most desired jobs for Indian graduates. Since the Netherlands has significant tech hubs in cities like Amsterdam, Eindhoven, and Rotterdam, the labor demand is strongest for:
Software Engineering & Web Development
AI, Data Science & Analytics
Cybersecurity & Cloud Solutions
Machine Learning & Robotics
Indian graduates have extremely advanced technical skills and are well regarded by Dutch companies and startups, who usually pay a good salary and fast-track the work permit process.
With the latest push by the EU to digitize the single market, this labour demand will only grow, making jobs in Netherlands in technology and data one of the best pathways for Indians.
Which non-tech careers attract international talent?
Apart from technology, Indian graduates can consider non-tech jobs in Netherlands, across many industries. The most popular options for Indian graduates include:
Healthcare & Life Sciences: Doctors, nurses, lab researchers.
Business & Finance: consulting, accounting, logistics, HR.
Creative & Media: design, marketing, and communication.
The Netherlands is home to many global headquarters, making it easier for Indian graduates to find English-speaking work environments.
Non-tech roles are particularly attractive for those who want to build international careers beyond IT, offering plenty of scope to grow while living in one of Europe’s most innovative economies.
If you're new to the Netherlands, this guide on studying in the Netherlands covers everything, courses, lifestyle, and more.
What visas help Indian students stay after graduation?
After completing studies, many Indian students look for ways to stay and work in the Netherlands. Fortunately, the Dutch government offers multiple visa options that support career growth and access to jobs in Netherlands for Indian graduates. Popular choices include the Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) visa, the Highly Skilled Migrant visa, and self-employment permits for entrepreneurs. These pathways make it easier to transition from student life to professional careers, ensuring that talented Indian graduates can continue contributing to the Dutch economy and secure long-term jobs in Netherlands.
How does the orientation year (zoekjaar) visa work?
The Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) visa is one of the most attractive options for Indian students searching for post graduation jobs in Netherlands. As it is a visa that allows international graduates from Dutch universities to stay in the Netherlands for 1 year to look for a job or start a business, its a great option. The key benefits include:
Available to graduates for 12 months post graduation.
No restrictions on hours worked or type of work/employer.
Potentially leads to Highly Skilled Migrant visa if you find a qualifying job.
Available to graduates of Dutch universities or graduates with a certain top global universities.
This visa allows Indian students important flexibility in exploring job opportunities in various industries prior to settling into a long term job.
What is the Highly Skilled Migrant visa pathway?
The Highly Skilled Migrant (Kennismigrant) visa is designed for international talent who secure a job with a recognized Dutch employer. For Indian graduates, this pathway is one of the most reliable ways to continue working in the Netherlands.
Requires a job offer from an IND-approved employer.
Minimum salary thresholds apply (higher for those over 30, lower for under 30).
Allows long-term stay and is a stepping stone to permanent residence.
Especially popular among graduates in IT, engineering, finance, and healthcare.
With the Netherlands facing a shortage of skilled workers, the Highly Skilled Migrant visa ensures Indian graduates can transition smoothly from study to full-time jobs in Netherlands with competitive salaries and strong career prospects.
Can students switch to self-employment visas?
Indeed, Indian graduates can submit an application for a self-employment visa in Netherlands if they would like to start their own business rather than taking a regular job. This pathway follows study or the Orientation Year visa.
Most importantly they must submit a business plan that the Dutch Enterprise Agency (RVO) will evaluate.
Their business must make a contribution to the Dutch economy (economic implication, trade, or job creation).
They must demonstrate their financial viability and be able to prove that they are qualified.
Freelancers may also register with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK).
For Indian graduates who think like entrepreneurs, this path provides an opportunity to legally remain in the Netherlands, while starting a startup or providing services as a freelancer. It is a good option for those who would like to be self-sufficient as opposed to traditional jobs in Netherlands.
Where should Indian students apply for jobs in the Netherlands?
The first step for Indian students finding their way into job opportunities in Netherlands is discovering the best job platforms.
There are many trusted sites, online job boards, company web pages, and career centers offered by university to name a few. Indian graduates often target job boards showcasing English-speaking jobs and companies that recruit international talent.
The search for employment can be for part-time roles the Indian students may work in while studying, or post graduation job opportunities offered to Indian graduates in Netherlands.
Which online job portals are most useful?
Several online portals make it easier for Indian students to search for jobs in Netherlands. These platforms often list English-speaking vacancies and highlight companies that welcome international applicants. Some of the most useful websites include:
Job Portal
Best For
Why It’s Useful for Indian Students
LinkedIn
Networking & job search
Widely used by Dutch employers; allows direct applications and professional networking.
Indeed Netherlands
Part-time & full-time roles
Large database covering multiple industries and experience levels.
IamExpat Jobs
Expats & international students
Focuses on English-speaking jobs in Netherlands, ideal for Indian students.
Glassdoor & Monster
Salary & company insights
Helps compare salaries, reviews, and apply to jobs across sectors.
Academic Transfer
Research & PhD positions
Best for academic roles, research, and higher education opportunities.
Using these portals, Indian students can apply directly to jobs in Netherlands and filter roles based on experience, location, and visa sponsorship options.
How to find companies that sponsor work permits?
Securing jobs in Netherlands for Indian students often requires finding companies that can sponsor work permits. The best way to identify them is:
Visit the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) website, which maintains an official list of “recognized sponsors.”
Focus on multinational companies like Philips, ASML, ING, Shell, and Booking.com, which regularly hire international graduates.
Check LinkedIn job listings where many Dutch employers mention “visa sponsorship available.”
Use university career services that have partnerships with IND-recognized employers.
Targeting companies that already support international hires saves time and improves the chances of securing a Highly Skilled Migrant visa after graduation.
Are internships a reliable path to full-time work?
Yes, internships are often one of the best pathways for Indian students to secure long-term jobs in Netherlands. Many Dutch companies prefer to test potential employees through internships before offering full-time roles. Key benefits include:
Work experience: Provides practical skills valued in the Dutch job market.
Networking: Builds professional contacts that can lead to job offers.
Visa advantage: Easier to transition from internship to full-time employment with the same company.
High conversion rate: Many international students receive contracts after completing internships.
For Indian graduates, securing an internship during or right after studies can significantly improve the chances of landing a permanent role in the Netherlands.
How tough is it for Indians to get jobs in the Netherlands?
Getting jobs in Netherlands for Indian students is competitive but achievable with the right skills and preparation. While Dutch companies value local candidates, the shortage of talent in fields like IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance makes them open to hiring international graduates. The main challenges for Indian students include meeting visa requirements, adapting to Dutch workplace culture, and sometimes the preference for Dutch language skills. However, with strong English proficiency, relevant qualifications, and smart job-hunting strategies, Indians can successfully secure both part-time and full-time jobs in Netherlands.
Do employers prefer Dutch or English skills?
For the majority of jobs in the Netherlands for graduates from India, English is enough, specifically in multinational companies, startups, and tech companies. The Netherlands is known for its high level of English proficiency and many workplaces are entirely English speaking. However, in industries such as healthcare, public administration, and customer-facing jobs, Dutch language skills are necessary.
Roles that are English only: IT, data science, finance, engineering, logistics.
Roles that prefer Dutch: Retail, healthcare, government, teaching.
Even though learning Dutch is not a requirement, it can greatly enhance employability and help with networking. Employers prefer candidates that demonstrate commitment to integrate into the Dutch culture, as it helps candidates develop a long-term advantage of learning the Dutch language.
What minimum salary is needed for visa sponsorship?
To qualify for a Highly Skilled Migrant visa in Netherlands, Indian graduates must meet the minimum salary thresholds set by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). As of 2025, the required amounts are:
Category
Minimum Monthly Gross Salary (€ / INR)
Graduates under 30 (Orientation Year visa holders)
~€3,750 (≈ ₹3,37,500)
Applicants aged 30 and above
~€5,100 (≈ ₹4,59,000)
EU Blue Card holders
~€6,200 (≈ ₹5,58,000)
These figures are updated yearly by the Dutch government. Meeting these salary requirements is crucial for Indian graduates who want to convert internships or entry-level jobs in Netherlands into long-term work opportunities.
How does networking improve job chances?
Networking is essential for Indian students to get jobs in Netherlands. Many Dutch companies rely on referrals and internal recommendations rather than cold applications. Good networking can help you:
Engage with professionals in the industry through LinkedIn or career fairs.
Develop relationships through your university's career centers and alumni networks.
Obtain inside access to job openings that would otherwise be unavailable.
Improve your odds of getting an interview with IND-recognized sponsors.
In the Netherlands, networking helps Indian students gain visibility and creates trust with potential employers; and in a competitive job market, a strong professional network can make the difference between applying and obtaining jobs in Netherlands.
What should Indian students prepare before relocating for work?
Before moving to the Netherlands for a job, Indian students must plan carefully to ensure a smooth transition. From collecting documents to arranging accommodation and budgeting for expenses, preparation is key to securing jobs in Netherlands and settling comfortably.
Employers expect all legal paperwork to be in place, and daily essentials like housing, insurance, and banking must be arranged early. By preparing in advance, Indian graduates can focus on building careers while avoiding last-minute challenges in their move for jobs in Netherlands for Indian students.
Which documents are required for jobs and residence?
To work legally in the Netherlands, Indian students need to keep essential documents ready. These are mandatory for both employment and residence:
Valid Passport (with sufficient validity).
Dutch Residence Permit (for students transitioning to work).
Work Permit (TWV) or proof of Orientation Year / Highly Skilled Migrant visa.
BSN Number (Citizen Service Number) – required for salary and taxes.
Having these documents ready increases the chances of successfully securing jobs in Netherlands without delays in the hiring process.
How to arrange housing, banking, and insurance?
Indian students relocating for jobs in Netherlands must arrange key essentials immediately after arrival.
Housing: Start early on platforms like Pararius, Funda, and Kamernet. Shared apartments or student housing are cheaper options.
Banking: Open a Dutch bank account (ING, ABN AMRO, or Bunq) for salary deposits. Some banks require proof of residence and a BSN number.
Health Insurance: Compulsory for all employees; basic Dutch health insurance starts at €120/month.
Organizing these essentials ensures a smooth transition into Dutch life, making it easier for Indian graduates to focus on their careers and daily living while working full-time jobs in Netherlands.
What relocation costs should be expected?
Relocating to the Netherlands involves several costs that Indian students must plan for before starting their careers. On average, the relocation cost for jobs in Netherlands for Indian students can include:
Expense
Estimated Cost (€ / INR)
Flight Tickets (India–NL)
€500 – €700 (₹45,000 – ₹63,000)
Initial Housing Deposit
€1,000 – €1,500 (₹90,000 – ₹1,35,000)
Monthly Rent (shared flat)
€600 – €900 (₹54,000 – ₹81,000)
Health Insurance
€120 – €150 (₹10,800 – ₹13,500)
Other Setup Costs (SIM, transport, groceries)
€300 – €500 (₹27,000 – ₹45,000)
Budgeting at least €3,000 – €4,000 (₹2.7 – ₹3.6 lakh) helps Indian students cover initial living and setup costs before their first salary.
What salary can Indian students expect in the Netherlands?
When thinking about jobs in Netherlands for Indian students, salary expectations can change depending on if they are working part-time while they are studying or full-time after graduation. In comparison to other European countries, the Dutch salaries and wages are good since they are paid competitively.
Since the salaries are regulated by law, employees usually do not have to worry about low pay since it is illegal, also every year the wage is set to increase slightly. Part-time work will assist in covering living expenses, such as rent, food, and transport. The industry and area, as the salaries remain quite high for working jobs in Netherlands, therefore Indian students may want to plan finances accordingly before they start jobs in Netherlands.
What is the monthly income from part-time jobs?
Part-time student jobs in Netherlands allow students to have a steady income to cover the basics, such as rent, food and transportation. In Netherlands, wages are usually based on age and industry, where hourly pay rates generally range from €8–€12 (₹720 – ₹1,080).
On average:
If a student works a part-time job for 16 hours per week they will earn between €500–€750/month (₹45,000–₹67,500).
If a student works full-time in the summer months (June–August) they may earn €1,500–€2,000/month (₹1.35–₹1.8 lakh).
The three popular part-time jobs are; hospitality, retail and delivery, with university assistant jobs being sometimes also a considered option.
For Indian students, jobs in Netherlands are worth their while to work in addition to their studies while balancing everyday projects with living expenses.
What is the entry-level salary for graduates?
For Indian graduates entering full-time jobs in Netherlands, starting salaries are among the highest in Europe. Entry-level pay generally falls between €2,500 – €3,500/month (₹2.25 – ₹3.15 lakh) before taxes.
Field of Study
Entry-Level Salary (€/INR per month)
STEM (IT, Engineering, Data Science)
~€3,000 – €3,500 (₹2.7 – ₹3.15 lakh)
Business & Finance
~€2,800 – €3,200 (₹2.52 – ₹2.88 lakh)
Healthcare & Life Sciences
~€2,700 – €3,100 (₹2.43 – ₹2.79 lakh)
These salaries meet the requirements for the Orientation Year visa and the Highly Skilled Migrant visa, making it easier for Indian graduates to transition into permanent jobs in Netherlands.
Do salaries vary across industries and cities?
Yes, salaries differ significantly across both industries and cities in the Netherlands.
Industry Variation:
Industry
Average Monthly Salary (€/INR)
Tech & Data Science
€3,000 – €4,500 (₹2.7 – ₹4.05 lakh)
Finance & Business
€2,800 – €4,000 (₹2.52 – ₹3.6 lakh)
Healthcare
€2,700 – €3,800 (₹2.43 – ₹3.42 lakh)
Hospitality & Retail
€1,800 – €2,500 (₹1.62 – ₹2.25 lakh)
City Variation:
Amsterdam: Highest salaries but higher cost of living.
Eindhoven & Rotterdam: Competitive pay in tech and logistics.
Utrecht & The Hague: Good balance between income and living costs.
For Indian students, choosing the right sector and location can maximize income and savings while working in jobs in Netherlands.
part-time work options, post-study visas, and competitive salaries, finding jobs in Netherlands for Indian students is achievable. Key industries like IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance actively hire international graduates, making the job market highly rewarding.
By using job portals, internships, and networking, students can smoothly transition into full-time jobs in Netherlands. With updated visa rules and growing demand for skilled talent in 2025, the country offers excellent prospects for Indians aiming to build a global career.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is work experience required to get jobs in Netherlands for Indian students?
Not always. Many Dutch companies hire fresh graduates, especially in IT, engineering, and research. However, having internships, project work, or relevant part-time experience greatly improves job prospects for Indian students.
Do Indian degrees hold value in the Netherlands?
Yes, most Indian degrees are recognized, especially those in engineering, IT, business, and sciences. However, regulated fields like healthcare or law may require additional certifications or equivalency checks before working in the Netherlands.
Are Indian students allowed to do freelance work in the Netherlands?
Yes, students can work as freelancers without a work permit if they register with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK) and pay taxes. This option is popular among IT and creative professionals.
What is the average cost of living for Indian students working in Netherlands?
On average, students spend €800–€1,200 (₹72,000–₹1,08,000) per month on rent, food, insurance, and transport. Amsterdam is the most expensive, while cities like Eindhoven and Rotterdam are comparatively affordable for Indian graduates.
Do Dutch employers provide relocation support for international hires?
Many multinational companies offer relocation benefits such as visa sponsorship, housing allowance, and insurance support. Startups may not provide such perks, but large firms like Philips, ASML, and Shell often assist international employees.
How important is learning Dutch for long-term career growth?
While manyjobs in Netherlandsare English-friendly, learning Dutch significantly boosts long-term career prospects. It opens opportunities in government, healthcare, customer-facing roles, and helps Indian graduates integrate better into Dutch society.
Are there tax benefits for Indian graduates working in Netherlands?
Yes, international workers may qualify for the “30% ruling,” a Dutch tax exemption that reduces taxable income for skilled migrants. This makes working in the Netherlands more financially attractive for Indian graduates.
Can Indian students apply for remote jobs in Netherlands?
Yes, remote-friendly companies exist in IT, data science, and marketing. However, most require a valid Dutch residence or work visa, even if the work is hybrid or fully remote, for legal employment.
What is the job application style Dutch employers prefer?
Dutch employers prefer concise CVs (1–2 pages), tailored cover letters, and direct communication. Highlighting skills, achievements, and international exposure helps Indian graduates stand out when applying for jobs in Netherlands.
Is career growth fast for Indians working in the Netherlands?
Yes, skilled professionals often find quick career progression, especially in IT, engineering, and finance. Dutch workplaces value merit and multicultural exposure, allowing Indian graduates to grow steadily in their careers.
Do Indian professional networks exist in the Netherlands?
Yes, Indian associations, student unions, and LinkedIn groups actively support newcomers. These networks help students with job leads, cultural adaptation, and mentorship, making them valuable for finding opportunities in the Dutch job market.
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