IT Jobs in the Netherlands

The Netherlands, often referred to as Holland, is located in the North-West of Europe sharing boarders with the North Sea to the north and west, Belgium to the south and Germany to the east. The capital city is Amsterdam and other major cities include Utrecht, Rotterdam and Eindhoven.

Click to search and apply for IT jobs in the Netherlands

Over the past few years the Netherlands has become a popular destination for IT professionals from the UK looking to work abroad. Strong economic growth coupled with an all too familiar IT skills shortage has contributed to the rising demand for overseas IT professionals. Many global corporations have their European head offices in the Netherlands including Canon, Nikon and ING.

Almost all Dutch people in the Netherlands speak English. The majority of the population can speak at least one other language whilst at least half can speak two other different languages. English is the preferred second language with German and French also being widely spoken.

In order to work in the Netherlands, you must register with the tax office (Belastingdienst) and apply for a sofi number (social fiscal number or tax code). A sofi number is required before you can begin work in the Netherlands, as the code is necessary for employers to pay your salary and ensure benefit contributions are properly credited.

Working practices

The working week in the Netherlands is similar to many other countries in Europe. The Dutch work from Monday to Friday usually from 9am to 5pm. According to Dutch law a person is allowed to work a maximum of 9 hours a day and 45 hours a week.

Applying for jobs

As with most countries in Europe applying for IT jobs in the Netherlands consists of a CV and covering letter. It is always important to tailor your CV and covering letter to each company that you apply to. For help on writing your IT CV click here

The Dutch tend to place a great amount of significance on work placements and other extra-curricular activities that demonstrate commitment, initiative and experience. It is therefore important to highlight these types of activities in both your covering letter and CV.

Living in the Netherlands

The majority of people in the Netherlands tend to rent their accommodation then buy. Most houses are usually rented unfurnished, which may mean without appliances, door or window coverings or even lighting fixtures.

In Amsterdam and other major cities one should expect to pay rent of at least € 1,150 to € 1,360 per month, rising to more than € 1,800, depending on the type of accommodation and location. Rental prices are of course less expensive in the suburbs.

Finding an IT job in the Netherlands

The Internet is by far the fastest, cheapest and easiest way to find IT jobs in the Netherlands. Due to their IT skills shortage there is a strong demand for IT professionals with knowledge of specialist skills such as SAP, Oracle and Java. There are also many opportunities for project managers, IT trainers, analysts and consultants.