Working in the Netherlands
For transparency, AI has been used during the generation of this content, with every care taken to verify its accuracy.
Average Salary
The average gross monthly salary in the Netherlands is approximately €3,666 - €3,875 per month. However, this varies widely depending on location, sector, and experience. For example, in the engineering sector, the average salary is €4,000 - €5,000 per month, while those working in the energy sector can expect to earn up to €6,000 per month, depending on experience and specialisation.
General information
Currency
Euro (€)
Official language
Dutch
Conversational languages
English German French
Time zone
Winter period: Central European Time (UTC+01:00) Summer period: Central European Summer Time (UTC+02:00)
Common types of Employment or Contracting
In the Netherlands, work arrangements include traditional employment as well as various forms of contracting and freelancing.
Common types of employment
Common types of contracting
Already secured a job overseas?
If you have secured an assignment but are unsure of where to start with setting up as a Freelancer or B2B contractor, please feel free to reach out to our International team for assistance.
Living in the Netherlands
The Netherlands offers a high standard of living, with a relaxed, bike-friendly lifestyle, well-developed infrastructure, and a strong work-life balance. The country is culturally and ethnically diverse, particularly in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, where expatriate communities are common. Cost of living is higher in major cities and central areas, while smaller towns and rural regions tend to be more affordable.
- The average cost of a weekly grocery shop for a small family is €80 - €120
- Average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in a mid-sized city is €1,200 - €1,800 – this will be higher in cities like Amsterdam or Utrecht
- The average cost of monthly childcare is €800 - €1,200 per child
- Petrol tends to cost around €2.15 a litre, while diesel costs €1.95 a litre
Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. To obtain a Dutch driver’s licence, you must pass a theory test and a practical driving test administered by the CBR (Centraal Bureau Rijvaardigheidsbewijzen). EU/EEA/Swiss licences are generally valid for exchange without retesting, while non-EU licences may require conversion or taking the Dutch tests, depending on the country of issue.
Weather in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has a temperate climate, with mild summers, cool winters, and rainfall spread fairly evenly throughout the year. Summer temperatures typically range from 17°C - 22°C, though occasional heatwaves can push highs over 30°C. Winters are generally mild, with average temperatures between 0°C and 6°C, and frost or snow is possible but usually short-lived.
Language and integration support
A variety of language and integration support programmes are available in the Netherlands, especially for expats and newcomers. The government provides Dutch language courses at different levels, often subsidised or free for residents who need them for work or civic integration. Municipalities may offer orientation and integration programmes, covering Dutch culture, laws, employment systems, and practical skills. Employers and universities also frequently provide language classes and cultural support for international staff and students.
For any translation needs - especially those required for work permit or visa applications - our dedicated Languages team is ready to support you. They provide accurate, timely translations and can guide you through the process to ensure all necessary documents meet the required standards.
Our services in the Netherlands
Across the globe, we support energy and engineering companies with the international recruitment and global mobilisation solutions they need to extend their capability and grow their businesses.
Find out about our international services
Global mobility
NRL Recruitment simplifies international employee relocation with seamless global mobility services. From visa assistance to cultural onboarding, we ensure your staff transitions smoothly across borders, minimising disruption and maximising productivity.
Payroll solutions
Managing payroll across multiple countries can be complex, but our payroll solutions make it simple. We handle accurate, compliant compensation for your global workforce, ensuring employees are paid correctly and on time, every time.
Global employer of record
With our global employer of record services, you can legally employ staff overseas without establishing local entities. We manage compliance, contracts, and HR administration, giving you the freedom to expand globally with confidence and ease.
International recruitment
Finding the right talent worldwide is effortless with our international recruitment solutions. We connect your business with top-tier professionals, managing the end-to-end hiring process so you can focus on growth and strategic priorities.
