Work opportunities for refugees in the Netherlands
Having to leave your home country is already a huge challenge. Starting over in a new place—meeting new people, learning a new language, and figuring out how everything works—adds even more pressure.
Especially as a job-seeker, you may face a language barrier, an unfamiliar culture, diplomas that are not recognized, and rules and opportunities that are very different from what you know.
We understand you. At International@Work, we help you navigate the Dutch labor market, find the right opportunities that match your skills and situation, and guide you in growth of your new career.
And, the main, we speak your language – Ukrainian, Russian, English
Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities
Our mission
To guide people who have had to leave their country to suitable and paid work in the Netherlands.
Most asked questions:
What are the requirements for me to get and keep a job?
Skills that are needed for good work.
The skills you need depend on the specific vacancy, but there are some qualities Dutch employers value in every role:
- Punctuality: Always arrive 10-15 min before work begins
- Communication: Be polite and clear. Notify your employer right away if your work hours or plans change.
- Professionalism: Take breaks only at designated times and follow company rules.
- Kindness: Be friendly and respectful to colleagues.
- Language: Basic English or Dutch (A2 level) will help you feel comfortable and confident.
Do you charge a fee for your job search services?
Understanding the costs of recruitment support.
Our services are completely free for job seekers. In the Netherlands, it is illegal for recruitment agencies to charge candidates for finding them a job. Here’s how it works:
What do I do if I got exploited at work?
When a company doesn’t pay you or threatens you!
Unfortunately, exploitation can happen even in Europe. If this happens to you: We only cooperate with trustworthy companies, and we end partnerships with employers who mistreat workers. Your safety and fair treatment are always our top priority.
What kind of contract will I have with a recruitment agency?
The difference between working for an employer VS an agency.
When you work through a recruitment agency, the core conditions remain the same as with a direct employer:
- You will have an official employment contract.
- You receive a salary, paid vacation days, and sick leave.
- You pay the same taxes and social contributions as any other employee.
The only difference is that the contract is usually temporary and may not include fixed weekly hours. But this flexibility makes it possible to work for several companies at the same time without extra administration or tax issues.
We always encourage our candidates to transition to direct employment when both sides are a good match
How can I create a strong and professional CV?
Key elements every CV should contain. A CV is your professional introduction — it presents you to an employer before you ever meet in person. To make the process simple, follow these steps: This way, you’ll have a complete and professional CV that gives employers the right first impression and helps us connect you with the most suitable opportunities.
How can I work again at the level of my experience?
Start from the beginning, but everything is possible.
It’s understandable that you might need to take a step down at first—language, culture, and workplace rules are different here. Be ready to:
- Start small and gain local experience.
- Learn the language to feel confident and open more opportunities.
- Be patient and persistent—with dedication, you can grow to the level you want.
The most important thing is to start. We are here to guide you, support your growth, and help you find the right opportunities.