Work during your studies

Taking on paid work while studying is common in the Netherlands. Many students find it a good option to supplement their grant or scholarship. Student jobs come in many forms and can also be a good way to put your studies into practice, learn new skills and make industry contacts. But there are some requirements you need to be aware of if you are an international student in the Netherlands on a student visa. 

Tips

• Download the Indeed app – It lists many jobs where Dutch isn’t required.
  • In The Hague, HORECA (hospitality) and retail sectors often hire English speakers due to the large international community.
• Use LinkedIn – Set job alerts for your preferred sectors. Companies like Zara, H&M, and others regularly post vacancies there.
• HORECA jobs are popular among international students because of flexible hours and the ability to work around class schedules.
• Check your university or college’s job portal – They may list roles for students, such as student assistant positions. Be aware that many of these jobs may require Dutch.
• For Non-EU passport holders, always check with the company if they will create a work permit for you as you yourself cannot apply for one, the employer must do it. 

Job Board

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DUO Student Financing

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Please note that if you are doing a post-initial master (WO education) you are not eligible for this. Please check your eligibility here.

Requirements for working while studying

You are required to have Dutch health insurance if you have a part-time job while studying. Sometimes taking on paid employment means you must switch your current health insurance for a more expensive plan. Make sure to check whether it is worth the effort and money to switch plans. Find more information on studying and health insurance in the Netherlands. You must also check if your student grant allows you to take paid employment. 

Students from EU/EEA or Switzerland member countries are free to work without restrictions in the Netherlands. However, everyone living in the Netherlands must have a Dutch citizen service number (BSN), which is issued when you register with your local municipality. 

Student Work Permit

If you are an international student and you want to work in addition to your studies, you need to have a work permit (TWV - tewerkstellingsvergunning), unless you are from the EU, EEA or Switzerland. Your employer will need to apply for this, and you will both be making a commitment to each other. When you receive a work permit, you can work for 16 hours a week throughout the year, or full-time during the summer months of June, July and August.

Freelance Work and Entrepreneurship 

As of April 2017, international non-EU/EEA students are allowed to become self-employed during their studies without requiring a work permit. You may take on freelance work for an unlimited number of hours, alongside your studies and a maximum of 10 hours a week in a part-time job. Non-EU/EEA students still need a work permit for a part-time job and must comply with the conditions for their residence permit.

Find out more about student permits and visas and options for financing your studies. You can also learn more about student life and organisations in The Hague region. 

Volunteering

Volunteering is a great way to connect with your community, meet like-minded people, and improve your Dutch. From animal shelters to local aid and global causes, The Hague region offers many opportunities – including for multilingual volunteers.

• Volunteer The Hague: Find 300+ volunteer roles for non-Dutch speakers. Choose your cause, availability, and duration, then contact organisations directly.
• NL Cares: Browse daily volunteer activities via their online calendar.
• Stichting Present: Sign up to be matched with local volunteer projects (in Dutch).