Employment of Ukrainians in the Netherlands 2025: practical instructions based on new official guides

The Dutch government has developed three practical guides to support Ukrainians in finding a job and integrating into society. Find out the detailed content of each of them - from step-by-step instructions for employment to recommendations for employers and municipalities

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The Dutch government continues to actively support Ukrainians who were forced to seek a new life in Europe due to the war. To help them find employment, three special guides were recently developed and presented by State Secretary Jürgen Nobel.

Their main goal is to help Ukrainians find a job that matches their level of education, skills and experience, as well as to better integrate into Dutch society, because, unfortunately, many of our compatriots work in the Netherlands in positions that do not match their qualifications and experience.

Below is a detailed overview of each guide and practical advice for successful employment.

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8 steps to employment in the Netherlands for displaced persons from Ukraine

The first guide “8 steps to employment in the Netherlands” contains step-by-step instructions for those looking for a job in the Netherlands, taking into account the peculiarities of the Dutch work culture:

Step 1 – Self-assessment

Analyze your professional skills, experience and interests. Identify the areas where your experience will be in demand (medicine, IT, logistics, care).

Step 2 – Learn Dutch

Even basic knowledge will open up more opportunities for you. Free courses are available in many municipalities.

Step 3 – Recognition of qualifications

If you have diplomas or certificates, contact IDW, SBB or Nuffic to have them officially recognized.

Step 4 – Prepare your CV and LinkedIn profile

A Dutch CV should be concise and practical, and your motivation letter should be focused on your future achievements.

Step 5 – Find a job

The official websites of the UWV, Werk.nl, refugee platforms and temporary employment agencies offer many vacancies.

Step 6 – Personal applications

Direct contact with employers often increases your chances of finding a job.

Step 7 – Expand your network

Volunteering, language cafes, and social events help you make useful connections.

Step 8 – Flexibility in choosing a field

Don’t be afraid to temporarily work in a new field – it can be the first step to a career in your field.

This guide also provides tips on adapting to the Dutch work culture: directness in communication, work-life balance, the importance of punctuality, and information on drawing up employment contracts and protecting employee rights.

If you need help with employment, legalization, or recognition of qualifications, contact Visit Ukraine’s lawyers on employment abroad. We will help you successfully complete the entire path of employment in the Netherlands and realize your professional potential!

Unlimited Talent: A Guide for Employers

The second guide, “Unlimited Talent”, is primarily aimed at employers, but it also contains important information on how to effectively integrate Ukrainians into their teams:

- Legal considerations: for example, contracts with Ukrainian employees do not automatically terminate after the end of temporary protection – a special procedure is required through a court or agreement between the parties.

- Adaptation of the work environment: Employers are advised to invest in language courses, on-site support, and creating conditions for cultural adaptation.

- Communication: It is important to clearly discuss work expectations, procedures, and work rules.

- Support for new employees: “buddy-to-buddy” programs, assistance with everyday life, and integration into society are particularly valuable.

The guide emphasizes that Ukrainian employees are talented and hardworking professionals who can significantly strengthen any team with proper support and adaptation.

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Strengthening the Position of Ukrainian Refugees in the Dutch Labor Market

The third guide “Strengthening the Position of Ukrainian Refugees in the Dutch Labor Market” is aimed at state and municipal organizations, but the information from it is also important for Ukrainians themselves:

- Support for municipalities and employment centers: local authorities help with job search, organize language courses and career guidance activities.

- Webinars and trainings: free online courses on employment are available through the JobOn platform.

- Individual support: the use of the “mentor-apprentice” approach helps to better navigate the professional environment.

- Special attention to the language barrier: municipalities and state programs actively promote the development of Ukrainians’ language skills.

The guide emphasizes that the success of Ukrainians’ employment depends not only on personal efforts, but also on high-quality interaction with state structures and employers.

Today, Ukrainians have real tools for a successful start to their careers in the Netherlands – free guides, support from municipalities and the openness of the Dutch market to Ukrainians. The main thing is to act, use the available opportunities and not be afraid to ask for help.

In the process of finding a job abroad, complex legal issues often arise: recognition of diplomas, registration of documents, registration of employee status or resolution of disputes with employers.

To protect yourself and facilitate the process, use the help of employment lawyers on the Visit Ukraine portal. Our specialists will help:

- To prepare all the necessary documents for official employment.

- To receive advice on refugee status and the right to work.

- Will support you in communicating with authorities and employers.

- Resolve labor disputes and other legal issues.

With us, your path to employment in the Netherlands will be much easier and safer!

Let us remind you! Mass employment of refugees is the new social policy of the Netherlands. We have already told you how more than 40 companies are changing the rules of the game in the labor market.

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