Dutch Staffing Sector: Recovery Pushed Back to 2026
The Dutch flexible employment market — which includes temporary work agencies, secondment agencies, and payroll services — has faced two years of falling hours. That decline seems to have stopped in 2025, but according to forecasts, a real rebound won’t arrive until 2026.
Why recovery is delayed
Even though the economy is improving, businesses remain careful in their use of flexible staff. Ongoing geopolitical tensions, tighter regulations, and structural shortages in the labour market are holding back growth.
End of bogus self-employment changes the market
At the start of 2025, the government restarted enforcement against bogus self-employment. Many freelancers who were effectively working as employees can no longer continue under self-employed contracts. This shift has pushed companies to either hire these workers on permanent contracts or bring them in via staffing agencies. Data from Statistics Netherlands shows that in the second quarter of 2025, more than a third of freelancers stopped working independently, with over half of them moving into permanent or flexible jobs.
Labour shortages still the biggest problem
Nearly half of Dutch staffing firms report shortages — both in their own teams and in the pool of temporary workers. This bottleneck limits the supply of new temps and slows overall growth. Agencies are responding by investing more in training and development to attract and retain staff, but mismatches between available skills and market demand remain a challenge.
New laws make temp work costlier and less flexible
The More Security for Flex Workers Act, scheduled to take effect on 1 January 2026, will give temporary agency workers the same rights as employees on permanent contracts. This includes pensions and transition payments. The law is meant to ensure that temporary contracts are only used for short-term peaks or sick leave, not for ongoing work. For employers, this will make temp workers more expensive and reduce flexibility.
A need for change in the industry
Given the combined pressures of economic uncertainty, regulatory tightening, and staff shortages, many staffing companies will need to rethink their strategies. Instead of focusing only on traditional temp placements, agencies are encouraged to broaden their services — such as offering training, career guidance, and support for older workers or those needing reskilling. By acting as HR advisors and mobility facilitators between sectors, staffing firms can build stronger client relationships and provide greater long-term value.
Good News: Employers May Soon Pay for Your Dutch Lessons
If you are an international worker in the Netherlands, there may soon be good news for you. The Advisory Council on Migration — an independent body that advises the Dutch government — has suggested new measures to help migrant employees settle more successfully. Their main message: employers should pay for Dutch language lessons and give workers time to attend them, even during working hours.
Why Dutch lessons are important
Learning Dutch is one of the biggest challenges for many international employees. Without the language, it can feel difficult to connect with colleagues, make friends locally, or understand your rights at work. The council points out that many migrant workers don’t just come to the Netherlands for a short period — a large number end up staying:
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34% of EU workers remain in the Netherlands after five years.
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50% of non-EU workers also stay beyond five years.
This means many migrant workers are building their futures here, and better Dutch language skills could make a huge difference in daily life and career opportunities. According to the council, “A better understanding of Dutch is essential for migrant workers to use their skills and qualifications effectively and for their further career development.”
What the council is asking for
The proposal goes further than just language classes. It is part of a broader plan called a National Coexistence Programme, which would bring together the government, municipalities, employers, and social organisations to improve integration. The main ideas include:
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Free or employer-paid Dutch lessons for migrant workers.
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Time during working hours so employees can actually attend lessons.
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Clearer, simpler communication about your rights and obligations as a worker.
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Better support for career growth, so that migrants can use their skills fully.
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More opportunities for interaction between Dutch and international workers, such as community events or workplace activities.
The council also suggested local councils set up physical meeting points where internationals can get information and join activities that are open to everyone, not only to migrants.
Support from politics and government
Several Dutch political parties — including PVV, VVD, NSC, and BBB — have already said they agree with the idea that companies should encourage workers to learn Dutch. The Minister of Social Affairs and Employment, Eddy van Hijum, has also spoken in favor of this kind of plan. He explained that if more migrant workers learn Dutch and feel at home in the Netherlands, they are more likely to stay. This, in turn, helps reduce worker shortages in many sectors.
The government has already taken steps in this direction earlier in 2025 by adding language requirements to a new integration plan. This new advice from the council could push the plans further, placing more responsibility on employers to support their international staff.
What this could mean for you
If these recommendations are accepted, you as a migrant worker could:
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Take Dutch lessons paid for by your employer.
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Learn Dutch during working hours, not only in your free time.
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Receive clear information about your job rights and obligations in a language you understand.
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Get more chances to develop your career and move into better positions.
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Feel more included, both at work and in your community.
Bottom line
The Netherlands relies heavily on international employees — around 1 in 10 workers in the country is a labour migrant. Since so many stay longer than expected, the government and employers are being asked to do more to help migrants settle. If these proposals are adopted, learning Dutch may no longer be your personal struggle or expense, but something your employer helps you with — making life and work in the Netherlands much easier.
✅ In short: The Dutch government is being advised to make employers pay for Dutch lessons and give you time to take them. This could open the door to better jobs, easier daily life, and a stronger sense of belonging.
What Workers in the Netherlands Need to Know About Labour Law Changes
Several new rules are being introduced in 2025, and more are planned for 2026. These changes are meant to give workers more security and reduce unfair practices. Here’s what it means for you:
Already in effect (2025)
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No more bogus self-employment
If you’re treated like a freelancer but really work like an employee, the tax office is checking more closely. From January 1, 2025, enforcement is back. There’s a one-year transition: no fines if your employer is fixing it, but after that, action will be taken. -
Changes to the 30% ruling
If you came to the Netherlands for work and get the 30% tax-free allowance:-
For contracts starting after Jan 1, 2024, the 30% stays until the end of 2026, then drops to 27% from Jan 1, 2027.
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If your contract started before 2024, nothing changes — you keep the 30%.
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Stricter rules for foreign workers
To get or keep a Dutch work/residence permit, you need to earn above a certain salary. If your income falls below the threshold, you may lose your permit. This applies to non-EU/EEA and Swiss nationals. -
Bigger fines for illegal work
From Feb 1, 2025, if a company hires people without a valid permit, they can be fined up to €11,250 per worker (higher if there’s exploitation involved).
Coming soon (expected Jan 1, 2026)
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Clearer rules on employment status
If you earn €32.24/hour or less, the law will assume you’re an employee. The employer has to prove otherwise if they claim you’re a freelancer. -
Non-compete rules changing
Employers won’t be able to “lock you in” for too long.-
Max duration = 12 months
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They must clearly explain why and where it applies (geography)
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They must pay you 50% of your monthly salary for every month it restricts you from working elsewhere.
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More security for flexible workers
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Zero-hours and min-max contracts will be replaced by basic contracts with guaranteed weekly hours.
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Employers cannot force you to work outside your contract hours.
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Temporary contracts will be restricted: after three in a row, employers must wait five years (instead of six months) before offering another temporary contract.
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Agency workers will also gain stronger rights.
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✅ Bottom line:
If you’re a flex worker, freelancer, or on a temporary contract, the law is moving in your favor. You’ll get more certainty in your hours, stronger protections if you’re wrongly called a freelancer, and fairer treatment if you face non-compete restrictions.
Big Changes Ahead for Flexible Work in the Netherlands
The Dutch government has introduced a new law called “More Security for Flexible Workers” (Wet meer zekerheid flexwerkers). The goal is to make work more stable and fairer for people on temporary or flexible contracts. If approved, most of the changes will start in January 2027, with some earlier in 2026.
What this means for workers:
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No more zero-hours contracts
Current on-call contracts (like zero-hours or min-max) will disappear. Instead, there will be a new basic contract with a guaranteed number of paid hours each week. Your employer can schedule up to 30% more hours, but you will always have a secure minimum. -
Faster path to permanent contracts
Right now, temporary contracts can continue for up to three years, and then start over again after a six-month break. Under the new law, the break will be extended to five years, making it harder for employers to avoid giving permanent jobs. -
Agency workers get more rights
If you work through an agency, you will be able to get a permanent contract much sooner — after three years, instead of the current 5.5 years. -
Equal pay coming sooner
Agency workers should also receive equal pay compared to directly employed colleagues. This part of the law is expected to start earlier, in January 2026.
Why this matters
The changes are designed to reduce insecurity for flexible workers, giving you more stable income, fairer treatment, and better chances of getting a permanent job.
Workers in the Netherlands Less Likely to Switch Jobs Amid Economic Uncertainty
A recent survey by the Dutch employers’ association AWVN shows that employees in the Netherlands are becoming more cautious about changing jobs due to the current economic climate. While the number of available jobs has grown steadily in recent years, that growth is now slowing, and both workers and employers are adjusting their behavior accordingly.
Falling staff turnover
The AWVN survey, which gathered responses from around 150 large Dutch companies and institutions, found that in many sectors it has become easier for employers to retain staff. International political tensions — such as policies from the United States — combined with rising company closures have created an atmosphere of economic uncertainty. As a result, the labour market is “cooling,” and both businesses and employees are showing greater caution.
Instead of seeking new opportunities, many workers now choose to remain with their current employer. When staff do leave, it is often because they are attracted by more favorable working conditions, better opportunities for advancement, or more flexible working hours elsewhere. Despite the slower turnover, however, eight out of ten employers still face staffing shortages. Demand remains particularly high for candidates with vocational training (MBO) and relevant experience, especially in technology, production, and ICT-related fields.
Job creation slows down
The Employee Insurance Agency (UWV) predicts that job growth will continue to decline in the coming years. Between 2020 and 2022, the Netherlands saw an increase of around 600,000 jobs, followed by another 300,000 between 2022 and 2024. From 2024 to 2027, that figure is expected to fall sharply, with just 100,000 new jobs being created.
Rising wages, higher transportation costs, and more expensive raw materials are making it harder for companies to expand. This has led to hesitation when it comes to hiring additional staff, particularly in the chemical industry, electrotechnical sector, and transport and storage. Still, not all sectors are affected equally. Information and communication services, as well as healthcare, are expected to continue seeing demand for new employees, while agriculture and wholesale are likely to contract further.
A cautious outlook
In short, while the Dutch labour market remains tight, the balance is shifting. Employers are finding it slightly easier to keep their workforce, and employees are holding on to secure jobs rather than taking risks in uncertain times. At the same time, job growth is slowing, meaning the coming years may bring more structural changes to the Dutch economy and workforce.
Dutch Purchasing Power Records Biggest Growth Since 2001
According to new figures released by Statistics Netherlands (CBS), purchasing power in the Netherlands rose significantly in 2024, marking the largest increase since 2001. On average, Dutch residents experienced a 3.6 percent improvement in their purchasing power compared to the previous year. This sharp rise can largely be attributed to wages negotiated under collective labour agreements, which increased by 6.8 percent — the biggest contractual wage rise in more than four decades.
Despite this overall positive development, the growth was not evenly distributed across different groups in society. Employees in particular benefited the most. Their purchasing power rose by an average of 5.3 percent, after accounting for inflation of 3.1 percent, which means workers saw their real wages increase by around 3.7 percent. The rise in the labour tax credit also contributed to these gains. Many employees managed to improve their financial situation even further by switching to better-paid positions or by working more hours. Nevertheless, not everyone shared in these benefits: around one in four employees still experienced a loss in purchasing power, often because of job loss or reduced working hours.
For the self-employed, the situation was less favorable. On average, their purchasing power increased by only 3.1 percent. The modest rise was partly due to changes in tax regulations, including cuts to various deductions such as the self-employment allowance and the SME profit exemption. These reductions in tax benefits limited the positive effects of higher earnings for freelancers and business owners.
Those dependent on social benefits experienced the weakest growth. Their purchasing power rose by just 0.2 percent. A major reason for this stagnation was the removal of the government’s one-off energy allowance, which in the previous year had provided households with an average of 1,300 euros in relief. However, certain measures helped to soften the impact for this group. Increases in the minimum wage, pensions, allowances, and child-related benefits ensured that their standard of living did not deteriorate further. Pensioners, who had endured three consecutive years of decline, finally saw an improvement in their financial situation, with their purchasing power increasing by 1.8 percent in 2024.
Families with children were among those who saw the most significant improvements. Two-parent households, for example, registered an average gain of 5.6 percent. Single-parent households and families without children also saw increases, though to a lesser degree, averaging around 2 percent. These differences highlight how family composition and income sources played an important role in determining how much households were able to benefit from the general rise in wages.
In summary, while 2024 brought the largest overall rise in purchasing power in more than 20 years, the extent of the improvement varied greatly across society. Employees, especially those with children, were the clear winners, while benefit recipients and the self-employed saw only limited gains. The figures underline both the strength of wage growth in the Netherlands and the uneven distribution of its benefits.
Sligro - Order Picker in Deventer, Netherlands
Are you ready to work in the Netherlands with excellent pay and reliable support? With Want2Work, you don’t need to worry about the essentials — we provide weekly pay, housing, transport, and health insurance arrangements, so you can focus on your job.
For this role, you will join Sligro, a leading Dutch wholesale and distribution company with a national network of self-service wholesalers and delivery centers. Sligro supplies the hospitality industry, catering, gas stations, SMEs, and the institutional market. They also operate under the Van Hoeckel brand in institutional markets and partner exclusively with Heineken for cask beer distribution across the Netherlands.
Position: Order Picker
Salary: €15.99/hour (€14.76 + 8.33% holiday allowance, paid weekly)
Location: Deventer, Netherlands
Shifts: Monday – Sunday (Saturday off)
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07:00 – 15:15
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10:45 – 19:00
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15:45 – 23:30
Job Description
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Picking, stacking, and stickering food products
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Order picking with a hand scanner
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Driving an EPT with up to 5 containers
Allowances & Bonuses
Temperature Allowances
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Fresh (+5°C / +10°C): +€0.51/hour
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Freezer (-18°C / -28°C): +€1.24/hour
→ Freezer employees get a 15-minute break every hour
Shift Bonuses
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Monday – Friday:
19:00 – 22:00 → +25%
22:00 – 05:00 → +50% -
Saturday:
00:00 – 12:00 → +50%
12:00 – 00:00 → +100% -
Sunday: +100%
Additional Information
Insurance
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Dutch health insurance is mandatory
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€38/week via Want2Work, or provide proof of your own Dutch insurance
Accommodation
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€130/week
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Shared 2-person rooms
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Address provided upon arrival
Transportation
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Free of charge
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Bicycle if within 10 km
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Company car if further than 10 km
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Employees with a driving license may be asked to drive (fuel, repairs, and insurance covered by company)
Clothing
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Safety shoes with steel toe required
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Bring your own or request them from the company
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Free if you stay longer than 6 months (otherwise €35 fee)
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Work clothing for fresh and freezer departments provided by the company
About Sligro
Sligro Food Group is one of the Netherlands’ largest food wholesalers, serving hospitality, catering, retail, and institutional markets. With a strong distribution network and long-term partnerships, including exclusivity with Heineken, Sligro ensures reliable delivery and service throughout the country.
👉 Join Want2Work and Sligro today to start your career in logistics in the Netherlands — with competitive pay, bonuses, and full relocation support!
Order Picker in Son, Netherlands
Looking for stable work with good pay in the Netherlands? With Want2Work, you don’t need to worry about the basics. We take care of weekly pay, accommodation, transport, and health insurance, so you can focus fully on your job.
For this position, you will work for a major European logistics company that supplies convenience products to petrol stations, airports, train stations, fast-service restaurants, and retail outlets. With nearly 5,000 employees and deliveries to more than 91,000 points of sale across Europe, the company is a trusted leader in distribution.
Position: Order Picker
Salary: €16.38/hour (€15.12 + 8.33% holiday allowance, paid weekly)
Location: Son, Netherlands
Shifts: Monday – Friday, morning shifts starting from 08:00 or 10:00
Job Description
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Picking orders with EPT and an English/Dutch voice-pick system
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Collecting, scanning, and preparing products for shipment
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Working in different temperature zones (fresh and freezer departments)
Allowances & Bonuses
Temperature allowances
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Fresh (+1°C / +4°C): +€0.51/hour
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Freezer (-15°C / -23°C): +€1.24/hour
→ Freezer employees get a 15-minute break every hour
Shift bonuses
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Monday – Friday:
04:00 – 06:00 → +25%
19:00 – 22:00 → +25%
22:00 – 00:00 → +50%
00:00 – 04:00 → +50% -
Saturday → +50%
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Sunday → +100%
Additional Information
Insurance
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Dutch health insurance is mandatory by law
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€38/week via Want2Work, or use your own Dutch insurance with proof
Accommodation
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€130/week
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Shared 2-person rooms
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Address provided on arrival at the office
Transportation
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Free of charge
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Bicycle if within 10 km
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Company car if further than 10 km
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Employees with a driving license may be asked to drive (fuel, repairs, insurance paid by the company)
Clothing
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Safety shoes with steel toe required
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Bring your own or request them from the company
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Free if you stay longer than 6 months (otherwise €35 fee)
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Work clothing provided by the company
About the Company
This international distribution company specializes in supplying on-the-go convenience products across Europe. Customers include petrol stations, airports, railway stations, food service chains, and convenience stores. In 2018, their 4,900 employees served more than 91,000 outlets across the continent.
👉 Apply now with Want2Work and take the opportunity to work in the Netherlands with excellent pay, bonuses, and reliable support.
Order Picker at ID Logistics in ’s-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands
Are you ready to start a logistics career in the Netherlands? With Want2Work, you don’t have to worry about the basics — we provide weekly pay, accommodation, transportation, and assistance with Dutch health insurance.
For this role, you will join ID Logistics Benelux, a leading international logistics provider. Founded in Tilburg in 2013, the company has quickly grown into a major 3PL player in the region with multiple locations in the Netherlands and Belgium. At ID Logistics, you will be part of a professional, fast-growing team working with a wide variety of products.
Position: Order Picker
Salary: €15.59/hour (€14.40 + 8.33% holiday allowance, paid weekly)
Location: ’s-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands
Shifts:
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Monday – Saturday: 06:00 – 15:00, 07:00 – 16:00, 08:00 – 17:00, 16:00 – 01:00
Job Description
As an Order Picker, your tasks will include:
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Picking and packaging various products (plants, contacts, cables)
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Driving an EPT when required
Bonuses
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Monday – Saturday (18:00 – 00:00) → +20%
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Monday – Saturday (00:00 – 06:00) → +40%
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Sunday → +50%
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Overtime above 40 hours/week:
→ Monday – Saturday +30%
→ Sunday +50%
Additional Information
Insurance
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Dutch health insurance is mandatory by law
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€38/week via Want2Work, or use your own Dutch insurance with proof
Accommodation
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€130/week
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Shared 2-person rooms
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Address provided on arrival at the office
Transportation
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Free of charge
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Bicycle if accommodation is within 10 km
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Company car if accommodation is further than 10 km
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Employees with a driving license may be asked to drive (all costs covered by company)
Clothing
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Safety shoes with steel toe required
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Bring your own or request them from the company
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Free if you stay longer than 6 months (otherwise €35 fee)
About ID Logistics
ID Logistics Benelux is part of the international ID Logistics Group, specializing in contract logistics for retail, e-commerce, and industry. With advanced facilities in Tilburg, Amsterdam, Etten-Leur, and Willebroek, ID Logistics delivers professional supply chain solutions across the Benelux region.
👉 Apply now with Want2Work and start building your future in the Netherlands with excellent pay, bonuses, and full relocation support.
Order Picker at Hema in Utrecht, Netherlands
Looking to start your career in the Netherlands with stable income and professional support? With Want2Work, you can count on weekly pay, accommodation, transport, and assistance with Dutch health insurance.
Salary: €15.60/hour (€14.40 + 8.33% holiday allowance, paid weekly)
Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
For this position, you will work at HEMA, a well-known Dutch retail company with nearly 100 years of history. HEMA is famous for its wide range of affordable, high-quality products, from clothing and home décor to cosmetics and food. With more than 700 stores across Europe, HEMA is an established and trusted employer.
Position: Order Picker
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Monday – Saturday: 06:00 – 17:00 or 14:15 – 24:00
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During high season: work also on Saturdays
As an Order Picker, you will:
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Collect orders using an English/Polish voice-pick system
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Work in a warehouse with home decorations, cosmetics, and clothes
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Start with metal trolleys to gather items
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Progress to driving EPT trucks once experienced
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Monday – Saturday (22:00 – 07:00) → +50%
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Sunday → +50%
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Public holidays → +100%
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Overtime above 40 hours/week → +40%
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Overtime above 10 hours/day → +10%
Insurance
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Dutch health insurance is mandatory
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€38/week through Want2Work, or use your own with proof
Accommodation
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€130/week
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Shared 2-person rooms
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Address provided upon arrival at the office
Transportation
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Free of charge
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Bicycle if within 10 km
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Company car if further than 10 km
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Drivers may be asked to drive (fuel, repairs, and insurance paid by the company)
Clothing
-
Safety shoes with steel toe required
-
Bring your own or request them from the company
-
Free if you stay longer than 6 months (otherwise €35 fee)
Founded in 1926, HEMA has grown into one of the Netherlands’ most iconic retail chains, with stores across the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, and Germany. The company is known for making everyday life easier with stylish, affordable, and practical products.
👉 Join Want2Work and HEMA today — enjoy competitive pay, bonuses, reliable housing, and the chance to build your career in the Netherlands!
Warehouse Worker in Utrecht, Netherlands
Are you looking for a stable job abroad with good pay and reliable support? With Want2Work, you can start your career in the Netherlands stress-free. We take care of the essentials: weekly pay, accommodation, transport, and health insurance arrangements.
You will be employed at GLS Netherlands, one of the leading parcel service providers in the country. Founded in 1980 and now part of General Logistics Systems B.V., GLS is a trusted international brand. From their central hub in Utrecht, GLS manages parcel, express, and freight shipments with advanced logistics systems and modern security standards.
Position: Warehouse Worker
Salary: €15.59/hour (€14.40 + 8.33% holiday allowance, paid weekly)
Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
Shifts:
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Monday – Friday: 20:00 – 04:30
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Sunday: 20:00 – 01:00
Job Description
As a Warehouse Worker, you will be responsible for:
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Loading and unloading trucks with postal packages
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Sorting, scanning, and measuring parcels
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Assisting on the production line as a scanner/line worker if required by the client (different role and salary may apply)
This work can be physically demanding, so candidates should be prepared for an active role.
Bonuses
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20:00 – 24:00 → +8.75%
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24:00 – 05:00 → +11.25%
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05:00 – 07:00 → +8.75%
Additional Information
Insurance
-
Dutch health insurance is mandatory by law
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€38/week through Want2Work, or provide your own insurance card if already insured
Accommodation
-
€130/week
-
Shared 2-person rooms
-
Address provided upon arrival at the office
Transportation
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Free of charge
-
Bicycle provided if within 10 km
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Company car provided if further than 10 km
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Employees with a driving license may be asked to drive (fuel, repairs, and insurance fully covered by the company)
Clothing
-
Safety shoes with a steel toe required
-
Bring your own or request them from the company
-
Free if you stay longer than 6 months (otherwise €35 fee)
-
Work clothing provided by the company
About GLS Netherlands
GLS Netherlands is part of the international GLS Group and offers comprehensive parcel, express, and freight services. With advanced logistics systems, a dense transport network, and modern security, GLS ensures fast and reliable parcel delivery throughout Europe.
👉 Start your career in the Netherlands today with Want2Work and GLS — enjoy competitive pay, bonuses, free transport, and strong support every step of the way.
Order Picker / Logistic Employee in Eindhoven, Netherlands
Are you ready to start your career in the Netherlands? With Want2Work, you can rely on professional contracts, reliable weekly pay, and full relocation support, including housing, transport, and Dutch health insurance arrangements.
For this position, you will join Culivers, part of the Sligro Food Group. Culivers is known for preparing high-quality ready-made meals and meal components for companies, healthcare institutions, hospitality, and catering. Their products are made with fresh ingredients and are distributed under well-known labels such as Dinner Land and Mastership of the House.
Position: Order Picker / Logistic Employee
Salary: €15.42/hour (€14.23 + 8.33% holiday allowance, paid weekly)
Location: Eindhoven, Netherlands
Shifts: Monday – Friday, 06:00 – 15:00
Job Description
Your main tasks include:
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Sorting products and preparing pallets
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Collecting orders with a trolley
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Driving an EPT when needed
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Quality checks and labeling products
Allowances & Bonuses
Temperature Allowances
-
Fresh (+5°C / +10°C): +€0.50/hour
-
Freezer (-18°C / -28°C): +€1.22/hour
→ Freezer staff receive a 15-minute break every hour
Shift Bonuses
-
Monday – Friday:
19:00 – 24:00 → +25%
22:00 – 05:00 → +50% -
Saturday:
00:00 – 12:00 → +50%
12:00 – 00:00 → +100% -
Sunday:
00:00 – 04:00 → +100%
Additional Information
Insurance
-
Dutch health insurance is mandatory
-
€38/week through Want2Work, or use your own with proof
Accommodation
-
€130/week
-
Shared 2-person rooms
-
Address provided after arrival at the office
Transportation
-
Free of charge
-
Bicycle if within 10 km
-
Company car if further than 10 km
-
Drivers may be asked to drive (fuel, repairs, and insurance paid by the company)
Clothing
-
Safety shoes with steel toe required
-
Bring your own or request them from the company
-
Shoes free if you stay longer than 6 months (otherwise €35 fee)
-
Work clothing provided by the company
About Culivers | Sligro Food Group
Culivers is a trusted Dutch food producer, delivering delicious ready-made meals and meal components to companies, healthcare, and hospitality. As part of the Sligro Food Group, they combine fresh ingredients with modern logistics to ensure quality and taste on a large scale.
👉 Join Want2Work today and take the step toward stable employment in the Netherlands with weekly pay, bonuses, and reliable support.
Order Picker in Heijen, Netherlands
Are you looking for an international job opportunity in the Netherlands? With Want2Work, you can count on professional support, reliable contracts, and smooth relocation services. We provide accommodation, transport, and assistance with Dutch health insurance, so you can focus fully on your new career.
You will be working at Arvato, a leading global logistics company that specializes in supply chain solutions for electronics, cosmetics, and medicine. Arvato’s warehouses are modern, well-organized, and dynamic — making them an excellent place to build experience in logistics while enjoying all the benefits of working in the Netherlands.
Position: Order Picker
Salary: €15.59/hour (€14.40 + 8.33% holiday allowance, paid weekly)
Location: Heijen, Netherlands
Shifts: Monday – Sunday (flexible weekly schedule)
Job Description
As an Order Picker, your responsibilities include:
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Loading and unloading pallets
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Picking orders using a list and hand scanner
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Packaging and preparing goods for shipment
Bonuses
-
Monday – Friday
19:00 – 24:00 → +35%
24:00 – 06:00 → +45%
06:00 – 07:00 → +35% -
Saturday → +50%
-
Sunday → +100%
-
Official Dutch holidays → +100%
-
Overtime above 40 hours/week → +25% or +50%
Additional Information
Insurance
-
Dutch health insurance is mandatory by law
-
€38/week through Want2Work, or use your own Dutch insurance with proof
Accommodation
-
€130/week in shared 2-person rooms
-
Address provided on arrival at the office
Transportation
-
Free of charge
-
Bicycle provided if within 10 km
-
Company car provided if further than 10 km
-
Drivers may be asked to drive (fuel, repairs, insurance paid by company)
Clothing
-
Safety shoes with steel toe required
-
Bring your own or request them from the company
-
Free after 6 months of work (otherwise €35 fee)
About the Company
Arvato is a global leader in 3PL logistics and supply chain management, serving clients worldwide with B2B and B2C solutions. Their operations cover multiple industries, from electronics and cosmetics to pharmaceuticals.
👉 Join Want2Work and start your career in the Netherlands with competitive pay, free transport, and reliable support every step of the way.
Can I Work in the Netherlands if I Already Have a Residence Permit in Another EU Country?
Imagine this: you’re already living in Europe with a residence permit from Poland, Portugal, or Italy. Maybe you’re from Pakistan or India, and you’ve found steady work in construction, hospitality, or logistics. Life is going well, but then you hear that wages in the Netherlands are higher, or that job opportunities there are better. Naturally, you wonder:
“Since I already have a residence card in one EU country, can I just move to the Netherlands and start working?”
The answer might surprise you: No, not automatically. And here’s why.
The Big Misunderstanding: The EU Is Not One Country
One of the most common mistakes people make is thinking of the European Union (EU) as if it were a single country, like the United States. But in reality, the EU is a union of 27 independent countries.
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Each country controls its own residence permits and work authorisations.
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A permit issued in one country (for example, Poland) is only valid there.
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It does not automatically give you rights to live and work in another country (like the Netherlands).
👉 The only exception is for citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland. They enjoy freedom of movement, which lets them live and work anywhere in the EU without extra permits.
For non-EU citizens (like those from Pakistan, India, Nigeria, or Brazil), things are different. Your residence permit is tied to the country that issued it.
1. If You’re an EU/EEA or Swiss Citizen
This part is simple. If you are from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you don’t need special paperwork. You can move to the Netherlands, look for work, and start right away.
👉 Example: A person from Spain working in Madrid can take a job in Amsterdam next month with no extra permits.
2. If You’re a Non-EU Citizen
For non-EU citizens, the rules depend on what type of permit you have.
A. Regular Residence Permit (Work, Study, or Family)
If you have a regular residence card from Poland, Portugal, Italy, or another EU country, it is valid only in that country.
👉 Example:
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Arif from Pakistan: Arif has a Polish residence permit tied to his warehouse job. He hears about better wages in the Netherlands and thinks he can just move. Unfortunately, his Polish card only allows him to live and work in Poland. In the Netherlands, it’s not valid for employment. To work there, he would need a Dutch employer to sponsor him for a work permit, plus a Dutch residence permit.
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Priya from India: Priya has a Portuguese residence permit for her job in hospitality. She wants to join her cousin in Amsterdam to work in a restaurant. But her Portuguese card does not allow her to work in the Netherlands. She can visit as a tourist for up to 90 days, but she cannot legally take a job there without Dutch paperwork.
👉 This confusion happens often because with a Schengen residence card, you can travel to other Schengen countries without a visa. But travel rights are not the same as work rights.
B. EU Long-Term Resident Permit
After living legally in one EU country for five years or more, you may qualify for an EU long-term resident permit. This is different from a normal residence card—it usually says “long-term resident – EU” on it.
With this permit, you gain more mobility rights. You can move to another EU country, including the Netherlands, for work, study, or business.
👉 But:
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You still need to apply for a Dutch residence permit when moving.
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The process is faster and simpler than starting from zero, but it’s not automatic.
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Depending on the job, a Dutch work permit may still be needed.
C. EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card is for highly skilled workers (for example, IT specialists, engineers, or doctors). If you hold one and have lived in the issuing country for at least 18 months, you can transfer to another EU country like the Netherlands.
👉 Example:
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Maria from Brazil has a Blue Card from Germany, where she’s been working for two years. She gets a job offer in Amsterdam. She can apply for a Dutch Blue Card and move, as long as her new Dutch job meets the salary and skill requirements.
3. Short Visits in the Netherlands
If you already have a residence permit from a Schengen country, you can travel to the Netherlands for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without needing a visa.
👉 But:
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This is only for tourism, family visits, or business meetings.
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It does not give you the right to work in the Netherlands.
Quick Summary
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✅ EU/EEA/Swiss citizens – Can freely live and work in the Netherlands.
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❌ Non-EU citizens with a regular residence permit (e.g., Poland, Portugal) – Your card only works in the country that issued it. It does not give you work rights in the Netherlands.
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⚡ EU long-term residents – Can move more easily, but still need to apply in the Netherlands.
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💼 EU Blue Card holders – Can transfer after 18 months, if conditions are met.
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✈️ Tourist visits – Allowed with a Schengen residence card, but not for employment.
Final Thoughts
If you’re from Pakistan, India, or another non-EU country, and you’re already working in places like Poland or Portugal, it’s important to understand that the EU is not one single country. Your residence permit is only valid in the country that gave it to you.
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You can travel within the Schengen zone, but that doesn’t mean you can work everywhere.
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To legally work in the Netherlands, you will need the right Dutch residence and work permits, unless you hold an EU long-term permit or an EU Blue Card.
👉 Tip: If you’re considering moving, check the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) website or talk with your potential employer in the Netherlands. Many employers help with sponsorship and applications.
✅ In plain words: Having a Polish or Portuguese residence permit does not automatically open the door to Dutch jobs. Europe may feel like one big country when you travel—but when it comes to working, every EU member state has its own rules.
New Exciting Job Opportunities in the Netherlands!
Are you ready to kickstart your career and experience life in the Netherlands? We have a variety of job openings available across different sectors including logistics, production, construction, and services. Whether you’re skilled in your field or looking to start fresh, we have something for everyone!
SEE ALL JOB OFFERS AVAILABLE THIS WEEK
What We Offer:
Comfortable Housing: Moving to a new country can be challenging, but we make it easier by providing comfortable, fully equipped accommodation. You’ll feel right at home from day one.
Transportation Provided: Forget the hassle of commuting. We organize transportation to and from your workplace, so you can focus on your job.
Diverse Job Opportunities: With positions available in logistics, production, construction, and various service industries, there’s a role waiting for you. Whether you’re looking for warehouse work, production line jobs, construction projects, or service roles, we’ve got you covered.
Work with Friends or as a Couple: Don’t want to move alone? No problem! We offer the possibility to apply and work together with friends or your partner, making your experience even more enjoyable.
Competitive Pay & Growth: Enjoy fair wages with opportunities for growth and development in your career. The Netherlands is known for its worker-friendly environment and balanced work-life culture.
Who We're Looking For:
- Motivated individuals looking for steady work in a dynamic and international environment.
- Those with experience in logistics, production, construction, or services are highly encouraged to apply, but we also have positions available for entry-level candidates.
- Flexible and team-oriented individuals ready to work in a multicultural environment.
- EU citizens or those with a valid work permit for the Netherlands.
Why Work in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands offers a fantastic work-life balance, excellent labor conditions, and the chance to live in a beautiful and vibrant country. By joining us, you’ll not only enjoy a great job but also experience Dutch culture, friendly locals, and an international community.
Production Worker – Cookie Factory (Netherlands)
Location: Netherlands
Salary: €14.40 per hour
Employment type: Full-time
About the job
Join our team at a well-established cookie factory in the Netherlands! We’re looking for motivated production workers to help with various stages of the cookie-making process — from preparation to packaging.
What we offer
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💶 Competitive pay: €14.40 per hour
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🏠 Company-provided housing
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🚌 Free company transport to and from work
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🌍 International environment
Requirements
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Must speak English
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Willingness to work in a factory/production setting
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Reliable, hardworking, and a team player
Duties include
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Operating and monitoring production machines
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Quality control of products
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Packaging and preparing goods for shipment
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Maintaining a clean and safe workplace
How to apply
Interested?
Netherlands among top destinations for international workers
The Netherlands has climbed back up the rankings securing 22nd place and recognition as one of the best countries worldwide for international professionals. While expats praise the country’s work culture and digital services, many continue to face hurdles with housing, healthcare, and building social connections.
Every year, InterNations publishes the Expat Insider Survey, which gathers the experiences of more than 10,000 expatriates living in 172 countries. For 2025, 46 destinations were evaluated based on 56 different factors, grouped into five major categories:
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Quality of Life: leisure, travel, healthcare, safety, and environment
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Ease of Settling In: culture, friendliness, and making friends
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Working Abroad: career outlook, salaries, job security, and workplace culture
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Personal Finance: cost of living and overall financial satisfaction
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Expat Essentials: digital services, housing, and language
This year, Panama once again topped the list, with Colombia and Mexico following close behind. South Korea, Türkiye, and Kuwait landed at the bottom.
Strong work culture, weak housing and healthcare
The Netherlands advanced four spots compared to 2024, returning to its 2023 performance. Its strongest showing was in the Working Abroad Index, where it ranked fourth overall. Expats praised the Dutch work environment, career opportunities, and job security, bolstered by notable wage increases in the past year.
The country also scored well in digital accessibility. From government services to banking and cashless payments, expats report that navigating everyday admin tasks is relatively straightforward.
However, the positive impressions were overshadowed by struggles in two key areas: housing and healthcare. The Netherlands placed near the bottom for both, ranking 44th in housing and 40th in healthcare. Soaring rental prices and an ongoing housing shortage continue to frustrate newcomers, particularly in cities such as Amsterdam. Meanwhile, a shortage of general practitioners has left many residents without access to a family doctor, compounding concerns about affordability and quality of care.
Social integration is another challenge, with many internationals finding it difficult to connect with Dutch locals.
Best and worst countries for expats in 2025
According to the 2025 survey, the top five destinations for expats are:
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Panama
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Colombia
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Mexico
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Thailand
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Vietnam
At the other end of the spectrum, the lowest-ranked countries were:
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Germany
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Finland
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South Korea
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Türkiye
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Kuwait
Warehouse Worker - Sligro Vianen
Position Title: Warehouse Worker (Normal, 0/+5°C Environments)
Department: Logistics
Available Roles:
- Expedition/Packaging Worker: Sort and scan products in the final stage of the logistics process before dispatch. Requires physical strength for work in temperatures of 0/+5°C.
- Order Picker & EPT Driver: Picks and organizes food products with a hand scanner, transferring items to the outbound area (0/+5°C) and driving an Electric Pallet Truck (EPT) with up to five containers.
- Container Builder: Assembles and organizes roll containers for distribution in the warehouse (normal temperature).
- Emballage Worker: Sorts used crates, pallets, and roll containers, loading packaging materials onto trucks.
- Reach Truck Driver: Operates a reach truck to move pallets around the warehouse and deposit them in areas with temperatures of 0/+5°C.
Company Overview
Sligro operates a network of self-service wholesalers and delivery centers across the Netherlands, serving diverse customer segments such as catering, hospitality, retail, and institutional markets. Sligro has an exclusive distribution partnership with Heineken for cask beers within the Netherlands.
Website: Sligro Website
Working Conditions
Location: Vianen
Shift Schedules:
- Expedition Worker: Sunday - Thursday, 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM
- Order Picker: Monday - Friday, 10:00 AM - 6:45 PM
- Container Builder: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Hourly Pay:
- Order Picker & EPT Driver: €15.81 gross/hour
- Reach Truck Driver: €16.37 gross/hour
Overtime and Temperature Premiums:
- Shift Premiums:
- 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM: +25%
- 10:00 PM - 5:00 AM: +50%
- Temperature Premiums:
- Fresh Area (+5/+10°C): +€0.49/hour
- Freezer (-18/-28°C): +€1.19/hour, with a 15-minute break every hour in freezer conditions
Transportation:
- Free transportation to work.
Qualifications:
- EPT certification is preferred.
- Reach Truck certification is mandatory (if applicable).
Experience:
- Essential experience in order picking and EPT operation.
- Reach Truck experience (at least six months) is required.
- Strong numerical skills for order accuracy.
Language Skills: English at B1 level or higher.
This role at Sligro Vianen is ideal for those with a background in warehouse operations, particularly those comfortable in temperature-controlled environments and physically demanding work. The position provides solid pay, shift premiums, and a supportive work environment focused on efficiency and teamwork.
Join Us as a Freelance Recruitment Partner – Latvia
Looking for new opportunities in recruitment? Ready to grow your skills and work on exciting international projects?
We are expanding our team and looking for motivated freelance recruiters in Latvia to collaborate with us on sourcing skilled professionals from EU countries for top Dutch employers in logistics, production, and construction. Whether you’re an experienced recruiter or just starting out — this opportunity is for you.
Why Join Us?
As a Freelance Recruitment Partner, you’ll enjoy:
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🕒 Flexible schedule – Work where and when it suits you
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💰 Performance-based bonuses – Your results directly impact your earnings
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💡 Creative freedom – Your ideas are welcomed and valued
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🤝 Supportive partnership – We grow together as a team
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🌍 Franchise potential – Build your own recruitment brand in Latvia and become a key regional player
What We’re Looking For:
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Passion and creativity in recruitment
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Motivation and commitment to deliver results
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Fluent English communication
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A proactive and entrepreneurial spirit
No Experience? No Problem!
We welcome students, career changers, and newcomers. You’ll receive full training and mentorship from our experienced team. All we ask for is enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
🚀 Ready to get started?
Fill out the form below to begin your journey with us. We’ll reach out to explore how we can work together and support your growth in the recruitment field.
Let’s build something great — together!
Freelance Recruitment Partner
OlandijaNL is a dynamic recruitment agency specializing in connecting talent across Europe with job opportunities in the Netherlands. We are currently looking for a Freelance Recruitment Partner to help us source candidates for various roles on the Dutch market.
What You’ll Do:
Work remotely from anywhere in the world
Source and screen candidates from EU countries
Match candidates with job opportunities in the Netherlands
Collaborate with our team to meet recruitment targets
Requirements:
Experience in recruitment or strong motivation to work in this field
Fluent in English (other languages are a plus)
Self-driven and organized
Strong communication and networking skills
Any nationality welcome to apply
Why Join Us?
Flexible, remote work – perfect for freelancers
Supportive and collaborative international team
Opportunity to make an impact by helping people find jobs abroad
Competitive commission-based earnings
Interested?