Going to work in the Netherlands without professional experience is one of the most common ways to enter the labour market abroad. For years, the Netherlands has attracted workers from all over Europe thanks to high hourly wages, good work organisation, and a large number of job offers that do not require specialised qualifications. For many people, this is the first step toward stable employment and gaining international experience.
On europa.jobs you will find many job offers without experience in the Netherlands
Jobs in the Netherlands Without Experience – What the Market Looks Like
Jobs in the Netherlands without experience are mainly available in sectors based on physical work and staff rotation. The majority of offers concern logistics, warehouses, production, agriculture, and horticulture. In these industries, the most important factors are willingness to work, availability, and basic language skills.
The most common entry-level positions include:
- warehouse worker
- order picker
- industrial product packer
- greenhouse and horticulture worker
- production assistant
- goods sorting and segregation
In many companies, employees receive training on site, which means that lack of experience is not a barrier. Employment agencies often also organise transport to work and accommodation, which makes starting in a new country easier.
First Job in the Netherlands – What to Expect at the Beginning
A first job in the Netherlands is usually arranged through a temporary employment agency. This is a very popular employment model for people without experience, as it allows you to start working quickly and avoid complicated formalities.
At the beginning, you can expect:
- short training
- support from a coordinator (often in Polish or English)
- shift work (morning, afternoon, night)
- possibility of overtime
- accommodation provided by the employer or agency
Many people start with simple tasks, but after a few months they may be promoted to better-paid positions. The Dutch labour market is flexible, so motivated employees can quickly increase their earnings.
How to Find a Job Abroad – Effective Strategies
When considering how to find a job abroad, it is worth using several sources at the same time. In the case of the Netherlands, employment agencies play a key role, acting as intermediaries between workers and companies.
Effective job search methods include:
- job portals
- employment agencies specialising in the Netherlands
- recommendations from friends already working abroad
- thematic groups on social media
- company applications
It is worth preparing a simple CV in English, even without experience. In such cases, willingness to work and availability for quick departure are most important.
Entry-Level Jobs in the Netherlands – Where It Is Easiest to Start
Entry-level jobs in the Netherlands are very popular in seasonal and production sectors, where demand for workers remains constant throughout the year. It is easiest to find work in large distribution centres, sorting facilities, and production plants.
The main advantages of such jobs include:
- no professional experience required
- fast recruitment process (often just a few days)
- possibility to start immediately
- extra pay for overtime and night shifts
- stable number of working hours
In many cases, employers also offer help with organising life on site, including accommodation in staff housing and transport to work. This allows first-time workers to focus solely on their job.
Working Conditions and Earnings for People Without Experience
People starting work in the Netherlands can expect wages in line with the national minimum wage. In 2026, hourly rates for unskilled workers range on average from just over €12 to €14 gross per hour, depending on age, industry, and contract type.
With full-time employment, this results in monthly earnings of around €1,800–€2,500 gross. Additional bonuses for weekend work, overtime, or night shifts can increase income by several hundred euros per month.
It is worth remembering that accommodation and health insurance costs are often deducted from wages if they are organised by the employer.
How to Prepare for Working Abroad
Before travelling to the Netherlands, it is important to prepare well to avoid problems on site. Key elements include:
- valid ID document (ID card or passport)
- basic CV in English
- financial resources for the first days of stay
- knowledge of basic English phrases
- checking accommodation conditions
It is also useful to familiarise yourself with shift work systems, public transport, and workplace rules. This helps you adapt more quickly to the new environment.
Why the Netherlands Is a Good Choice for a Start
The Netherlands is one of the best destinations for people without experience because it offers a large number of job opportunities, clear employment conditions, and stable earnings. Additionally, many companies hire foreign workers and have experience in onboarding them.
Another major advantage is the possibility of a quick job start and gaining initial work experience, which can later be used in other countries or industries.
The key factors are active job searching, flexibility, and quick response to new offers.
On our europa.jobs platform you will find interesting job offers without experience in the Netherlands. Be sure to check them out!
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What positions are available for people without experience in the Netherlands?
People without experience can often find jobs in warehouses, logistics, production, agriculture, as well as packing and sorting goods. These are positions that do not require specialised qualifications, where willingness to do physical work and availability are the most important factors.
Is knowledge of Dutch necessary?
In many job offers in the Netherlands, knowledge of Dutch is not required, as English is often used in workplaces or international teams are employed. However, basic English skills definitely increase the chances of a better offer.
How to prepare a CV and cover letter for a Dutch employer?
The CV should be short, clear, and written in English, focusing on willingness to work rather than experience. A cover letter should be tailored to a specific job offer, highlighting availability and readiness to start quickly.
Do employment agencies help find the first job?
Yes, employment agencies play a key role in hiring people without experience, as they provide quick access to job offers and often organise the entire relocation process. They also assist with accommodation, transport, and work-related formalities.
What are the most common pitfalls when signing the first contract?
Common mistakes include not carefully checking accommodation conditions, additional costs, and the type of contract and working hours. It is also important to watch out for unclear salary deduction clauses and always ask for full clarification of all contract terms.
