How the Recruitment Process Works at Work in Holland

From your first click to your first day on the job in the Netherlands

Starting a new job in a new country is a big step. That’s why at Work in Holland, we do everything we can to make the recruitment process clear, personal, and as smooth as possible. Whether you're applying from Spain, France, Greece or anywhere else in Europe, we guide you through every step – from your first application to your arrival and first working day in the Netherlands.

Below, we walk you through exactly how the process works.

Step 1: You apply for a job

Your journey starts with a job vacancy. You might find us through Google, job boards, or social media. You apply with your English CV, and it lands directly in our recruitment system. If your profile matches the job, a recruiter will get in touch with you quickly – usually within 24 hours.

Tip: Your CV must be in English and up to date. That helps us move faster.

Step 2: A quick phone call

A recruiter from our team will call you for a short introduction. This is not just about the job – we want to understand your motivation, plans, and expectations. We'll ask questions about your experience, goals, housing situation, and whether you're planning to stay in the Netherlands long-term.

For some roles, especially at the airport, we’ll also check whether you're willing to wait for a security clearance, which can take up to 3 months.

Step 3: Email with detailed job information

If the phone call goes well, you'll receive a detailed email with all the practical information. This includes:

• Job responsibilities and schedule
  
  

• Housing arrangements
  
  

• Travel and arrival planning
  
  

• Information about Work in Holland and what to expect
  
  

You’ll be asked to confirm that you’ve read and understood the information. We only move forward after your confirmation.

Step 4: Extra documents for airport jobs

If your job is at the airport, we’ll send you the necessary security screening forms (VGB and VOG). You’ll get detailed instructions on how to fill them out and send them back. This is required by Dutch law for anyone working in secure airport zones.

Step 5: Online video intake

Next, we invite you for a short video interview. This is a chance for us to get to know each other better. We’ll go through the job again, check if you’ve read the documents, and answer any questions. We also use this call to see how you present yourself and whether you're ready to start this new adventure.

Step 6: Offer, contract, and travel planning

If the interview is successful, you’ll receive a formal job offer and a contract – all digitally signed. Once everything is confirmed, you can book your trip to the Netherlands. We’ll ask you to send us your ticket so we can arrange your pickup.

Step 7: Arrival and onboarding

One of our coordinators will pick you up when you arrive – whether it's at Schiphol Airport or somewhere else. You’ll be brought to your accommodation, which is always a private room in a shared house, close to public transport and your workplace.

You’ll receive a welcome package and help with practical matters like:

• How to get to work
  
  

• Where to buy groceries
  
  

• How to register for a BSN (social security number)
  
  

• Setting up your health insurance
  
  

On your first workday, someone from our team will accompany you to the location to make sure everything starts off well.

Why this process works

We’ve designed this recruitment process with one thing in mind: you.
Relocating can be stressful, but with the right preparation, clear communication, and personal guidance, we make it manageable – and even exciting.

When you choose Work in Holland, you’re not just getting a job. You’re getting a team behind you.