2023 Recruitment Agencies For Expats in Amsterdam and the Netherlands

😎 Amsterdam's allure continues to grow, and since my move here in 2017, the city's tech scene has flourished, attracting talent from around the globe. With over 176 nationalities represented in Amsterdam alone, the city is a melting pot of cultures, opportunities, and, of course, delicious Dutch delicacies.

The quality of life, work-life balance, and growth opportunities in tech companies make Amsterdam an appealing destination. But what about the practicalities of relocating and finding work here? Let's dive into some facts and resources that can help you navigate the Dutch job market.

Fast Facts about Amsterdam and the Netherlands:

• Maternity Leave: 16 weeks
• Paternity Leave: 5 days (increasing to 5 weeks at 70% pay in 2022)
• Holidays: 20 days (national minimum), average tech companies offer 26-30 days
• Bank Holidays: 9 public holidays
• Sick Days: Unlimited
• Immigration Policy: Flexible options like the Highly Skilled Worker program and DAFT (Dutch American Friendship Treaty)
• Average Salary in Tech: €50,000 - €70,000 per year
• Unemployment Rate: 3.4% (as of 2021)
• 30% Ruling: Tax advantage for expat workers, learn more here.
• Healthcare: High-quality healthcare system, ranked among the best in Europe
• Education: Excellent education system with many international schools
• Transportation: Extensive public transportation network, including trains, trams, and bicycles
• Language: English is widely spoken, especially in the business community

Tips for Working with Recruitment Agencies:

1. Be Direct: The Dutch culture values directness, so don't be afraid to ask for feedback.
2. Build Relationships: Find 2-3 agencies that specialize in your industry.
3. Communicate Wisely: Ask your recruiter about the preferred frequency for check-ins.
4. Know Your Worth: Research salaries and contract rates, as the Netherlands tends to pay on the lower scale of the EU.
5. Understand the 30% Ruling: Learn more here.

Amsterdam's thriving tech scene, quality of life, and diverse culture make it an attractive destination for expats. By understanding the local culture, knowing your worth, and connecting with specialized recruitment agencies, you can find the right opportunities in this vibrant city.

Visa Sponsorship

Are you in need of sponsorship for residence in the Netherlands? The Public Register of Recognized Sponsors is a valuable resource for those seeking assistance with residence permits, whether for employment, study, or other purposes. Recognized sponsors are authorized organizations that can apply for residence permits on behalf of individuals, such as employees or students. Explore the list to find organizations that are officially recognized as sponsors. Click here.

Read Me Disclaimer:

I do not endorse any of the listed agencies listed below, nor do I receive a placement or referral fee.

The agencies listed here were recommended to me by 3rd party sources.   

Awards and recognitions can vary by year and category, and it might be beneficial to check the latest information directly on the agencies' websites or through industry-specific award organizations.

General Job Agencies

• Adams Multilingual Recruitment
• ProJob
• Page Personnel
• Undutchables - "Corporate Livewire Innovation & Excellence Award 2017."
• Hays - "World's Most Admired Companies" by Fortune magazine, "Top Employer" in several countries.
• Madison Parker
• Octagon Professionals
• Blue Lynx - Recognized for quality in multilingual professionals recruitment.
• Hoi Talent
• Unique Multilingual
• ASA
• Michael Page - "Most Socially Engaged Staffing Agencies" by LinkedIn, "Best Finance Recruitment Firm" by CFO Innovation Awards.
• Hudson
• Randstad - "World's Most Attractive Employer" by Universum, "World's Most Ethical Companies" by Ethisphere.
• Kelly Services - "World's Best Outsourcing Providers" by IAOP.

Creative / Media / Advertising Job Agencies

• Aquent - "Best in Staffing" by ClearlyRated, Innovative Talent, and Staffing Solutions Recognition.
• Wildwood

Finance

• Lime
• Robert Walters - "International Recruitment Company of the Year" at the Recruitment International Awards, "Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For."
• Bridgewell
• Octagon

Marketing

• New People
• SAM Recruiter (Sales & Marketing)

Executive Search

• Top of Minds
• Career Openers
• Lyncwise
• Tomato Talent

Technology

• Rave Recruitment - Recognized for its specialized focus on technology recruitment.
• Sterksen - "Top Rated Recruitment Agency" by Ratecard.
• Proprius
• Nederlia
• Relocate.me

HR and Recruitment Specialized Agencies

• Robert Walters - Specializing in HR and recruitment positions.
• Randstad - Offers various HR positions and recruitment roles.
• Michael Page Human Resources - Focuses on HR roles across different industries.
• YER Recruitment Solutions - Provides opportunities for both temporary and permanent HR roles.
• HRM Progress - Specializing exclusively in HR roles.
• Greenberg Nielsen - Focusing on finance and HR positions.
• Human Source Group - Specializing in IT and HR recruitment.
• Recruit4.work - Offers technology, sales, and HR roles.
• HR Professionals - A niche agency focusing solely on HR roles.
• Visser & Van Baars - Specializing in BI, MI, data & analytics, and HR positions.