Work and travel in
Netherlands
How to
apply
Who can apply?
To work in the Netherlands through the Netherlands-Canada Youth Mobility Agreement, you must:
- be a Canadian citizen
- be 18-30 years old (inclusive) for the Working Holiday program
- be 18-30 years old (inclusive) for the Young Workers Exchange program
- live in Canada when applying, and
- have a valid Canadian passport
Other requirements may apply. Check Netherlands website for more details on the Working Holiday program or the Young Workers Exchange program.
What type of work visa do I need?
If you’re applying for the Young Workers Exchange program, you need to apply for a Single Permit. The main purpose of your stay must be to gain work experience. You must be a post-secondary student or have graduated less than 12 months ago.
If you’re applying for the Working Holiday program, you need to apply for a residence permit. The main purpose of your stay must be to get to know Dutch society and culture.
Do I need a formal job or internship offer?
Yes, you need a job offer (pre-arranged contract of employment) or formal internship offer if you apply to the Young Workers Exchange program.
No, you don’t need one if you apply for the Working Holiday program.
How long can I stay and work?
Working Holiday Program
You can stay and work in the Netherlands for up to 12 months under the Working Holiday Program. You can’t extend your residence permit through the Working Holiday Program.
Young Workers Exchange Program
You can stay and work for 12 months.
You can participate in both programs once.
Start your
Adventure
About the Netherlands
Did you know that Holland and the Netherlands are actually not the same? The Kingdom of The Netherlands has 12 provinces, only two of which, South and North-Holland, make up Holland. The Netherlands is extremely flat with a quarter of its surface below sea level. It offers a unique set of landscapes, including rivers, canals, polders and dunes. Smaller than Nova Scotia, the Netherlands is a very densely populated country with a temperate maritime climate, with cool summers and mild winters. You can easily immerse yourself in the Netherlands by biking pretty much anywhere. Visiting Amsterdam’s elegant canals, world-class museums and vibrant nightlife are a must. Other cities such as Rotterdam and Utrecht each have their own, unique attractions and are also worth exploring.
The Dutch economy is stable, healthy and very active in global trade. The business structure in the Netherlands is characterized as being flat in terms of hierarchy levels which helps to foster productivity among teams in the workplace.
The Netherlands has two official languages, Dutch and Frisian. However, the average Dutch citizen speaks more than 3 languages and over 90 percent of the population is fluent in English.
Plan your trip
The best way to make sure your trip is the experience of a lifetime is to plan. Review our travel checklist to find out what you should know or do before travelling to and working in a foreign country.
Before you leave, remember to register as a Canadian abroad to receive notifications in case of an emergency while you are abroad or of a personal emergency at home. The service also enables you to receive important information before or during a natural disaster or civil unrest.
Recognized Organizations
Need help planning? One of IEC’s recognized organizations might be able to help you find a job, transportation, and provide travel advice.
Most recognized organizations charge a fee for their services.
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