Finding a Job in the Netherlands as an English Speaker: A 2026 Guide to Hired Companies

The Dutch job market for English speakers in 2026 is more open than ever, but landing a role requires a targeted strategy. Forget the myth that you must speak Dutch for every job. In key sectors, English is the corporate language, and international talent is in high demand. This guide cuts through the noise, showing you exactly which companies are hiring and how to get your foot in the door.

The 2026 Landscape: Where English is the Business Language

First, understand the terrain. The Netherlands, with its historically international outlook and headquarters for many multinationals, has entire ecosystems where English dominates. Your success hinges on targeting these specific areas:

• Tech & IT: Amsterdam and Eindhoven (Europe’s “Brainport”) are massive hubs. Demand for software developers, data engineers, cybersecurity experts, and IT consultants is relentless.
• Finance & FinTech: Amsterdam’s financial sector is packed with international banks, trading firms, and booming FinTech startups.
• Agri-Food & Horticulture: The Netherlands is a global leader. Research, innovation, and supply chain roles in these fields are often English-speaking.
• Creative & Marketing: From global ad agencies to in-house teams at multinationals, the creative industry operates heavily in English.
• Science & Research: Dutch universities and innovative life sciences companies (like in Leiden’s Bio Science Park) run countless English-language projects.

Top Companies Hiring English Speakers in 2026 (And How to Find More)

While giants like ASML, ING, Philips, and Booking.com are famously international, don’t overlook these high-potential avenues:

1. The Scale-Up Scene: Companies like Picnic (groceries), MessageBird (communications), and Mollie (payments) have scaled massively but retain their English-first, talent-hungry culture.
2. International Public Organisations: The International Criminal Court, Europol, and EMA (European Medicines Agency) are based here and hire diverse, English-speaking professionals.
3. “Holland Big Tech”: Look at Adyen (fintech), Miro (collaboration software), and GitLab (dev ops), which have major Dutch hubs where English is the default.

Pro Tip: Use LinkedIn’s “Jobs” filter. Set location to “Netherlands” and type “*English*” in the keyword field. You’ll find roles explicitly stating “English workplace.” Also, explore Undutchables and Adams Recruitment, agencies specializing in placing international talent.

Your 2026 Application Strategy: Be More Than “Just English”

Speaking English isn’t a skill—it’s a given. Your application must highlight why you in this market.

• Keyword-Optimize Your CV: Mirror the job description. If a role seeks a “Python developer with Agile Scrum experience,” use those exact terms. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) screen for this.
• Lead with EU Right-to-Work Status: If you have it (e.g., as an EU citizen or through a partner visa), state it clearly at the top of your CV. It immediately reduces perceived hiring risk.
• Show “Dutch Adjacent” Qualities: Highlight experience in international teams, cross-cultural communication, and adaptability. Express a strong motivation to learn Dutch for social integration—this shows long-term commitment employers love.

Navigating the 30% Ruling (The 2026 Update)

This significant tax advantage for recruited expats is still around in 2026, but the criteria have tightened. Generally, you must:

• Be recruited from outside the Netherlands.
• Have specific expertise scarce in the Dutch labor market.
• Earn a minimum annual salary (€46,107 in 2026, or €35,048 for under-30s with a Master’s).
  Your employer must apply for it. Discuss this early in the final interview stages. It’s a key part of your compensation package.

The Final, Human Touch: Network Like a Local

The Dutch job market values directness and connection. A strong online application gets you in the door, but these steps seal the deal:

• Find “Burgers” not “Expats”: Attend industry meetups on Meetup.com or events at B. Amsterdam. Connect with people in your field, not just other job seekers.
• Master the Informational Interview: Politely message professionals on LinkedIn for a 15-minute virtual coffee. Ask about their role and the company culture. It builds relationships and insider knowledge.
• Prepare for Dutch Directness: Interviews are often less about selling yourself and more about factual, in-depth discussion of your skills. Come prepared with concrete examples and be ready for blunt questions—it’s not rude, it’s efficient.

Landing a job in the Netherlands as an English speaker is a structured process. In 2026, it’s about precision: targeting the right sectors, tailoring your approach for the Dutch context, and proving you’re not just passing through. The opportunities are vast for those who do their homework. Now, it’s your move.