adminAmsterdam, Netherlands, is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for foreigners seeking high-paying jobs abroad. With a robust economy, progressive immigration policies, and a strong demand for skilled and unskilled workers, the city offers opportunities in finance, engineering, IT, construction, and hospitality.
The average annual salary for professionals in Amsterdam ranges between €35,000 to €90,000, depending on experience and visa type. International workers looking to relocate can take advantage of the Netherlands’ visa sponsorship programs that make legal employment abroad easier than ever before.
What are the High-Paying Jobs in Amsterdam, Netherlands?
High-paying jobs in Amsterdam are spread across sectors like technology, healthcare, logistics, and renewable energy. With the Netherlands’ GDP per capita exceeding €60,000, Amsterdam remains a magnet for skilled and international workers looking for well-compensated employment.
IT specialists, data analysts, and project managers are among the most sought-after professionals, earning between €55,000 and €120,000 per year. Foreigners can also find lucrative roles in the hospitality and construction industries, with annual salaries ranging from €30,000 to €50,000 for unskilled workers.
Companies such as Philips, Booking.com, and ING Bank regularly hire international employees under work visa sponsorship schemes. The demand for multilingual workers also makes Amsterdam an excellent destination for global applicants with English proficiency or other European language skills.
Types of Jobs in Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Amsterdam labor market accommodates various types of jobs suited for both skilled and unskilled workers. Foreigners and international job seekers can explore options across the following categories:
- Skilled Jobs: Positions in IT, finance, marketing, engineering, and healthcare that require certifications or university degrees. Average salaries start from €50,000 to €110,000 annually.
- Unskilled Jobs: Roles in cleaning, construction, logistics, and food services. These typically pay between €28,000 to €40,000 annually.
- Seasonal Jobs: Available in agriculture, tourism, and delivery services, with hourly pay ranging from €12 to €20.
- Part-time Jobs: Especially suitable for students or foreign residents, offering monthly income between €1,200 and €2,000.
The Netherlands maintains a minimum wage of around €2,070 per month for full-time workers, ensuring a fair income for all categories of employees.
High-Paying Jobs in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam boasts some of the best-paying job opportunities in Europe. Technology and finance dominate the high-income sectors, with global companies offering competitive packages. Below are a few examples of the city’s best-paying jobs for skilled and international professionals:
- Software Engineer – Average salary: €75,000/year
- Data Scientist – Average salary: €85,000/year
- Financial Analyst – Average salary: €70,000/year
- Marketing Manager – Average salary: €68,000/year
- Construction Manager – Average salary: €60,000/year
- Healthcare Specialist – Average salary: €55,000–€100,000/year
For unskilled workers, jobs in logistics and cleaning services pay well compared to other EU countries. Warehouse workers, for instance, can earn up to €2,400/month, while hospitality workers make between €2,000 and €2,800/month, especially in large hotels and restaurants catering to tourists.
Salary Expectations for Skilled, Unskilled and International Workers
Salaries in Amsterdam are among the highest in Europe, making it a top choice for foreign workers seeking better income. The pay scale depends on one’s profession, experience, and visa sponsorship arrangement. Skilled professionals usually earn between €60,000 and €120,000 annually, while unskilled workers typically make €28,000 to €40,000 per year.
For international workers under visa sponsorship programs, employers often provide housing benefits, insurance, and relocation allowances worth €3,000–€5,000 annually. For example, an IT engineer on a skilled visa may earn €6,000/month, while a construction laborer could make €2,200–€2,800/month plus overtime pay.
Overall, Amsterdam’s cost of living is balanced by generous salaries, especially in industries such as technology, finance, and logistics, where demand remains high throughout 2025.
| JOB TYPE | ANNUAL SALARY (€) |
| Skilled Jobs | 60,000 – 120,000 |
| Unskilled Jobs | 28,000 – 40,000 |
| Semi-Skilled Jobs | 35,000 – 55,000 |
| Hospitality Jobs | 30,000 – 50,000 |
| Health Jobs | 50,000 – 100,000 |
| IT Jobs | 65,000 – 115,000 |
| Construction Jobs | 32,000 – 60,000 |
Eligibility Criteria for the High-Paying Jobs in Amsterdam, Netherlands
To qualify for high-paying jobs in Amsterdam, foreign and international applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements set by both the Dutch government and employers. Most skilled positions require relevant educational qualifications, valid work experience, and proficiency in English or Dutch.
Candidates with bachelor’s or master’s degrees in technical, financial, or medical fields stand a better chance of being sponsored under the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa or EU Blue Card program.
For unskilled workers, employers often look for reliability, basic communication skills, and physical fitness. While a degree may not be required, experience in construction, hospitality, or logistics gives a significant advantage.
Typical eligibility conditions include:
- Valid passport and clean criminal record.
- Proven work experience of at least 1–3 years.
- Medical fitness certificate.
- Work contract from a Netherlands-based employer.
Meeting these criteria ensures a smoother visa sponsorship process. Many foreign workers also improve their chances by acquiring certifications such as forklift operation licenses, nursing diplomas, or IT programming certificates, which can boost their earning potential from €2,000 to €6,500 per month, depending on the sector.
Requirements for the High-Paying Jobs in Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Netherlands maintains a strict yet transparent hiring process for foreigners seeking high-paying jobs. Employers hiring international workers under visa sponsorship must follow legal guidelines set by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
Applicants are typically required to present a combination of personal, educational, and professional documents, including:
- Valid international passport (minimum 12 months validity).
- Proof of employment contract or job offer letter.
- Educational certificates and transcripts (translated if necessary).
- Updated CV with references.
- Health insurance coverage proof.
- Proof of financial means or employer sponsorship letter.
Some industries, such as healthcare or construction, may require additional certifications or safety training records. The documentation ensures both the worker and employer comply with Dutch labor laws. On average, the total documentation cost for visa and legal processing ranges between €400 and €1,200, depending on the visa category.
Visa Options for Skilled, Unskilled and International Workers
Amsterdam provides multiple visa options that support legal employment for foreigners. The Netherlands government encourages skilled migration through visa programs designed to attract international talent. The most common options include:
- Highly Skilled Migrant Visa: Designed for professionals earning over €5,331/month (2025 threshold). Common for IT, finance, and engineering sectors.
- EU Blue Card: Available for highly educated workers earning at least €6,245/month, offering EU-wide mobility and permanent residence pathways.
- Seasonal Work Visa: Issued for temporary and unskilled workers in agriculture or tourism sectors, valid up to 24 weeks.
- Intra-Company Transfer Visa: For employees transferred from multinational branches to Dutch offices.
- Startup Visa: For entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas seeking to establish ventures in Amsterdam.
Unskilled workers may also be hired through employer-sponsored temporary work permits, earning between €2,000 and €3,500/month, depending on the role. All visa categories require an employer registered with the IND as a recognized sponsor, ensuring legal employment for foreigners in Amsterdam.
Documents Checklist for the High-Paying Jobs in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Foreigners applying for visa sponsorship jobs in Amsterdam should prepare a detailed set of documents before submitting their applications. Proper documentation is essential for approval and reduces processing delays. Below is a checklist required by most Dutch employers and consular offices:
- Valid passport (minimum 12 months before expiration).
- Signed job offer or employment contract.
- Recent passport-size photographs (two or more).
- Proof of accommodation in Amsterdam (hotel booking or lease).
- Proof of health insurance (minimum coverage €30,000).
- Proof of qualifications (diplomas, training certificates).
- Police clearance certificate.
- Visa application form and processing fee receipt.
These documents must be legalized or translated into Dutch or English by certified translators. Processing time for a work visa typically ranges between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the applicant’s nationality. Submitting accurate documents not only increases visa approval chances but also ensures compliance with Dutch immigration regulations.
How to Apply for High-Paying Jobs in Amsterdam, Netherlands
The application process for high-paying jobs in Amsterdam is straightforward but requires precision and planning. Job seekers should begin by identifying Dutch employers offering visa sponsorship opportunities. Once a job offer is secured, the employer initiates the visa process on behalf of the foreign worker.
Step-by-step application guide:
- Search and apply on trusted job portals like LinkedIn, Indeed.nl, Glassdoor, and Expatica Jobs.
- Prepare your CV and cover letter following Dutch professional standards (1–2 pages, concise and factual).
- Attend virtual or in-person interviews and provide required references.
- Receive an employment contract and sign it once you agree to the terms and salary.
- The employer submits visa sponsorship to the IND.
- Submit your visa application at the nearest Dutch Embassy or VFS center.
Processing fees for work visas average €345, while employers cover additional sponsorship costs. Once approved, applicants can legally relocate and start working in Amsterdam, with relocation benefits worth up to €3,000–€6,000, depending on the company.
Top Employers & Companies Hiring Skilled, Unskilled and International Workers in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam’s economy thrives on global talent, and numerous international companies consistently hire foreign professionals under visa sponsorship programs. These employers provide attractive salaries, relocation assistance, and housing support.
Here are the top companies currently recruiting skilled and unskilled international workers:
- Booking: Hiring IT specialists, marketing experts, and customer support agents; salaries between €45,000 and €100,000/year.
- Philips: Offers roles in engineering and research with average annual pay around €80,000.
- Shell Netherlands: Recruits engineers, project managers, and logistics experts; salaries from €70,000 to €110,000/year.
- Heineken International: Seeks factory and logistics workers; unskilled roles earn €2,400/month, while management roles pay over €65,000/year.
- Tesla Netherlands: Provides engineering, warehouse, and operations jobs with salaries up to €90,000/year.
- KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: Offers ground staff and technical maintenance positions with pay ranging from €2,800 to €5,000/month.
These employers are recognized by the Dutch IND as visa sponsors, ensuring that foreign applicants can work legally and safely while enjoying excellent salaries and benefits.
Where to Find High-Paying Jobs in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Finding high-paying jobs in Amsterdam requires strategic searching and the use of reputable online platforms. Many foreign and international workers successfully secure employment through trusted job portals that list verified companies offering visa sponsorship.
With average salaries ranging between €40,000 and €90,000 per year, these platforms simplify the hiring process for both skilled and unskilled applicants.
Some of the best websites to find legitimate job offers include:
- LinkedIn: The top site for professional networking and finding global employers hiring foreign workers.
- Indeed: A Dutch job board with listings across IT, construction, and healthcare sectors.
- Glassdoor: Allows job seekers to compare salaries and company reviews.
- Expatica Jobs: Designed for foreigners living abroad in the Netherlands.
- IamExpat: Focused on expatriates seeking full-time work and relocation offers.
- Undutchables: Specializes in English-speaking and international roles.
Applicants are encouraged to tailor their CVs according to Dutch standards, maintain transparency in their job history, and clearly indicate visa sponsorship eligibility. Most skilled professionals receive feedback within 2–4 weeks, while unskilled workers may get responses faster for roles in logistics or cleaning, paying around €2,200 to €2,800 monthly.
Working in Amsterdam, Netherlands as Skilled, Unskilled and International Workers
Working in Amsterdam offers a rewarding experience for foreigners due to the city’s high living standards, fair labor laws, and cultural diversity. The average workweek is 36–40 hours, with strong protections for employees under Dutch labor law.
Skilled workers such as engineers, IT developers, and accountants typically earn between €55,000 and €120,000 annually, while unskilled workers in logistics, cleaning, or factory operations earn €28,000–€38,000 per year.
Foreigners benefit from paid vacations (at least 20 days per year), healthcare coverage, and pension contributions. Dutch employers are known for flexible schedules and strong emphasis on work-life balance.
International workers under visa sponsorship often receive additional perks such as:
- Housing assistance or company-provided accommodation.
- Annual travel allowances or free flights.
- Family reunification options after 12 months of legal stay.
- Access to free Dutch language courses provided by some employers.
The Netherlands’ inclusive employment policies make Amsterdam one of the best European cities to work abroad, regardless of background or experience level.
Why Employers in Amsterdam, Netherlands Want to Sponsor Skilled, Unskilled and International Workers
The Dutch economy relies heavily on international talent to sustain its growth and competitiveness. Employers in Amsterdam actively sponsor foreign workers to fill skill shortages in key industries such as technology, logistics, and healthcare. By hiring international talent, Dutch companies ensure continued innovation and productivity.
Key reasons employers sponsor foreign workers include:
- Labor Shortages: The Netherlands faces increasing demand for workers in IT, engineering, and healthcare sectors, where local supply is limited.
- Multilingual Workforce: International workers bring valuable language skills essential for global operations and customer service.
- Economic Growth: Hiring foreigners boosts export-oriented industries and tourism, contributing to GDP growth exceeding €1 trillion annually.
- Government Support: The Dutch government encourages skilled migration through programs like the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa, offering tax benefits to employers.
Sponsorship also helps employers maintain diversity in the workplace, which has been proven to enhance creativity and productivity. Companies offering sponsorships often provide higher wages, typically 10–20% more than non-sponsored positions, to attract and retain global talent.
FAQ about High-Paying Jobs in Amsterdam, Netherlands
1. What are the best-paying jobs for foreigners in Amsterdam?
The highest-paying jobs include IT specialists (€70,000–€110,000/year), financial analysts (€65,000–€90,000/year), and project managers (€75,000–€120,000/year). Healthcare professionals and engineers also earn competitive salaries.
2. Do employers in Amsterdam provide visa sponsorship?
Yes. Many Dutch employers, such as Booking.com, Philips, and Shell, are registered visa sponsors under the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). They handle all paperwork for foreign workers.
3. Can unskilled foreigners find jobs in Amsterdam?
Absolutely. Unskilled workers are in demand in cleaning, warehouse, delivery, and hospitality sectors. Salaries range from €2,000 to €2,800 per month with housing or meal benefits.
4. How much do international workers earn in Amsterdam?
Salaries depend on the position and experience. Skilled professionals earn between €55,000 and €120,000 per year, while unskilled laborers typically earn €28,000–€38,000 annually.
5. What is the cost of living in Amsterdam for foreign workers?
The average monthly cost of living ranges between €1,800 and €2,500, depending on accommodation and lifestyle. However, many sponsored workers receive housing or travel allowances.
6. What is the working visa processing time for Amsterdam?
Processing generally takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the embassy workload and employer sponsorship status.
7. Are there part-time job opportunities for foreigners?
Yes, Amsterdam offers part-time roles in retail, restaurants, and delivery services, paying between €12 and €20 per hour, ideal for students or short-term residents.
8. Do foreign workers pay taxes in Amsterdam?
Yes, but the Netherlands provides tax relief programs for expatriates. Under the 30% ruling, eligible foreign workers receive a 30% tax-free portion of their income for up to five years.
9. Can I move to Amsterdam without a job offer?
It is possible under certain visa types, such as the Startup Visa or if you are an EU/EEA citizen. However, most non-EU citizens require a job offer to apply for a sponsored work visa.
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