Living and Working in the Netherlands

Like Hong Kong, The Netherlands is a diverse, multicultural society and as such, English is the foremost language used in business. Along with advantageous tax legislation and a positive attitude to the work/life balance, The Netherlands has become a popular choice for finance professionals from Hong Kong and the rest of the world.

Despite being a small country, the Netherlands is a key contributor to Europe’s economic yield and one of the world’s major exporters of natural gas, goods and food. As a result, the Netherlands offers attractive employment opportunities in a range of sectors and industries.

As specialists in international recruitment, Morgan McKinley can help you to find a job to suit you in the Netherlands. If you are planning to move from Hong Kong to work in the Netherlands, contact your nearest Morgan McKinley office today. 

Living in the Netherlands – Fast facts

• The Netherlands was a founder member of the EU, the Benelux and NATO.
• Although Amsterdam is its capital city, its seat of governance is at The Hague.
• The currency in The Netherlands is the Euro.
• The Amsterdam Stock Exchange (AEX) is the world’s oldest stock exchange.
• The main language spoken is Dutch, though many locals are multilingual.
• Working hours in the Netherlands can be up to 45 hours per week.

Visa and tax requirements in the Netherlands

You will require a Temporary Residence Permit (MVV) to work in the Netherlands for longer than three months, unless you are already an EU national. You are also asked to register with the Dutch Immigration authority - IND (Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst). A Schengen Visa is a visa which allows non-EU residents to travel across the 15 Schengen Visa member countries in Europe on one document, which is quicker and less bureaucratic. You can find out more about the Schengen visa and in which countries it is valid at www.schengenvisa.cc.

You will also need a Citizen Service Number (Burger Servicenummer, or BSN). The BSN enables you to contribute taxes and social security, which are deducted from your wages by your employer.

To find out more about visa and tax requirements, contact the Netherlands Consulate in Hong Kong or contact Morgan McKinley. We can advise you about recruitment opportunities abroad and discuss any concerns or questions you may have about moving to the Netherlands by providing relevant information, help and advice.