I am sri lankan citizen but i am working now in romania for three years can i find unskilled job in netherlands

Answered at Nov 20, 2024

As a Sri Lankan citizen currently working in Romania, you may be interested in exploring unskilled job opportunities in the Netherlands. Here’s a concise guide to help you understand the possibilities and requirements.

Work Permit Requirements

To work in the Netherlands, you will need a valid work permit or residence permit, especially since you are from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland. Employers must demonstrate that no qualified local or EU candidates are available for the job, which can be a challenging process (source).

Job Opportunities

Unskilled Jobs with Visa Sponsorship

The Netherlands offers unskilled job opportunities with visa sponsorship, particularly in industries like manufacturing, retail, hospitality, and food service. These roles do not require high levels of education or specialized skills (source).

Seasonal and Temporary Jobs

There are also seasonal and temporary job opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, and tourism. These positions may not provide stable employment but can be a good starting point (source).

Challenges

Labor Market Tests

Employers may need to conduct labor market tests to prove that no suitable EU/EEA/Swiss candidates are available. This process can be time-consuming and may discourage employers from hiring international unskilled workers (source).

Language Barrier

Many unskilled jobs require proficiency in Dutch, especially in customer-facing roles. Lack of Dutch language skills can be a significant barrier (source).

Salary Expectations

Unskilled workers in the Netherlands can earn up to €3,000 per month, though actual salaries may vary based on the industry and employer. The average pay is around €10 per hour, with potential increases to €20 (source).

Tips for Finding Jobs

  • Networking and Local Contacts: Building a network in the Netherlands can be beneficial. Knowing someone who can provide referrals or assistance can increase your chances of finding job opportunities (source).

  • Work Agencies: Some agencies specialize in temporary or seasonal work for international candidates. They can assist in finding unskilled job opportunities (source).

  • Volunteer Work and Internships: Participating in volunteer work or internships can help you gain experience and establish connections, potentially leading to paid opportunities (source).

Conclusion

While finding an unskilled job in the Netherlands as a non-EU citizen can be challenging due to work permit requirements and language barriers, opportunities do exist, especially in sectors offering visa sponsorship. Building a network and utilizing work agencies can enhance your chances of securing employment.