Finding housekeeping jobs in the Netherlands as a foreigner can be an exciting opportunity to work in a vibrant country known for its strong economy, high quality of life, and multicultural environment. Housekeeping roles are in demand, especially in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, where tourism and hospitality thrive.
For non-EU citizens, navigating the job market and visa requirements can feel daunting, but with the right approach, you can secure a role and start your journey. This guide walks you through the steps to find housekeeping jobs, understand visa processes, meet job requirements, and succeed in the Dutch job market—all while keeping things friendly and straightforward.
Why Choose Housekeeping Jobs in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands offers a welcoming environment for foreign workers, with a stable economy and strong labor protections. Housekeeping jobs are a great entry point for those seeking unskilled work, as they often don’t require advanced education or extensive experience.
These roles are common in hotels, hostels, private homes, healthcare facilities, and offices, providing steady employment and competitive wages. According to industry data, housekeepers in the Netherlands earn €9–€12 per hour, with some employers offering benefits like paid holidays, accommodation, or visa sponsorship.
The country’s focus on work-life balance, with flexible hours and paid sick leave, makes it an attractive destination for foreigners looking to start anew.
Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Housekeeping Jobs
1. Understand the Job Market
Housekeeping jobs in the Netherlands are plentiful due to a shortage of local workers, particularly in the hospitality and tourism sectors. Roles include room attendants, office cleaners, laundry assistants, and housekeeping supervisors.
Major cities like Amsterdam, Eindhoven, and Rotterdam have the highest demand, especially in hotels like Hilton, Marriott, and boutique establishments. Some employers, particularly in tourist-heavy areas, prioritize English-speaking staff to cater to international guests, making these jobs accessible for foreigners with limited Dutch skills.
2. Check Visa and Work Permit Requirements
As a non-EU citizen, you’ll need a work permit and possibly a visa to work legally in the Netherlands. Here’s what you need to know:
- Work Permit: Employers must apply for a work permit (TWV) on your behalf through the Netherlands’ Employee Insurance Agency (UWV). This is typically granted for roles facing labor shortages, like housekeeping, if the employer proves they couldn’t find EU candidates.
- Residence Permit (MVV): If you’re from a country requiring a visa (e.g., Uganda or the UAE), you’ll need an MVV, which is applied for alongside the work permit. Your employer often initiates this process with a certified sponsor status from the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
- Requirements: You must be at least 18 (sometimes 21), have a clean criminal record, and provide a health certificate. Basic English is usually sufficient, though rudimentary Dutch can boost your chances.
- Process: Once hired, your employer submits the work permit application. If approved, you apply for the MVV at a Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country or current residence (e.g., UAE). Processing can take 1–3 months, so plan ahead.
Certified sponsors, like staffing agencies or large hotel chains, are key to simplifying this process. Check the IND’s public register of recognized sponsors to find employers willing to hire foreigners.
3. Prepare Your Application Materials
A strong application is your ticket to standing out. Here’s how to get ready:
- Resume/CV: Keep it concise (one page) and professional. Include your full name, contact details, country of origin, language skills (English and any Dutch), and work history (even informal cleaning or hospitality roles). Highlight your reliability and willingness to learn Dutch. Use a clean Word or PDF format without grammar errors.
- Cover Letter: Write a brief letter explaining why you want to work in the Netherlands and how your skills fit housekeeping roles. Mention your adaptability and enthusiasm for maintaining clean, welcoming spaces.
- References: If possible, include references from previous employers or clients to showcase your work ethic.
4. Find Housekeeping Job Listings
Several platforms and resources can help you find housekeeping jobs in the Netherlands:
- Job Portals:
- EURES (eures.europa.eu): The European Union’s job mobility portal lists thousands of vacancies, including housekeeping roles, with filters for visa sponsorship.
- Indeed (indeed.com): Search for “housekeeping jobs Netherlands visa sponsorship” to find over 500 listings, some tailored for English speakers.
- Glassdoor (glassdoor.com): Offers 600+ housekeeping jobs, with reviews of employers like Marriott and a&o Hostels.
- StudentJob (studentjob.nl): Great for English-speaking foreigners, especially in tourist areas.
- Hotelprofessionals.nl: Lists hotel-specific housekeeping roles in Amsterdam and beyond.
- Staffing Agencies:
- Intro EU Staffing: Specializes in placing foreigners in hospitality and cleaning roles, often with visa support.
- BCM Group: Offers jobs in hotels and logistics, with accommodation and visa assistance.
- CCS Cleaning (ccscleaning.com): A leading cleaning company with opportunities across the Netherlands.
- Networking: Join expat groups on platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook (e.g., “Expats in Amsterdam”) to connect with employers or other workers who can recommend openings.
Search terms like “cleaning jobs Netherlands 2025 visa sponsorship” or “English-speaking housekeeping jobs Netherlands” to find relevant listings. Apply directly through these platforms, ensuring your CV and cover letter are tailored to each job.
5. Meet Job Requirements and Skills
While housekeeping is considered unskilled, employers value certain qualities:
- Physical Stamina: Roles involve cleaning, lifting, and standing for long periods.
- Attention to Detail: Ensuring rooms and spaces meet high cleanliness standards is critical.
- Communication Skills: Basic English is often enough, but learning basic Dutch phrases (e.g., greetings or cleaning terms) shows initiative.
- Reliability: Punctuality and consistency are highly valued, especially in hotels.
- Teamwork: You’ll often work with diverse teams, so a cooperative attitude is key.
No formal education is typically required, but some employers prefer candidates with prior cleaning or hospitality experience. If you lack experience, emphasize your willingness to learn and your dedication to maintaining hygiene.
6. Understand Salaries and Benefits
Housekeeping jobs in the Netherlands offer competitive pay, typically €9–€12 per hour, with night or weekend shifts potentially earning 20–40% more under collective labor agreements (CAO). Additional benefits may include:
- Paid Holidays: 20–25 days per year, depending on your contract.
- Sick Leave: Paid leave if you’re unable to work due to illness.
- Accommodation: Some employers, especially in hospitality, provide free or subsidized housing.
- Training: Opportunities to learn new skills, like advanced cleaning techniques or supervisory roles.
- Travel Allowances: Reimbursements for commuting, especially if you live far from the workplace.
For example, a housekeeper in Amsterdam working 38 hours a week might earn €2,050–€2,100 monthly, with bonuses for performance or overtime.
7. Apply and Interview
Once you find a job listing, apply promptly with your tailored CV and cover letter. Many employers conduct initial interviews via WhatsApp, Zoom, or email, especially for international candidates. Be prepared to discuss:
- Your experience (if any) in cleaning or hospitality.
- Your ability to handle physically demanding tasks.
- Your willingness to relocate and learn basic Dutch.
- Your availability for flexible shifts, including weekends.
Show enthusiasm and professionalism, and highlight your commitment to providing excellent service. If offered a job, confirm whether the employer will sponsor your visa and clarify contract details, such as hours, pay, and benefits.
8. Avoid Common Pitfalls
Securing a housekeeping job as a foreigner comes with challenges. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Scams: Be cautious of agencies asking for upfront fees. Legitimate recruiters, like Intro EU Staffing, don’t charge applicants.
- Undocumented Work: Avoid “under the table” jobs, as they lack legal protections and can lead to deportation.
- Visa Delays: Apply early, as visa processing can take months. Ensure all documents (passport, health certificate, police clearance) are ready.
- Language Barriers: While English is often enough, learning basic Dutch through apps like Duolingo can set you apart.
9. Settle into Your New Role
Once hired, you’ll typically receive training on workplace standards, such as the 5S principles (organization, neatness, cleanliness, standardization, discipline). Your tasks may include cleaning guest rooms, maintaining public areas, handling laundry, or responding to guest requests. Embrace the opportunity to work in a multicultural environment and build connections with colleagues and guests.
10. Plan for Growth
Housekeeping jobs can be a stepping stone to other opportunities. With experience, you could move into supervisory roles or transition to other hospitality positions, like front desk or concierge work. The Netherlands’ vocational training system also offers certifications to enhance your skills and earning potential.
Final Tips for Success
- Stay Persistent: Apply to multiple jobs and follow up politely with employers.
- Leverage Resources: Use EURES, Indeed, and staffing agencies to find opportunities.
- Learn Dutch: Even basic phrases can improve your job prospects and integration.
- Network: Connect with expat communities or colleagues for job leads and support.
Housekeeping jobs in the Netherlands offer foreigners a chance to build a stable, rewarding career in a dynamic country. With dedication, a solid application, and the right visa, you can turn your dream of working abroad into reality.
Start your search today on platforms like EURES or Indeed, and take the first step toward a fulfilling job in the Netherlands
