In 2024, the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV) issued 20,172 work permits for migrant workers and working students from outside the European Union (EU). This marks a significant increase compared to previous years, highlighting a growing reliance on foreign labor in the Dutch job market.
Additionally, the number of asylum seekers entering the workforce has surged, according to data obtained by NU.nl. The increasing demand for migrant workers is also driven by the aging population. The Dutch workforce is shrinking, while the need for healthcare and other essential services is growing.
Furthermore, expats typically seek high-skilled jobs in the Netherlands, for which there may not be enough qualified Dutch workers available. This moreover reinforces the need for international employees across various sectors.
With the Dutch economy expanding and labor shortages persisting, the reliance on migrant workers and asylum seekers is set to continue. Changes in regulations, combined with demographic shifts, have contributed to this trend.
As the country adapts to these workforce challenges, businesses and policymakers will need to find sustainable solutions to balance economic growth with labor market needs.
Increase in Work Permits
Companies looking to hire staff from outside the EU must obtain a work permit from the UWV. Last year, there was a 12% increase in issued permits compared to the previous year.
When compared to 2022, the rise was even more pronounced at 26%. This upward trend has been evident since 2019 and includes workers from non-EU European countries like the United Kingdom.
| Year | Work Permits Issued |
| 2022 | 16,800 |
| 2023 | 18,000 |
| 2024 | 20,172 |
Labor Market Constraints Driving Demand
According to the experts, the current increase is due to the labor shortage in the Netherlands. With historically low unemployment rates, companies struggle to find enough qualified workers.
Furthermore, this demand for migrant labor is estimated to remain high as the Dutch economy continues to expand. The economy is set to grow this year and next, maintaining the need for additional workers.
Asylum Seekers Entering the Dutch Workforce
The tight labor market has also led to a sharp rise in the employment of asylum seekers. In 2023, 9,281 work permits were granted to this group, over four times the number issued the previous year. Why are more asylum seekers finding work, the reasons are as follows:
- Regulatory Changes: Previously, asylum seekers were restricted to working only 24 weeks per year, making them less attractive to employers. However, a court ruling in late 2023 abolished this limitation.
- Staff Shortages: Many industries, including hospitality, cleaning, and agriculture, face severe labor shortages and have turned to asylum seekers to fill the gaps.
- Support from Agencies: The UWV, in collaboration with the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) and the Association of Dutch Municipalities (VNG), is actively helping asylum seekers secure sustainable employment. A UWV spokesperson stated, “Work provides perspective and promotes integration.”
Important Sources
Shortage Occupations List in Netherlands
Netherlands Work Visa: New Salary Threshold Announced for 2025