The Netherlands' Growing Demand for Foreign Construction Workers
The Netherlands is currently facing significant labor shortages in the construction sector, making it one of the most promising industries for foreign workers seeking employment and work visas in the country. According to a report by the Economic Institute for Construction (EIB) published in May 2023, the country will require an additional 10,000 foreign construction workers per year between 2025 and 2027 to meet demand.
This level of demand for foreign workers mirrors that of 2018 and 2019. With travel restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic no longer in place, employment agencies are witnessing a strong recovery in the availability of foreign workers, making the inflow of 10,000 workers annually a realistic target.
Vera Uunk of the Economic Institute for Construction highlights that one of the key factors attracting international workers to this sector is the prospect of higher salaries compared to their home countries.
The Netherlands Among Top 6 Countries with Highest Shortage of Occupations
A recent study by the European Labour Authority found that the Netherlands is among six EU countries experiencing the highest number of labor shortages. Alongside Norway, Belgium, Romania, Slovenia, and France, the Netherlands accounts for over half (53%) of all identified shortage occupations within the EU.
Despite these shortages, the Netherlands reported only one occupation with a labor surplus: pet groomers and animal care workers. This underscores the high demand for professionals across various sectors, particularly in construction, engineering, and technical fields.
Netherlands' Low Unemployment Rate: A Positive Outlook for Foreign Workers
The Dutch job market remains strong, with the unemployment rate dropping slightly to 3.6% in May 2023, according to Statistics Netherlands. The unemployment rate has hovered around 3.6% since the summer of 2023, demonstrating stability despite minor fluctuations.
Approximately 3.6 million individuals aged 15 to 75 were unemployed in May, though many of them were not actively seeking work due to retirement or health-related reasons. The relatively low unemployment rate suggests that demand for skilled labor continues to outpace supply, making it an opportune time for foreign professionals to enter the Dutch job market.
Key Takeaways for Foreign Job Seekers
- Construction jobs offer high chances of securing a work visa due to persistent labor shortages.
- Higher salaries are a significant incentive for international workers in the Dutch construction industry.
- The Netherlands is among the top EU countries with high labor shortages, particularly in engineering, technical fields, and skilled trades.
- Low unemployment rates indicate a favorable job market for foreign workers seeking employment.
For those considering a move to the Netherlands for work, targeting high-demand sectors like construction, engineering, and technical trades will significantly improve the chances of securing a Dutch work visa and long-term employment.