The Netherlands is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for foreign workers due to its strong economy, modern infrastructure, and high quality of life. While the country is famous for skilled jobs in IT, engineering, and finance, there is also a huge demand for unskilled workers in industries like agriculture, hospitality, logistics, and manufacturing.
For 2025, many Dutch employers are offering work visas with sponsorship to fill labor shortages. This opens opportunities for international candidates who may not have higher education but want to secure stable, well-paying jobs in Europe.
In this article, we’ll explore everything about unskilled jobs in the Netherlands with work visa sponsorship in 2025—from job types, salary details, benefits, and eligibility, to the application process and official job portals.
Why Choose the Netherlands for Unskilled Jobs?
- Visa Sponsorship Available for international workers.
- Good Salary Packages compared to other EU countries.
- Safe Work Environment with strong labor laws.
- No Higher Education Required for many roles.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency after continuous employment.
- Multicultural Workplaces (English widely spoken).
Top Unskilled Jobs in the Netherlands (2025)
Here are the most in-demand unskilled job categories where foreigners can apply with visa sponsorship:
- Agricultural & Farm Jobs
- Fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, greenhouse farming.
- High demand in rural provinces such as North Brabant, Limburg, and Gelderland.
- Warehouse & Logistics Jobs
- Packing, labeling, sorting, forklift assistance.
- Major companies like DHL, PostNL, and Bol.com hire regularly.
- Hospitality & Restaurant Jobs
- Kitchen helpers, cleaners, waiters, dishwashers.
- Popular in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague.
- Cleaning & Housekeeping Jobs
- Office cleaning, hotel cleaning, domestic helpers.
- Construction Helper Jobs
- Assisting skilled workers, carrying materials, site cleaning.
- Factory & Production Line Jobs
- Packing, machine assistance, product inspection.
- Care Assistant Jobs (Non-Medical)
- Elderly care helpers (basic support, not requiring nursing degree).
Benefits of Unskilled Jobs in the Netherlands
- Salary Range: €1,800 – €2,400 per month (varies by job/industry).
- Working Hours: 36 – 40 hours per week.
- Overtime Pay & Allowances for night/weekend shifts.
- Paid Annual Leave: Minimum 20 days per year.
- Health Insurance Coverage.
- Employer-Provided Accommodation (in some sectors like agriculture).
- Long-Term Residence Options after 5 years of employment.
Average Salary for Unskilled Jobs in the Netherlands (2025)
| Job Role | Average Monthly Salary (€) |
|---|---|
| Farm Worker | €1,800 – €2,200 |
| Warehouse Packer | €1,900 – €2,300 |
| Kitchen Helper | €1,850 – €2,100 |
| Cleaner/Housekeeper | €1,800 – €2,000 |
| Construction Helper | €2,000 – €2,400 |
| Factory Worker | €1,900 – €2,200 |
Eligibility Criteria (Who Can Apply?)
- Age Limit: 18 – 45 years (varies by employer).
- Education: No formal degree required for unskilled roles.
- Language: Basic English is usually enough (Dutch is an advantage).
- Experience: Not mandatory, but preferred for some jobs.
- Health: Good physical fitness is required.
Related: Farm Worker Jobs in Romania with Visa Sponsorship
Work Visa Options for Unskilled Jobs in the Netherlands
- Single Permit (GVVA):
- Combines work permit and residence permit.
- Valid for up to 1 year and renewable.
- Employer applies on behalf of the worker.
- Seasonal Work Visa:
- For short-term agricultural and farm jobs.
- Usually valid for up to 6 months.
- Intra-EU Mobility Options:
- If you have already worked in another EU country, you may transfer under certain agreements.
Documents Required for Work Visa Application (2025)
- Valid passport.
- Job offer letter from Dutch employer.
- Updated CV/Resume.
- Employment contract signed by employer.
- Educational certificates (if required).
- Police clearance certificate.
- Medical fitness certificate.
- Proof of accommodation (sometimes arranged by employer).
How to Apply for Unskilled Jobs in the Netherlands (Step by Step)
- Find a Job: Search on trusted job portals and company websites.
- Apply Online: Submit your CV and cover letter directly.
- Attend Interview: Some employers may conduct video interviews.
- Receive Job Offer: If selected, employer issues a contract.
- Visa Sponsorship: Employer applies for your work permit (GVVA).
- Travel & Start Work: Once approved, relocate to the Netherlands.
Best Job Portals to Find Unskilled Jobs in the Netherlands
- EURES (European Job Mobility Portal): ec.europa.eu/eures
- Indeed Netherlands: nl.indeed.com
- LinkedIn Jobs – Global platform with many Dutch employers.
- Glassdoor Netherlands – glassdoor.nl
- Expatica Jobs – jobs.expatica.com
- Tempo-Team & Randstad – Dutch recruitment agencies.
Best Cities for Unskilled Jobs in the Netherlands
- Amsterdam – Hospitality, restaurants, cleaning, logistics.
- Rotterdam – Shipping, warehouses, factories.
- The Hague – Hotels, cleaning, service sector.
- Utrecht – Logistics and warehouse jobs.
- Eindhoven – Manufacturing and factory work.
- Limburg & North Brabant – Agriculture and farm jobs.
Challenges of Unskilled Jobs in the Netherlands
- High Cost of Living (especially in big cities).
- Shift Work including weekends and nights.
- Weather Conditions (cold winters may affect farm jobs).
- Language Barrier (English works, but Dutch is often preferred).
Related: Office Clerk Jobs in Canada with LMIA 2025
FAQs – Unskilled Jobs in the Netherlands with Work Visa 2025
Q1: Do I need to know Dutch for unskilled jobs?
Not always. Many jobs accept English, but Dutch skills improve job chances.
Q2: Can women apply for unskilled jobs?
Yes, women are welcome in hospitality, cleaning, packing, and care jobs.
Q3: What is the minimum salary for unskilled jobs?
The average is around €1,800 – €2,400 per month in 2025.
Q4: Do employers provide accommodation?
Yes, especially in agriculture and farm jobs, but not always in urban jobs.
Q5: Can unskilled jobs lead to permanent residency?
Yes. After 5 years of continuous work, you can apply for permanent residency in the Netherlands.
Final Thoughts
The Netherlands offers excellent opportunities for foreigners in unskilled jobs with work visa sponsorship in 2025. Whether you are interested in farming, hospitality, logistics, or factory work, there are thousands of openings available.
With competitive salaries, safe working environments, and pathways to residency, the Netherlands remains one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for foreign workers.
