Ukrainians Flock to the Netherlands for Job Opportunities
Date: 2023-11-24 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: DIASPORA
Ukrainian Migration Trends
Ukrainians are increasingly opting for Western European countries for both residence and employment. In September, the largest absolute increase in Ukrainian citizens with temporary protection was noted in Germany (+1.6%, nearly 20,000 people), the Netherlands (+2.8%, over 3,500 people), and Ireland (3.2%, around 3,000 people) compared to August.
Attraction to the Netherlands
According to the Migration Platform EWL, Ukrainians are showing growing interest in the Netherlands due to higher earnings than in Eastern Europe. The legalization process in the Netherlands, lasting up to a month, includes obtaining a BSN (identification number) and Dutch temporary protection. After this, Ukrainians have unrestricted access to the job market and can work without additional permits.
Job Market in the Netherlands
The Dutch job market offers over 200,000 job opportunities, primarily requiring language skills at B1 level and driver's licenses. Shortages are evident in IT, engineering, healthcare, logistics, finance, and automotive sectors.
Housing Challenges and Age Restrictions
Foreign workers in the Netherlands often need to pay rent (300-450 euros per month) and face housing shortages. Due to the aging society, age restrictions are common in job postings, limiting opportunities for Ukrainians above 45 years.
Driving Factors
Many Ukrainians lack driving licenses, especially women, but employers often provide transportation. Those with licenses may carpool, and bicycles are sometimes provided as an alternative, although commuting distances can be significant.
Ukrainians are increasingly opting for Western European countries for both residence and employment. In September, the largest absolute increase in Ukrainian citizens with temporary protection was noted in Germany (+1.6%, nearly 20,000 people), the Netherlands (+2.8%, over 3,500 people), and Ireland (3.2%, around 3,000 people) compared to August.
Attraction to the Netherlands
According to the Migration Platform EWL, Ukrainians are showing growing interest in the Netherlands due to higher earnings than in Eastern Europe. The legalization process in the Netherlands, lasting up to a month, includes obtaining a BSN (identification number) and Dutch temporary protection. After this, Ukrainians have unrestricted access to the job market and can work without additional permits.
Job Market in the Netherlands
The Dutch job market offers over 200,000 job opportunities, primarily requiring language skills at B1 level and driver's licenses. Shortages are evident in IT, engineering, healthcare, logistics, finance, and automotive sectors.
Housing Challenges and Age Restrictions
Foreign workers in the Netherlands often need to pay rent (300-450 euros per month) and face housing shortages. Due to the aging society, age restrictions are common in job postings, limiting opportunities for Ukrainians above 45 years.
Driving Factors
Many Ukrainians lack driving licenses, especially women, but employers often provide transportation. Those with licenses may carpool, and bicycles are sometimes provided as an alternative, although commuting distances can be significant.
