The Netherlands is facing a significant labor shortage in 2025, with over 90,000 job openings, many offering visa sponsorship for non-EU/EEA citizens. The country’s thriving economy, strategic location, and progressive work culture make it a prime destination for international professionals. High-demand sectors such as technology, healthcare, engineering, and finance are particularly open to sponsoring visas through programs like the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) visa and EU Blue Card. Below is a curated list of the top 20 in-demand jobs in the Netherlands for non-EU citizens, based on current labor market trends, salary potential, and visa sponsorship availability.
1. Software Engineer
- Description: Develops and maintains software applications, focusing on languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript.
- Average Salary: €70,000–€120,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Common, offered by tech giants like Booking.com and Adyen.
- Demand: High due to the Netherlands’ booming digital economy.
2. Data Scientist
- Description: Analyzes big data to build predictive models and optimize business operations.
- Average Salary: €80,000–€130,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Widely available, especially in finance and e-commerce sectors.
- Demand: Growing need for data-driven decision-making.
3. Cybersecurity Specialist
- Description: Protects systems from cyber threats and ensures data security.
- Average Salary: €75,000–€140,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Offered by companies like Philips and cybersecurity firms.
- Demand: Critical due to increasing digital transformation.
4. Registered Nurse
- Description: Provides patient care in hospitals, clinics, or care homes.
- Average Salary: €60,000–€90,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available through agencies like EduBridge USA and Fresenius Medical Care.
- Demand: High due to healthcare sector shortages.
5. Physician
- Description: Diagnoses and treats medical conditions, specializing in fields like psychiatry or general medicine.
- Average Salary: €100,000–€150,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Offered for specialists, particularly in underserved areas.
- Demand: Acute shortage of medical professionals.
6. Automation Engineer
- Description: Designs and implements automated systems for manufacturing or logistics.
- Average Salary: €70,000–€110,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Common with companies like Shell and GKN Aerospace.
- Demand: Strong in industrial and tech-driven sectors.
7. Civil Engineer
- Description: Plans and oversees infrastructure projects like roads and bridges.
- Average Salary: €65,000–€100,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available through firms like Ashbys Consulting.
- Demand: High for urban development projects.
8. UX/UI Designer
- Description: Creates intuitive and visually appealing user interfaces for tech products.
- Average Salary: €60,000–€90,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Offered by tech startups and established firms.
- Demand: Essential for product success in tech industries.
9. Financial Analyst
- Description: Analyzes financial data to support business decisions, often in inventory or cost management.
- Average Salary: €70,000–€110,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available with firms like Optiver and international banks.
- Demand: Steady in the Netherlands’ financial hub.
10. Machine Learning Engineer
- Description: Develops AI models and algorithms for applications like predictive analytics.
- Average Salary: €80,000–€140,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Common in AI-focused tech companies.
- Demand: Rapidly growing with AI adoption.
11. DevOps Engineer
- Description: Manages software development and IT operations, focusing on automation and cloud infrastructure.
- Average Salary: €75,000–€120,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Offered by tech firms like Atlassian.
- Demand: High for streamlining development processes.
12. Electrical Engineer
- Description: Designs and maintains electrical systems for industries like energy or manufacturing.
- Average Salary: €65,000–€100,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available through companies like Stafide.
- Demand: Strong in energy and tech sectors.
13. Project Manager (Tech/Supply Chain)
- Description: Oversees projects in IT or supply chain, ensuring timely delivery and resource management.
- Average Salary: €80,000–€130,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Offered by firms like NTT DATA.
- Demand: Critical for large-scale projects.
14. Researcher/Academic
- Description: Conducts research or teaches at universities and institutes in fields like science or engineering.
- Average Salary: €50,000–€100,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available via the Researcher Directive at universities.
- Demand: High for specialized academic roles.
15. Cloud Architect
- Description: Designs and manages cloud infrastructure for businesses.
- Average Salary: €85,000–€140,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Common in tech companies with cloud-based operations.
- Demand: Growing with cloud adoption.
16. Logistics Manager
- Description: Oversees supply chain operations, including inventory and transportation.
- Average Salary: €70,000–€110,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available through companies like Daedong Kioti Europe.
- Demand: High in the Netherlands’ logistics hub.
17. AI Specialist
- Description: Develops AI solutions for industries like healthcare or finance.
- Average Salary: €80,000–€150,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Offered by innovative firms and startups.
- Demand: Surging due to AI advancements.
18. Sales Associate (Retail/Tech)
- Description: Manages customer interactions and sales in retail or tech environments.
- Average Salary: €40,000–€70,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available with companies like UNIQLO.
- Demand: Moderate, with opportunities in international brands.
19. Farm Worker
- Description: Performs tasks like harvesting, planting, or livestock care in agriculture.
- Average Salary: €30,000–€50,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Offered by farms facing labor shortages.
- Demand: High in the world’s second-largest agricultural exporter.
20. Office Management Assistant
- Description: Supports office operations, including sales, customer service, and technical tasks.
- Average Salary: €40,000–€70,000 annually.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available with companies like Easthouse Electronics Technology.
- Demand: Steady for versatile administrative roles.
How to Secure These Jobs
- Target Recognized Sponsors: Check the IND’s Public Register of Recognised Sponsors for companies like Shell, Philips, or IKEA that offer visa sponsorship.
- Use Job Portals: Platforms like EURES, LinkedIn (547 visa sponsorship jobs), Glassdoor (403 sponsorship jobs), and Relocate.me list relevant opportunities.
- Meet Visa Requirements: Ensure you qualify for the HSM visa (€5,240/month for ages 30+, €3,837 for under 30) or EU Blue Card (higher education degree required).
- Tailor Applications: Highlight skills and experience relevant to high-demand sectors like IT, healthcare, or engineering.
- Work with Agencies: Engage with recruitment agencies like Undutchables or Dutch Employer of Record for visa and relocation support.
Conclusion
The Netherlands offers a wealth of high-paying, visa-sponsored job opportunities for non-EU citizens in 2025, driven by labor shortages in tech, healthcare, engineering, and agriculture. By targeting high-demand roles, leveraging job portals, and ensuring visa eligibility, international professionals can secure rewarding careers in this vibrant country. Start your job search today on platforms like EURES, LinkedIn, or Relocate.me to explore these in-demand opportunities!
