If you want to work during your studies while living in the Netherlands, there are things to keep in mind.
Some students choose to work part-time alongside their studies. For international students, it is important to be aware of the rules and practical requirements for working in the Netherlands.There are part-time job opportunities both within and outside the university. However, conditions may differ depending on your nationality, residence permit, and study programme.
On this page, you will find key information about regulations, practical considerations, and platforms where you can search for part-time jobs.
Sidejobs @ University of Twente:
The University of Twente offers flexible student jobs, many of which are suitable for international students and compatible with academic schedules: UT-students | University of Twente
Insurance
When you have a (part-time) job in the Netherlands, you are obligated to have Basic Healthcare Insurance – even if you only work for one hour per week next to your study. This insurance needs to start the day you start your job. If you neglect to do this, you will receive a fine which can become very high. Basic Healthcare Insurance starts around € 100,- a month, however depending on your income you might be eligible for healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag).
Rules are different for different situations, please check this website for more detailed information.
Information specifically for non-EU students
For non-EU students working next to their studies, there are strict rules in the Netherlands. EU students have free access to the Dutch labour market. Students from non-EU/EEA countries need a work permit. This permit is free of charge. The number of hours you are allowed to work in the Netherlands is restricted. Every calendar year, you must choose. Will you take on a part-time or a summer job? A summer job is seasonal (summer) work in June, July and August. Both part-time and full-time are allowed. Part-time work is throughout the year, but no more than 16 hours a week.
A WORK PERMIT (TWV)
In Dutch, a work permit is called a tewerkstellingsvergunning (TWV). Your employer or employment agency must apply for a work permit for you. They can do so at the UWV. You cannot do this yourself. Your employer or employment agency needs to apply for this work permit (TWV) at least 5 weeks prior to the start of your employment. It can take up to 5 weeks to process the application. You can give your employer the following links if they are not familiar with the TWV for student jobs: Ik wil een TWV aanvragen | UWV | Werkgevers.
Procedure
From you, your future employer or employment agency (commonly) needs the following two documents to accompany the application for a work permit: a copy of the front and back of your residence permit for study purposes, and proof of enrolment.
Validity
After the application has been processed, your employer will receive your work permit. You can ask your employer for a copy of your TWV for your own administration. Your work permit will be valid for the same time period as your registration at UT. Therefore, your employer needs to request a new work permit if you renew your registration at UT.
SELF-EMPLOYMENT
Self-employed work by non-EU/EEA students and knowledge migrants is exempt from the TWV. You can be self-employed in addition to your studies, without needing a TWV work permit from UWV. However, you have to register with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. It also entails registering at the Dutch Tax office (Belastingdienst) and the Dutch Tax office collects tax 4 times a year on every product or service sold in the Netherlands.
