Q&A

1. What is Twente like for postdocs?
In the Netherlands, a postdoc is considered a temporary position. Despite this, Enschede is a great place for postdocs. It offers high-quality research facilities, a strong international community, and a relaxed lifestyle. The University of Twente (UT) is known for its interdisciplinary approach and entrepreneurial mindset.

2. What is the cost of living in Twente?
Twente is generally more affordable than major Dutch cities like Amsterdam or Utrecht. Costs vary depending on lifestyle and housing type.

• Rent: approximately €700–€1,200/month for an apartment
• Groceries, transport, and leisure are reasonably priced

3. How do I find housing in Twente?
The University of Twente also offers limited housing support for international employees. Start early, as housing can be competitive. Common platforms include:

• Kamernet.nl (shared housing)
• Pararius.nl (rental apartments)
• Funda.nl (buying property)

4. Do I need a visa or residence permit?

• EU/EEA citizens: no visa required
• Non-EU citizens: typically require a Highly Skilled Migrant visa/residence permit

The university usually assists with the application process.

5. What is the salary and taxation for postdocs?
Postdoc salaries at UT are typically between €3,500 and €4,500 gross per month.

• The Netherlands has relatively high income tax
• You may qualify for the 30% ruling, allowing part of your salary to be tax-free

6. What about health insurance?
Health insurance is mandatory.

• Costs: ~€100–€150 per month
• You may be eligible for zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance) depending on your income

7. What’s the best way to get around in Twente?

• Cycling is the most common and convenient option, you can rent a bike from Swapfiets.
• Public transport (bus/train) is reliable but less frequent than in larger cities, order your OV Chipcard and add a subscription for free travel.
• A car is usually not necessary unless you live outside the city.

8. What is the work culture like at UT?
The work culture is collaborative, informal, and research-driven.

• Open communication with supervisors is common
• Hierarchies are relatively flat
• Work-life balance and flexibility are generally supported

9. Can I teach if my contract is research-focused?
Yes. Even if teaching is not formally part of your contract, you can often take initiative and get involved in small teaching activities.

10. Can I do the UTQ as a postdoc?
Yes, depending on your faculty and available teaching experience. In many cases, you can start (or partially complete) the UTQ on your own initiative.

11. Should I start thinking about grants, and do I need an embedding guarantee?

Yes, if you are considering staying in academia, it’s important to start exploring grant opportunities early. Especially as contract extensions at UT are difficult to be approved, but you can apply through your Head of Department. Postdocs can apply for or contribute to a range of funding schemes depending on their career stage, from smaller exploratory grants to larger individual fellowships. 

For many larger personal grants (e.g. Veni, MSCA, ERC), you will need an embedding guarantee from a host institution. At UT, such guarantees are not usually available. In these cases, you may need to find another host institution in the Netherlands. For more details see our page on Life after your Postdoc.

12. Can I stay in the Netherlands after my postdoc to look for a job (orientation year / “zoekjaar”)?
Yes, international postdocs may be eligible for the orientation year residence permit (zoekjaar), which allows you to stay in the Netherlands for up to one year to look for work after your postdoc. You must apply before your current residence permit expires, and you can remain in the Netherlands while your application is being processed. For more details see our page on Life after your Postdoc.

13. What is life in Twente like outside of work?
Twente is a green and peaceful region with many parks and cycling routes. There are nice lakes and windmills in the surrounding region. Enschede has a lively student atmosphere and there are international restaurants and cultural events.

Some key highlights not to miss!...

• Explore the Oude Markt with its cafés, terraces, and events.
• Visit Rijksmuseum Twenthe. A great art museum right and with a Museumkaart, you can visit for free (and access hundreds of museums across the Netherlands).
• Try the Enschede self-guided walking tour.
• Walk or bike through beautiful green areas like Volkspark or the surrounding Twente countryside.
• Visit the Saturday and Tuesday market at the Oude Markt for fresh produce, snacks, and local atmosphere. Try some Kibbeling, a stroopwafel, or some local beers!

14. Can my partner or family move with me?
Yes.

• Partners can apply for a dependent residence permit
• In many cases, they are allowed to work
• Twente is family-friendly, with schools and childcare options

15. Where can I find support as an international postdoc?

• UT HR (relocation, contracts, practical matters)
• Expat Center East Netherlands (legal and integration support)
• Postdoc Board (peer advice and community)
• Meetup groups and international communities

If you have additional questions, you can contact:
postdocnetworkut@gmail.com

16. Where can I get help if I have a problem at work?
You can start with:

• Your supervisor (if appropriate)
• Faculty HR advisor
• Confidential advisors (for sensitive issues)
• UT complaints and disputes committees (for escalation)
• The Postdoc Board

17. Are there networking opportunities?
Yes, through:

• Postdoc Board events
• Meet-and-greets
• Workshops and seminars
• Informal groups (e.g. WhatsApp, social events)

18. How many leave hours do I get, and what happens if I don’t use them?

As a postdoc at UT, you are entitled to paid leave based on your contract (typically around 29–41 days per year for full-time employment, depending on collective agreements and additional hours).

• Leave hours are tracked in the HR system
• You are encouraged to take them during your contract

If you have unused leave at the end of your contract:

• These hours are automatically paid out with or in the month following your final salary
• The payout may be taxed differently (often higher initially)

It is advisable to check your leave balance in advance and discuss any uncertainties with HR.

19. Am I entitled to parental leave, and will my contract be extended?
Yes, employees in the Netherlands are entitled to maternity, partner, and parental leave. Maternity leave is typically fully paid and may lead to a contract extension to compensate for the leave period, especially for project-funded positions. Since this depends on your specific situation and funding, it’s important to discuss this early with HR.

20. What should I do if I need to take sick leave, especially long-term?
If you are unable to work due to illness, you should report your sick leave in the AFAS system (and inform your supervisor according to your group’s procedures). During sick leave, your salary continues in line with Dutch employment regulations, and you are not expected to work.

If your absence becomes longer-term or repeated (e.g. due to burnout or ongoing health issues), you will be supported through a structured process being contacted by HR and the company doctor (bedrijfsarts). The company doctor provides independent medical advice and helps guide your recovery and return to work. Your medical information remains confidential, and the focus is on a gradual and sustainable return, which may include adjusted tasks or reduced hours.