Published 05 January 2026

How to Find Work Opportunities While Studying in Amsterdam?

Introduction

Studying in Amsterdam means stepping into one of Europe’s most vibrant job markets. Whether you’re looking to earn extra cash, gain practical experience or build your professional network, the city offers plenty of opportunities for students. From bustling cafes in Jordaan to tech startups in Amsterdam-Noord, the options are diverse and accessible.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about finding student jobs in Amsterdam, from understanding visa rules to landing your ideal role.

Understanding Work Regulations for International Students

Before you start applying, know the rules. Work regulations depend on your nationality and student status.

EU/EEA Students: You can work unlimited hours without a work permit. No restrictions, no extra paperwork- just find a job and go for it.

Non-EU/EEA Students: You can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic year or full-time during June, July and August. You’ll need a TWV work permit, which your employer typically arranges. Make sure your employer is willing to handle this before accepting an offer.

Important: Working without proper authorization can result in fines or visa complications. Always verify your eligibility with your university’s international office or the University of Applied Sciences Europe (UE Amsterdam) student support team.

Types of Work Opportunities Available

Amsterdam’s job market is surprisingly student friendly. Here are the main types you can explore:

Part-Time Jobs in Hospitality and Retail

Barista roles, restaurant servers, retail associates and hotel staff are everywhere in Amsterdam, especially in tourist areas. They offer flexible hours and don’t always require fluent Dutch.

English-Speaking Jobs

Many companies in Amsterdam operate in English. Look for roles in customer service, tech support, content creation or tutoring. Startups and international companies often prefer English speakers.

On-Campus Positions

Universities like UE Amsterdam occasionally offer library assistants, student ambassadors, research assistants or event coordinator roles. These understand your academic schedule and look great on your resume.

Paid Internships

Internships in Amsterdam offer real industry experience. Fields like marketing, finance, design and tech regularly hire student interns.

Freelance & Remote Work

Skilled in graphic design, writing, coding or social media? Freelancing lets you work on your own terms using platforms like Upwork, Fiverr and Freelancer.

How to Find Student Jobs in Amsterdam

Ready to start your search? Here’s where to look:

Job Portals: Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, StudentJob.nl and Nationale Vacaturebank list thousands of student jobs regularly.

University Career Services: UE Amsterdam’s Career Development Centre offers job boards, workshops and networking events connecting you directly with employers.

Networking: Join student groups, attend industry meetups and connect with alumni. The best opportunities often come from conversations, not applications.

Social Media: Follow companies on LinkedIn, join Facebook job groups for international students and check Instagram for startup opportunities.

Walk-Ins: Many cafes, bars and shops in Amsterdam still accept walk-in applications. Bring a printed CV and introduce yourself with confidence.

Pro tip: Tailor your CV and cover letter for each application. Generic applications rarely get responses in competitive markets.

Top Skills to Improve Your Hiring Chances

Want to stand out? Focus on building these skills:

Communication Skills: Whether serving customers or collaborating with teams, clear communication matters. Practice your English and consider learning basic Dutch phrases – employers appreciate the effort.

Adaptability: Amsterdam’s work culture values flexibility and problem-solving. Show employers you can handle changing priorities and think on your feet.

Digital Literacy: Most jobs require basic tech skills. Familiarize yourself with tools like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Slack or industry-specific software.

Customer Service: Being friendly, patient and professional translates across industries.

Time Management: Balancing work and study requires serious organizational skills. Employers want to know you can meet deadlines and manage multiple responsibilities effectively.

Language Skills: While many jobs operate in English, knowing Dutch opens more doors. Even intermediate proficiency gives you a competitive edge.

Consider the top 10 benefits of working part-time for students while studying to understand how developing these skills enhances both your academic and professional journey.

Average Salaries and Work Culture

As of 1 July 2025, the Dutch minimum wage for workers aged 21 and older is approximately €14.40 per hour. Dutch work culture often emphasizes work‑life balance, direct communication, and relatively flat hierarchies where input from all levels is valued, and efficiency tends to be prioritized over long hours.

Taxes & Insurance: If you work as a student in Amsterdam, you must pay Dutch income tax on your earnings, which is progressive, 9.32% and includes social security contributions (source).  Dutch basic health insurance (mandatory for workers) usually costs around €110–€160 per month, but many students can reduce this through the government’s healthcare allowance (source).

Curious about earning potential after graduation? Check out the top 10 highest-paying jobs with a business degree in Amsterdam to see where your career could lead.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Language Barriers

Not speaking Dutch can limit options, especially for customer-facing roles. Focus on international companies, improve your Dutch through free apps like Duolingo.

Competitive Job Market

Amsterdam attracts talented people worldwide. Start your job search early, apply to multiple positions and leverage your unique skills or international perspective.

Visa Restrictions

Non-EU students face hour limitations and permit requirements. Plan your work schedule carefully, communicate openly with employers about restrictions and maximize earning potential during summer months.

Scheduling Conflicts

Balancing lectures, assignments and work shifts can be tricky. Use digital calendars, communicate your availability clearly with employers and prioritize time management. Part-time jobs with flexible hours work best.

Conclusion

Finding work opportunities while studying in Amsterdam doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, you can land a job that fits your schedule, builds your skills and boosts your bank account. Start by understanding the regulations, exploring different job types and leveraging resources like university career centers and online job portals.

Remember, every application is a learning experience. Even rejections bring you closer to the right opportunity. Amsterdam’s diverse job market welcomes international students, you just need to know where to look and how to present yourself.

Ready to kickstart your career journey? Explore programs at the University of Applied Sciences Europe (UE Amsterdam) that combine academic excellence with practical career preparation.