Is part-time work allowed during studies to support living expenses in Netherlands?
Yes, as an international student in the Netherlands, you can work part-time to help support your living expenses.
- Work permit required: As a non-EU/EEA student, your employer must apply for a work permit (TWV) for you.
- Working hours: You may work up to 16 hours/week during the year, or full-time in June, July, and August (summer months).
- Health insurance: Dutch basic health insurance is required if you work.
The work permit process can take several weeks. Part-time work can help with expenses, but may not cover all costs, so having additional financial support is recommended.
For guidance on the process, contact your LeapScholar counsellor.
More expert answers
Yes, international students in the Netherlands can work part-time.
You can work up to 16 hours per week during the academic year and full-time in June - August (summer). Common part-time jobs include:
- Hospitality: waitstaff, barista, kitchen assistant
- Retail: cashier, shelf stocker, sales assistant
- Delivery services: food/package delivery
- Customer service: call centers, support roles (multilingual skills are a plus)
- On-campus: student assistant, library staff, research assistant
- Tutoring or freelance work: design, coding, translation
A work permit (applied for by your employer), a Dutch bank account, passport/ID, and a Citizen Service Number (BSN) are required. Contact your Leap counsellor for support with finding jobs and completing the process.
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