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To Relocate or not to Relocate? What to consider when hiring international talent in the Netherlands
Collaborative post with Craftr
More and more organizations are looking beyond their borders to attract hard-to-find talent. Especially in sectors where skilled professionals are scarce, hiring someone from abroad can be a game changer. But relocation isn’t just another box to tick in your hiring process. It’s a major life decision for the person you’re bringing in. They’re leaving behind their home, their network, sometimes even their family, to work for you. So, when should you consider relocating someone? And what should you really keep in mind?
💡 Key considerations
1. Are they genuinely motivated to work for your company and to live in the Netherlands?
Some candidates are drawn to the idea of living in the Netherlands and may view your organization as their gateway in. Others might be focused on the job itself, without fully considering what relocating to a new country actually means. Either way, it’s crucial to understand their priorities and expectations. Why your company? Why this moment? And just as important — why the Netherlands?
2. Are they relocating solo, or bringing a partner and kids?
Relocating is a big deal. Even more so when a family is involved. Are they coming alone? If so, why? Is it a trial run? And what does that mean for their long-term plans? Understanding the bigger picture helps you support them better — and spot any potential challenges early on.
The practical side of things
1. Where are they relocating from?
Where someone comes from determines what kind of legal and administrative procedures you’ll need to deal with. For EU candidates, things are usually straightforward. For non-EU hires, you’re looking at visas, residence permits, and dealing with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
2. Salary thresholds and contract terms
If you’re hiring someone under the highly skilled migrant scheme, salary requirements apply. Make sure you budget for this and reflect it in your offer. It’s also wise to agree contractually on how relocation costs are handled — for example, what happens if they leave the company early.
3. Leave the paperwork to the pros
You can handle the IND process yourself… but honestly, why would you? It’s time-consuming and complex. Get a specialist involved, such as the team at Expat Management Group, to make life easier for both you and your new team member.
How can you support them?
1. Housing
The biggest challenge? Finding a place to live. With the current housing market, this can quickly become a major stressor. And stress doesn’t exactly boost productivity. Offer support — whether that’s temporary housing, help with the search, or connecting them with a relocation partner.
2. Taxes and the 30% ruling
Ah yes, Dutch taxes. Always a party. Navigating our system can be overwhelming for newcomers. Help your new colleague understand the essentials — especially if they qualify for the 30% ruling, which can offer significant financial relief.
3. Health insurance
Many international hires aren’t aware that health insurance is mandatory in the Netherlands. A quick heads-up (and maybe even help with getting it sorted) can go a long way.
4. Even the little things, like mobile phone plans
It may seem minor, but setting up a mobile phone plan in English? Surprisingly tricky. Helping with this kind of detail shows you’ve got their back — and it makes those first weeks much smoother.
Relocating someone isn’t just about the logistics — it’s about making sure they feel at home. That they feel seen, supported, and welcome. Because only then can they truly thrive in their new role and in their new life.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. The right partners can make all the difference to guide and support you through every step of the process.
If you’re looking to attract international talent in the first place, Craftr is here to help. Craftr connects forward-thinking companies with people to match — and guides you through the entire recruitment process with care and clarity.
Once you have you’re international hires, Expat Management Group is your go-to partner for a smooth relocation process. From visas and paperwork to housing and settling in, their team ensures your new hire feels supported, welcome, and well integrated.
Because when a new colleague lands well… they rise. 🚀
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