International Tech Talent in The Netherlands Research Report 2025
To stay innovative and hold onto its competitive edge, the Netherlands needs international talent. This research aims to understand what draws international tech talent to the Netherlands — and whether living and working there meets their expectations. Over 200 international tech talents took part in our survey, offering honest thoughts on their motivations, values, and experiences with integration.
We found lots of positives. The Netherlands is highly valued for its quality of life, safety, and work-life balance, which explain why more than 70% see themselves staying in the country over the next five years. The country received a positive NPS score of 13 and was seen as equal, liberal, and stable.
But the experience isn’t seamless for everyone. 1 in 3 respondents reported facing challenges in integrating. 1 in 5 had experienced discrimination, often tied to language barriers or assumptions based on their background. Nearly 60% said they either didn’t think or didn’t know if their salary was competitive. This signals a lack of clarity and confidence in pay transparency.
The Netherlands is quite well-aligned with its promise. But to fully realise it, the country must ensure fair and inclusive transitions for international talent at work and beyond. That means making bureaucracy easier to navigate, improving transparency, and building work cultures where everyone can prosper.
To gain a deeper understanding of these findings, read the full research report below.
We’ve also included 5 actionable tips for recruiters, HR professionals, and anyone looking to better support international talent in the Netherlands.
This is the 2nd year we have conducted this study in the Netherlands. Get the full report and review the insights from international tech talents in the Netherlands in 2024. Or check out our similar research in Finland in 2025.