Applying in the Netherlands: concision and English
The Netherlands offers a dynamic job market that is very open to international candidates. Good news: English is extremely widespread there, including in hiring.
Dutch or English?
You can write your CV in Dutch or English. For roles in tech, international finance, or multinationals, English is often the norm. For a local or public-facing role, Dutch is preferable. Match the language of the job posting.
A concise, factual CV
Dutch culture values clarity and efficiency. The CV is short (two pages at most), factual, reverse chronological, and results-driven. Avoid grandiose phrasing: get straight to the point, with quantified achievements.
Photo and personal details
A photo is optional and increasingly rare, in line with Northern European standards. Minimal personal details are enough (name, contact information, city, LinkedIn). See our guide should you put a photo on your resume.
Mistakes to avoid
- A CV that is too long or too wordy: concision is a virtue in the Netherlands.
- Writing in French and assuming it will fly: use Dutch or English.
- Forgetting to quantify your results.
Adapt your CV for the Netherlands with CVpass
On CVpass, choose "Netherlands" as your target country. The tool adapts the language, favors a concise, results-driven format, and adjusts the sections. Your ATS score is recalculated against Dutch expectations.
Further reading
- Applying abroad: the country-by-country CV guide
- CV in English: adapting your resume to apply abroad
- Belgian CV: language by region
- Should you put a photo on your resume? The guide by country
Apply in the Netherlands with a CV that meets local standards. Adapt my CV for the Netherlands on CVpass