Work and Travel Netherlands

Netherlands

Location

2-12 months

Duration

18-30

Age

Working Holiday Visa

Visa

Year-round

Dates

Create your own experience!

Work and Travel in the Netherlands

Spend up to 12 months living, working, and exploring one of Europe’s most bike-friendly countries. If you’re a Canadian aged 18–30, this program is your chance to earn money abroad, build confidence, and make the most of a year overseas with a Dutch working holiday.

This package is ideal for independent travelers who want to find their own job while still having access to resources, guidance, and local support.

Who this is for

Canadian citizens aged 18-30
Independent travelers comfortable with job searching
Looking for a mix of travel, work, and independence

This program gives you full flexibility while still providing the support you need to succeed. You’re in control of your job search — but you’re not doing it alone.

What you can do

With the right setup, you may be able to find jobs in:

Restaurants & cafes
Hotels
Bars & pubs
Event venues
Retail
Casual labor

Why the Netherlands?

The Netherlands is a great choice if you want a destination that’s easy to navigate, full of culture, and close to the rest of Europe. You can settle into city life, meet people from around the world, and use your free time to explore nearby countries. It’s a strong option for travelers who want both adventure and real-life work experience.

Dutch language skills are not mandatory for this program or visa.

HOUSING

Housing arrangement is NOT included in the program – there is no guaranteed room. We provide a full housing toolkit, and this hospitality program includes a 1:1 housing consultation. You will be responsible for finding and paying for your own accommodation.

The housing toolkit includes:

2026 Dutch Housing Bible	Updated monthly – city-by-city prices, best areas, current market conditions
Scam prevention training	How to spot fake listings, avoid advance payment fraud, what a legal contract looks like
Vetted platform list	Kamernet, Hospi Housing, SSH, HousingAnywhere, Funda – with direct links
WhatsApp groups access	Local sublet & room-transfer groups for students and young workers
‘Renter’s CV’ template	Professional profile to stand out when applying for a room
Neighbourhood strategy map	Affordable areas vs commute time per placement city

Don’t Just Visit Europe — Live There

Most people only see Europe for a week or two.
With a working holiday, you can actually build a life there.

Work, travel, make friends from around the world, and create experiences you’ll talk about for years.

Start your Netherlands working holiday today.

Step-by-step guide on how to apply for your Working Holiday visa

Personal support from our travel advisors prior to your departure

Access to housing toolkit and support (guidance and resources – NOT arranged)

Housing consult webinar

Assistance in opening a Dutch bank account

Support for obtaining a BSN (Burger Service Number) – your Dutch citizen service number that is essential for working and living in the Netherlands

National health insurance guidance: support in understanding and arranging the mandatory Dutch health insurance

Emergency local support through email

What’s not included:

Flights and other travel costs

Visa costs

Personal expenses

Travel health insurance (mandatory)

Job placement (participants secure their own job)

DUTCH WORKING HOLIDAY VISA ELIGIBILITY

Be a Canadian citizen with a valid Canadian passport
Be at least 18 and no more than 30 years old at the time of application
Meet the general requirements that apply to everyone
Previously did not have a residence permit in the Netherlands for the purpose of an exchange
Have a return ticket or show that you have enough money to buy a ticket for the return journey
Have enough money to pay for the initial period in the Netherlands
Have insurance that covers the cost of healthcare in the Netherlands
Must come to the Netherlands for cultural exchange – the main purpose is to get acquainted with Dutch society and culture
Must live in Canada when submitting the application

The Netherlands is the ultimate European launchpad for Canadians looking to level up their resume while living their best life. Picture world-class festivals, iconic canals, and a legendary cycling culture—all packed into a country so well-connected you can explore a new city every weekend. Whether you’re vibing in Amsterdam or soaking up the coastal energy of The Hague, you’ll find a progressive, English-friendly environment perfect for gaining international work experience and traveling Europe with ease.

How far in advance should I apply?

We recommend starting the process 3-5 months before your desired arrival to allow ample time for visa processing and preparation for arrival.

How long can I stay in the Netherlands on a working holiday visa?

You can stay and work in the Netherlands for up to 12 months under the Working Holiday Program. You can’t extend your residence permit through the Working Holiday Program. You can participate in the Young Workers Exchange Program after the Working Holiday Program – as long as you still remain eligible.