Netherlands CV Format: What Recruiters Expect
Dutch employers value CVs that are short, factual and direct. Overstated claims read badly; clear evidence reads well. Many international companies in the Netherlands recruit in English, but your Dutch level and your right to work are two things recruiters look for immediately.
Length
1–2 pages.
Photo
Optional. Some Dutch CVs include a small professional photo, but it is not required and many applicants leave it off.
Include
- Name, city, phone number, email and LinkedIn profile
- Languages with level, ideally on the CEFR scale (for example Dutch A2, English C1)
- Work authorisation if you are from outside the EU/EEA (for example whether you need highly skilled migrant sponsorship or hold an orientation year permit)
- A short profile of three or four lines
- A brief interests line — it is common on Dutch CVs
Leave out
- Your BSN (citizen service number)
- Marital status and religion
- Inflated job titles or superlatives
- Long paragraphs
Section order for a Netherlands CV
- Contact details
- Profile
- Work experience
- Education
- Skills
- Languages
- Interests
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Be direct and specific
State what you did and what came of it. Dutch recruiters tend to distrust big adjectives and trust concrete results.
Be honest about your Dutch
List your level accurately. For English-language roles, say so plainly and mention if you are learning Dutch.
Answer the visa question upfront
If you need sponsorship, say which route applies. If you are an EU citizen or already hold a permit, say that, so the recruiter doesn't have to guess.
Write a motivation letter
A short motivation letter is normally expected with a Dutch application. Explain why this employer and this role, in the same direct tone.
Match the language of the advert
Apply in Dutch to a Dutch-language vacancy and in English to an English-language one.
Where to apply in the Netherlands
Most large employers on these sites screen with ATS software. Match the job ad's wording — our job description keyword extractor pulls out the terms to use.
FAQ
Should I put a photo on a Dutch CV?
It is optional. Some applicants include a small professional photo, but it is not required.
How long should a CV be in the Netherlands?
One to two pages. Dutch recruiters prefer concise, factual CVs.
Can I apply in English in the Netherlands?
Yes, for vacancies advertised in English, which is common at international companies. Apply in Dutch when the vacancy is in Dutch.
Check your CV against Netherlands standards
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