Working as a student
The rules on working depend on your nationality. More specifically whether you're a citizen of the EU/EEA or not. All international students working in the Netherlands must have Dutch public health insurance.
Can I work as a student in the Netherlands?
It is possible to work as an international student in the Netherlands. See below the rules that apply to you.
Studying in full-time?
If you are studying full-time, you’re expected to be available for all educational activities. Not just classes, but also group activities, excursions etc. So, you need to be available from 09:00 to 17:00 from Monday to Friday. Occasionally, you might have an educational activity in the evening or on the weekend.
Studying in part-time?
Some international masters are offered in part-time. In that case, you’ll have more time to work. Your classes will be scheduled on 1 or 2 days a week.
Online Open Day
Our Online Open Day was on 16 November 2024. Did you miss it? No worries! We’ve recorded sessions of our talk shows about visa, housing, admission, scholarships, student life and more. So you can watch our videos wherever and whenever you like.
The next Online Open Day is on 18 January 2025. That’s pretty soon! Want to be notified when registrations for the next Online Open Day open? Pre-register for January so you’ll get a mail from us when you can secure your spot for the Online Open Day. Don't miss this chance to connect with HAN students, lecturers and ask all of your questions.
Which rules about working count for me?
Cost of Living in the Netherlands
Having a clear picture of your expenses as an international student helps you set the right priorities and decide if you should take on a part-time job or not. That's why we've made an overview of the cost of living in the Netherlands. As a rule of thumb, you need about €1200 per month to live comfortably as a student. This includes rent, but not tuition fees.
Interesting pages for you
Working and health insurance
As an international student, you normally don’t have to take out Dutch health insurance. But as soon as you get a job, the situation changes. You are seen as an employee. Then you have to take out Dutch public health insurance.
It doesn’t matter whether you pay tax or how many hours you work. It also doesn’t matter if you are an EU citizen with an EU healthcare card. If you work in the Netherlands, you need to get Dutch public health insurance. If you don’t, you risk getting a big fine.
