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Contracting in the Netherlands

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Contracting in the Netherlands

Written by David Noel-Davies

Sunday, 02 March 2008

The Netherlands has become an increasingly popular destination for consultants from the UK and other EU countries over the past decade. Strong economic growth coupled with IT skills shortages have contributed to an increased demand for overseas consultants. In addition, English language skills are usually sufficient to secure a contract here, especially in international companies. Country Information

The Netherlands is located in northwest Europe and borders Germany and Belgium. The capital city is Amsterdam but The Hague (Den Haag) is the country’s seat of government. Other major cities include Utrecht, Rotterdam and Eindhoven.

The Netherlands is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The Randstad area (including Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Utrecht and The Hague) has a population density of 1,100 people per square kilometre. 17% of the population are non-Dutch, and English is widely spoken.

Working in The Netherlands

The Netherlands is home to many international companies, especially in the 'Randstad' area in the west of the country. The international environment attracts many foreigners to the area, often resulting in an interesting mix of nationalities working at any one company.

The standard working week averages at 35 hours a week, 7 hours a day, usually from 9am – 5pm.

Accommodation

The majority of the Dutch population rent their accommodation rather than own. This results in rental properties often seeming rather expensive when compared to those for sale. In Amsterdam, you should expect to pay rent of at least € 1,150 to € 1,360 per month, rising to more than € 1,800, depending on the type of accommodation and location.

The website www.funda.nl collates all rental opportunities from a number of estate agents. Although relatively easy to use, the website is currently only available in Dutch. When in the housing section, click on ‘huur’ (hire) near the top of the screen. You will then be able to search through all the rental properties currently on offer.

Travel Possibilities: UK

The Netherlands is a convenient location for those UK contractors wishing to travel home. With flight times at just 1 hour, and Calais a 4 hour drive away, you will never feel too far from home.

If you plan to drive from The Netherlands to England, you can take a ferry, hovercraft, Sea Cat or the Channel Tunnel. The tunnel takes you from France to England in just 35 minutes. Alternatively you could travel from the Hook of Holland to Harwich via Stena Line.

Travel Possibilities: Elsewhere

For travel enthusiasts, The Netherlands is an attractive option for a contract. Along with bordering countries Belgium and Germany, the Netherlands has excellent rail links to France, Switzerland, Italy and Luxembourg. Schiphol airport in Amsterdam provides links to the rest of the world and is one of the busiest airports in Europe.

Expat Services in The Netherlands

From relocation companies to English-language banking facilities, The Netherlands makes every effort to welcome the expat consultant. The Hague houses a large expat community, due to both its political associations and upcoming industry investment from large international petrochemical companies.

The websites www.expatica.com and www.access-nl.org and www.yourrotterdam.com provide useful tips on living and enjoying life in The Netherlands.

ITECS is a payroll management company assisting expatriates with their contracts abroad. To receive a personalised breakdown on how ITECS can help you, call +31 10 205 1660 (The Netherlands) +32 3 400 6363 (Belgium) or +44 208 863 2589 (UK).

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