Starting work in the Netherlands is exciting, but it also comes with a bit of paperwork.
If you’re new to the country, you might feel confused about what you need to start your first job, but don’t worry.
This guide explains everything in a simple, friendly way.
Whether you want to work in logistics, production, warehouse jobs, technical roles or factories, the steps are almost the same. Let’s go through them one by one.
1. BSN Number (Burgerservicenummer)
This is the most important thing you need to work legally in the Netherlands.
A BSN number is your personal identification number for:
Work
Taxes
Health insurance
Opening a bank account
Renting a room
How do you get a BSN?
You must register your address at the Gemeente (city hall).
If you live in a workers’ accommodation from a company, they will help you with this.
2. Valid ID or Passport
You need:
A valid EU passport or ID card
If you are from outside the EU, you need a dutch work permit or residence permit
Make sure your ID is not expired or damaged. Dutch employers check this carefully.
3. Health Insurance (Zorgverzekering)
In the Netherlands, health insurance is mandatory if you work.
You must arrange insurance within 4 months of starting your job, but many employers or agencies ask for it right away. Don't worry - if you don't have one yet, they usually help you arrange it.
Why do you need it?
Because it covers:
Doctor visits
Hospital care
Medication (partly)
Emergencies
Without insurance, you may get a fine from the government.
4. A Bank Account (Dutch or International)
To receive your salary, you need a bank account - but it doesn’t always have to be Dutch.
Many companies in the Netherlands prefer paying into:
Dutch IBAN accounts
Online banks like Revolut, Wise, N26
But you can also use a bank account from your home country (Romania, Poland, Bulgaria, etc.) as long as it has an IBAN.
Important to know:
If your account is international (not a Dutch IBAN), your salary may take:
✔ 2–5 working days to arrive
✔ Sometimes longer during weekends or holidays
This is normal - international transfers simply take more time to process.
If you want something quick and easy, online banks like Revolut, Wise, or N26 work very well and can be opened fast, even before arriving in the Netherlands.
5. A CV (yes, even for logistics or production jobs)
Many people think:
“Why do I need a CV for warehouse work?”
But Dutch employers want to see:
What jobs you had before
What tasks you can do
What machines you used
If you have certificates
If you worked shifts
Even a simple CV helps them understand who you are.
✔ If you don’t know how to make one, it’s okay.
Many workers don’t, especially when they just arrived.
You can use Atlas Work’s CV Essentials package or contact us for help.
6. Certificates (If You Have Them)
For logistics and technical jobs, certificates can give you better chances and sometimes higher salary.
Popular certificates:
Forklift (Heftruck)
Reachtruck
EPT
Machine operation training
If you already have these from your home country, bring them. Some companies may accept them or help you renew them.
8. A Basic Understanding of English
You don’t need perfect English - not at all.
Most workers in logistics and production speak:
basic English
some Dutch
a mix between many languages
But knowing basic words helps you:
understand safety rules
talk to your team leader
communicate with coworkers
If your English is not strong, don’t worry, you will improve naturally.
Simple Tips for Starting Work Smoothly
✔ Be on time
Dutch workplaces value punctuality.
✔ Bring safety shoes
Some factories or warehouses require them.
✔ Learn basic Dutch words
Even 10–20 words help a lot.
✔ Ask questions
Better to ask than to make a mistake.
✔ Don’t be afraid
Everyone was new once.
Final Thoughts
Starting a new job in a new country is not easy.
There’s paperwork, new rules, new people, new culture and a new language.
But millions of workers from Eastern Europe have done it - and you can too.
With the right documents and a little preparation, the Netherlands can offer:
stable work
good pay
safe conditions
chances to grow
Atlas Work is here to help you every step of the way.