Dutch government announces international recruitment drive

Published on 27 July 2026 at 10:31

As part of a newly launched national talent strategy, the Dutch cabinet plans to begin actively recruiting highly skilled workers from abroad in fields including AI, energy, health and biotech. There will also be a focus on attracting international students in these areas.

Four core sectors

The government’s talent strategy, launched on 10 July 2026, pinpoints four core sectors for investment: digitalisation and AI, life sciences and biotechnology, energy and climate technology and defence and security. These sectors have been chosen due to their growth potential, need for additional talent and the Netherlands’ strong position in innovation and research in these fields. The four sectors are also seen as crucial in addressing pressing societal challenges such as climate change and healthy ageing.

Focus on skills

A focus on skilled workers in crucial public services such as primary and secondary education, childcare, elderly care, social services and housing construction is also part of the strategy. On the other hand, the government is looking to reduce reliance on low-skilled manual labour from abroad.

Streamlining work and business

International recruitment is part of a broader strategy, within which the government plans to work with local authorities, universities, employers and student organisations. Planned measures are set to involve education, fiscal measures and migration to achieve more productivity, streamlined work processes and targeted education programmes, as well as strategically attracting workers, researchers and students from abroad.

Read more about the cabinet’s talent strategy (in Dutch) and find out about key sectors for business in the Amsterdam Area.