03 Jun 2025
On average, a person changes jobs every 2 years and 9 months. Switching jobs in a foreign country can feel overwhelming. For Ghanaian expats living in the Netherlands, this question often comes up. The good news? Changing jobs in the Netherlands is possible, and in many cases, easier than you might expect.
In this article, let’s learn how job switching works, what makes it easier, what to prepare for, and how to manage your finances smartly during transitions.
The Netherlands is home to many international professionals. Ghanaians are part of this skilled, hardworking group. People move to the Netherlands for tech roles, logistics, care work, cleaning, and more.
The Dutch economy is stable. Work culture here supports personal growth. But what happens when your current job no longer fits? That’s when switching becomes a priority.
Yes, but it depends on your residence and work permit. If you’re working under a “highly skilled migrant visa,” you can switch jobs, as long as your new employer is also a registered sponsor with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
If you came under family reunification or have a resident permit independent of an employer, switching is even easier.
Always check your residence card type and the conditions attached. Visit the IND official site for accurate information.
Several factors work in your favor:
The Netherlands is actively looking for skilled workers, especially in tech, logistics, and healthcare. These sectors often struggle to fill roles locally, so they’re open to international talent, including Ghanaian expats. If you have the right experience, your skills are likely in demand.
Worried about not speaking Dutch fluently? Don’t be. Many companies in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague use English as their working language. Whether it’s a tech startup or a multinational, there are plenty of roles where speaking English is enough to get started.
In the Netherlands, it’s completely normal to switch jobs every few years. Employers don’t view it as disloyalty—it’s often seen as a sign of growth. As long as you leave on good terms, moving to a better opportunity is respected, not judged.
Job hunting here isn’t just about sending resumes. Dutch companies often fill roles through LinkedIn and referrals. If you want to switch jobs, staying active online, attending local events, and connecting with professionals in your field can open unexpected doors.
If you already live and work in the Netherlands, you’ve got a head start.
Before switching jobs, have the following ready:
Some job platforms that work well in the Netherlands:
Use filters for English-speaking jobs or industries where you have experience.
If your job switch involves a short unemployment period or freelance work, manage your bills and remittances wisely. Many Ghanaians send money from Netherlands to Ghana monthly. During a job change, you don’t want your loved ones to suffer.
ACE Money Transfer is trusted by thousands for fast, low-cost international transfers.
You can use ACE’s mobile app to:
A new job doesn’t have to disrupt your financial support at home.
While job-switching is doable, there are a few challenges:
Some employers require basic Dutch. This is common in government, healthcare, and education.
Some permits tie you to your employer.
Some jobs provide housing. Changing jobs may mean finding new accommodation.
In regulated professions, you might need local certifications.
Prepare for these early, and they won’t become roadblocks.
Want to make your job switch smoother? Try these:
Absolutely! if your current job isn’t meeting your goals. Whether it's salary, growth, or environment, the Dutch market is flexible. Ghanaians are working in diverse sectors, and job mobility is common.
Just be prepared and make your move smartly.
Switching jobs in the Netherlands is not just possible, it’s a chance to grow. Whether you're moving from one warehouse to another or going from junior developer to senior role, the system supports career progress.
Stay legal, plan well, and don’t stop sending love back home. Use ACE Money Transfer to support your family, even during transitions.
2025 is your year to move forward in your Dutch career.
Yes, if your residence permit allows it. Those with “highly skilled migrant” visas can switch to employers registered with IND.
Yes. Your new employer usually takes care of this, but always double-check to avoid legal issues.
Yes. As long as your permit doesn’t limit your working hours.
If your housing is tied to your job, you may need to find new accommodation.
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