nl-NL
Writing a CV for the Netherlands
Dutch hiring is direct. A two-page CV with a short profile, clear results and an honest skills list works better than anything ornate, and the motivation letter is read closely.
The norms
- Length
- Two pages.
- Photo
- Optional and roughly evenly split in practice.
- Personal details
- Name, email, phone, city. Date of birth is still fairly common.
- Dates
- Month and year.
- Tone
- Direct and concrete. Claims without evidence stand out badly.
- Cover letter
- A one-page motivatiebrief is expected for most roles.
What gets CVs rejected
- Inflated language. Dutch readers discount superlatives.
- Leaving out the motivation letter — it is genuinely read here.
- Ignoring the 30% ruling / relocation context when applying from abroad.
Template & type
Modern or Classic, 11pt, photo optional.
Language: Dutch or English — English is widely accepted
Finding the roles
- Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Rotterdam and Utrecht carry most international hiring.
- Many roles are English-first in tech, logistics and semiconductors.
- Recruitment agencies (uitzendbureaus) handle a large share of first contact.
Build a Dutch CV in minutes
Import what you already have, pick the template that matches local norms, and export an ATS-ready PDF with the photo on or off.
Related guides
Writing a cover letter that does not just repeat your CV
A four-paragraph structure, the opening lines to avoid, and how to show you understand the role rather than restating your job history.
CV vs résumé: what European employers expect
Length, photos, personal data, dates and language expectations across Europe — and the differences that matter when applying from abroad.