Many international students in the Netherlands find a part‑time job through a mix of personal networks, student organisations and online platforms. A lot of vacancies are never advertised publicly, so an effective search always combines networking with online job search.
Before you start applying, check how much time and energy you can realistically spend on work. Your studies come first: working should not negatively affect your study progress, and for non-EU/EEA students, this is also a condition for keeping your residence permit.
Why work next to your studies in Rotterdam?
A part‑time job or internship in Rotterdam or elsewhere in the Netherlands can help you:
- Gain skills and competences that make your CV stronger
- Expand your professional and social network in the Netherlands
- Improve your language skills, including Dutch, in a real‑life setting
- Get to know Dutch work culture, which helps when applying for internships or graduate jobs later
Be aware of basic work permit regulations
As an international student, your situation may differ from that of Dutch students. There are additional rules if you want to work in the Netherlands, especially if you have a non‑EU/EEA nationality, and you need to arrange practical matters such as health insurance, taxes and a Dutch bank account. Find all relevant information.
What kind of job are you looking for, and where to look?
An effective job search combines networking with a targeted online search strategy.
Use your network
Many student jobs in Rotterdam are filled via word‑of‑mouth. Let people know what you are looking for and ask for tips or referrals:
- Family and friends
- People from your home country who already live in the Netherlands
- Teachers, mentors, tutors and professors
- Fellow students and members of study or student associations
- Professionals within companies
- Recruiters
- Alumni from your bachelor’s or master’s programme
Be specific: say what kind of job you are looking for (for example “part‑time hospitality job in Rotterdam” or “student assistant role in economics”).
Use LinkedIn strategically
LinkedIn is an important tool on the Dutch labour market. You can:
- Follow companies and organisations you are interested in
- Find employees who studied at Erasmus University Rotterdam and ask for advice
- Check job postings and company updates
- Show your skills, experience and motivation in your profile
Want to improve your LinkedIn profile? Join the LinkedIn Basics or LinkedIn Advanced workshops offered by Career Services.
Some international students choose self‑employment instead of a traditional part‑time job. For most forms of self‑employment, non‑EU students do not need a work permit, and there are no fixed limits on working hours, as long as you meet all the conditions of your residence permit and your business does not negatively affect your study progress. Always verify your specific situation with the IND and the International Office.
Get support in starting your business
- The Erasmus Centre for Entrepreneurship (ECE): workshops, events and programmes for first‑time and experienced entrepreneurs
- Erasmus Enterprise: the on‑campus community that combines the knowledge and networks of ERBS, ECE and YES!Delft to support start‑ups
- Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK): how to start and register a business in the Netherlands
- Netherlands Point of Entry: information for international entrepreneurs
Get expert help with your job search
Join Career Services workshops on LinkedIn, CV and cover letters, and book individual coaching sessions, including walking coaching and quick CV & LinkedIn checks.
Learning the Dutch language
Dutch is often required for jobs during or after your studies. Explore different ways to improve your Dutch, tailored to your level, time and budget.