More International Graduates Are Staying in the Netherlands

At Undutchables, this aligns with what we see in the job market: international talent is not only seeking opportunities in the Netherlands—they’re choosing to build their lives here. The market is encouraging for internationals and the numbers are bringing that even more to light.

Who Stays—and Why?

Not all international graduates follow the same path. Several factors increase the likelihood of staying:

• Study Experience in the Netherlands: Those who completed both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the Netherlands are more likely to stay—30% are still here after five years. The longer they study here, the more time they have to learn the language, build a network, and adapt to Dutch culture.

• Field of Study: Graduates from high-demand sectors like education and engineering show higher stay rates, as their skills are urgently needed in the Dutch labor market, so it is easier to take the next step in their career after graduation.

• Country of Origin: Graduates from Suriname (80%), Iran (71%), Ukraine (58%), Turkey (52%), and Russia (50%) are the most likely to stay long-term. This may be linked to language familiarity and expat communities reflecting their country of origin that are well established in the Netherlands.

Where Do They Go?

The stay rate also tends to vary by city. Students who study in an institution in Eindhoven are leading the pack in stay rate with nearly 49% of international graduates still in the Netherlands after five years, with Delft and Utrecht following close behind at 39% and 37% respectively. Ironically, Maastricht is a highly sought after study destination but appears sees the lowest stay rate (12%), although many graduates do stick around the area but relocate just across the borders to Belgium or Germany.

Ultimately, the Amsterdam region appears to be the top destination for those who stay in the Netherlands after graduation, with around 37% of international graduates working in or near the capital. The Rotterdam and The Hague regions also attract significant numbers of graduates, followed by Eindhoven. Thanks to the international job opportunities in these areas it is not a surprise to see the Randstad high on the list, but is also nice to note that Brabant is making its way up there providing more jobs and international communities throughout the country.

Why It Matters for the Dutch Economy

International graduates are highly educated, globally minded, and driven individuals. Of the international graduates who stay at least five years at least 80% are employed. Not only that, but the typical salary rate for these individuals is not bad either.

Their decision to remain in the Netherlands brings long-term benefits to the Dutch economy, especially in a tight labor market that is seeking continual growth and innovation. growing shortages of skilled professionals. This increase of specialized skills and international experience helps companies to grow and stay relevant in the global market.

What This Means for Employers

For international-focused recruitment agencies like Undutchables, these findings confirm a key trend: international graduates are not just passing through—they are building careers and contributing to the Dutch workforce. With the right support, such as career coaching, relocation guidance, and inclusive workplaces, employers can tap into this growing pool of talent.

Whether you’re hiring for tech, logistics, education, finance, or customer service roles, international graduates bring valuable skills, multicultural perspectives, and long-term commitment that can help your company grow, not only locally, but also internationally.