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Nuffic Report Highlights Benefits of Hiring International Graduates
In today’s increasingly global and competitive labor market, international graduates offer a unique blend of skills, cultural awareness, and fresh perspectives that can add value to any enterprise. As a recruitment agency specialized in connecting multilingual professionals with the Dutch labor market, Undutchables has long championed the value that international talent brings to companies in the Netherlands. Now, new research from our partner Nuffic supports what we’ve seen in practice for years: hiring international graduates is not only beneficial—it’s essential for business growth and innovation.
In Nuffic’s latest report, “Hiring International Graduates – The employers’ perspective”, they took an in-depth look at how Dutch employers perceive international talent. Based on a nationwide survey and interviews with over 400 companies, the verdict is clear - international graduates are a major asset in the Dutch workforce.
Key Findings:
- Nearly 8 in 10 employers report more advantages than disadvantages when hiring international graduates.
- The most frequently cited benefits include diversity, innovation, specialized knowledge, and strong personal qualities such as adaptability and determination.
- International graduates with a degree from a Dutch institution stand out even more, thanks to their familiarity with local culture and the high quality of Dutch education.
- The main challenges include language barriers and administrative complexities, specifically when it comes to arranging work permits, etc.
Employers also expressed the need for stronger support from universities and government in preparing and retaining international talent. The goal is to streamline processes, simplify visa procedures, and better prepare international students for the realities of the Dutch labor market.
Creating diverse and future-ready teams starts with seeing potential beyond borders. International graduates bring unique value, and their integration into the Dutch labor market is a strategic necessity if businesses want to continue to grow and become future-proof. Making this goal a reality requires effort all across the board, from individuals to government decision-makers, and from schools to employers. With the right support and infrastructure, international graduates can thrive in the Netherlands—and help businesses thrive here too.
If you are interested in learning more about working with internationals please contact our experts. You can also view the full Nuffic report in English here.
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