New Country, New Start: 5 Tips to Begin Your Journey in the Netherlands with IFJ

New Country, New Start: 5 Tips to Begin Your Journey in the Netherlands with IFJ

Every week, IFJ welcomes international colleagues who are ready to start working in logistics, production, or floriculture. Starting a new adventure in the Netherlands can be exciting – and challenging. That’s why we’re sharing five practical tips to help you start off strong!

1. Prepare for the Unknown
Of course, we’ll help you with housing, transport, and work – but it’s great if you do some research on your own too. For example:

What is the climate like in the Netherlands?

What kind of clothes will you need?

What are common workplace customs in the Netherlands?

We welcome you with open arms on your first day. From our office in Aalsmeer, we sometimes literally see you arriving by plane. We’ll take you straight to your new home and explain everything. Is it exciting? Absolutely – but you’re not alone.

2. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Our recruiters are here to support you – from the first call to your first workday (and beyond!). You’ll be in contact with our coordinators from the start. Do you have questions about your schedule, your accommodation, or your workplace? Just ask.

We believe in personal contact. Whether it’s a small question or something you want to discuss – we’re here for you, so you can focus on settling in.

3. Learning Dutch Helps (But It’s Not Required)
You don’t need to speak Dutch to work with IFJ. But learning a few basic words can really help:

• Goedemorgen – Good morning
• Dank je wel – Thank you
• Tot morgen – See you tomorrow

There are many free apps like Duolingo or Babbel to get started. And good news – most Dutch people speak English very well, so making contact is usually easy.

4. Use Our Network
Housing? Transport? Work? IFJ takes care of it. We provide safe, certified accommodation (SNF-approved), and we even match you with suitable housemates – making it easier to make friends. Keep your space clean? You might win a prize!

We also provide a bike or car depending on your distance to work and whether you have a driver’s license.

We work only with trusted employers we’ve thoroughly screened. This means you’ll have a safe workplace, good supervision, and enough hours. IFJ is certified with SNF, ABU, and SNA – so everything is well-organized and compliant.

5. Take Care of Yourself
Working abroad is a big step. Make sure to:

• Get enough sleep
• Eat healthy
• Connect with others

At IFJ, we believe well-being is the foundation for success. We keep in touch, listen to your experiences, and help when something comes up. The Netherlands is an open and welcoming country – who knows, you might become a fan of cycling, tulip fields, or cheese from Gouda!

You don’t have to do it all on your own. We’re here for you – from day one.

Ready to start your new life in the Netherlands?
Check out our vacancies or get in touch with one of our recruiters. Your new adventure with IFJ might be just around the corner!