How do I find a job in Groningen as an English speaker?

For English speakers in Groningen, finding work can be a challenge, especially when they do not yet have any knowledge of Dutch. Below are the most important sources and tips for finding a suitable job.

Many companies in Groningen post English-language job vacancies on LinkedIn. Indeed.nl and Glassdoor often have international vacancies, including English-language positions. IamExpat.nl is aimed at expats and English speakers in the Netherlands. Undutchables.nl specialises in vacancies for English speakers and speakers of other languages. Make it in the North helps you transition to working and living in the region. 

Here is a more comprehensive overview with specific examples of companies and organisations in Groningen that hire English speakers or expats.

IT & Technical sector

Examples of IT and technical companies in Groningen that hire English speakers and expats.

Energy and sustainability

Examples of energy and sustainability companies in Groningen that hire English speakers and expats.

Startups and scale-ups

Examples startup and scale-up companies in Groningen that hire English speakers and expats.

Life Sciences & Medical Research

Examples Life Sciences & Medical Research companies in Groningen that hire English speakers and expats.

Tourism, culture and hospitality

Examples tourism, culture and hospitality companies in Groningen that hire English speakers and expats.

For many internationals, finding accommodation in Groningen can be quite a challenge, but fortunately there are plenty of options for finding a suitable place to live. There are various English-language platforms and initiatives that can help you get started. This allows you to search specifically for properties that match your requirements and budget. In addition, there are useful tools and networks that make it easy to get in touch with landlords and other expats

Buying or renting

An important first step is to decide whether you want to rent or buy. This depends on your plans and financial situation. Rental prices in Groningen vary on average between €800 and €1,500 per month. Although the selection may seem limited at times, these resources offer many opportunities to find a pleasant home. This makes finding a suitable home in Groningen a lot easier!

Funda

Funda is the largest and most widely used housing platform in the Netherlands. It offers a comprehensive overview of properties for sale or rent throughout the Netherlands. Although Funda also shows rental properties, the emphasis is on owner-occupied homes. The English version makes it accessible to expats and internationals.

International Welcome Centre North (IWCN)

Regional information point for expats in the northern Netherlands (Groningen, Friesland and Drenthe). They offer personal support and lots of practical information.

Hanze University International Office

Practical information for international students and staff in Groningen, sometimes including useful tips for those looking for accommodation:

Groningen.nl – Living in Groningen (EN) –

Official English-language information from the municipality of Groningen about living, working and integrating in the city:
 

Pararius

Pararius is an online platform for rental properties in the Netherlands. It is one of the largest and most widely used sites for finding rental properties, including apartments, studios, single-family homes and even rooms. The English version has been specially designed for internationals and expats. It offers a clear overview of rental properties throughout the Netherlands, including Groningen and other cities. 

EU citizens do not need a work permit, but non-EU citizens usually do. 

 

Visas & Residency – IND

The Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) is the official authority for visas and residence permits in the Netherlands. This English-language page provides a complete overview of the visa options (such as work visas, student visas, family reunification), the application procedures and the conditions for each type of residence permit. Very useful for internationals who want to know if and how they can live and work in the Netherlands.

Moving to the Netherlands – IWCN

The International Welcome Centre North (IWCN) is specifically for expats in the northern Netherlands (including Groningen). This English-language page explains step by step what internationals need to arrange in order to live and work legally in the Netherlands. Think about registering with the local council, applying for a BSN number, the difference between EU and non-EU citizens, and other practical information. It is a useful, accessible resource with a regional focus. 

Register with the municipality in the Personal Records Database (BRP)

If you come to live in Groningen, you must register with the municipality in the Personal Records Database (BRP). This is mandatory for everyone living in the Netherlands. When you register, you will receive a personal citizen service number (BSN), which is essential for arranging all kinds of matters, such as taking out health insurance or opening a bank account.

There are 10 municipalities in the province of Groningen where you can arrange this. Each municipality has clear instructions and useful information to make the process as easy as possible. This way, you can quickly get everything in order for a good start in Groningen. 

As an international resident in Groningen, you can choose from a range of international schools and childcare options. It is wise to start looking around early, as international schools and popular childcare locations often have waiting lists. Please contact the school or childcare location to schedule a tour or intake interview. It is also useful to check whether there are special programmes for children who speak English as their mother tongue or second language. Here are some useful steps and options to help you get started.

International schools

There is one official international school in Groningen: International School Groningen (ISG)
Located in Haren (near the city of Groningen). ISG offers English-language education for children aged 11 to 18.

In addition, there are also regular primary schools with English-language programmes or bilingual education, for example: GSV International Department, a bilingual primary school (Dutch-English) in Groningen. Aimed at young children of expats and international families.

Childcare for internationals

There are several childcare locations in and around Groningen that have experience with international families and offer English-language communication:

Large childcare organisations such as SKSG and Kids First COP group have locations in the city and surrounding area. Some locations offer additional support or activities for international children. Ask the childcare organisation whether they are used to working with English-speaking parents.

Useful platforms and networks

The International Welcome Centre North (IWCN) provides information and advice about schools and childcare for internationals.