Is my guest allowed to study in the Netherlands?

Yes, Ukrainian displaced individuals are allowed to study in the Netherlands. For clarification, this includes all types of education beyond secondary school: vocational education (mbo), higher professional education (hbo), and university education (wo).

For all studies in Dutch, an admission requirement is that your guest has passed the Staatsexamen NT2-II (State Examination Dutch as a Second Language, level II). For all studies in English, there is a requirement to pass an IELTS or TOEFL exam.

Furthermore, your guest’s previous education will be taken into consideration. This is done by having the diploma evaluated by the International Credential Evaluation (IDW). You can initiate a free application here. If the diploma is not sufficient, for many programs, especially in vocational education (mbo), there is also an admission test for those aged 21 or older.

Other topics

Is my guest allowed to work in the Netherlands?

Yes, Ukrainian displaced persons are allowed to work in the Netherlands as employees. Your guest must meet the following conditions to do so: The guest falls under the Temporary Protection Directive. The guest is registered in the Basic Persons Registration (BRP). The guest has a Citizen Service Number (BSN)*. The guest has a valid proof […]

Where can my guest find work?

Your guest can find a paid job through various methods: Through major job search websites like Indeed or Nationale Vacaturebank Through staffing agencies Through the municipal employment agency or the UWV (Employee Insurance Agency) Through RefugeeWork, a platform with job listings for refugees in 11 languages Through friends, family, and acquaintances

What rights and responsibilities does my guest have while working?

The short answer is that your guest has the same rights and responsibilities as Dutch citizens when working. Unfortunately, Ukrainian displaced individuals are often vulnerable to exploitation and mistreatment in practice. Help your guest avoid these risks by ensuring that the following aspects are properly arranged: The salary is at least the minimum wage. Vacation, […]

How do I recognize potential signs of exploitation?

As mentioned, Ukrainian displaced individuals are at risk of exploitation by employers. It would be helpful if you are vigilant for potential signs of exploitation: There is no employment agreement or contract. The employer only wants to pay in cash. Salary is not paid, partially paid, or paid late. Dangerous work or an unsafe workplace. […]

What should I do if I suspect exploitation?

Exploitation is a criminal offense. If you have suspicions of exploitation, it’s advisable to report it to the police in all cases. To do so, call 0900 – 8844. If you have doubts or prefer to discuss it first, please contact your municipality for help.

Do Ukrainian children need to go to school?

Yes, in principle, all underage Ukrainian children must attend school in the Netherlands. They have the same right to education and compulsory education as everyone else. Children aged 4 to 12 attend primary school (elementary education). After that, they move on to secondary school. Children who have just arrived in the Netherlands and do not […]