Truck Driver Jobs in the Netherlands with Visa Sponsorship 2025/2026

If you’re a professional truck driver looking to work in Europe, the Netherlands is one of the best countries to consider. With a growing logistics industry, an ageing local workforce, and increasing demand for international freight transport, Dutch employers are actively hiring qualified truck drivers from abroad. But if you’re applying from outside the EU, you can’t just get on a plane and start working. You need a company that’s ready to sponsor your work visa and help you move legally and safely.

In this guide, you’ll learn what kinds of truck driving jobs are available in the Netherlands, how visa sponsorship works, what documents you’ll need, and what to expect when applying from outside the EU. If you’re serious about relocating for work in 2025 or 2026, this will give you the clear, practical information you need to start.

Why Truck Drivers Are in Demand in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a major transport and logistics hub in Europe. Its ports—especially the Port of Rotterdam—are among the busiest in the world. Goods come in and out daily, and trucks are needed to move them across Europe. Local companies are struggling to find enough licensed drivers, especially for long-distance and cross-border transport.

This shortage isn’t a short-term problem. Many Dutch drivers are retiring, and fewer young people are entering the profession. That’s why more companies are looking beyond their borders and hiring experienced drivers from countries like the Philippines, India, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Eastern Europe.

If you have the right driving licence, experience, and paperwork, there’s a real chance for you to build a stable career in the Netherlands—with legal work, proper salary, and the opportunity to live in one of the safest and most developed countries in Europe.

What Type of Truck Driving Jobs Are Available?

In the Netherlands, employers are mainly hiring for these roles:

• Long-haul drivers (cross-border deliveries to Germany, Belgium, France, etc.)

• Container transport drivers (especially near ports like Rotterdam)

• Refrigerated goods drivers (transporting food and perishable items)

• Logistics company drivers (contracted to supermarkets, warehouses, or factories)

Most positions are full-time and come with benefits like paid holidays, insurance, and in many cases, help with housing and relocation. Some companies may provide initial training or allow you to upgrade your licence once you’re in the country.

What You Need to Qualify

To work legally as a truck driver in the Netherlands with visa sponsorship, you’ll need to meet the following basic requirements:

• Valid international truck driving licence (Category C or CE)

• Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC or Code 95) – this is required under EU law

• Clean driving record

• Basic English or Dutch language skills (English is often enough to get started)

• Medical fitness certificate (you must be physically fit to drive long distances)

If your country’s licence is not recognised in the EU, some employers may help you convert or re-train once you arrive—but this varies. If you already have a CPC or Code 95 from another EU country, your chances of getting hired are much higher.

How Visa Sponsorship Works

If you’re not from the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), you need a work permit (TWV) and residence permit to work in the Netherlands legally. The employer must apply for this on your behalf. This is what “visa sponsorship” means—they take care of the legal steps and file the request for your work permit with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

Here’s what the process usually looks like:

1. Job Offer – You apply to a company that confirms it is open to hiring foreign drivers.

2. Employer Applies for a Permit – The company submits an application to the IND or through the Single Permit process (combined residence + work).

3. Approval and Documents – If approved, you’ll receive a decision letter and visa instructions.

4. Travel and Relocation – You travel to the Netherlands, begin orientation or training, and start working.

Not all companies are willing to go through this process, so always check that the employer has experience hiring non-EU workers and is registered with the IND.

Companies and Agencies Hiring Foreign Drivers

Some Dutch logistics companies work with international recruitment agencies to fill driver shortages. These agencies often provide support with documents, housing, and sometimes basic Dutch language lessons. A few examples of trusted employers or agencies (check each for up-to-date openings):

• Janssen Group – known to hire international truck drivers across the Benelux region.

• H. Essers – has contracts across Europe and sometimes recruits from outside the EU.

• Eastmen.eu – Dutch recruitment agency that frequently posts openings for licensed international truck drivers.

• OTTO Work Force – one of the biggest recruiters for logistics jobs across the Netherlands and Germany.

You can also search platforms like Indeed Netherlands, LinkedIn, or Werk.nl using keywords like “Truck driver visa sponsorship” or “international truck driver.”

Salary and Working Conditions

Truck drivers in the Netherlands can expect average monthly salaries between €2,400 and €3,200, depending on experience, shift patterns, and overtime. Long-haul drivers often earn more due to overnight trips and cross-border assignments.

Most contracts include:

• Weekly or monthly payments

• Health insurance (mandatory for all workers)

• Paid holiday (usually 20+ days annually)

• Extra payments for weekends or night driving

• Pension contributions (if hired on a long-term basis)

Some employers offer free or subsidised accommodation, especially for the first few months. Transport to work sites, uniform, and training may also be included.

What You Should Prepare Before Applying

To improve your chances and avoid delays, get these documents ready ahead of time:

• A complete CV in English (or Dutch) focused on your truck driving experience

• Scans of your driving licence, CPC/Code 95, and passport

• Medical certificate showing you are fit to drive heavy vehicles

• Police clearance certificate (if requested by employer)

• Language test (optional, but helpful)

• Professional references or past employment letters

Also, practice basic communication in English or Dutch. Many employers don’t expect fluency, but being able to follow instructions and communicate safely on the road is essential.

Final Thoughts

Truck driving is one of the few jobs in the Netherlands where foreign workers without university degrees can still qualify for visa sponsorship, good salaries, and a long-term career. If you have the experience, the proper licence, and you’re willing to relocate, this could be your path to Europe.

Start early. Research companies. Prepare your documents properly. And only apply to employers or agencies that clearly state they sponsor work permits. With driver shortages expected to continue through 2026, this is one of the best times to explore your chances in the Dutch transport industry.