The Netherlands is experiencing high demand for domestic workers and cleaners due to the growing service sector, tourism, and private household needs. Foreign workers are increasingly filling these positions with full visa sponsorship, enabling them to live and work legally in the country.
Benefits of working in the Netherlands as a domestic or cleaner in 2026:
- Legal employment with full visa sponsorship
- Competitive wages for household and cleaning services
- Accommodation and support provided by some employers
- Experience in a high-standard European work environment
- Pathway to extended work permits or permanent residency
This guide provides all the details foreign workers need to secure domestic and cleaner jobs in the Netherlands in 2026:
- Job roles and responsibilities
- Salary and benefits
- Eligibility and visa requirements
- Documents needed
- Step-by-step application guide
- Top cities and employers hiring
- Tips for increasing chances of selection
What Domestic and Cleaner Jobs in the Netherlands Entail
Domestic and cleaner roles vary depending on whether they are in private households, hotels, offices, or care facilities.
Key Responsibilities:
- General cleaning: sweeping, mopping, dusting, and vacuuming
- Laundry, ironing, and clothing care
- Cooking and kitchen maintenance in some households
- Organizing household items or office spaces
- Maintaining hygiene standards and safe working environment
- Assisting elderly or disabled individuals (for domestic care roles)
Skills Required:
- Attention to detail and cleanliness
- Time management and organizational skills
- Basic cooking and laundry skills (for domestic helpers)
- Communication and teamwork
- Physical stamina for repetitive cleaning tasks
Salary and Benefits for Domestic and Cleaner Jobs in the Netherlands 2026
Salaries vary by city, employer, and whether the work is live-in or live-out:
- Hourly Wage: €12 – €18
- Monthly Salary: €2,000 – €3,000 for full-time employment
- Additional Benefits:
- Housing provided (for live-in positions)
- Meals or meal allowances
- Paid vacation (typically 20–25 days/year)
- Health insurance contribution
- Travel allowance (for commuting roles)
High-Paying Locations:
- Amsterdam
- Rotterdam
- The Hague
- Utrecht
- Eindhoven
Eligibility Criteria for Foreign Workers in the Netherlands
1. Age Requirement
- Minimum 18 years old
2. Visa Sponsorship
- Employer must provide a full work visa or residence permit
- Full sponsorship ensures legal employment and work permit processing
3. Education & Experience
- No formal education required for entry-level cleaning roles
- Previous cleaning, housekeeping, or domestic experience preferred
- Physical fitness and reliability are crucial
4. Language Requirement
- Basic Dutch is beneficial but not mandatory
- English proficiency is highly recommended for communication
5. Background & Health
- Clean criminal record
- Medical clearance for hygiene and safety compliance
- Physically fit to perform cleaning tasks
Documents Required for Visa-Sponsored Domestic and Cleaner Jobs
Personal Documents:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- Passport-sized photographs
- Proof of residency in home country
Work & Experience Documents:
- Resume/CV highlighting cleaning/domestic experience
- Letters of recommendation from previous employers (if available)
- Certificates or training in household management (optional)
Visa & Immigration Documents:
- Job offer letter from Dutch employer
- Sponsorship documents or work permit application provided by employer
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical clearance
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Domestic and Cleaner Jobs in the Netherlands
Step 1: Identify Employers Offering Sponsored Jobs
- Online job portals: Indeed.nl, LinkedIn Netherlands, Expatica Jobs
- Domestic staffing agencies specializing in household employment
- Hotels, care facilities, and cleaning service companies
Step 2: Submit Application
- Online or through recruitment agencies
- Include CV and cover letter emphasizing reliability, cleaning skills, and flexibility
Step 3: Employer Review & Shortlisting
- Employers assess experience, skills, and readiness for sponsorship
- Shortlisted candidates may undergo virtual interviews or tests
Step 4: Receive Job Offer & Sponsorship
- Employer provides official offer and sponsorship documents
- This includes work permit application instructions for Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)
Step 5: Apply for Dutch Work Visa
- Submit documents to IND or at Dutch consulate in your home country
- Pay visa fees and attend interviews if required
Step 6: Medical and Security Checks
- Complete medical examination
- Submit police and background checks
Step 7: Travel to the Netherlands and Start Work
- Report to employer and complete onboarding
- Orientation includes local regulations, hygiene, and work standards
- Begin work as domestic helper or cleaner
Top Dutch Cities for Visa-Sponsored Domestic and Cleaner Jobs
- Amsterdam: Private households, hotels, and offices
- Rotterdam: Corporate cleaning, domestic services
- The Hague: Diplomatic households, embassies, international organizations
- Utrecht: Corporate and private cleaning services
- Eindhoven: Hotels, hospitals, and care facilities
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Selection
- Apply Early: High demand and limited visa spots make early application essential
- Tailor CV: Highlight relevant domestic, cleaning, and housekeeping experience
- Show Reliability: Employers value trustworthiness and discretion
- Language Skills: Basic Dutch or English improves communication
- Flexibility: Willingness to work weekends, evenings, and live-in positions
- Professional Presentation: Provide references and certifications if possible
Health, Safety, and Working Conditions
- PPE may be required for certain cleaning tasks
- Follow local safety and hygiene regulations
- Live-in positions may include employer-provided accommodation
- Employees are entitled to labor protections under Dutch law, including working hours, overtime pay, and vacation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is prior experience mandatory?
No, but experience increases your chance of selection. Employers prioritize reliability and physical fitness.
2. How long does visa sponsorship take?
Typically 4–8 weeks depending on employer and IND processing times.
3. Can family members accompany me?
Depends on visa type; live-in domestic roles may allow dependents with separate applications.
4. What is the minimum salary?
Typically €12/hour, but higher for experienced or live-in positions.
5. Is Dutch language proficiency required?
Not mandatory but recommended, especially for household roles requiring communication with employers.
Conclusion: Start Your Application for Domestic and Cleaner Jobs in the Netherlands with Full Sponsorship in 2026
With a growing service sector and high demand for foreign domestic and cleaning workers, 2026 is an excellent year to secure employment in the Netherlands. Full visa sponsorship ensures you can legally work and gain international experience in a professional European environment.
Foreign workers who prepare their documents, follow the application steps, and demonstrate reliability and skills have the best chance to secure competitive domestic or cleaner jobs in the Netherlands. Begin your application today to start a rewarding career abroad in 2026.