The demand for skilled healthcare workers in the Netherlands continues to grow, and midwifery jobs are among the most rewarding opportunities available in 2025. The country is facing an increasing need for qualified midwives due to rising birth rates, aging professionals leaving the field, and government initiatives to improve maternal healthcare services.

For foreign-trained professionals, this has opened a wide door to employment, especially for those seeking jobs with visa sponsorship, high salaries, and long-term career growth.

The Netherlands is widely recognized for its advanced healthcare system, ranking among the best in Europe. Midwives play a central role in maternity care, often being the first and most important contact for expectant mothers.

Unlike in some countries where doctors dominate maternity services, Dutch healthcare heavily emphasizes midwifery-led care. This cultural and medical preference creates thousands of well-paying job opportunities every year.

For immigrants, midwifery positions in the Netherlands not only provide job security but also excellent benefits. Many employers offer relocation packages, housing allowances, and visa sponsorship to attract foreign talent.

With salaries averaging above €55,000 annually, midwifery is among the top-paying healthcare jobs available to non-EU applicants. Additionally, midwives enjoy flexible schedules, professional autonomy, and a strong sense of community recognition.

In 2025, job portals across the Netherlands are reporting an increase in vacancies for healthcare workers, with midwives consistently ranking in the top five most sought-after professions. The Dutch government has also simplified the visa process for healthcare workers, making it easier for foreign-trained professionals to secure employment and settle in the country.

Midwifery jobs in the Netherlands present more than just an employment opportunity. They offer a lifestyle filled with balance, professional respect, and financial stability.

As an employer hiring immigrants, our focus is to bring in skilled workers who can integrate easily into Dutch society, provide exceptional maternal healthcare services, and grow alongside one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the world.

Entry-level Skills and Experience Required

Becoming a midwife in the Netherlands requires specific qualifications, and for immigrants, there are clear guidelines set by Dutch healthcare authorities. The minimum entry requirement is usually a bachelor’s degree in midwifery or nursing with specialization in obstetrics.

Foreign applicants must have their credentials verified by the BIG-register, the Dutch system that regulates healthcare professionals. For entry-level positions, the following skills and qualifications are highly valued:

• A recognized degree in midwifery or related field.
• Clinical training in antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care.
• Fluency in English, with willingness to learn Dutch within 12 to 18 months.
• Certification in neonatal resuscitation and obstetric emergencies.
• At least 1–2 years of practical experience in a hospital or community setting.

Although experience is important, there are also graduate trainee programs for fresh midwives. Some hospitals and healthcare organizations provide mentorship programs for international recruits, where senior midwives guide new staff through the Dutch maternity care system.

Soft skills are equally important. Employers in the Netherlands prioritize midwives with excellent communication abilities, cultural sensitivity, and empathy. Since midwives work closely with families from diverse backgrounds, an immigrant midwife must be adaptable and open to learning cultural norms specific to Dutch society.

Entry-level midwives can expect an average annual salary of €38,000 to €45,000. As experience grows, wages increase significantly, with senior midwives earning over €65,000 per year. For foreign applicants, the additional benefit of visa sponsorship makes this profession both financially and professionally rewarding.

It is also worth noting that the Netherlands places strong emphasis on preventive care. This means midwives must not only attend to childbirth but also educate families about nutrition, mental health, and childcare. Such a holistic approach makes the role more demanding but also increases career value.

Regions with the Highest Payment Structures

Midwifery salaries in the Netherlands are not uniform, as payment structures vary by region, employer, and type of healthcare facility. Immigrants seeking the best-paying jobs should consider cities and provinces with higher demand and stronger healthcare budgets.

The Randstad region, which includes Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague, consistently reports the highest salaries for midwives. Due to population density and higher living costs, salaries here often exceed €60,000 annually.

In Amsterdam, for example, private hospitals and international clinics frequently offer additional bonuses such as relocation allowances, housing subsidies, and transport stipends.

Outside the Randstad, provinces like North Brabant and Gelderland also report attractive salary packages. These regions are home to some of the largest hospitals and maternity centers in the country, and midwives often earn between €55,000 and €58,000 per year. Additionally, due to slightly lower cost of living compared to Amsterdam, midwives here enjoy higher disposable incomes.

For rural regions, salaries may start lower, averaging around €48,000 annually. However, hospitals and clinics in rural areas often offer incentive packages to attract professionals, including free accommodation, language training, and additional vacation allowances.

Many immigrants find rural placements ideal for family settlement due to affordable housing and community support. To put this into perspective:

• Amsterdam Midwives: €60,000–€65,000 per year.
• Rotterdam Midwives: €58,000–€62,000 per year.
• Utrecht Midwives: €57,000–€61,000 per year.
• Rural Netherlands: €48,000–€52,000 per year.

These figures show that while big cities provide the highest financial rewards, smaller towns offer better long-term savings opportunities. Immigrant midwives can choose based on lifestyle preference, with employers in both urban and rural areas offering visa sponsorship.

Salary Expectations for Midwives

In 2025, midwifery jobs in the Netherlands rank among the best-paid healthcare roles for foreign professionals. On average, a midwife earns between €55,000 and €65,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer.

For beginners, salaries typically start at €38,000, but this figure quickly rises after one or two years of professional practice. Midwives with five or more years of experience earn above €65,000, and those in managerial or specialist positions can exceed €75,000 annually.

The Dutch healthcare system also offers structured salary increments. Pay increases are usually based on years of service, continued education, and specialization. For instance, midwives who pursue further training in gynecology or neonatal intensive care can command higher pay. Apart from base salary, midwives enjoy numerous additional benefits:

• 8 percent holiday allowance added to annual income.
• 13th-month bonus at the end of the year.
• Paid maternity and paternity leave.
• Pension contributions from employers.
• Relocation and visa sponsorship support for foreign applicants.

When compared to other EU countries, the Netherlands stands out for its competitive salaries and strong job security in healthcare. For example, midwives in Germany earn an average of €48,000, in France €42,000, and in Spain €38,000. This makes the Netherlands one of the top destinations for immigrant midwives seeking financial growth. To illustrate further:

• Entry-level Midwives: €38,000–€45,000 per year.
• Mid-level Midwives: €50,000–€58,000 per year.
• Senior Midwives: €65,000–€75,000 per year.

With visa sponsorship included, midwifery jobs in the Netherlands provide a unique combination of financial stability, professional respect, and personal satisfaction. For immigrants, the chance to work in a supportive healthcare system while earning competitive wages makes this career path extremely attractive.

Companies Hiring Midwives in the Netherlands

As demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow in the Netherlands, numerous hospitals, clinics, and maternity centers are actively hiring midwives, particularly international candidates who bring global expertise and diverse perspectives.

These employers often offer not only competitive salaries but also visa sponsorship packages, housing support, and structured training programs to help foreign recruits integrate successfully.

Large teaching hospitals such as Amsterdam UMC (University Medical Centers), Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), and Erasmus MC in Rotterdam are leading recruiters.

These institutions provide comprehensive maternity and neonatal services, making them some of the most attractive workplaces for midwives. They also have strong partnerships with international medical institutions, which makes them more open to hiring skilled professionals from abroad.

In addition to university hospitals, regional hospitals like Isala Hospital in Zwolle, Catharina Hospital in Eindhoven, and Radboudumc in Nijmegen frequently advertise midwifery vacancies.

These hospitals are known for providing structured career progression pathways. Immigrant midwives joining these facilities often benefit from free Dutch language training, mentoring programs, and assistance with professional registration under the BIG-register.

Private maternity clinics and birthing centers are another strong employer group. The Netherlands is unique in its preference for home births and natural deliveries, which are often supervised by midwives rather than doctors.

As a result, independent midwifery practices across cities like Utrecht, Haarlem, and Groningen continuously seek experienced professionals. Many of these practices sponsor visas and provide flexible working arrangements, making them especially attractive for immigrant workers with families.

International healthcare staffing agencies also play a crucial role in connecting immigrant midwives with Dutch employers. Agencies such as TMI Interim, BKV Group, and Staffing House Healthcare recruit foreign-trained professionals and place them into hospitals and clinics offering visa sponsorship.

These agencies often cover relocation costs, initial housing, and sometimes even airfare, reducing the financial burden on applicants. Typical benefits offered by companies hiring immigrant midwives include:

• Competitive base salary between €55,000 and €65,000 per year.
• Paid training and professional development programs.
• Pension contributions and health insurance coverage.
• Relocation assistance, including temporary housing and transport support.
• Work-life balance through flexible schedules and part-time contracts.

Employers in the Netherlands understand that immigration can be challenging, so many provide support for the entire family of the recruited midwife. This includes assistance with school placement for children and integration programs for spouses. For immigrants seeking long-term stability, these added benefits make the Netherlands one of the most desirable destinations for midwifery employment.

Visa Types and Options for Midwives

Immigrants seeking midwifery jobs in the Netherlands must secure the correct visa type. Fortunately, the Dutch government has streamlined its immigration policy for healthcare workers, recognizing the urgent need for professionals in this field. As of 2025, several visa categories are available to foreign-trained midwives, depending on their qualifications, work contract, and country of origin.

The most common visa pathway for midwives is the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa, also known as the Kennismigrant Visa. This visa allows employers to hire foreign healthcare professionals directly, provided the salary threshold is met.

For midwives, the minimum annual salary requirement under this visa category is approximately €36,000 for applicants under 30 years of age and €55,000 for those above 30. Since midwifery salaries typically exceed this amount, most applicants qualify easily.

Another option is the EU Blue Card, designed for highly skilled workers with a recognized degree and employment contract. The EU Blue Card offers more flexibility for immigrants, as it allows long-term residency in the Netherlands and eventual relocation within other EU countries. For midwives who want career mobility across Europe, this is a strong option.

For applicants coming from non-EU countries, the Work Permit (TWV) and Combined Residence and Work Permit (GVVA) are available. These permits require employer sponsorship, meaning that a hospital, clinic, or staffing agency must prove that the position cannot be filled by a Dutch or EU worker. Healthcare is classified as a shortage occupation, so approval rates for midwives are high.

Midwives seeking permanent residency can also apply through the Orientation Year Visa if they graduated from a recognized Dutch university. This visa allows recent graduates to stay in the Netherlands for one year while seeking full-time employment. Once employed, they can transition to the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa.

In addition to work permits, immigrant midwives benefit from family reunification policies. Spouses and children can join the visa holder and are granted the right to live and work in the Netherlands. This makes midwifery one of the most family-friendly immigration pathways available.

Overall, the visa system in the Netherlands is designed to attract professionals in shortage sectors like healthcare. For foreign-trained midwives, this creates an excellent opportunity to secure not just employment, but also long-term residency and even citizenship after five years of continuous work and residence.

Where to Find Midwifery Job Opportunities

Finding midwifery jobs in the Netherlands requires careful planning, but there are several trusted sources that immigrant professionals can rely on. The Dutch healthcare system is transparent in its recruitment process, and jobs are frequently advertised through official websites, hospital portals, and international staffing agencies.

The Netherlands Association of Midwives (KNOV) maintains a job board with current vacancies across the country. This is one of the most reliable sources for immigrants seeking licensed positions. Listings often include salary details, work requirements, and whether visa sponsorship is available.

Online job portals such as Indeed.nl, LinkedIn Jobs, Glassdoor, and Werk.nl (the official Dutch employment site) regularly post vacancies. Many of these platforms allow filtering for “visa sponsorship” roles, making it easier for immigrant candidates to identify suitable openings.

International healthcare recruitment agencies like TMI Interim, BKV, and Global Nurse Recruitment are also critical resources. These agencies specialize in connecting foreign-trained healthcare workers with Dutch employers. They assist with everything from application preparation to visa processing and relocation.

Hospitals themselves often post vacancies directly on their websites. For example, Amsterdam UMC, Erasmus MC, and LUMC frequently update their careers pages with midwifery opportunities. Applicants who apply directly through hospital websites often get priority consideration.

Social media platforms, particularly LinkedIn, have also become vital networking tools. Many Dutch employers and recruiters use professional networking groups to advertise vacancies and connect with candidates worldwide.

For immigrants outside Europe, it is advisable to begin job hunting at least six months before planning relocation. This allows time for degree verification, professional registration, and visa processing. Many hospitals even conduct virtual interviews, making it easier for foreign applicants to secure contracts before arriving in the Netherlands.

In addition to online sources, midwifery conferences, job fairs, and healthcare seminars often feature Dutch employers seeking international staff. Attending these events provides networking opportunities and direct access to recruiters who are authorized to sponsor visas.

Overall, the Dutch job market for midwives is transparent and accessible. With the right resources, foreign-trained professionals can secure well-paying positions with visa sponsorship, housing benefits, and career progression opportunities.

How to Apply for Midwifery Jobs as an Immigrant in the Netherlands

Applying for midwifery jobs in the Netherlands requires careful preparation, as employers and regulatory authorities maintain high standards for healthcare professionals. Immigrant applicants must not only demonstrate clinical competence but also meet professional licensing requirements under Dutch law.

The first step is to have your academic and professional qualifications evaluated. All healthcare workers in the Netherlands must register with the BIG-register, which verifies foreign degrees and ensures they meet Dutch medical standards.

Applicants must submit academic transcripts, proof of clinical experience, and professional references. In some cases, additional training or examinations may be required to bridge differences between local and foreign qualifications.

Once qualifications are verified, applicants should prepare a professional CV tailored to Dutch employers. A strong CV should include:

• Educational background in midwifery or nursing.
• Detailed clinical experience in antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care.
• Certifications in neonatal resuscitation, obstetric emergencies, and maternal health.
• Language skills (English required, Dutch proficiency an advantage).
• References from previous employers or training institutions.

The application process usually begins online, either through hospital websites, recruitment agencies, or job boards. Employers often request a motivation letter in addition to the CV, explaining why the candidate is interested in working in the Netherlands and how they can contribute to maternal healthcare services.

Once shortlisted, candidates are invited for virtual interviews. These interviews assess both professional skills and cultural adaptability. Some hospitals may also conduct technical assessments or case-based discussions to evaluate clinical judgment.

If selected, the employer provides a formal job contract, which is required for visa application. The employer usually assists with the visa sponsorship process, housing arrangements, and orientation programs. Processing time for work visas typically ranges from four to eight weeks, depending on the applicant’s country of origin.

After arrival, immigrant midwives undergo an integration program, which may include Dutch language training, orientation sessions, and mentoring by senior staff. This ensures smooth adaptation to the Dutch healthcare system and cultural environment. In summary, the application process involves four key steps:

1. Credential recognition through the BIG-register.
2. CV and motivation letter submission.
3. Online interview and selection.
4. Visa application and relocation assistance.

For immigrants, the Netherlands offers one of the most structured and supportive hiring processes in Europe. With strong employer involvement, government-backed visa programs, and high salaries, applying for midwifery jobs as a foreign professional in 2025 provides an opportunity for financial stability, career development, and long-term residency.