Security Worker Jobs in Netherlands for Foreign Workers: A Comprehensive Guide
Security Worker Jobs in Netherlands for Foreign Workers: A Comprehensive Guide
The Netherlands has become a major destination for skilled foreign workers seeking stable employment, well-structured labour systems, and opportunities for long-term career growth. One sector that has gained significant attention in recent years is security work—a field that continues to expand due to increased demand in airports, ports, logistics hubs, corporate organizations, and public events.
Because of the country’s strong safety regulations and globally respected security standards, Dutch employers often look for reliable, disciplined individuals who can contribute to maintaining order and protecting people, property, and infrastructure. But as a foreign worker, the process of entering the Dutch security industry is not always straightforward.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about security worker jobs in the Netherlands for foreigners—requirements, qualifications, visa pathways, top employers, salaries, and a step-by-step guide on how to apply.
I. Why Security Jobs Are in High Demand in the Netherlands
Before diving into requirements and procedures, it’s important to understand why the Netherlands has such a strong demand for security workers:
1. Growing International Hubs
- Amsterdam Schiphol Airport – one of the busiest airports in Europe
- Port of Rotterdam – the largest seaport on the continent
- Heavy logistics movement requires extensive security staffing.
2. Increase in Corporate and Tech Facilities
- Data centres
- High-tech manufacturing companies
- Banking headquarters
- Government and embassy zones
These organizations rely on trained security officers to safeguard operations.
3. Rising Events, Tourism & Hospitality Activities
The Netherlands hosts:
- Music festivals
- Football matches
- International conferences
- Art exhibitions
- Cultural events
All these require large numbers of event security personnel.
4. Emphasis on Safety and Regulation
The Dutch government maintains strict standards for:
- Public safety
- Security training
- Criminal background checks
As a result, the security industry is always hiring trained professionals.
II. Understanding Security Work in the Netherlands
Security work in the Netherlands is heavily regulated, standardized, and structured. This makes it a respected and stable profession, but it also comes with strict compliance requirements.
A. Responsibilities of a Security Officer
Depending on your role, you may be responsible for:
- Patrolling premises
- Checking access and IDs
- Monitoring CCTV systems
- Responding to alarms
- Reporting incidents
- Ensuring safety at events
- Enforcing security protocols
- De-escalating conflicts
- Protecting assets and staff
III. Types of Security Jobs Available
The security sector in the Netherlands is diverse, and foreign workers can find various opportunities depending on their skills and certifications.
1. Private Security Guard
Standard roles in offices, commercial buildings, warehouses, hospitals, etc.
2. Airport Security Officer
Schiphol Airport hires hundreds of officers yearly.
Duties include:
- Luggage screening
- Passenger checks
- Terminal surveillance
3. Maritime and Port Security
Especially in Rotterdam:
- Cargo scanning
- Ship inspection
- Port access control
4. CCTV Monitoring Officer
For malls, banks, casinos, and corporate buildings.
5. Event Security / Bouncers
- Music concerts
- Stadium events
- Nightclubs
6. Corporate Security
High professionalism needed for:
- Banks
- Tech companies
- Government-related facilities
7. Security Receptionist / Concierge
Combination of front-office and access control duties.
IV. Can Foreigners Work as Security Officers in the Netherlands?
Yes—but with conditions.
The Netherlands has strict rules governing who can work in the security industry, mainly due to public safety concerns.
Here’s what determines your eligibility:
A. EU/EEA Citizens
EU nationals can easily work in the Netherlands.
Requirements:
- Register with the municipality
- Get a Dutch BSN (citizen service number)
- Pass background checks
B. Non-EU Citizens
This category includes workers from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.
To work in security, you must:
- Hold a valid residence permit
- Have a work authorization (TWV or GVVA)
- Pass criminal background checks
- Complete Dutch security training
Note: Non-EU foreigners living abroad cannot usually be hired directly into security jobs unless they already live in the Netherlands with a residence permit.
C. Screening Requirements
Every security worker must undergo vetting by the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security.
Screening includes:
- Criminal background check
- Fingerprinting (in some cases)
- Verification of identity and residence
- Examination of your past 8–10 year address history
If you have serious criminal records or incomplete documentation, you will not be approved.
V. Required Qualifications and Certificates
Security work in the Netherlands requires official certification.
A. The Mandatory “Beveiligingsdiploma”
This is the primary security diploma required to work legally in Dutch private security.
It includes training in:
- Dutch law
- Conflict management
- Emergency procedures
- Basic self-defense
- Report writing
- Surveillance and risk assessment
- Fire safety
Approved training schools exist across the Netherlands.
B. Recognition of Foreign Certificates
Foreign security certificates are NOT automatically recognized.
Even if you worked as a security guard abroad, you must still obtain:
- The Beveiligingsdiploma, or
- A verified equivalent (rare cases)
C. Language Requirements
Most employers require Dutch A2–B1 level, because:
- You must communicate during emergencies
- You must read Dutch reports, laws, and procedures
- Training exams are in Dutch
Some international companies allow English-speaking roles, but these are limited.
READ MORE: Security Jobs in Italy for Foreign Workers: A Comprehensive Guide
VI. Visa and Work Permit Pathways
A. EU/EEA Citizens
- No visa required
- Only municipal registration
B. Non-EU Workers
To work as a security guard, you need one of the following:
1. Employer-Sponsored Work Permit (TWV)
Issued by the Dutch labour authority.
2. Combined Residence and Work Permit (GVVA)
Used for stays longer than 3 months.
Employers must prove:
- They could not find a Dutch/EU worker
- You are qualified and screened
C. Highly Skilled Migrant Visa (Not common for security)
This visa does not cover standard security jobs.
It may apply only for:
- Security managers
- Corporate risk consultants
- High-level security specialists
VII. How Much Do Security Workers Earn in the Netherlands?
Security jobs in the Netherlands offer competitive pay compared to many countries.
A. Average Salary Estimates
- €2,000 – €2,700 per month for entry-level guards
- €13 – €17+ per hour depending on employer
- Extra allowances for:
- Night shifts
- Weekends
- Public holidays
- Overtime
B. Salary by Role
| Role | Monthly Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Private Security Guard | €2,000 – €2,500 |
| Airport Security | €2,300 – €2,800 |
| Port Security | €2,300 – €2,900 |
| Event Security | €12–€15/hr |
| CCTV Operator | €2,000 – €2,600 |
| Corporate Security | €2,400 – €3,200 |
| Security Supervisor | €2,800 – €3,600 |
VIII. Best Dutch Cities for Security Jobs
1. Amsterdam
- Schiphol Airport
- Hotels
- Events and festivals
2. Rotterdam
- Port of Rotterdam
- Logistics companies
- Industrial zones
3. The Hague
- Embassies
- Government buildings
- International organizations (ICC, Europol)
4. Utrecht
- Corporate offices
- Malls
- Tech companies
5. Eindhoven
- High-tech manufacturing
- ASML and electronics security
IX. Top Employers Hiring Security Workers
A. Major Security Companies
- G4S Netherlands
- Securitas Netherlands
- Trigion Security
- NVD Security
- SERIS Security
B. Industry Sectors Hiring Foreigners
- Airport security companies
- Maritime companies
- Warehouses and distribution centres
- Tech campuses
- Corporate headquarters
- Event organizers
X. How to Apply for Security Jobs in the Netherlands (Step-by-Step)
Applying for security jobs in the Netherlands requires careful preparation. Here’s a complete guide:
Step 1: Ensure You Meet Eligibility Requirements
- Valid residence permit
- Police clearance
- Willingness to undergo Dutch screening
- Dutch language training (recommended)
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
You’ll need:
- European-format CV
- Passport
- Residence permit
- Educational certificates
- Security certification (if any)
- Two passport photos
- Police criminal clearance from your home country
Step 3: Apply to Security Training Schools (If Needed)
Enroll in the Beveiligingsdiploma training course.
Step 4: Search for Security Job Openings
Best Dutch platforms:
- Indeed.nl
- Nationale Vacaturebank
- Uitzendbureau (recruitment agencies)
- Securitas/G4S websites
Step 5: Submit Your Applications
Customize your CV for every job:
- Mention security experience
- Highlight physical fitness
- Add first-aid/CPR certificates
- Include language skills
Step 6: Attend Interviews
Be prepared to answer:
- Situational questions
- Conflict management examples
- Customer service scenarios
- Knowledge of security procedures
Step 7: Undergo the Ministry Screening
Once hired, your employer will submit your name to the Ministry of Justice for approval.
Step 8: Begin Training / Start Job
You may start as:
- Trainee
- Assistant officer
- Event security support
XI. Challenges Foreign Workers May Face
1. Language Barrier
Most security communication is in Dutch.
You will struggle without at least A2–B1 proficiency.
2. Strict Vetting Requirements
Long address histories, background checks, and identity verification can be difficult for foreigners.
3. Sponsorship Difficulty
Many companies prefer:
- Dutch citizens
- EU workers
- Residents already living in the Netherlands
4. Non-Recognition of Foreign Certificates
Foreign security diplomas rarely count in the Netherlands.
XII. Benefits of Working as a Security Officer in the Netherlands
Despite challenges, working in the Dutch security industry comes with major advantages.
1. Strong Worker Protection
Dutch labour laws guarantee:
- Paid holidays
- Contract stability
- Overtime compensation
- Medical insurance
- Pension contributions
2. Steady Income
Security employees are paid consistently and competitively.
3. Growth Opportunities
Workers can progress to:
- Supervisor
- Security coordinator
- Control room operator
- Corporate security roles
- Government/public security (for Dutch-speaking workers)
4. Flexible Working Options
- Full-time
- Part-time
- Night shifts
- Weekend-based work
- On-call roles
5. International Exposure
Especially in airports and maritime sectors.
XIII. How Foreign Workers Can Increase Their Chances of Getting Hired
1. Learn Basic Dutch First
Enroll in Dutch language courses:
- A2–B1 level
- Helps with interviews and training
- Improves Ministry screening success
2. Obtain First Aid/CPR Certificates
These are a huge advantage.
3. Highlight Experience in High-Risk Environments
Examples:
- Military
- Police
- Event security
- Airport or hotel security
4. Apply to Employers with International Environments
Some companies use English internally.
5. Consider Starting in Unarmed or Entry-Level Roles
Such as:
- Downstream logistics security
- Reception/concierge security
- Event stewarding
These roles often require lower Dutch proficiency.
6. Apply from Within the Country
Foreigners already living in the Netherlands with a residence permit are far more likely to be hired.
XIV. Conclusion
Security work in the Netherlands offers foreign workers a pathway to a stable career, good income, and long-term growth. As one of Europe’s safest and most organized countries, the Netherlands takes security very seriously—and thus provides excellent employment opportunities for those who meet the requirements.
While entering this field requires:
- Dutch language skills
- Government screening
- Proper certification
- A valid work permit
The rewards are well worth the effort.
Whether you’re targeting airport security, port security, corporate environments, or general private guarding roles, the Netherlands provides a strong and structured pathway for motivated foreign workers.
