Thinking of Joining SkillLab in Amsterdam? 7 Things You Should Know

Have you ever dreamed of working for a dynamic, forward-thinking company in one of Europe's most vibrant cities? If Amsterdam has been on your radar and SkillLab has caught your eye, you might be wondering what it's really like to make the move. Well, get ready to pack your bags (figuratively, for now!), because we're about to give you the inside scoop.  

At SkillLab, we're a diverse and passionate bunch, building skills-first technology for employment services. We're also proud to call Amsterdam our home. 

We want to make sure your relocation is as smooth and exciting as possible. This is why every new joiner gets access to a detailed Relocation Guide to Amsterdam. In this blogpost, we are sharing the highlights from this relocation guide. So, let's dive into the top 10 things you should know about relocating to Amsterdam to join our team.  

1. We've Got Your Back: The SkillLab Relocation Package

We understand that moving to a new country involves a lot of logistics and expenses. That's why we've put together a comprehensive relocation package to support you every step of the way. For our full-time hires, this includes:  

  • Visa and Residence Permit Support: If you are relocating from outside of Europe, then we'll handle the complexities of the Dutch immigration system. We will cover all visa application fees for you, your partner, and your kids if needed. We will work with an immigration lawyer to ensure a smooth process.
  • Housing Assistance: Finding an apartment in Amsterdam can be a challenge, but don't worry! We partner with a real estate agent to help you in your search, and we'll cover the agency fees.
  • Travel Costs: We'll help with your travel expenses to Amsterdam, whether it's plane tickets or other transportation costs.
  • Tax Guidance: Navigating a new tax system can be daunting. We'll connect you with a tax advisor so you can submit your first tax declaration.

30% Ruling Support: If you're eligible for the 30% ruling (a sweet tax advantage for highly skilled migrants), we'll take care of the application process.

2. Getting to Know the Dutch: Culture and language

To help you get acquainted with your new home, it's helpful to learn a bit about Dutch culture. Resources like "Culture Smart! The Netherlands" and "Why the Dutch are Different" offer insights into Dutch customs and social etiquette.

At SkillLab, we're an international team, so you'll be working alongside people from all over the world. Understanding intercultural communication is key. Erin Meyer's "The Culture Map" is a fantastic resource for navigating cultural differences in the workplace.

3. Show Me the Money: Budgeting for Amsterdam

Here's a quick overview of typical expenses:

4. First Things First: Settling In

Once you arrive, here are a few priorities:

  • Get a Dutch phone number: Compare SIM deals at pricewise.nl or simonlycheck.nl.
  • Get a bank account: Open an account with ING, ABN AMRO, or Bunq (easy for internationals).
  • Get an OV-chipkaart: This is your key to using public transport. Order your public transport card at ov-chipkaart.nl.
  • Get your DigidID: Register at digid.nl to access government services.
  • Get a bike: It's the quintessential Amsterdam experience! You can get buy your bike, get swapfiets or lease-a-bike.
  • Start learning Dutch: Even a few basic phrases will go a long way.

5. Fun, Fun, Fun: Amsterdam Life

It's not all about the practicalities! Amsterdam is a city bursting with culture, history, and entertainment.

  • Museums: From the world-famous Rijksmuseum to the poignant Anne Frank House, there's something for everyone. Apply for your Museumkaart at museumkaart.nl and enjoy unlimited access to museums across the Netherlands for a whole year.
  • Festivals: King's Day, Amsterdam Pride, and the Amsterdam Dance Event are just a few of the many events that fill the city with energy.

Food and Drinks: Amsterdam has a thriving culinary scene, with everything from cozy cafes to Michelin-starred restaurants. And don't forget to explore the world of Dutch beer and jenever!

6. We Care About Your Well-being: Mental Health Support

Moving to a new country can be stressful, and we want to make sure you feel supported. SkillLab encourages everyone to prioritize their mental health and provides resources to help.

To help you grow and stay balanced, SkillLab provides a Learning & Development budget that you can use for self-directed growth. You’re free to spend it on anything that supports your development, including:

  • Online courses
  • Books
  • Professional events or conferences
  • Coaching or therapy sessions
  • Language lessons

Whether you’re looking to expand your skills or take care of your mental health, we’re here to support you.

7. Join the SkillLab Community!

We hope this gives you a helpful glimpse into what it's like to relocate to Amsterdam and join SkillLab. We're a company that values its people, and we're excited to welcome new members to our team.

If you're ready for an adventure and want to contribute to something meaningful, check out our open positions on our careers page or connect with us on LinkedIn. We can't wait to hear from you!