On the way to work
You want to use your knowledge and experience in the Netherlands. Together with you we look at your possibilities and opportunities.
What can the UAF do for me?
Orientation on the Dutch labor market
When preparing to apply for the job that matches your ambitions, it's important to understand how the Dutch labor market views your education, knowledge, and experience. The UAF (Union for Applied Research) will help you determine what's required to qualify for your desired job, whether a (short) training program is necessary, and which organizations can assist you. Despite a good background in your country of origin and even a good credential evaluation (IDW), a Dutch diploma or course may be required to qualify for your desired job.
Preparation for your studies at a practical placement
The UAF is happy to help you find a suitable workplace. We offer personal guidance and group training to prepare you well for your search.
Together, we'll work through a six-month step-by-step plan that will teach you how to find a job independently. You'll work on:
- writing a strong resume and cover letter
- the use of LinkedIn
- smart use of AI in your job application
- practicing job interviews
- and of course: how to search for work places effectively
This way we ensure that you are well prepared for the job market.
Study
If it is necessary to follow a course or study in order to qualify for the job that suits your ambitions, the UAF can guide you in this. See for more information I want to study.
Eyad: 'I encourage everyone to go to work'
Syrie
In Syria, Eyad (33) worked as an engineer at the Ministry of Economic Affairs, among others. Once in the Netherlands it was difficult to find work. He came into contact with NS through the UAF. There he had the opportunity to gain work experience. He did this with great dedication and success, because he now works as a maintenance engineer at NS.
Can the UAF help me?
Whether the UAF can help you depends on your personal situation.
In any case, you must meet the following conditions:
- You have an asylum background*
- You want to study at MBO level 3 or 4, HBO or university
- You have completed at least 11 years of education
- You speak English or Dutch at an intermediate level (B1 or higher)
* You have a Dutch residence permit based on asylum or you have applied for asylum and this procedure is still ongoing.
Do you meet these requirements? Then contact us. When asking what the UAF can do for you, your level of Dutch is important.
To be able to study and work in the Netherlands, you need at least language level B1.
Do you not yet have a B1 Dutch language level?
If you integrate via the Education Route or the B1 route, you will receive Dutch language lessons via your municipality. Discuss the possibilities with your municipality. Are you unable to find a solution? Then the UAF can help you advise you.
Are you not yet integrating? Then we will first support you in learning the language. This is necessary to be able to study and work. We will support you in learning the Dutch language up to B1 level via our UAF Academy, an online learning platform (e-learning).
When can you register for the UAF Academy?
For the UAF Academy you must meet the following conditions:
- You have completed at least 11 years of education
- You speak English or Dutch at an average level, so that you can easily follow the e-learning courses at the UAF Academy
- You have applied for asylum and
- Your asylum procedure is still ongoing
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- Your asylum procedure is still ongoing
- You have been granted an asylum residence permit but you do not yet have your own home
Are you a Ukrainian refugee under the Temporary Protection Directive and do you have an O-document or sticker? You can also register for the UAF Academy.
How can I register?
Do you meet these conditions? And do you want to request support from the UAF? Then fill in the form below contact form. .
Have you already studied and do you want to start working right away?
Often it is necessary that you follow a training or course to practice your profession in the Netherlands. Contact the UAF to discuss what you need.
Get in touch
Want to know more or have questions?
- Please fill out the contact form (in Dutch or English).
- Call 030 – 252 08 35 (available by telephone Monday to Thursday from 10:00 am to 14:00 pm).
Before we register you with the UAF, we will contact you to discuss your needs and how we can support you.