Labour market participation among newcomers rises sharply – opportunities for employers and staffing agencies

In 2025, labour market participation among newcomers in the Netherlands will increase by no less than 20%, according to recent research by ABN AMRO. A combination of relaxed regulations, staff shortages, and improved guidance makes it possible for more people to take the step into employment. The staffing industry plays a crucial role in this development.

For an organisation like Ebro Diensten, which works daily to guide and place job seekers in sectors such as logistics, production, cleaning and food processing, this confirms what we already see in practice: newcomers are valuable assets on the Dutch labour market.

Newcomers increasingly active in the labour market

The number of working newcomers in the Netherlands is set to rise from 88,000 to 105,000 in 2025 – a growth of 17,500 people. This group includes:

• Ukrainian refugees

• Asylum seekers and status holders

• People with a migration background who have recently moved to the Netherlands

According to ABN AMRO, this is a sum of opportunities: not just for the newcomers themselves, but also for employers dealing with structural labour shortages.

Policy makes a difference

This increase is driven in part by government measures. Some key examples:

• Ukrainian refugees have been allowed to work in the Netherlands without a permit since 2022. At the end of 2024, 55,000 were employed. In 2025, this will rise to 65,000.

• The 24-week restriction for asylum seekers has been abolished, leading to an increase from 2,500 to 8,000 employed asylum seekers in just one year.

• Status holders benefit from the Civic Integration Act and are entering the labour market in greater numbers. In 2025, this will be around 5,500 (+22%).

Relaxing these rules lowers the threshold and increases access to paid work.

The role of staffing agencies: a first step towards long-term employment

Newcomers often start their working lives through temporary staffing agencies. This gives both parties flexibility: job seekers can adjust to the work rhythm, language and culture, while employers can assess who fits well into their teams.

This is a proven model in sectors such as:

• Logistics

• Cleaning

• Meat processing

• Assembly

• Food industry

Temporary work helps newcomers gain experience and gradually find their place in Dutch society.

At Ebro Diensten, this approach is central to how we operate. We believe that personal guidance, language support and clear communication make the difference between a short placement and lasting success.

Guidance is the key to success

ABN AMRO’s report highlights the importance of proper guidance. Employers that invest in diversity, inclusiveness and effective communication benefit from:

• More loyal and satisfied employees

• Stronger team dynamics

• Lower turnover and absenteeism

• Higher productivity

Ebro Diensten supports clients during onboarding and integration. Our team speaks multiple languages, is trained in intercultural communication, and helps with practical matters such as documentation, transport and housing.

This ensures that every placement becomes a real opportunity – not just for the company, but for the worker too.

Positive figures: growth and upward mobility

UWV data shows that more than half of all Ukrainian refugees now work full time, often in entry-level jobs. As they stay longer in the country, they are increasingly moving on to:

• Better-paid positions

• Permanent contracts

• Participation in education and language programmes

This underlines the importance of a strong starting point – and the value of agencies that go beyond simply filling vacancies.

Ebro Diensten as a stepping stone for newcomers

At Ebro Diensten, we believe that work is key to integration, self-confidence and independence. That’s why we invest not only in job matching, but also in human contact, guidance and follow-up.

Our approach includes:

• Personal support in a language the employee understands

• Fair employment contracts based on sectoral collective labour agreements

• Help with understanding payslips, contracts and work schedules

• Partnerships with clients that embrace a diverse workforce

This way, we create sustainable working relationships and help build an inclusive labour market.

Building the labour market of tomorrow, together

The increase in labour participation among newcomers is good news. It shows that policy works and that real opportunities are emerging in the Dutch labour market. But it also underlines the importance of proper support.

Ebro Diensten is proud to contribute. We remain committed to equal opportunities, fair employment and long-term employability – especially for those who are new to the Netherlands.

Curious how we can support your organisation in hiring motivated newcomers?
Feel free to get in touch, we’re happy to help.