Work increasingly the main source of income for status holders – Opportunities for the staffing industry

More and more status holders in the Netherlands are finding their way into the labor market. In 2014, almost all status holders were still dependent on social benefits or had no income. By 2023, 47 percent have work as their main source of income. This is shown by new figures from Statistics Netherlands (CBS).

For organizations like Ebro Diensten, this development offers great opportunities. Not only to help employers fill vacancies but also to sustainably guide status holders towards work and integration into Dutch society.

A changing position in the labor market

Since 2014, more than 280,000 asylum seekers have been granted refugee status in the Netherlands. The largest groups came from Syria and Eritrea, followed by Afghanistan, Yemen, and Turkey. The labor participation of these groups shows a clear upward trend: the longer status holders stay in the Netherlands, the more likely they are to have work as their primary income source.

In the first years after arrival, status holders are often still dependent on social assistance. But over time, their labor participation increases significantly. Especially those who received their residence permits after 2017 are finding jobs more quickly than earlier groups.

The role of Ebro Diensten in labor market integration

Ebro Diensten can act as a crucial bridge in integrating status holders into the labor market. By investing in guidance, language development, and training programs, Ebro helps status holders make a successful transition into employment. At the same time, they assist employers in sectors facing staff shortages, such as logistics, production, and technology.

Ebro’s approach includes:

• Creating low-threshold entry opportunities for status holders

• Collaborating with language schools and training institutes to strengthen language skills

• Providing coaching on the work floor, considering cultural differences and expectations

• Offering work-based learning programs that combine gaining work experience with continued education

In this way, Ebro contributes to both economic independence and social inclusion.

Status holders as a solution for staff shortages

Many sectors in the Netherlands suffer from a structural shortage of personnel. With proper support, status holders can be a valuable addition to the workforce. They bring diversity, motivation, and often relevant work experience from their home countries.

By focusing on status holders:

• Companies broaden their talent pool

• They actively contribute to inclusion

• They fulfill part of their social responsibility and ESG objectives

• They strengthen their future labor market position

Ebro Diensten supports companies in fully utilizing these opportunities while maintaining high-quality standards.

Success factors for sustainable placement

To ensure that status holders can participate sustainably in the labor market, several factors are essential:

• Language proficiency: Basic Dutch skills are crucial for safe and effective work

• Work experience: Internships and work-based learning programs help bridge the gap to employment

• Social guidance: Support with housing, finances, and cultural understanding

• Employer involvement: Companies that invest in mentoring and integration achieve better outcomes

Ebro Diensten focuses on all these aspects by offering customized solutions and close cooperation with partners.

Impact on society

Successful labor market integration of status holders benefits not only businesses and individuals but society as a whole. Employment fosters independence, participation, and social integration. It also reduces pressure on social services and increases economic productivity.

With the growing focus on an inclusive labor market and corporate social responsibility, actively engaging status holders is becoming increasingly important.

Conclusion: Status holders offer opportunities for the future

The CBS figures show that status holders are increasingly able to earn their own living. This provides hope for individuals and great opportunities for employers and the staffing sector.

With the right support, training, and partnerships, Ebro Diensten helps status holders take meaningful steps towards sustainable employment while enabling companies to fill their staff needs in a socially responsible way.

Would you like to know more about how to employ status holders via Ebro Diensten? Feel free to contact us. We are happy to advise you.