Fahrta

Documents for drivers from Philippines to Netherlands

The Netherlands pays drivers some of the highest wages in the EU, but hiring from third countries is hard: UWV grants the permit only after checking that no EU candidates are available. An honest employer says so openly. For EU citizens everything is simple.

Your case: Philippines → Netherlands

The employer applies to the IND for the GVVA (residence and work permit in one). UWV requires the vacancy to have been open to EU candidates for several weeks without success. In practice permits for drivers are rarely granted; ask the employer whether they have obtained them before.

Driver jobs: Netherlands

Steps in order

  1. UWV labour market test and GVVA
    The employer reports the vacancy to UWV, searches for EU candidates, then applies to the IND. For work up to 3 months a separate TWV from UWV is needed instead of the GVVA. IND decision takes up to 90 days.
    IND: work in the Netherlands · UWV
  2. Licence and Code 95 (CBR)
    Licences from most non-EU countries cannot simply be exchanged: theory and practical tests at CBR are required. Code 95 is obtained via vakbekwaamheid (CBR exams). For international trips the employer arranges the bestuurdersattest (driver attestation) for third-country drivers via NIWO.
    CBR · NIWO
  3. After arrival
    Register with the municipality for a BSN within 5 days, health insurance within 4 months (mandatory, about €150 per month; employers often help), bank account, collect the residence card at the IND.
    IND

Who pays what

The employer pays: IND and UWV fees, CBR exams and Code 95, bestuurdersattest, first housing and travel. The worker: translations, health insurance after arrival (it is personal), the MVV visa fee at the consulate. Pay below the cao or “per diems” instead of salary is a reason to report.

Official sources

This is a general overview, not legal advice. Checked on 25/10/2026. Laws and fees change: verify on the official sites via the links and ask the employer in the chat.

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