A bold name, clean rules and a narrow right column for skills and education.
Two columns, narrow right column · Plus Jakarta SansDutch CV format in English
Many employers in the Netherlands, especially international ones, accept CVs in English. Dutch CVs are usually short, direct and factual. Start from a template below and the editor uses European settings: A4 paper with the photo optional.
At a glance
- Usually called
- CV
- Length
- One to two pages
- Paper
- A4
- Photo
- Optional, fairly common
- Personal details
- Contact details; date of birth is optional
- Languages
- CEFR levels are widely understood
Common practice, not fixed rules. Employers differ, so follow the job ad when it asks for something specific.
Sections to include, in order
- Contact details. Name, phone, email, city and a LinkedIn link.
- Profile. A few direct lines on your experience and what you want next.
- Work experience. Most recent first, with clear results rather than long task lists.
- Education. Degree, institution and years.
- Languages. Dutch and English levels, for example Dutch A2, English C2.
- Skills and interests. Skills from the job ad. A short line of interests is common on Dutch CVs.
Tips
- Keep the tone factual; Dutch readers value directness over strong claims.
- Be honest about your Dutch level; many international roles do not require it.
- If you are moving, a line about your work permit or highly skilled migrant status can help. It is optional.
- One to two pages is enough for most roles.
Templates that suit this format
Use template starts with Europe (general) settings: A4 paper and the photo optional. You can change them in the editor at any time.
Generous whitespace and a quiet hierarchy that lets your experience speak for itself.
One column · Nunito SansContemporary sans-serif type, a restrained accent color and headings in a slim left column.
One column, headings in a left column · IBM Plex SansA friendly, open version of the standard structure with teal headings.
One column · Nunito SansA vertical color rail along the left edge and a slim column for skills.
Vertical color rail, right column · ManropeThe plainest possible structure: bold name, one contact line, ruled section headings.
One column · IBM Plex SansQuestions
Can I send an English CV in the Netherlands?
For many international and tech employers, yes. If the job ad is in Dutch, check whether a Dutch CV is expected.
Should a Dutch CV have a photo?
It is optional. Photos are fairly common, but leaving one out is accepted.
How long should a Dutch CV be?
One to two pages. Dutch employers usually prefer a short, focused CV.
Already have a CV?
Upload it to the free ATS checker to see how it reads, then open it in the editor to change the format.