On this page, you can find information for Ukrainian refugees.
We provide information on the changing rules and regulations for Ukrainians who want to work in the Netherlands, who to contact and where to get updated information.
Leiden International Centre is not the main point of contact for Ukrainians in Leiden, so for more detailed information please contact the local municipality.
Helplines for Ukrainians
For urgent help, contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs directly at any time at +31 247 247 247.
Refugeehelp.com is the online starting point for Ukraininan refugees in the Netherlands (in English, Dutch, Russian and Ukrainian).
Many answers to questions can be found on the website of the Council for Refugees or on the website of the UNHCR.
The Red Cross has a WhatsApp helpline for Ukrainians that arrive in the Netherlands. Record a message in either Ukrainian or English and you will get a response in that language. The number is +31 97 010 286 964.
Municipalities also have dedicated help teams - see below.
Help from Municipalities - Check your local municipality page for what support they are providing and how you can help
For the most up-to-date information, see the government's website.
Gemeente Leiden's website also has information for Ukrainians in Dutch, Ukrainian, and English.
Right to remain in the EU
The EU has agreed to push the extension of the Temporary Protective Directive as of 2023, which entitles Ukrainians to the right to have accommodation, medical care, employment, and education within the EU. The latest extension will expire on the 4th March 2026. For more information, please refer to the website of the Dutch Government.
Working in the Netherlands
From the 1st of April 2022, Ukrainian nationals do not need a work permit to work in the Netherlands. A BSN is needed and salary must be paid into a bank account. Employers need to notify the UWV 2 days before the work starts. Non-Ukrainian nationals are not entitled to work yet under temporary protection, but need to wait for new regulations or apply for a regular work permit. Currently, Ukrainian refugees cannot work as a self-employed person (ZZP).
There are several organisations working on finding Ukrainians employment in the Netherlands. Leiden International Centre will share updates from these initiatives (check our News and Events pages).
Want to Help?
- Incluzio organises volunteers to help with English and Dutch lessons and conversation groups. Get in touch here: leidenvrijwilligerswerk@incluzio.nl
- The Solidarity with Ukraine - Leiden Area facebook group has local initiatives, events and information.
- On The Red Cross' website you can find out how to donate, volunteer, or host someone in your home. More information here
