The municipality of The Hague, in cooperation with ACA member Nuffic, healthcare organisations, and regional educational institutions, has launched a pilot project to facilitate the entry of internationally qualified professionals into the Dutch healthcare sector. The initiative combines credential evaluation with validation of transversal skills, language training, and practical work experience. Between 80 and 100 participants have been selected, matched with employers through targeted recruitment activities, and provided with intensive guidance on workplace communication and norms. 

The pilot addresses a long-standing challenge: many qualified healthcare professionals living in the Netherlands remain outside the sector. Barriers such as limited Dutch language proficiency, unfamiliarity with local work culture, and lengthy recognition procedures have hindered their employment. To respond, Nuffic is testing a skills-based approach to credential evaluation that places greater emphasis on learning outcomes and practical competencies alongside formal diplomas. Recognition of Prior Learning specialists contribute by validating transversal skills, including teamwork and communication, which are highly valued in healthcare settings. 

Beyond immediate employment opportunities, the project is intended to inform structural policy development. While several European countries, such as Germany, have adopted coordinated national strategies to integrate foreign-trained healthcare workers, the Netherlands has yet to establish such a framework. The Hague’s initiative is therefore seen as a potential model for broader implementation. Employers report strong motivation among candidates and highlight the benefits of tailored support. According to Nuffic, shifting towards a skills-based recognition model could not only help alleviate labour shortages in healthcare but also promote social integration and more effective use of professional expertise. 

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