CV format

CV Format Netherlands in English

Use this page when you are applying in English, but still need your CV to match how recruiters in the Netherlands scan structure, role fit, language level, and evidence.

Start with English templatesMain English CV route

Local order

Start with a direct title and short profile, then show recent work experience before older education or extra details.

A4 and ATS-safe

Use a clean PDF layout with readable headings, normal text, and simple section labels that parsing systems can understand.

English content, Dutch logic

Keep the writing in English, but make availability, language level, location, and role match clear for Dutch employers.

Recommended section order

For most English CVs in the Netherlands, the safest order is header, target role, short profile, work experience, education, skills, languages, and optional certificates.

  • Header: name, city, phone, email, LinkedIn.
  • Target role: one clear role title, not three unrelated options.
  • Profile: 3-4 lines with role fit, sector, tools, and location context.
  • Experience: latest role first, with proof bullets instead of task lists.
  • Languages: separate Dutch and English levels clearly.

What to avoid

The biggest mistake is using a US-style or UK-style resume without adapting it to Dutch-market expectations. That often creates too much summary text, vague achievements, or unclear language fit.

  • Do not hide your location or work authorization context if it matters.
  • Do not use a decorative layout that makes the PDF hard to parse.
  • Do not translate Dutch job titles literally if the vacancy uses a different English title.

Before you download

  • The first half page shows role, location, language level, and strongest evidence.
  • Every bullet explains task plus context, tool, result, or volume.
  • Dutch and English language levels are explicit.
  • The template routes to /en/templates and then /en/editor.

English CV for Dutch-market applications

Keep the same transparent WerkCV pricing route: build for free, choose an English template, and pay only when you want the final PDF. The value is not a generic resume builder; it is a Dutch-market structure with English wording.

Choose templateView pricing model

Related English routes

Dutch-style CV template

Start from the main English route when you want the builder, not only advice.

English templates

Compare layouts and create a CV that stays in the English funnel.

English editor

Open the editor directly when you already know the structure you need.

FAQ

Can I use a resume format in the Netherlands?

You can, but it should still read like a Dutch-market CV: clear structure, practical role evidence, and a clean A4 PDF.

Should my CV be one page?

One page is fine for starters. Experienced candidates can use two pages if the content is relevant and easy to scan.