CV Photo in the Netherlands: Do You Need One?

If you're applying for jobs in the Netherlands, you've probably wondered whether to include a photo on your CV. Unlike the UK or US — where photos are typically avoided — the Dutch job market has a different norm. Here's what you need to know.

Is a CV photo expected in the Netherlands?

Yes, in most sectors. Including a professional headshot on a Dutch CV is widely accepted and, in many industries, actively expected. Dutch recruiters are accustomed to seeing photos and often use them to establish an initial sense of who the candidate is.

This doesn't mean a photo guarantees success — the quality matters. A poor-quality photo (blurry, badly lit, cropped from a group photo) can work against you. A professional headshot adds credibility; an unprofessional one does the opposite.

Which industries expect a CV photo in the Netherlands?

• Finance, consulting, and law: Photos are standard. A clean, formal headshot is expected.
• Sales and customer-facing roles: Photos are very common — presenting yourself well is part of the job.
• Tech and startups: More relaxed. Photos are accepted but less universally required.
• Creative industries: Often included, and here you have more room to show personality.
• Government and education: Mixed — some roles include photos, others don't.

What do Dutch employers look for in a CV photo?

Dutch professional culture values directness, authenticity, and modesty — and these values extend to CV photos. Avoid overly posed or heavily retouched photos. Dutch recruiters respond better to:

• A natural, friendly expression — not a forced smile, not a stiff passport look
• Clean, neutral background (white or light grey)
• Professional but not overdressed — business casual is usually appropriate
• Good lighting and sharp focus — amateur quality is noticed
• A headshot, not a full-body photo

Anti-discrimination law and CV photos

The Netherlands has anti-discrimination legislation (the Wet gelijke behandeling) that prohibits discrimination based on appearance, ethnicity, religion, and other characteristics. Some companies — particularly large corporates — have moved to photo-free CVs as part of anonymous recruitment (anoniem solliciteren) to reduce unconscious bias.

However, this is still a minority practice. If a job posting specifically requests a photo-free application, respect that. Otherwise, a professional headshot is the standard.

Where to place the photo on your Dutch CV

The standard position is the top right corner of the first page, next to your contact details. It should be small — roughly 3x4 cm — and cropped to a tight headshot. Don't let the photo dominate the page.

LinkedIn vs. CV photo in the Netherlands

LinkedIn penetration in the Netherlands is among the highest in the world — Dutch recruiters routinely check profiles. Using the same professional photo on your CV and LinkedIn creates a consistent, recognisable presence. When you update your LinkedIn headshot, update your CV at the same time.

The fastest way to get a professional CV photo

A professional photographer in the Netherlands typically charges €100–€300 for a headshot session, with a 1–2 week wait for edited photos. CV Photo generates 100+ studio-quality headshots from your selfies in under 2 hours, starting at $29. You can download the results the same day and have them ready for your application immediately.