PSYCHOLOGISTS COMING TO NETHERLANDS
1. Can you use the professional title of «Master of Science in Psychology», and/or «psycholoog NIP» (psychologist) in the Netherlands based on a foreign degree or do special pre-requisites have to be fulfilled for this?
The title of 'NIP-psychologist' is protected by law and may only be used after a degree from a Dutch university or the recognition of a foreign study by the Minister of Education. See also:
Recognition of Foreign degree.The title 'psychologist' is free for all to use and has no legal protection in the Netherlands. You may also use the title that your own country entitled you to use.
The titles of ''clinical psychologist' (klinisch psycholoog) and 'psychotherapist' (psychotherapeut), however, are also protected by law.
2. Does a degree in psychology obtained abroad have to be recognized in order for a psychologist to work in the Netherlands as a psychologist? Are there any laws applying to this procedure?
Strictly, there is no need to be recognized in order to work in Netherlands as a psychologist. However, eEmployers and insurance companies in the field of healthcare will most often only deal with (clinical) psychologists and psychotherapists registered with the governmental BIG-register. In accordance with EC Directive 89/48, EC-foreigners must be granted recognition.
3. How do I get my academic training and a degree in psychology obtained abroad recognized in the Netherlands and by whom?
If you want to use the protected title of 'Master of Science in Psychology' you have to submit your foreign degree to find out if your diploma is equivalent to the Dutch degree. To find out more:
Recognition of Foreign degree.
If you want to work as a psychologist and use your own title, it is up to the employer to recognize your degree. If you want to use the professional and protected title ‘NIP-psychologist’ , you need to get registered with the NIP.
4. Have the Netherlands implemented the EU Directive 89/48?
The Netherlands have implemented EC Directive 89/48 but only regarding the title of psychotherapist. In the near future this law will also concern the title of clinical psychologist. There is not yet an elaborated system of additional courses.
5. What practical training or observer-status exits in the Netherlands for Psychologists who wish to accumulate experience for a limited period of time?
Practical trainee and observer-status opportunities exist in all areas of the profession but are most often unpaid. Ask the NIP for contacts and vacancies.
6. What requirements do I need when I want to work as a psychologist in the Netherlands?
In Holland some fields of psychology are designated under the law of regulated professions. If you wish to work as a psychologist in the Netherlands make sure you inform yourself about the compulsory requirements. See also:
Work Permit
7. What degree is required to work in the Netherlands?
A two-year post-master’s study and training is required when you wish to work in the Dutch individual Healthcare. Four psychological disciplines that fall under the individual healthcare act are regulated by the government by a legally protected title. For more information see:
Post Master´s Education 8. What are work opportunities like for psychologist in Netherlands?
In Netherlands, there are around 1,500 unemployed psychologists. The opportunities are not very good especially when you don´t speak Dutch. However, brilliant English-speaking may stand a chance in the field of the organizational psychology.
9. What services does the NIP offer its members?
Qualifications, legal advice, support in dealing with insurance companies, trade-union activities, ethical-code affairs.
10. Who can you talk to if I have any further questions?
T +31 (0)30 820 15 00
NIP office: Monday to Friday between 9 am and 5 pm.
Communication Department: Monday to Friday between 9 am and 12.30 pm.