Congratulations! You are interested in working and living in the Netherlands. This is a major and important step in your life. We do everything we can to prepare and guide you thoroughly, but you will also need to take certain actions yourself.
To be able to work in the Netherlands, you will need many official documents. All copies of diplomas, grade lists, your passport, and testimonials must be officially certified. When we need these, we will ensure they are sent to us, but you will have to request them from the relevant authorities yourself.
In addition to the documents, you will need to learn speaking and understand the Dutch language. You will also need to pass an official Dutch state exam.
The entire program lasts approximately 10 to 12 months and consists primarily of Dutch language training and training provided by ADN (Alzheimers Dementia Namibia). You will also receive preparation regarding cultural differences and what it is like to live and work in the Netherlands.
To ensure the best results, we offer everyone the opportunity to stay at our campus in Swakopmund during this 10- to 12-month period. In exceptional cases, we also offer the option of taking Dutch language classes online from home. However, this must be clearly discussed and agreed upon in advance.
You will take practical training in dementia studies according to the vision and methods of ADN. Dementia is an umbrella term for more than 120 different brain diseases. For more information about ADN, please visit this page.
ADN has a compelling vision and extensive knowledge regarding dementia and the best ways to support people living with it. We aim to share this vision in other European countries as well.
We will also support, facilitate and fully prepare you for living and working in the Netherlands. For example, you will use VR and AR so you know what to expect in another country and culture. And of course, you will learn how to ride a bicycle. The Netherlands is a cycling country and you’ll need a bike daily to get to work. We have several bicycles on the campus for you to practise with.
This way, we ensure that you are fully prepared and leave nothing to chance.
This is an average example, so in reality it will be different!
In the Netherlands, you will be employed by a healthcare institution. You will receive a permanent employment contract for 32 hours per week, for a minimum of two years, in accordance with the CAO (Collective Labour Agreement). You will receive, among other things, an irregular hours allowance, travel expenses reimbursement, holiday pay, annual leave, and a thirteenth month salary.
After three years, we offer you the opportunity to return to Namibia. By then, you will have gained plenty of additional practical experience and knowledge. CrossCare Namibia will assist you in building a future in Namibia.
Opportunity should never depend on how much money you have.
We believe that every talented and motivated healthcare professional should have the same opportunity to develop, gain international experience and build a stronger future, regardless of their financial background.
That is why participants do not need savings or financial resources to access the programme.
CrossCare and its business partners invest in the professional journey to Europe, including language preparation, the immigration process, travel and guidance during the transition into a new working environment.
Our Foundation invests in everything around that journey that creates broader and lasting impact.
This includes the development of facilities in Swakopmund, living support during the preparation period, connectivity and practical support, financial support during the first month in Europe, an electric bicycle, return flights to Namibia, programmes preparing professionals for their return, and the development of future opportunities in Namibia where their international knowledge and experience can be put to work.
One opportunity creates the next
One opportunity creates the next
Only after a healthcare professional has successfully started working in Europe and earns a stable professional income, they begin contributing €175 per month to the Foundation, for a maximum of three years.
This is not about paying for their opportunity. It is about helping create the next one.
If someone returns to Namibia earlier, their contribution ends. If someone never starts working in Europe, no contribution is made.
This principle is fundamental to us: nobody should be excluded because they cannot afford to participate.
A healthcare professional who starts with no financial resources should have exactly the same opportunity as someone who can afford to pay.
The Foundation is also supported by donations from companies, organisations and individuals. Together, these contributions allow us to keep investing in people, knowledge, facilities and future opportunities in Namibia.
It creates a sustainable cycle:
Equal access. Shared responsibility. Lasting impact.
Please fill in the contact form and we will respond as soon as possible.