International job fair in the Netherlands: Many look to Norway
This weekend, Haugaland Vekst participated in Emigration Expo in Utrecht – Europe’s largest fair for working and living abroad. This year’s participation confirms the strong interest in south-west Norway, and that Haugalandet has much to offer those seeking a new life in Norway.
Veslemøy Heggen
Prosjektleder
Since 2023, Haugaland Vekst has participated in the fair in the Netherlands through the Talent Collaboration initiative. Together with partners in Southwest Norway, the goal was clear: to promote Rogaland and Agder as attractive places to live, work and live good lives. Experience so far shows that the fair is an important arena for reaching international talent.
Gathered thousands of curious visitors
The fair attracted around 16,000 visitors over two days, and interest in south-west Norway was high.
– We met many Dutch people who are curious about starting a new chapter in Norway. Several highlighted the desire for a more peaceful everyday life, more space and close proximity to varied nature as key motivations, says Veslemøy Heggen from Haugaland Vekst.
Karianne Ellefsen and Veslemøy Heggen from Haugaland Vekst in conversations with potential newcomers to the region. Photo: Stijn Boersma.
At the same time, it was clear that job opportunities are a decisive factor. Many of the visitors were interested in available career paths in the region – and how they can practically make the move.
Wide range of activities at the stand. On the left: Anna Kraaijeveld Enerstvedt (Stavanger Municipality) at the children’s table. On the right: Christine Joy Utheim (EURES) in dialogue with visitors. Photo: Stijn Boersma.
Concrete interest – already underway
Not only were there good conversations there and then – several have already taken the next step.
New candidates have been registered both in the Southwest Norway database and through Haugaland Vekst’s own Job Helper service. This provides a good basis for further follow-up of potential newcomers.
Focusing on a solid welcome with Welcome Hub
This year’s fair was also an important opportunity to highlight Haugaland Vekst’s new initiative, Welcome Hub Haugalandet, launched earlier this year.
– It’s not just about recruitment – it’s also about taking good care of the people who actually move here, says Karianne Ellefsen.
Welcome Hub Haugalandet aims to make the transition to life in the region easier. The service gives newcomers access to practical information, support for accompanying partners in their job search, as well as social events and meeting places.
The goal is not only to attract people to the region – but to ensure they thrive and choose to stay.
The trade fair in Utrecht is one of several arenas where Norway is positioning itself to attract the expertise needed – both now and in the years ahead. With Welcome Hub, Haugalandet is even better equipped to welcome future residents. Photo: Stijn Boersma.
