The number of dentists who obtained their qualifications outside the European Union and now practice in the Netherlands has more than doubled over the past five years. According to figures from the BIG register, 432 non-EU–trained practitioners were registered as of mid-2026, up from just 210 at the start of 2021.
Origins and specialisms
- Turkey: 112 dentists
- India: 85 dentists
- Syria: 47 dentists
- Other countries: Pakistan, Egypt, and various South American nations
Many have joined practices in underserved regions, helping to ease chronic staff shortages in rural areas and urban neighbourhoods with long waiting lists for routine check-ups and specialist treatments.
Policy changes speed up recognition
In 2022 the Dutch government introduced streamlined procedures for recognising foreign dental diplomas, cutting application times from an average of nine months to four. The reforms included a new central assessment exam in The Hague and expanded support for candidates undergoing language and clinical training.
Quality and integration concerns
The Royal Dutch Dental Association (KNMT) has welcomed the arrival of extra practitioners but stresses the importance of maintaining high standards. “We fully support efforts to tackle workforce gaps,” said KNMT spokesperson Marije van Dijk, “but candidates must demonstrate strong Dutch-language proficiency and familiarity with local treatment protocols before entering independent practice.”
Key challenges highlighted by the KNMT
- Ensuring consistent patient communication in Dutch
- Integrating newcomers into multidisciplinary practice teams
- Upholding uniform clinical guidelines and hygiene standards
Looking ahead
The Ministry of Health reports that non-EU dentists now account for around 8% of all registered professionals, up from 4% five years ago. While recruitment remains one pillar in addressing the wider shortage of oral healthcare providers, policy makers and professional bodies agree that sustained investment in domestic training programmes and internship placements will be crucial to meeting future demand.