Is it difficult to find an accounting job in the netherlands? If I speak dutch and english?

Question

If I pass the CPA exam and get a few years experience with the Big 4 and learn dutch will it be hard? Would it be easier if I get an MBA from a university in the netherlands or europe?

Is a CPA from the US recognized in Europe?

Answer 1

I'm guessing you have a US passport then?  

Speaking Dutch is definately a big plus in finding a job in the Netherlands, so would help a lot yes, BUT (yes there's a but) it will not necessarily help to get a working visa, which is the biggest issue to a non-EU passport holder obtaining employment in the Netherlands

You mention you speak Dutch but don't mention if you have a Dutch (dual?) passport, only that you are in the US

If this is the case then you will still find it difficult.  There are certainly jobs available on the market, but this is not a position classed as required by a 'highly skilled migrant' and as such, if you do not have an EU passport it is unlikely that a company will offer you a job, as this means they will have to sponsor you for the visa side of things.  This is a long-winded and costly process these days, and if you look on any of the employment sites are in English (and even sometimes in Dutch) then there is normally the stipulation that you have to be in possession of a residence permit or be eligable (e.g. EU passport) to work in the Netherlands

So this should be the first port of call for you.  If you don't have a Dutch passport (or a Dutch parent in order to allow you to obtain one) then this is going to be the major headache.  You can read on the official immigration & nationalisation dept homesite: http://www.ind.nl/nl/index.asp (There is a lot more info in the Dutch version than the English one, so stick to that)

Best of luck