A pilot program in Amsterdam has successfully helped 332 asylum seekers find paid employment, achieving the city’s primary objective. Out of 1017 participants, another 312 have taken concrete steps towards employment, such as attending job interviews, facilitated by the municipality. The initiative, launched in 2025, involved asylum seekers from three Amsterdam reception centers and connected them with businesses through partnerships with the COA and UWV. Many found jobs in hospitality, transport, logistics, cleaning, industry, and construction, with employers praising their motivation, eagerness to learn, and reliability. The report indicates employers often find their work ethic more positive than that of typical job seekers. Amsterdam officials emphasize the importance of enabling asylum seekers to work during their asylum procedures for increased self-worth, income, and faster integration, given current labor market shortages.