it's clear now, 5 months applying for IT and security jobs in the Netherlands, that it's exceptionally difficult to get even interviews if i don't have a work visa
this is a good example of a rejection email that i got today that is slightly more verbose than what i usually get:
"When selecting candidates, we do not only look at education, skills, motivation and recent work experience, but also practical aspects like distance, language skills and general fit. In this case, we were able to make a selection of applicants whom we have invited for interviews. Unfortunately, and despite your qualities and previous experience, you did not make the short list for this position. We decided to interview a few candidates who fit the ideal profile better based on their CV."
so, for those of you who may seek emigration (like to the Netherlands from the USA using the Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT)), unless you are well connected and can get freelance jobs, the only real viable option is applying to full-time jobs in multi-national corps that are used to sponsoring work visas -- if you're qualified. because those are some of the hardest jobs to get.