Labour law: the basics

This section explains the basics of employment in the Netherlands in plain language. It is general orientation, not legal advice — in complex cases, talk to a specialist.

The employment contract (arbeidsovereenkomst)

The employer usually must provide a written contract or confirmation of the terms. Contracts can be:

• Fixed-term (tijdelijk / bepaalde tijd) — for a set period.
• Permanent (vast / onbepaalde tijd) — with no end date.

The contract usually states the salary, the number of hours, the role, and whether a collective agreement (cao) applies.

Probation period (proeftijd)

There is often a probation period at the start. Its length is limited by law and depends on the contract type. During probation either side can usually end the contract more quickly.

The payslip (loonstrook)

Once a month you receive a loonstrook. It usually shows:

• brutoloon — salary before tax;
• nettoloon — the amount you actually receive;
• deductions: payroll tax (loonheffing), contributions, and so on.

If anything is unclear, keep the payslip — a specialist can help you read it.

Illness and work

If you are ill and cannot work, the first step is to report sick to your employer (ziekmelding). While you are on sick leave, the employer usually keeps paying at least part of your wage, and dismissing you during illness is much harder.

Important. A common and costly mistake is resigning «voluntarily» when you are actually ill. UWV can then usually refuse benefits. Do not sign a resignation letter or a termination agreement (vaststellingsovereenkomst) until a specialist has checked the document.

Take the «Resigning while ill» self-check if this is your situation.

Dismissal

Dismissal in the Netherlands is regulated. An employer usually cannot dismiss you without a valid reason and a proper procedure (through UWV or the court). If you are asked to sign a «voluntary» termination, it affects your rights, so get advice first.

Where to get help

• Het Juridisch Loket — free legal help.
• VluchtelingenWerk Nederland — support for refugees.
• A trade union (vakbond), if you are a member.