Working

Working gives you an income and helps you to become part of Dutch society. There are rules that ensure work is safe and fair.  

Types of work 

There are different ways you can work in the Netherlands. You can work for a company directly, or work through an employment agency, or you can do temporary work. You can also choose to work as a self-employed person. Job vacancies can be found online, through employment agencies and through networks. It is important to know which type of work suits you, as different types of work mean different rights and duties for you. More information can be found on our page on the theme of work. 

Working as an employee 

If you are employed, you have an employer. You have the right to breaks, safe working conditions, holidays, and either the minimum wage or the wages specified in your CAO. If you are sick, you often have the right to continue to receive your wages (or sickness benefit in some cases). Your rights and duties are set out in your contract of employment. Always ask for a written contract and a payslip.  

Contract and wages 

When you start employment, your boss gives you a contract that states the number of hours you work. You receive at least the national minimum wage and 8% holiday pay. If you work full time, you have the right to at least four weeks' holiday. Check your payslip and report any mistakes to your employer immediately. 

Self-employment  

Self-employment means you work for yourself. We say that you are self-employed. You do not have an employer that pays wages or takes care of insurance matters for you. You have to find your own clients, agree prices, send invoices and take out your own insurance. You do not build up any holiday days, you do not receive any wages if you are sick, and no employment protection rules apply to you. You have to register with the Chamber of Commerce and pay your own taxes. You have more freedom, but you also more responsibilities.