Work


When you work in the Netherlands for the first time, a lot can change. For example, you will encounter a different tax system, Dutch social security and a different work culture. You will also have to deal with different labour laws.

You can find information about cultural differences here. For information on how to find and apply for a job, see Job search.

In addition to your monthly salary, you are legally entitled to 8% holiday pay of your gross annual fixed salary.

Under labour law you will find information about employment contracts, notice periods, probationary period and minimum wage.

In the Netherlands there are various leave schemes, such as special leave for medical appointments or weddings. Maternity leave and parental leave are also regulated by law.

Collective agreements

In the Netherlands there are many collective agreements (cao) that have been declared generally binding for the entire industry. You can find the collective agreements online, usually on the website of the relevant trade association (Brancheorganisatie). Around 90% of all employers in the Netherlands are covered by a cao. These agreements usually contain better conditions than those laid down in the law. An important part of this cao is the company pension. This allows you to accrue an additional occupational pension in addition to your statutory pension (AOW). Participation in this occupational pension scheme is compulsory for employers and employees.

The cao’s can be found on the ‘Ministerie van Sociale Zaken en Werkgelegenheid’ (Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment) website and on the labour union websites.

For more information, see Wages/Salary.