Dutch Employment Law Explained for Expats Working in the Netherlands
Introduction
If you're an expat working in the Netherlands, understanding your rights under Dutch employment law is essential. Whether you're reviewing your contract or facing dismissal, knowing the basics will help protect your legal and financial position.
1. Employment Contracts in the Netherlands
Most expats start with a fixed-term contract. Dutch law allows a maximum of three temporary contracts in three years — after that, your contract becomes permanent.
Your employment contract should include:
- Job role and responsibilities
- Gross monthly salary and benefits
- Working hours
- Collective Labour Agreement (CAO), if applicable
- Notice period for termination
2. Working Hours, Leave and Sick Pay
In the Netherlands, the standard full-time workweek is 36 to 40 hours. Employees are entitled to:
- At least 20 vacation days (full-time)
- Public holidays (depending on employer)
- 70% sick pay for up to two years
- Parental, emergency and special leave
3. Dismissal in the Netherlands
Dismissal is highly regulated. Employers must follow proper legal procedures. Common routes include:
- Redundancy via UWV
- Dismissal via court
- Mutual agreement via a settlement agreement (vaststellingsovereenkomst)
4. Transition Payment (Severance Pay)
Most dismissed employees are entitled to a severance payment. As of 2025:
- 1/3 of your monthly salary per year of service
5. Unemployment Benefits (WW-uitkering)
You may be eligible for Dutch unemployment benefits if:
- Your dismissal wasn't your fault
- You worked at least 26 of the past 36 weeks
- You're available and actively job hunting
- You're not on sick leave at termination
6. Protection Against Discrimination
Dutch employment law protects you from discrimination and unfair dismissal. Employers may not dismiss based on nationality, gender, age, religion, or health condition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
(Hier verandert niets — dit blok blijft zoals eerder geleverd.)
Final Call-to-Action
Need help with dismissal or a settlement agreement?
Our English-speaking lawyers specialize in Dutch employment law for expats. Avoid costly mistakes — your first consultation is free.
+31 (0)20 6160 120
Get the most out of your agreement and contact us today.
we can answer your questions about dismissal and the settlement agreement;
we can screen your settlement agreement for unemployment benefit safety, irregularities, pitfalls, the severance payment, etc.;
we can advise you on ‘what to do?’
we can negotiate with your employer for a better severance arrangement;
we can — if you wish — try to prevent your dismissal.
In any case, with our help you avoid costly mistakes and achieve the best possible result!
Take action now:
Call +31 (0)20 6160 120 or email us. The first advice is FREE
Example of a settlement agreement
Order the editable sample settlement agreement below.
Sample employee letter
Your employer wants to terminate your employment contract and offers you a settlement agreement in this regard. What is a wise response to that offer? We have prepared a sample letter for your initial response. Using the sample letter, you remain available for work and thus retain your right to wages. You also request time to respond to the employer's dismissal proposal and to seek advice.
Order the sample letter below.
