Getting Laid Off in the Netherlands? Your Expat Guide
If you're an expat facing dismissal in the Netherlands, what are your rights, and where can you find support?
The Dutch labor market is known for its robust employee protection, but dismissal can still be a complex and stressful experience — especially for expats. This article outlines the main dismissal scenarios and explains how legal experts at vaststellingsovereenkomst.org can support you through the process.
Dismissal in the Netherlands: When is it possible?
In the Netherlands, an employer must follow formal procedures before dismissal. Common reasons include:
- Business economic reasons – financial difficulties or reorganization (via UWV)
- Long-term incapacity – after 2 years of illness and no reintegration options (via UWV)
- Underperformance – proven disfunctioning, despite support and warnings (via court)
- Misconduct – theft, fraud or refusal to work may lead to instant dismissal
- Broken working relationship – when collaboration is no longer possible
- Settlement agreement (VSO) – mutual agreement often preferred for speed and clarity
Legal Assistance for Expats via vaststellingsovereenkomst.org
Expats face extra challenges, such as language barriers and unfamiliar legal systems. Our specialized lawyers:
- Are fluent in English and understand expat-specific needs
- Provide strategic legal advice and situation analysis
- Negotiate strong settlement agreements that protect your rights
What does legal support include?
- Maximum transition payment negotiation
- Work exemption with salary retention
- Positive reference and outplacement options
- Clear agreements on returning company property
- Review of confidentiality & non-compete clauses
- WW-proof settlement agreements to retain unemployment benefits
- Representation at UWV or court if needed
Q&A: Dismissal of Expats in the Netherlands
- Q1: My employer wants to dismiss me. What should I do?
Don't sign anything. Contact a specialized lawyer first to review your options. - Q2: Do expats have the same rights as Dutch employees?
Yes, Dutch labor law applies equally — but legal support helps you avoid pitfalls. - Q3: What is a settlement agreement (VSO)?
A mutual agreement outlining dismissal terms — essential for protecting your unemployment benefits and compensation. - Q4: Can I lose my benefits if I sign a VSO?
Yes — unless it’s correctly drafted. We ensure your VSO is WW-proof. - Q5: Can the lawyers advise in English?
Absolutely. Communication in English is part of our service. - Q6: How quickly must I respond to a VSO?
You have a 14-day cooling-off period. But always have it reviewed first! - Q7: Can I negotiate the transition payment?
Yes, often above the statutory amount — especially if initiated by the employer. - Q8: What if I’m dismissed with immediate effect?
Seek legal help immediately. This affects your income and benefit rights. - Q9: Do I have to keep working during the notice period?
Yes, unless work exemption is agreed. We often arrange this for you. - Q10: Who pays legal fees?
In many VSO cases, your employer covers all or part of the costs. We’ll help negotiate that.
Facing Dismissal in the Netherlands? Don’t Go It Alone.
If you're an expat in the Netherlands and find yourself facing dismissal or a proposed settlement agreement, remember: you don’t have to go through this alone.
The lawyers at vaststellingsovereenkomst.org specialize in supporting expats with:
- Clear legal advice in English
- Negotiating maximum financial outcomes
- Securing your unemployment benefits
Never sign anything before it’s reviewed. Taking early legal advice can make all the difference.
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.
