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Types of Employment Contracts in the Netherlands

2025-02-11 - By Iwa

In the Netherlands, there are several types of employment contracts, which differ in terms of duration, working conditions, and the type of work performed. People interested in working in the Netherlands are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the employment forms that apply there.

Job Offers in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a very popular destination for economic migration. It readily accepts migrant workers, offering a stable labor market, high wages, and a better quality of life. Due to its developed agricultural and horticultural industries, finding seasonal work in the Netherlands is relatively easy.

Remember, if you plan to search for work in the Netherlands independently or decide to use the help of a Dutch agency, you must be prepared for the formalities related to residence. The key step is obtaining one of the two identification numbers – Sofinummer or BSN – which are essential for dealing with administration in the Netherlands.

More information on employment conditions in the Netherlands can be found in our article: Employment in the Netherlands – Essential Formalities to Complete

Types of Contracts in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, we distinguish between fixed-term contracts, permanent contracts, and flexible forms of employment.

Permanent Employment Contract – vaste arbeidsovereenkomst

This is a form of employment that provides stability. After entering into a permanent contract, the employee has the right to permanent employment, and the employer cannot terminate the contract without a valid reason.

Probationary Contract, or Proeftijd

This is used at the beginning of employment. It allows both the employer and employee to assess whether the cooperation is satisfactory. It usually lasts from 1 to 2 months, and termination can occur within a short period.

Full-time Contract, or Voltijd

This typically lasts 36-40 hours per week, depending on the industry and employer’s requirements.

Part-time Contract, or Deeltijd

The employee works less than 36 hours per week. This is a popular work form for those who need to adjust their working hours to other commitments.

Fixed-term Employment Contract – tijdelijke arbeidsovereenkomst

This contract is made for a specific period, typically a few months or a year. After the contract expires, the employer may decide to extend or terminate the cooperation. In the case of successive fixed-term contracts, there are regulations that may require offering a permanent contract.

Seasonal Employment Contract, or Seizoensarbeid

This is a fixed-term contract associated with seasonal work, e.g., in agriculture, tourism, or the food industry. It applies to work during certain times of the year.

Temporary Employment Contract – uitzendovereenkomst

Under this contract, the employee works for a specified period, for example, as a replacement or during a period of increased demand for workers. It can be extended, but after a certain time, the employer may be obligated to offer a permanent contract.

Be sure to check when public holidays and days off occur in the Netherlands – 2025.

Working for a Temporary Employment Agency as a Foreign Worker

Migrant workers are often employed as temporary workers. Increasingly, temporary work is organized through temporary employment agencies, called uitzendbureau. Temporary workers are primarily employed in industries such as agriculture, horticulture, and hospitality.

The agency, which is the employer, sets the working conditions with the company for the employee. The employee is guaranteed at least the statutory minimum wage or the wage specified in the collective agreement for temporary workers.

In the Netherlands, every contract with a temporary employment agency must pass through three phases:

A – lasts for 78 weeks, work can be done for various clients, but within one agency. Payment for hours worked.

B – lasts a maximum of 4 years, this is a fixed-term employment contract with a fixed salary. C – at this stage, the employee has full employment rights, including a permanent contract.

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