Employment contract ...

Employment contract: what’s included?

20 May 2022

You’ve landed a new job! All that’s left is signing your employment contract before you get started. But before you put pen to paper, it’s important to know what a work contract in the Netherlands includes and which types of contracts exist. In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know.

What is an employment contract?

An employment contract contains all the agreements between you and your employer, such as:

Primary employment conditions (working hours, salary)
Secondary benefits (vacation days, pension, bonuses, etc.)

While contracts can be verbal, it’s always better to have them in writing to avoid misunderstandings.

When do you receive an employment contract?

You’ll get an employment contract if:

You work under the authority of an employer
You receive wages
You perform work agreed upon in advance

What’s included in an employment contract?

Within one month of starting, your employer must provide written information, including:

Names and addresses of you and your employer
Work location(s)
Job title and description
Start date and contract duration (if temporary)
Weekly or daily working hours
Salary and payment schedule
Holiday allowance and vacation days
Notice period
(Optional) probationary period
(Optional) pension plan
(Optional) non-compete clause
Applicable collective labor agreement (CAO)

Types of employment contracts in the Netherlands

1. Temporary contract

A contract for a fixed period, ending after a set date (e.g., 6 months, 1 year). It can be extended up to three times, after which you are entitled to a permanent contract.

2. Permanent contract

Also called a contract for an indefinite period. It continues until you or your employer end it. Permanent contracts usually include a probation period of up to two months.

3. Zero-hours contract

No fixed working hours – you work only when called in. Since January 2020, new rules apply:

You must be notified at least 4 days in advance.
If your shift is canceled within 4 days, you’re still paid.
After 12 months, your employer must offer you a contract based on your average worked hours.

4. Agency contract (uitzendcontract)

You are employed by a recruitment agency but work at another company. The agency pays your salary and arranges your work assignments. Each new assignment often means a new contract.

5. Secondment contract (detacheringscontract)

Similar to an agency contract, but often for a fixed period and fixed hours. Even if your assignment ends early, the secondment agency continues paying your salary and finds a new assignment for you.

Do you have questions about your employment contract? Contact us here, we'll gladly help you understand your rights and options.

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