Dutch working environment / conditions in the Netherlands – What you need to know
Research from the Global Employee Engagement Index tells us that the Dutch employment environment is well above average in terms of: work atmosphere, employee satisfaction, role clarity, motivation etc...
Yes, if you are looking for a place to work overseas and one of your crucial criteria is working environment and conditions – which it should be since you spend nearly a third of your life in work – then Netherlands is an excellent choice of destination for an Expat. Why? Because its working conditions are very good and compare well if not better to most regions of the world. So, what exactly are the working conditions in the Netherlands? Well, below we have outlined some of the key working conditions in the Netherlands that will characterize your employment experience when on assignment in the Netherlands.
1. Working hours in the Netherlands
These are a crucial part of working conditions in any country and in the Netherlands working hours are around industry norms and there is not a culture for overworking as in seen in some European countries. In the Netherlands, the average working week is around 40 hours and you should not work normally work over 8 hours a day or 40 hours a week. In certain industries you may be permitted/expected to work 9 hours a day or 45 hours a week. But, by law employees are not permitted to work more than 2,080 hours a year.
2. Flexible Working – 'Four Day Week'
There is a good attitude toward flexible working in the Netherlands, and there is an option to work a compressed, 'four day week', which means you work ten hours a day. This is a great option for expatriates who may want to take long weekends in order to explore Europe since Netherlands is such a great hub/base for doing this. However, you will need to make an agreement in advance with your employer before moving to a 'four day week'. It is best that you inquire about your prospective employer's attitude to a four day week at interview.
3. Breaks in the Netherlands
By law you must receive a 30 minute break after you complete 4 or 5 hours of work.
4.Employment Contracts in the Netherlands
Employment contracts in the Netherlands are similar to that which is seen in most European countries. There are three types of contract which are generally offered and these are: Temporary, Permanent and Agency Contracts (where the agency remains your employer even though you actually work for another business). The important thing to note here is that there is limited/no dismissal protection with Temporary and Agency contracts but there is with a permanent contract. This is fairly standard practice in Europe and many countries and therefore the working conditions in the Netherlands in relation to employment protection are pretty consistent with the rest of Europe.
5. Tax and income in the Netherlands
Tax rates in the Netherlands are relatively high compared to other countries in Europe but due to there being many tax deductible expenses and the '30% tax ruling for foreigners' net salaries in Netherlands are similar to the rest of Europe.
6. Minimum Wage in the Netherlands
As an expatriate you should be aware of the minimum wage in the Netherlands which is 1.469.40 euros per month for an employee over 23 in full time employment.
7.Vacation days in the Netherlands
Dutch employers typically offer 24 holiday days a year which is in line with the rest of Europe.
Final words; as you can see, working conditions in the Netherlands compare well to the rest of Europe, which is another excellent reason for taking the next step of your expat career in the Netherlands.
Copywrite Dutch working environment / conditions in the Netherlands
For an expat moving to the Netherlands, getting the right direction is very important. It's important that one knows which steps and direction to take. Linda is an exceptionally talent counselor, her advice has helped me land a job within a week of coming to the Netherlands. I am grateful for her mentoring and look forward to a great working relationship in the future.
Dr. Hrishiraj S | Clinical Research & Affairs Manager
Together Abroad provided expert advice on personal branding including developing a top-notch, market-aware CV, highly tailored job applications, and approach strategies with potential employers in the Netherlands. Furthermore, I found them be highly knowledgeable in key related fields such as recruitment strategy, immigration law, contracts, labor agreements, and (un)employment benefits. I would recommend Together Abroad to anyone who needs professional help with transitioning to a new career.
A. Aboufirass | Structural Engeer
Linda is a big mind. She thinks about things that the rest normally overlook. The insight she has about the dutch job market can only be achieved through years of experience and persistence.
Her business savvy is complemented by her mastery of understanding the client's needs and requirements. For my career I could say, she was the “Mary Poppins”, who guided me through thick and thin and helped me to land a career in the Netherlands
S. Bhattacharjee | FP&A Manager
If you are going to enlist the services of a "Career Coach" look no further. The only person you want in your corner is Linda van Orsouw. As an expat, you absolutely want to work with a highly skilled and knowledgeable professional who knows their way around the Dutch career/employment/job market. Linda assisted me in writing and positioning my CV, helped me organize and prioritize my list of opportunities, coached me through mock interviews and was there when I got offered a senior position only 2 months later. When asked I will only refer to Linda and "Togetherabroad".
Mr. C. Joubert
Lead Workplace Strategy Consultant
Mr. C. Joubert
Lead Workplace Strategy Consultant