Starting work in the Netherlands: 6 things to arrange

A new job is exciting. With these six things arranged, your first weeks go a lot more smoothly.

1. Citizen service number (BSN)

You need a BSN to be paid. If you live in the Netherlands, you usually get it when you register at your municipality. If you stay for a short time, you can register as a non-resident (RNI) at one of the municipalities that offer this.

2. A bank account

Employers pay wages into a bank account. Most banks ask for your BSN and an identity document. Some online banks let you open an account quickly.

3. Health insurance

If you live or work in the Netherlands, basic health insurance is usually compulsory. Check on the official government website whether this applies to you, and arrange it in time.

4. Agreements in writing

Ask for a written contract, or at least confirm the agreements in a message: pay per hour, hours per week, start date and place of work. A WhatsApp message is better than no record at all.

5. Your payslip

Every time you are paid, you should get a payslip. Check your hours, your hourly pay and the deductions. The Dutch minimum wage applies to employees: you can find the current amount on the website of the Dutch government.

6. Permission to work

Citizens of the EU, the EEA and Switzerland can work in the Netherlands without a work permit. Refugees with a residence permit (status holders) may also work freely. Asylum seekers may only work if the employer has a work permit (TWV) for them. People from Ukraine may work if the employer reports this to the UWV first. The employer must check this, but it is good to know your own situation.