Whether you are planning to stay in the Netherlands for a long time or just a short period, the first thing you need to do is register with the local council so that you are included in the Personal Records Database (‘Basisregistratie Personen, BRP’).
A citizen service number is a unique number assigned to everyone who is registered in the Personal Records Database. This number is essential if you want to work, open a bank account, take out health insurance or apply for a benefit in the Netherlands.
You will need to apply for a DigiD account to verify your identity when accessing online government services and websites. You will need a citizen service number to create a DigiD account.
Please note: As an EU/EEA or Swiss national, you can also use a valid European electronic ID (‘Europees erkend inlogmiddel’) to access government services and websites.
If you plan to work in the Netherlands, you should start your job search before you move. Here are some tips to help you on your way:
Once you have arrived in the Netherlands and you have obtained a citizen service number and a DigiD account, register with werk.nl. This is a job platform set up by UWV and the local council. It offers job vacancies, information and resources for jobseekers in the Netherlands.
The Netherlands has strict laws to protect workers’ rights and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. Collective agreements (‘CAO’) are negotiated between employers and trade unions, and provide for additional rights beyond the statutory minimum wage (‘wettelijk minimumloon’).
There are different types of employment contracts, each with specific legal requirements and implications for both the employer and employee:
Foreign workers are often employed on a temporary basis, especially in sectors such as agriculture, horticulture and hospitality. These jobs are usually arranged through an employment agency (‘uitzendbureau’). When you work for an agency, there is a division of responsibility:
As an employment agency worker, you are entitled to the same treatment and pay as someone who is employed in a similar job in the same company. Your wage must be at least the statutory minimum wage, or the wage specified in the collective agreement for employment agency workers. Keep in mind the longer you work, the more rights you will gain.
For more information, as well as answers to frequently asked questions, visit the SNCU Foundation website. This foundation provides information on the collective agreement for employment agency workers and ensures that employment agencies comply with the rules.
UWV provides benefits to people who are starting a family, have become unemployed, are ill or have a disability and are unable to work. As a foreign national working in the Netherlands, you might be entitled to a benefit if you find yourself in one of these situations. We also help people find work and support individuals in their return-to-work process.