5 Rules And Regulations Affecting EU Citizens Working In The Netherlands
One of the great things about being an EU citizen is that you have the right to move freely between different member states. But relocating to a new country to work and live can be a huge decision. There’s a lot to think about, including the rules and regulations that apply to you.
So where do you start? Here at InAxtion, we specialize in connecting technical talent from EU countries with mechanical engineering and construction projects in the Netherlands. That includes helping our employees get to grips with the relevant rules and regulations. Here’s our short introductory guide to important rules and regulations for EU citizens working in the Netherlands.
1 Registering for a Citizen Service Number (BSN)
If you possess an EU passport or identity card, you don’t need a permit to work in the Netherlands. But if you’re in the Netherlands to work, you’ll need to register with your local municipality because employees pay Dutch taxes.
After registering, you’ll be issued with a Citizen Service Number (BSN). You need this number to access government services, including healthcare. It’s also your tax number. By registering, you’ll be added to the Personal Records Database (BRP).
2 Activating your DigiD
In the Netherlands, your DigiD enables you to identify yourself when dealing with the authorities, including the government, educational institutes, healthcare institutions, and your pension fund. You need these 3 things to apply:
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Your Citizen Service Number (BSN)
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A registration address within a Dutch municipality
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A mobile phone number
3 Taking out health insurance
Everyone residing in the Netherlands is required to have health insurance. Usually, employers deduct health insurance premiums from their employees’ salaries. The standard package covers your basic healthcare needs, including a family doctor and hospital care.
It’s a good idea to register with a family doctor – a General Practitioner (GP) – in the Netherlands, so you’ll be able to access healthcare should you need it. You can find out more from your local municipality, insurer, or speak to your consultant at InAxtion.
4 Paying taxes and claiming benefits
People who live in the Netherlands must pay tax. Once you’ve registered with your municipality, you’ll be sent information from the Tax and Customs Administration about submitting a tax return.
As well as paying tax, you may also be entitled to state benefits to help with the cost of things like rental housing and health insurance. Your entitlement to benefits depends on your income, which is typically measured by household.
5 Working hours and conditions
The Netherlands has strict rules on working hours set out in The Working Hours Act or Arbeidstijdenwet. If you're an employee aged 18 and over, you can work up to 12 hours per day, 60 hours per week. But not every week.
It’s your employer’s responsibility to keep track of the hours you work and ensure you don’t exceed the average number of hours worked within a given time period – except when there are exceptional circumstances or during seasonal peaks.
Some industries in the Netherlands also have Collective Labor Agreements (CAOs) – made between employers and employee representatives – that set specific employment conditions and benefits. InAxtion follows NBBU Cao.
Advice and support from InAxtion
At InAxtion, we’re much more than an employment agency for EU citizens coming to the Netherlands to work. We pride ourselves on being your extended family – a home away from home – the people you can lean on for support during your time in our country. That includes help with understanding rules and regulations.
Are you an InAxtion employee needing help with rules and regulations in the Netherlands? Reach out to your consultant today. Contact us
