By Kama Wojtuszko
Finding a job is one thing, but then all the formalities… They can be quite overwhelming, and not all employers are as helpful as we wish they were. That’s why The Herring prepared this guide to getting a job in the Netherlands, answering the most important questions.
Okay, how do I even start?
Firstly, you need a Burgerservicenummer (BSN number). It is required for students in the Netherlands to get it within the first fourth months of their arrival. That means that even if you’re not planning to start working, you need to have it. You can arrange an appointment to obtain a BSN number online. Once you get your BSN number, you should also apply for DigiD, as you will need it if you want to apply for zorgtoeslag (health benefit) or other allowances.
Secondly, you need to get health insurance. In the Netherlands it is partially privatised, meaning that you need to arrange it with a private company. There are multiple different insurance companies, each offering different packages, so it is good to spend some time on reviewing the available options.
Considering minimum wage and your capacities to work as a student, the cost of health insurance can sometimes even cost half of your pay, if not exceed it! You can apply for a health benefit. Once granted, you are reimbursed for the cost of your health insurance monthly.
If you are a non-European Economic Area (EAA) student, you need a work permit. It is your employer that applies for it for you. You can only start working once it is issued, as otherwise it can result in fines or even losing your residence permit!
Finally, you also need an ID or a passport, and an IBAN of your bank account so you can receive your pay.
Do I need to speak Dutch?
This, of course, depends on the job, but many places (especially closer to the tourist areas, but also around Oost) do not require it at all. However, knowing some is always a plus!
And I can work as much as I want?
If you are a Dutch/EEA student, then yes. There are no restrictions in terms of hours. However, non-EEA students can only work up to 16 hours per week or full time during the summer months (June, July, and August).
How much am I gonna earn?
For people aged between 15 and 20, minimum wage depends on their age. The older you are, the more you get. Tip: Not all employers adhere to that system. Even if you are under 21, you can find a job that grants you the highest rate.
The minimum wages are adjusted by the government twice a year, on 1 January and 1 July.
On top of your wage, you receive vakantiegeld (vacation pay). Vacation pay amounts to 8% of your minimum wage. If you have a fixed hours contract, you usually receive vakantiegeld around May or June, if you are on a zero-hour/on-call contract (popular among students), you will most likely receive the benefit with your pay.
How do I do my taxes?
Usually, your taxes are done by your employer for you. This is called loonheffing (payroll tax). Your employer can apply for loonheffingskorting (wage tax credit), which means you pay less taxes. However, if you are officially employed by more than one employer, you can apply for the wage tax credit only at one of your workplaces.
Are there any benefits for working students?
Yes, Dutch and EEA students who do not live with their parents can apply for an allowance via DUO, as well as reimbursement of public transport costs. The additional requirement for EEA international students to qualify for the benefit is working at least 32 hours per month. In order for the allowance to be granted, you need to provide a contract, a payslip and a bank statement.
What if my employer is not treating me well?
If you are concerned that your rights as a worker are not being respected, there are several organisations that can offer you support, such as Fair Work, Horeca United, and Solidariteit! Vloerwerk.
The Herring 