Expats

Legal advice on employment law for expats

Expats

Legal advice on employment law for expats

Employment Law for Expats in the Netherlands

Working in the Netherlands offers expats unique opportunities, but also brings specific challenges. In addition to language and cultural differences, you may encounter complex employment law situations – particularly when your job or income is under pressure. How do you protect yourself during a performance improvement plan or dismissal procedure? And what rights do you have in case of illness?

Our employment law team has extensive experience in guiding international professionals. We understand the issues that expats face and provide clear, efficient and practical support. With our English-language services, you are fully informed about your legal position and can confidently continue building your career and life in the Netherlands. More information can be found in our FAQ for expats.

Our services

Contract Review & Negotiation

Fully understand your employment contract before you sign. We explain your contract, point out hidden risks such as strict non-compete clauses or unclear bonus arrangements, and ensure that your employment terms are fair and favorable. Need to negotiate? We help you stand stronger.

Dismissal guidance & settlement agreement

Are you facing a (potential) dismissal, an improvement process, or a reorganization? We will inform you of your rights. In the Netherlands, you cannot simply be dismissed, and permission from an external party, such as a judge or UWV, is often required. We can also negotiate an exit package on your behalf or pursue legal proceedings in case of wrongful dismissal.

Dismissal guidance

Are you facing a (potential) dismissal, an improvement process, or a reorganization? We will inform you of your rights. In the Netherlands, you cannot simply be dismissed, and permission from an external party, such as a judge or UWV, is often required. We can also negotiate an exit package on your behalf or pursue legal proceedings in case of wrongful dismissal.

Residence Status & 30% Ruling

Your residence status is often linked to your job. What happens if your contract expires or if your employer changes? We help you maintain your work and residence permit and advise you on tax benefits such as the 30% ruling.

Assistance with employment conflicts and legal procedures

In case of employment conflicts, performance improvement plans or wrongful dismissal, we are here for you. We guide you through mediation or legal procedures and work towards a quick and favorable result.

Assistance with legal proceedings

In case of employment conflicts, performance improvement plans or wrongful dismissal, we are here for you. We guide you through mediation or legal procedures and work towards a quick and favorable result.

Our approach

1.

Initial legal check – know where you stand

In a confidential conversation, we listen to your story and review your contract and circumstances. We then immediately provide an initial assessment of your legal position. We discuss the costs and establish the objectives together, so you know exactly where you stand.

2.

A strong strategy for the best outcome

Based on your situation, we develop a customized plan. Whether it involves optimizing your contract terms or challenging a (threatened) dismissal – we ensure that you maintain control and pursue the best outcome.

3.

Negotiation and legal support

From contract negotiation to drafting legal documents or representation in dismissal proceedings – we ensure that you do not stand alone. Would you like us to conduct the negotiations on your behalf? No problem. We ensure that you get the best deal while you can focus on your work and private life.

Why choose our approach?

Legal advice without language barriers

We speak fluent English and thus remove the language barrier. This ensures that you feel well understood and that your legal situation is clearly explained, without misunderstandings.

Quick and practical advice

You do not have time for complicated procedures or long waiting times. We provide directly applicable advice, so you can quickly take the right steps.

Specialist in expat matters

We know the specific challenges that expats face in the Netherlands. From contracts and dismissal arrangements to questions about illness, non-compete clauses and tax benefits – we ensure that you know your rights and are optimally protected.

Transparent costs

You know exactly where you stand in advance. We work with transparent rates and clear agreements, so you never face unexpected costs afterwards.

Always nearby – online and on location

We are based in Haarlem, Amstelveen and Hoofddorp, but help expats throughout the Netherlands with online and telephone consultations.

Our specialists are ready for you

Knowledge Base

Learn more about employment law

In our knowledge base you will find all topics within employment law for expats.

What is the difference between an employment contract of fixed term and of indefinite term? An employment contract of fixed term ends by operation of law at the agreed-upon end-date, whilst an employment contract of indefinite term has to be actively ended. For more information concerning fixed term and indefinite term employment contracts, click here.
A fixed or definite term employment contract is an employment contract for a fixed amount of time. Usually such an employment contract contains an end-date, however, it is also possible to agree on a certain circumstance which brings about the ending of the contract, like the completion of a project.
A probationary period is a period at the beginning of an employment contract intended to determine whether the employer, employee and the position are a good fit. During this period, both the employer and the employee can terminate the employment contract with immediate effect, bypassing Dutch employment law's strict dismissal rules. Therefore, probationary periods are only allowed if the following criteria are met:

Call directly for legal advice

Your employment position as an expat deserves clarity and certainty. Whether you want to have your contract reviewed, know your rights in case of dismissal or need legal help with a conflict – we are here for you.

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