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In today’s world, social media is playing an increasingly important role in the recruitment process. Recruiters are no longer limited just to reviewing CVs and cover letters – they are also increasingly checking candidates’ profiles on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Your online image can determine whether or not you are invited to an interview and even if you get the job.

According to research, as many as 70% of employers look at candidates’ social media profiles before making a hiring decision. They often look for information that can validate your skills, professional commitment or assess whether you fit into the company culture. In this article, we will explain what aspects of your social media presence can influence recruiters’ decisions and how to effectively manage your image to increase your chances of being hired.

Ready to find out what should be on your profile and what is better to avoid?

Why is social media image important in recruitment?

Nowadays, social media has a wider function than just a tool for communicating with relatives. It has also become a space in which we shape our professional image, and this can play a key role in the recruitment process. Recruiters are increasingly using sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram to get to know candidates better.

Why is this important? Social media provides additional information about your personality, interests and lifestyle, and these can directly influence employers’ decisions. The public profile becomes a business card which can both highlight your skills and discourage further contact if it contains content that is inappropriate or inconsistent with company values. It is therefore worth ensuring that your social media image supports your career goals.

What do recruiters check most often on social media?

When recruiters look at candidates’ social media profiles, they do not do it randomly. They usually aim to find specific information that can help them better understand the person behind the CV. It’s worth knowing what catches their attention so that you can prepare your profiles accordingly and avoid potential pitfalls.

Your public visibility and privacy settings

First of all, recruiters check what is publicly available. It is a good idea to review your profiles and make sure that public content is neutral or professional. Privacy settings should be adjusted to limit access to more personal information to close friends only.

Content and images you publish

Party photos, controversial posts or vulgar comments can negatively affect your professional image. Recruiters pay attention to whether the content you post reflects a professional attitude and values in accordance with the company culture. Instead, you should focus on content that demonstrates your professional interests and commitment to personal development.

Consistency with CV and professional profiles

Social media profiles should be consistent with the content you present in your resume. If your work experience and skills are different on LinkedIng than they are on your CV, this may raise doubts with the recruiter. It is important that your details are up to date and present your competencies clearly and truthfully.

Interactions, likes and comments

The way you interact with others online also says a lot about you as a person. Recruiters can see what comments you leave under posts, who you discuss with and how you form your opinions. Inappropriate comments, aggressive statements or liking controversial content can have a negative impact on your application. It is therefore worth to monitor your interactions and avoid anything that may raise doubts about your professionalism

How do you build a positive image on social media?

In order for your online image to support your chances of getting hired, it is crucial to actively ensure that you take care of your profiles on various platforms. It is worth focusing on a few basic principles that will build your image as a professional and increase your attractiveness in recruiters’ view.

1. Update your professional profiles

Ensure that your profile on LinkedIn is always up to date. If you were involved in a project, add details, such as what tasks you performed. Share a link to your portfolio or post information about a new certification you’ve just obtained. An updated profile attracts the attention of recruiters and shows that you are constantly developing your skills. If you are planning to change jobs, an updated profile will significantly increase your chances of finding new offers such as those available in our database.

2. Share valuable content

Publish articles or posts about new trends in your industry on your profile. You can comment on a current event, or share your thoughts on industry news by creating engaging posts on your own. It is also a good idea to share articles and expert opinions, further enhancing your image as an active professional.

3. Adjust privacy settings

Protecting your online privacy does not mean that you have to completely hide your private life. However, it is worth ensuring that information that may adversely affect your social media image is only available to your closest family and friends. Check your privacy settings on all the platforms on which you are active. On Facebook, you can create a list of close friends and only share private content with them. If you use Instagram, set your profile to private or control who sees your posts. An example of good practice is to restrict access to personal photos from holidays or events. This will ensure that only information that positively contributes to your professional image, such as posts about your interests or achievements, is publicly visible.

4. Build a network of professional contacts

Social media platforms, especially LinkedIn, are a great tool for networking with other professionals. It is a good idea to add new people to your network on a regular basis, especially those with whom you have worked or who may have a connection to your industry. For example, once you have completed a project, you can invite colleagues to become friends or follow people who are publishing valuable content in your field. LinkedIn is a great place to establish professional relationships, but you can also use other platforms such as Facebook or Twitter, depending on the industry you are in. Remember that it’s quality, not quantity, that counts – try to build relationships with people who can contribute to your development or from whom you can learn.

By implementing these simple practices, your social media image will be consistent, professional and positive, which can effectively support your career.

What to avoid to avoid building a negative image on social media?

While building a professional image is key, it is equally important to avoid actions that can lead to a negative perception of you online. Even one inappropriate post or photo can damage your employability.

1. Avoid posting controversial content

Any posts about politics, religion or controversial social topics can influence your image on social media. Even if you have strong convictions, it is worth exercising restraint in your public posts, as recruiters may interpret such content as too extreme or inappropriate.

2. Don’t share too personal information

Your professional profile should reflect your professional competence and interests, not your private life. Publicly sharing personal problems, family conflicts or health issues can introduce unnecessary doubt about your professional stability and responsibility.

3. Watch out for pictures and comments

Your online image is also shaped by what you post in comments and what photos you share. Party photos, overly casual or inappropriate jokes can negatively affect the impression of you. It’s also worth monitoring how you interact in newsgroups – negative, aggressive statements can put off potential employers.

4. Following controversial pages

Likes on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter also speak volumes about your interests. Recruiters can see what content you like and follow, so it is important to avoid following pages that may be controversial or promote inappropriate values.

Managing social media appropriately is the art of balancing privacy and transparency. Properly managing the content you share will help you avoid building a negative image and increase your chances of being seen positively by recruiters.

How to take care of your social media image after being employed?

Once you get a job, it is worth remembering that your social media image still matters. What you post can be observed by superiors, colleagues or clients, regardless of the industry you work in. Maintaining a professional online image helps you maintain a good reputation and avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.

1. Remember that your online image can influence the perception of the company
   Your behaviour on social media, even outside of working hours, can be associated with where you work. Inappropriate comments or controversial content can affect not only your reputation, but also the view of your company
2. Maintain authenticity and professionalism when dealing with other employees
   Once hired, we often add colleagues to our social media friends. It’s worth remembering to still maintain moderation and professionalism, even in private conversations or groups. Your interactions can reflect on you as an employee.
3. Regularly check your privacy settings
   Ensure that your old posts, photos and other content do not negatively impact your online image. Check what is visible to the public and limit access to more personal content to close friends only.
4. Control the content you share
   Even after you’ve been hired, it’s worth being aware of what you publish. Controversial posts, event photos or unprofessional comments can affect how you are perceived. Maintaining a consistent, positive image on social media can help you later in your career.

Nurturing your self-image on social media is an important part of building trust and professionalism that can support your professional relationships, wherever you work.

Summary

Your social media image is increasingly important in the recruitment process and can directly affect your employability. Taking care of what you share online, regularly updating your professional profiles, as well as consciously managing your privacy settings, can significantly improve your perception in the eyes of employers. Remember that your online activity is also part of your career, so take the time to present yourself professionally.

Germany is a country with a rich tradition, where public holidays play an important role in social life. However, the number of public holidays, their distribution and how they are celebrated vary from state to state. Each of Germany’s 16 states can independently determine additional public holidays, leading to considerable differences in the holiday calendar between regions. In this article, we will present the calendar of holidays and days off in Germany for 2024, with a special focus on national and regional holidays.

Why is the holiday calendar in Germany so diverse?

Germany, as a federal state, gives individual states the option of determining for themselves the holidays that will be public holidays. This means that in addition to nationwide holidays such as New Year’s Day and Labor Day, individual states also celebrate their own regional holidays. This differentiation can be confusing, especially for people outside Germany who are trying to understand which days are actually public holidays throughout the country and which are only in specific states.

Germany’s national public holidays in 2024

In 2024, Germany celebrates several holidays that are recognized as public holidays in all states. Here is the full list:

1. January 1, 2024 – New Year (Monday): Traditional holiday starting the new calendar year.
2. March 29, 2024 – Good Friday (Friday): A well-recognized Christian holiday celebrated throughout Germany.
3. April 1, 2024 – Easter Monday: Another public holiday associated with the celebration of Easter.
4. May 1, 2024 – Labor Day (Wednesday): An international labor holiday, also celebrated in Germany.
5. May 9, 2024 – Ascension Day (Thursday): Another religious holiday, recognized in all states.
6. May 20, 2024 – Pentecost Monday: The second day of Pentecost, celebrated nationwide.
7. October 3, 2024 – German Unity Day (Thursday): National holiday commemorating the reunification of Germany.
8. December 25, 2024 – Christmas Day (Wednesday): First day of Christmas.
9. December 26, 2024 – Second Christmas Day (Thursday): Second day of Christmas, also considered a holiday.

Holidays in each state in 2024

In addition to nationwide public holidays, each state in Germany has its own holidays, which may be additional days off only in that region.

Before discussing regional holidays, it is worth remembering that not every holiday automatically constitutes a public holiday for all employees. Although some holidays are officially recognized as days off in a given state, the decision to honor them as a day off may depend on company policy. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check your company’s work regulations to be sure whether you can count on additional days off for regional holidays.

If you’re just planning to work in Germany, it’s a good time to take a look at current job opportunities that may suit your expectations.

Baden-Wuerttemberg, Bavaria, Saxony-Anhalt

• Epiphany (January 6, 2024 – Saturday): A holiday celebrated to commemorate the visit of the Three Wise Men to the newborn Jesus. It is a public holiday in the three states, and some cities hold parades featuring costumed “Three Kings.”
• Corpus Christi (May 30, 2024 – Thursday): A feast of the Catholic Church commemorating the institution of the Eucharist. It is a day off in the states, and many towns and cities hold processions through city streets, which bring together numerous faithful.
• All Saints’ Day (November 1, 2024 – Friday): A holiday in which all the dead are remembered, especially those who have not been canonized. It is a time to visit cemeteries and pray for the dead.

Berlin, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

• International Women’s Day (March 8, 2024 – Friday): This is a relatively new holiday as a public holiday, which has recently gained the status of a day off in Berlin and Mecklenburg- West Pomerania. Various events are held on this day to promote women’s rights.

Brandenburg

• Easter Sunday (March 31, 2024): A holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, it is a public holiday only in Brandenburg, where it is celebrated with great devotion.
• Pentecost (May 19, 2024 – Sunday): Another Christian holiday that has its day off in Brandenburg. Traditionally celebrated as a day of the blossoming of nature and the end of the Easter season.
• Reformation Day (October 31, 2024 – Thursday): Commemorates Martin Luther’s speech that launched the Reformation. Celebrated in Brandenburg with numerous religious and historical events.

Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland

• Corpus Christi (May 30, 2024 – Thursday): As mentioned, this is an important Catholic holiday, with processions through city streets bringing together the faithful in the states.
• All Saints’ Day (November 1, 2024 – Friday): A day of reverie and remembrance of the dead, in which the graves of loved ones are visited and Mass is attended.

Augsburg (Bavaria)

• Augsburg Peace Festival (August 8, 2024 – Thursday): A local holiday celebrated in Augsburg that has its roots in the historical events surrounding the end of the religious wars. It is a day off only in Augsburg, where celebrations are held to commemorate peace between Catholics and Protestants.

Saarland

• Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (August 15, 2024 – Thursday): An important Marian holiday, celebrated as a public holiday in the Saarland and in some regions of Bavaria (in municipalities with predominantly Catholic populations). Traditionally, processions and solemn masses are held on this day.

Thuringia

• Children’s Day (September 20, 2024 – Friday): In Thuringia, this is a public holiday dedicated to celebrating the rights and well-being of children. Numerous events and attractions are organized for the little ones on this day.
• Reformation Day (October 31, 2024 – Thursday): As in Brandenburg, this holiday is also celebrated with numerous religious and historical events.

Saxony

• Day of Penance and Prayer (November 20, 2024 – Wednesday): This is a Protestant holiday that is a public holiday in Saxony. It is a time for reflection, prayer and inner tranquility

Bremen, Hamburg, Lower Saxony, Schleswig-Holstein

• Reformation Day (October 31, 2024 – Thursday): As in other regions, it commemorates the Reformation started by Martin Luther. Celebrated with numerous events in northern German cities.

How do you plan your vacation to maximize your days off in 2024?

Planning vacations with public vacations in mind is an excellent strategy for extending your rest without using up multiple vacation days. The 2024 calendar offers several opportunities for you to gain extra days off by combining them with weekends or holidays.

When planning a vacation or an extended stay in Germany, it’s also worth considering the cost of living. If you’re planning to spend more time in Germany, check out this article on the cost of living in Germany to better understand how to manage your budget while traveling or working abroad.

Here’s how you can make the most of your days off:

• Take advantage of long weekends: Holidays such as Good Friday (March 29) and German Unity Day (October 3) fall on Friday and Thursday, making it possible to combine them with a weekend. Just take one day off to gain as many as four days off.
• Plan around moving holidays: Easter Monday (April 1) and Pentecost Monday (May 20) are public vacations that can also be combined with a weekend, increasing the number of rest days with minimal use of vacation time.
• Plan longer breaks: If you have the opportunity, consider scheduling an extended vacation for Christmas (December 25-26) and New Year’s (January 1). By strategically combining these days with weekends, you can get up to 10 days off using only 4-5 days of vacation.

A well-considered vacation can not only provide extended rest, but also have a positive impact on your efficiency at work and overall well-being.

Summary

Germany’s calendar of holidays and public holidays for 2024 varies and depends on the region in which you are located. Nationwide public holidays include New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Labor Day, Ascension Day, Pentecost Monday, German Unity Day and Christmas. However, the number of holidays and additional days off may vary from state to state. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the local holiday calendar and know which days are legal holidays, and which may depend on your region or company. This will make it easier to plan your days off and vacations for 2024.

This variation in the holiday calendar also affects daily life and work arrangements in Germany. Those planning to travel or work in Germany should pay close attention to these dates to get a better understanding of how the country functions on holidays and which holidays are most relevant in each region.

Taking a job in the Netherlands is an attractive option for many people who are looking for new opportunities in the European labor market. However, in order to work legally in this country, you need to prepare the appropriate documents. This will ensure that your employment formalities go smoothly, whether you apply directly to the employer or through an employment agency. In this article you will learn what documents are required, what formalities you need to complete, and what to pay attention to so that your entry into legal employment goes without a hitch.

What documents are necessary to work in the Netherlands?

Before leaving to the Netherlands and starting work, it is necessary to take with you several crucial documents. They are required by both employment agencies and employers, as well as official institutions, and their absence can delay the recruitment process or prevent legal employment abroad.

Such essential documents include:

• ID card or passport,
• BSN identification number (if you have already worked in the Netherlands),
• bank account confirmation,
• driver’s license (if you have it).

Later in this article we will discuss in detail why each of these documents is needed and how to obtain them.

ID card or passport – fundamental identity documents

One of the most important documents you need to possess is your identity card or passport. In the Netherlands, as a European Union country, a passport is not required, but it can replace an ID card. Without a valid ID, you won’t be able to take a legal job or handle many formalities, such as registering with the authorities or opening a bank account. Make sure the document is not damaged and is valid for the entire period of your stay abroad. A damaged ID card may be considered invalid, which will cause problems for you to work legally and handle paperwork.

It’s also a good idea to make a copy of your ID card or passport – both hard copy and digital. This is a precaution in case you lose the original.

BSN identification number – crucial for paperwork in the Netherlands

Another necessary document is the BSN (Burgerservicenummer) identification number. If you have worked in the Netherlands before and have this number, be sure to bring it with you. If you are going to the Netherlands for the first time, the employment agency will help you obtain it on the spot, at the municipal office (gemeente).

The BSN number is necessary for legal work, tax settlements, health insurance and setting up a bank account. Without this number, you will not be able to take full advantage of the Dutch administrative system.

Bank account confirmation – where the salary will be placed

Every employee in the Netherlands must have a confirmation of being the owner of a registered bank account. This is necessary because wages are transferred directly to the employee’s account. If the account belongs to a spouse or other person, the employee should at least be recorded as a co-owner.

It is advisable for the bank account to be in foreign currency, preferably in euros. If you have an account in another currency, we recommend setting up a currency account, such as with the Revolut app, which makes it much easier to manage your finances. For details on how to set up an account with Revolut, see our article “How to set up an account with the Revolut app”.

Driver’s license – an advantage that increases your chances in the job market

A driver’s license is not a necessary document for signing a job contract, but having one is a great benefit to an employee. Having a driver’s license increases your chances of finding a better-paying job, and many employers in the Netherlands value employees who can get around in their own or company cars.

Of course, if you are applying for positions that require driving, such as a Category B or other driver, having a proper driver’s license becomes a necessity. In such cases, the employer will require you to show a valid document proving your driving privileges.

In addition, a driver’s license is essential for traveling to work in your own car or using a company car. This makes daily commuting easier, especially for workplaces far from home or in areas with limited public transportation. Having a driver’s license can also open the door to flexible forms of employment, such as contract or temporary work, where mobility is essential.

Do you have a B driver’s license? Check out our current job vacancies in the Netherlands, where mobility is key, and find the perfect position for you here.

So it’s worth considering getting a driver’s license if you’re planning a long-term career in the Netherlands, even if it’s not required initially. Such a document can greatly increase your attractiveness on the job market and allow you to access a wider range of employment opportunities.

Certificate of no criminal record – an important document required by employers

Although a criminal record certificate is not a formal legal requirement in the Netherlands, many employers and employment agencies expect it to be presented even in sectors such as horticulture or manufacturing. This document confirms that the candidate has not been convicted of any crimes, which increases security in both the workplace and employee accommodation and facilitates the entire employment process.

It is recommended to obtain such a certificate even before going abroad. This can be done by going to the relevant court or applying online. For more information on the procedure for obtaining a criminal record certificate, see our article How to obtain a criminal record certificate.

Health insurance – the obligation of every employee in the Netherlands

In addition to basic documents, such as an ID card or BSN identification number, an extremely important formality in the Netherlands is health insurance. Every employee must be insured from the first day of work, and lack of insurance can result in financial penalties.

Dutch health insurance – why is it important?

Dutch law requires every legally employed employee to have active health insurance. This ensures that the employee has access to medical care and protection in case of accidents or illness. If you take a job through an employment agency, the agency should ensure that you have access to adequate insurance, which will be in effect for the duration of your employment.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) – for long-term employees

You should also consider getting a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), especially if you are planning a longer stay in the Netherlands. The EHIC card is useful in the first few days after arrival, before the Dutch insurance formalities are completed. It provides access to basic medical care in European Union countries, which can be especially important at the beginning of your work abroad.

Documents confirming professional qualifications – an additional advantage

To improve your chances on the job market in the Netherlands, it’s a good idea to carry documents proving your professional qualifications. Certificates and certifications can be especially useful if you specialize in a particular field. Examples of documents to take with you are:

• Diplomas from trade schools and universities,
• Certificates of completed courses and training,
• Professional certificates, such as those related to machine operation, welding or mechanics,
• Dutch VCA certificate, especially relevant in technical and construction industries, which proves knowledge of occupational health and safety principles.

Although these documents are not required for every job offer, they can significantly increase your chances of getting a better-paying and more responsible job, especially if you want to prove your qualifications and skills.

Other useful documents

In addition to the documents previously mentioned, such as an ID card, BSN number or criminal record, consider bringing a few others that may be useful during your work and stay in the Netherlands:

A resume – Although not a required document, it is a good idea to bring an up-to-date resume in English or Dutch. It can be helpful in situations where you will want to take on additional tasks or apply for new opportunities within your workplace.
References and work certificates – These documents prove your work experience and reliability, which can increase your chances of securing better-paying positions and job offers.
Registration with the municipality – If you plan to live privately, a registration will be essential for paperwork such as health insurance and taxes.

While not all of these documents are required right away, they can make your work life and paperwork easier during your stay in the Netherlands.

Summary – a well-prepared is an efficiently functioning

Preparing the right documents before going to work in the Netherlands is a crucial step to avoid unnecessary delays and complications on the spot. Basic documents such as an ID card, BSN number, bank account confirmation or driver’s license are essential for legal employment and smooth operations in the Netherlands. In addition, a criminal record certificate, resume, references or labor certificates can greatly increase your chances in the labor market and make the paperwork easier.

Remember that the employment agency often helps with the paperwork on the spot, but the better prepared you are before you leave, the faster and smoother you will start working. Taking all the required documents is the first step to a successful stay and a rewarding job in the Netherlands.

Homesickness is a feeling that affects many workers going abroad. Working in a foreign country, away from family and friends, can be both emotionally and psychologically challenging.
In this article, we’ll explore how to deal with homesickness to make the period of adaptation in a new environment easier and more comfortable. We’ll discuss proven strategies to help maintain mental balance, build new relationships and enjoy the international work experience.

Homesickness in labor emigration – recognizing the problem

Longing in emigration is a natural and common phenomenon that affects many people working abroad. Separation from family, friends and familiar surroundings can cause feelings of sadness, loneliness and anxiety. The first step in dealing with yearning is to recognize it and understand that it is a normal reaction to change and new challenges. It is important not to ignore such feelings, but to learn to accept them and look for ways to alleviate them.

Homesickness can be reflected in a variety of ways – for instance from difficulty concentrating, feelings of sadness, to even physical symptoms such as headaches or sleep problems. Recognizing these signals is key to taking appropriate action. There are many methods that can help ease these symptoms, such as regular contact with loved ones, developing new hobbies or making new friends. It’s also a good idea to talk openly about your feelings with others who may be going through similar experiences. Finding support among co-workers or in local support groups can significantly improve your well-being and help you adapt to your new environment. Remember that everyone goes through this process differently, and it is important to find your own effective ways of coping with longing.

Effective strategies for coping with homesickness

Dealing with feelings of loneliness while working abroad requires a proactive approach and the implementation of several proven strategies that can significantly improve the quality of life in emigration. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Kemping in touch with loved ones: Talking regularly on the phone, making video calls or exchanging text messages can help maintain close relationships with family and friends. Thanks to technology, we can feel closer to home, regardless of distance.
2. Social support and making friends: Establishing new friendships at work or in the local community can significantly help alleviate feelings of loneliness and longing. Joining clubs, interest groups or attending local events and other social activities are great ways to build a new support network.
3. Deweloping new hobbies: Engaging in new activities and developing interests can distract from being homesick and bring joy and satisfaction. Finding local activities, such as learning a language, sports or workshops, is a good way to spend your free time and meet new people.
4. Creating routines: Establishing a regular daily routine can help you adjust to your new environment and provide a sense of stability. Planning your day, including time for work, rest, physical activities and socializing, can provide relief and reduce the stress of longing.
5. Taking care of mental health: It is important to take care of your mental health by recognizing the moments when professional help is needed. Don’t hesitate to seek the services of a psychologist or therapist who can help you cope with the emotional challenges of living abroad.

Following these strategies can make the process of adapting to a new place much easier and make homesickness less overwhelming. Everyone is different, so it is worth experimenting with different methods and finding the ones that best suit individual needs and preferences.

Contact with relatives – the key to a healthy balance

Maintaining regular contact with family and friends is one of the most effective strategies for coping with homesickness while working abroad. Video calls via apps such as Skype, Zoom or WhatsApp allow you to visually connect with loved ones, which can greatly improve your mood and reduce feelings of loneliness. Frequent texting and emailing, as well as the use of social media, such as Facebook and Instagram, allows you to keep up to date with the lives of loved ones and share your own experiences. Traditional letters and packages, while seeming old-fashioned, have a certain charm and sentimental value, reminding us of care and love from family and friends. Planning a visit or a vacation together can be a motivation to get through more difficult times, and knowing about an upcoming reunion with loved ones greatly improves the mood.

By making sure you are in regular contact with your loved ones, you can maintain a healthy work-life balance, which is crucial for your mental and emotional health while working abroad. Remember that emotional closeness does not depend on physical distance – the most important thing is to stay in touch and nurture the relationships that are important to you.

Finding support and making new friends

Working abroad involves not only homesickness, but also the need to build a new support network in a foreign country. Finding the right support and spending time together with others can significantly improve quality of life and help adapt to a new environment.

The first step is to actively seek an opportunity for socializing. In the workplace, it’s a good idea to be open to conversations with co-workers and participate in company team-building events. Many companies organize meetings, outings or events, which are an excellent opportunity to meet new people and develop closer relationships. Outside of work, it’s a good idea to get involved in local communities and interest groups. Joining sports clubs, hobby groups or language courses is a great way to meet people with similar interests. Such activities not only help you make friends, but also provide entertainment and can be rewarding.

The Internet and social media can also be helpful in meeting new people. There are many Facebook groups and online chats dedicated to people working abroad, where you can exchange experiences, advice and make new friends. It’s also worth using networking apps that organize thematic meetings and events in the area. And don’t forget emotional support, which can be found in local support groups or with professionals, using a psychologist or therapist for support. Talking to people who are experiencing similar difficulties can be very helpful and provide relief during difficult times.

Making new friends and finding support in a new country takes time and effort, but is crucial for mental and emotional health. Openness, commitment and a proactive approach to building relationships can make adapting to life abroad much easier and make it more fulfilling and less lonely.

Adapting to a new environment and life abroad

Adapting to a new environment abroad is a process that requires time, patience and openness to new experiences. It is crucial to understand that it will not immediately feel like home. It is worth giving yourself time to get to know the new place, observe its dynamics and learn local customs and traditions. Learning the language of the country you are in is an important part of adaptation. Even a basic knowledge of the language can make it easier to function on a daily basis and make new friends. Adjusting to a daily routine that includes work, rest, physical activities and hobbies provides a sense of stability and regularity. Finding places that create a new friendly environment, such as a favorite café or park, can be helpful. Getting involved in local communities and events will help you feel part of your new surroundings. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, getting enough sleep and relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga will improve your mood and help you cope with stress.

Adapting to a new life abroad is a challenge, but at the same time an opportunity for personal growth and gaining valuable experience. It is important to be patient, open-minded and not be afraid to ask for help when we need it. As time goes by, the new place can become a second home, and we will feel more and more comfortable in it.

Working abroad – adaptation and support

Working abroad is not only an opportunity for professional and financial growth, but also a challenge of adapting to a new environment and dealing with longing for home. It is crucial to understand that feelings of homesickness are natural and can be dealt with effectively by maintaining regular contact with loved ones, making new friends, and getting involved in local communities.

It is also important to take care of mental and physical health, create a daily routine and be open to new experiences. Learning the language and familiarizing yourself with local customs can greatly facilitate the adaptation process and help build a sense of belonging to a new place.

Remember that adaptation is a process that takes time and patience. Taking advantage of available resources and support, both emotional and social, can significantly improve the quality of life abroad. Over time, your new place of work and life can become a second home, and the experiences you gain and new friendships you make can enrich your life in many ways.

In previous articles, we have explained what rights and obligations are associated with self-employment in the Netherlands and what requirements you need to meet to set up your own business there. Of course, setting up your own business is only the beginning! Your success will be determined by whether you can find your way in the labor market, find customers and build long-term, valuable business relationships with them. In this article, you will find out for whom self-employment is a profitable form of earning and how to find clients, also by developing a reliable and professional image.

For whom is self-employment a worthwhile option?

Self-employment in the Netherlands is primarily a win-win solution for desirable professionals – people who have specialized skills that give them an advantage in the labor market.

Welders, mechanics, electricians – in these professions, thanks to self-employment, you can count on a much higher hourly rate than in an employment contract. In addition, these professions are also in high demand – which simply means that there is a huge need for such specialists, which is not fully covered by the market.

You do not have to be a sales and marketing specialist to work in a profession that is in demand on the job market – but remember that this will also be part of your duties! You must be able to present yourself appropriately to potential customers and negotiate favourable terms of cooperation. Contact with people is an important part of self-employment, and to be successful, you also need to understand people and know how to build business relationships.

This is why soft skills are so important for the self-employed. This includes contact and relationship-building skills with people, but also self-discipline, good organisation and high motivation. Remember – when running your own business, your fate is 100% in your own hands! For some, such responsibility is a fulfilment of a dream; for others, it is a nightmare. Think carefully about which group you belong to!

When working on a self-employed basis in the Netherlands, you will of course need to know a foreign language – preferably Dutch, especially if you plan to work for individual clients. If your clients will mainly be companies – it may be enough to know English, but either way, it is worth being open to learning Dutch.

Also remember that, at least in the beginning, you need to have financial security, for example to cover the costs associated with registering your business in the Netherlands. This is especially important if you don’t yet have a list of clients for whom you will be able to start doing assignments from the moment you set up your business.

How to search for clients and work assignments as a self-employed person in the Netherlands?

One of the biggest challenges for self-employed persons in the Netherlands is finding clients and work assignments. Here are a few ways to look for work as a self-employed person in the Netherlands, including the pros and cons of these solutions:

Create your own website or social media profile. This is a good way to show your professionalism, references and feedback from previous clients. Remember that many employers will check your online presence before hiring you. A professionally run, industry-related social media or website allows you to build your own brand and can give you a significant advantage over competitors who pay less attention to their virtual image.

Using job portals or freelancing platforms. These allow you to easily and quickly search for jobs by category, location, rate, etc. Unfortunately, they are often highly competitive, so principals can often afford slightly lower rates than market averages. In addition, some portals or platforms charge commissions on completed jobs or require fees for registration and the use of additional features.

Dutch self-employed portals worth checking out are:

• Werkspot.nl – a portal for people who do renovation, construction, gardening or cleaning work. Here you can find adverts from people looking for contractors or add their own offer yourself.
• Marktplaats.nl – is an advertising portal. Here you can sell or buy various products, but also find jobs or advertise your business.

How to build a good image and reputation as a self-employed person in the Netherlands?

Image is your second biggest advantage in the market, right after the quality of the service you provide.

It’s important that you build trust and loyalty among your clients and colleagues – it very directly affects your income and growth opportunities. Here are some practical tips on how to build a good image and reputation as a self-employed person in the Netherlands:

• Be a trustworthy partner. Clients hire you because you know your expertise better than they do. This means that you will often be able to advise them on a solution that is better than they originally planned. Having the ability to point out time- or money-saving solutions is one of the most effective ways to build a strong relationship with a client.
• Be professional and competent. It goes without saying – work diligently, on time and in accordance with the contract. Keep your word and be honest with your clients – remember, it often only takes one time to damage someone else’s trust to completely lose reliability!
• Don’t promise more than you can deliver! This is a common mistake for the self-employed. Failing to meet the expectations you have assured yourself is the easiest way to spoil the relationship with the client. It is far better to promise less and positively surprise the customer than to promise too much and disappoint them. This doesn’t mean, of course, that you should intentionally under-promise – just take a realistic approach to evaluating what you can offer.
• If you encounter any problems or delays, communicate them as soon as possible. Clear communication is the key to maintaining good customer relations.
• Be communicative and open. Remember that you are judged not only by the quality of your work, but also by how pleasant and smooth your communication is. Being polite, friendly and respectful of cultural differences does not take much effort and can make finding clients and assignments much easier.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for help if you don’t understand something or need support. Also, be ready to help others if you are able to do so – the ability to collaborate and being open to dialogue are attributes highly sought by employers.
• Actively develop your skills. Look for information about the labor market in the Netherlands, current trends and demand for your industry. Sign up for seminars, courses or workshops that can improve your skills or broaden your horizons. Show that you are an active and engaged person in your work – it is worth communicating this on your social media or website if you have decided to run it.

Cooperation with the agency

A great way to ensure you have a constant and regular flow of jobs is to work with a recruitment agency – in that case, they take care of finding clients, saving you time and resources, allowing you to focus on your work and what makes you the most money. Ready Steady Go has many job opportunities for professionals in the Netherlands – get in touch and see what we can offer you!

Finding customers does not have to be difficult

Many people do not find themselves working on a self-employed basis and end up returning to full-time work, despite the worse financial prospects that this form of employment offers. In most cases, this is mainly due to their poor preparation and lack of understanding that self-employment requires more than just knowing your craft. This guide has explained to you the most important issues related to succeeding on the Dutch labor market. If you have additional questions – please contact us!

Working on your own account in the Netherlands offers many potential advantages, such as the chance for higher wages and a presence in a less competitive market than Poland. However, there are some formalities involved, the knowledge of which will make the process of becoming self-employed much easier – especially if you are considering moving your business from Poland. In this guide, you will learn about some of the less obvious law issues that will make the process of becoming self-employed in the Netherlands easier and deciding whether this is a career path that is right for you.

How do I settle my accounts with the Dutch tax authorities as a self-employed person in the Netherlands?

One of the most important aspects of self-employment in the Netherlands is accounting to the Dutch tax authority (Belastingdienst). Self-employed persons have to submit tax returns every three months (VAT) and every year (income tax).

VAT in the Netherlands is 21% for most goods and services, 9% for certain foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals and cultural services and 0% for exports and international services. If you provide services to a Polish company, you need to check whether you are covered by the reverse charge principle, which means that it is the recipient of the service who has to charge and pay VAT in their country.

Income tax in the Netherlands is calculated on the basis of a self-employed person’s net income, after deducting business expenses and any tax reliefs. It is higher than in Poland – 36.93% for income up to €73071 per year and 49.50% for income above this amount.

Costs that can be deducted from income are, for example, the purchase of equipment or developing your own qualifications through training and courses – in other words, anything that is directly related to running and developing your own business.

A self-employed person in the Netherlands is required to issue invoices for his or her services or goods, including the tax identification number (BTW-nummer), the date, the gross and net amount as well as the VAT rate.

Accounting for VAT in the Netherlands can be complicated, so consider using the support of an accountant or tax advisor in the process of setting up your business and accounting for it. You can also get help from the Dutch tax authorities and organisations that support the self-employed in the Netherlands:

– ZZP Nederland – an organisation representing the interests of more than 50,000 self-employed people in the Netherlands. It offers legal advice, insurance, training and networking support to its members.

– FNV Zelfstandigen – a trade union for the self-employed from various industries. It helps to negotiate working conditions and contracts, provides legal assistance and tax advice and organises meetings and seminars for the self-employed.

– PZO – a platform for the self-employed in the service sector. It is dedicated to lobbying for better working and development conditions for the self-employed and offers them information, training and networking opportunities.

Self-employment in the Netherlands – what tax benefits are you entitled to?

Dutch law provides for a number of tax credits and deduction possibilities, depending on a number of individual factors.

For more information, see the Dutch government’s official website on self-employed professionals – Subsidies and tax schemes for self-employed professionals | Business.gov.nl.

However, even with an official government source, finding your way through the maze of tax information can be difficult for a beginning entrepreneur. That is why it is also worth considering the services of a legal advisor or accountant – the consultation will be chargeable, but there is a high chance that it will save you much more than the cost of seeking professional advice and a specialist opinion.

Moving your own company to the Netherlands – is it possible?

Moving a company to the Netherlands can be a beneficial solution for entrepreneurs who want to expand their business in the EU market. Unfortunately, there is no single rule for this and it usually simply requires closing down the business in one country and then registering it in the other – the Netherlands. You can find out what conditions you need to meet to register your business in the Netherlands in our previous article.

When closing a business in your home country and opening one in the Netherlands, it is crucial to meet the legal obligations involved – you must change your tax residence to the Netherlands, which means that from now on you will be subject to Dutch tax legislation and pay your taxes there.

In addition, if the transfer of the company results in an exit from the domestic tax system without the sale of the company’s assets, so-called exit tax on unrealized profits may be charged. Exit tax is income tax on the difference between the market value and the book value of the company’s assets as at the date of the transfer of the registered office.

Apparent self-employment

Apparent self-employment is a situation in which a freelancer in the Netherlands is in fact dependent on one or more principals and does not have full freedom to carry out his or her work – meaning that the formal legal conditions for being self-employed are not met.

This entails a range of negative consequences, such as no social security, no sickness insurance and a lower pension. It also exposes you to tax or administrative sanctions. To avoid apparent self-employment, you need to make sure that you meet the statutory criteria for genuine self-employment – we described these in a previous article.

If you are unsure of your situation, you can use organisations such as FairWork or Belastingdienst, which provide advice and assistance in checking your tax and insurance status.

Self-employment in the Netherlands – what next?

This and the previous article give you key information on the laws and regulations related to self-employment in the Netherlands. In the next article, we will give you some useful tips on how to look for clients and build an expert image, and thus increase your earnings!

If you dream of working in the Netherlands but don’t want to be dependent on an employer, you can consider the self-employment option. It’s a form of business that gives you a lot of freedom and flexibility to manage your time and finances, offering much broader opportunities for development than a classic job. Being self-employed means taking your destiny into your own hands and taking 100% responsibility for your professional life.

A self-employed person in the Netherlands is referred to by the abbreviation ZPP ‘Zelfstandige Zonder Personeel’, which translated means ‘self-employed person not hiring employees’.

This solution has a range of both pros and potential cons, so it is worth preparing well for this step and considering whether self-employment in the Netherlands is definitely the right solution for you.

This article will help you to assess if you are ready to set up a business, learn about the advantages and disadvantages of self-employment and properly prepare for self-employment in the Netherlands.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of self-employment in the Netherlands?

The main advantage is of course… making money in euros 😉 Earnings in the Netherlands are significantly higher than in Poland, also in terms of real purchasing power, which means considering the cost of living.

Self-employment allows you to have ‘something of your own’ – develop and build your personal brand, where you have the ability to set your own prices or your own work schedule, and over time, if you are successful, to grow it, for example by hiring additional Employees.

Turning a one-person business into a company is actually a step closer than you may think. If you are a valued professional, the number of assignments will start to exceed your personal time capacity sooner or later – and that means the chance to grow and hire additional Employee(s). By working for someone, you will never have this opportunity!

It also means flexible schedules and working hours – after all, you are now your own boss! You decide for yourself when you have time off and what hours you work.

Of course, self-employment isn’t just about benefits – if it were, everyone would start their own business!

Running your own business requires a high degree of self-discipline and motivation. Although you don’t have to worry about being reprimanded by your boss, this doesn’t mean that you are free of obligations! You are directly responsible to your customers – who, like your supervisor, will demand punctuality, personal culture, and a high quality of service. Many people find it much easier to perform their duties when they have a clearly defined schedule and tasks set by their supervisor. It is worth considering whether you can handle yourself under circumstances where your success depends 100% entirely on you.

Self-employment also involves a number of formal requirements and obligations, such as paying taxes, taking care of your insurance and pension. Remember, too, that you are fully responsible under the law for your work, such as for damage caused because of improper workmanship. If you want to know exactly what requirements you have to fulfil when setting up your own business in the Netherlands, you will find out later in this article.

What requirements do you have to meet if you want to work on a self-employed basis in the Netherlands?

Being self-employed in the Netherlands is possible for any European Union citizen who wants to be independent. However, in order to be legally self-employed in the country, several requirements must be met:

• Possession of a valid ID document.
• Register as a resident in the Netherlands and receive a BSN number (Burgerservicenummer), which is necessary for contact with the authorities and institutions. To register and obtain a BSN number, you must go to the local municipality of your place of residence.
• Register your company with the Dutch trade register Kamer van Koophandel (KvK) and obtain a tax identification number (RSIN) and a VAT number (BTW-nummer). You will need these for invoicing and tax accounting.
• Register your company with the Chamber of Commerce (Kamer van Koophandel) and with the UWV – the Social Security Office (cost approximately €50).
• Choose the form of your business. The most common legal form used by the self-employed is the single-person company (eenmanszaak), which does not require share capital or independent accounting.
• Have a company account that will be used exclusively for accounting and registering company incomes and expenses.
• Arrange an income tax and VAT settlement with the tax authorities. Self-employed persons can benefit from various tax reliefs and deductions if they meet certain criteria.
• Insure yourself in case of illness, incapacity or retirement. There is no obligatory social insurance for the self-employed in the Netherlands, so you have to take care of your financial security yourself. You must also remember to pay income tax and health and pension insurance contributions.
• Show professional independence (zelfstandigheid). This means that you must not be subordinated to any employer or client, neither must you do exclusive work for one company – Dutch law requires that you perform services for at least three different contractors in a year.
• Own the work tools, make individual business decisions and take the risks of running the company.
• Maintain the accounts of a one-person business.
• Work 1225 hours per year for the business – this includes time spent on training, finding clients or building a website. Meeting this criterion is required if you would like to be able to benefit from entrepreneurs’ tax relief.

How to register a company in the Netherlands?

The registration process begins by arranging an appointment electronically at the KvK (Kamer van Koophandel), at which you must appear with comprehensive information about the business you wish to set up (name, sector of activity, services offered, etc.) and a set of documents. This must be fresh data – no more than one month old.

Kamer van Koophandel will check that the company meets all the legal conditions and that it does not already have the same name in the register. Once the registration is complete, you will receive a KvK number (company registration number) and an RSIN number (company tax number). Registration is chargeable and costs €50.

Everything here is done in Dutch, so if you don’t feel up to it, you should hire an interpreter to accompany you or at least get help from a friend.

Self-employment in the Netherlands – are you ready?

As you can see, self-employment and work on your own in the Netherlands has many benefits that go hand in hand with additional responsibilities and risks. For some, this solution will be a fulfilment of a dream, but many people will be better off with a classic full-time job.

In the following articles, we will explain the opportunities for those wishing to relocate their business to the Netherlands and give practical tips on running a business, finding clients, building a professional image and completing legal and tax formalities.

Destination? The Netherlands!

It happened! You’re planning a trip to the Netherlands. It’s time to choose the best transport option. But not to worry. The good news is that the great popularity of the route Poland – the Netherlands means that you can choose from the offers of many bus operators.

Passenger transport from Poland is extremely popular and Poles are increasingly travelling to the country of tulips and windmills. No wonder that company owners are responding to market demand with a very high frequency of services. So, which means of transport is the best option for a trip to the Netherlands? You will find the answer in the following text.

Transport to the Netherlands: safe, comfortable and increasingly popular

The transport options are truly numerous. You can travel to the Netherlands by plane, private car, train, coach or bus. However, our Employees most often choose the comfortable and relatively cheap option, which is to travel by bus. Why are buses to the Netherlands so popular?

Competitive prices and almost everyday transport

Consider as well the fact that bus operators reach many cities located in the Netherlands almost every single day. So you don’t have to worry if your destination is a less popular place or a small town. You will be driven to your final destination.

In addition, the special discounts offered by our Ready Steady Go agency make this a convenient and relatively cheap transport option.

Saving money not only on the ticket price

When planning your trip to the Netherlands, you also need to consider other aspects of your transport. Remember that travelling by air generates additional baggage costs, which increase the ticket price significantly.

If you travel by bus, you can take up to two suitcases or bags, as well as hand luggage and… basically nothing to worry about. All this is included in the price of your ticket. The buses usually go directly to small towns and cities, which means a great deal of convenience for the traveller. Here you also benefit because you don’t pay extra for any taxis or buses. This is also a huge advantage for people who are going to the Netherlands for the first time and are stressed about possible communication difficulties.

Guaranteed transport from and to the address you specify

You should know that buses to the Netherlands reach all corners of the country, and not just the most popular destinations. A noteworthy feature is the ‘door-to-door’ service, which involves transportation to an address that you specify in advance. This means that you will be picked up by a bus at the indicated place and transported to a specific point of the map in the Netherlands!

This is a great advantage and comfort for travellers. No wonder our Employees usually choose this transport option. Do you want to travel to or from a specific address, but do not have the option of travelling by car? Ask about our door-to-door offer!

For everyone, the comfort of the journey is very important

A bus trip to the Netherlands is a guarantee that you will arrive at your destination on time. So, you don’t have to worry about airport check-in, ordering extra taxis or bus tickets. You already know this. But what if you decide to travel by your own car?

High fuel costs in the Netherlands

Be aware of the high cost of refuelling in the Netherlands. Currently, petrol prices in the Netherlands are considered to be the highest in the whole of Europe. If you come to the Netherlands in a car equipped with an LPG system, you will also need to remember about the special adapter that will allow you to fill up with gas. However, fuel prices are not everything. You also have to consider the so-called road tax. What is this tax and what costs does it generate?

Road tax in the Netherlands also known as MRB

When you come to the Netherlands with your own car, you need to know that you will have to pay a special tax for it, from which the roads are maintained. Unfortunately, this also includes foreigners who come to the Netherlands. If you are registered outside the Netherlands, this tax does not apply to you for 6 months. Unfortunately, after this time, you are obliged to pay road tax. What costs does the MRB generate?

The amount of tax depends on the weight of the car and its intended use. For example, for a passenger car over two tonnes, you will have to pay over €2,000 per year! Unfortunately, these are not low costs, so consider coming in your own car if you decide to stay in the Netherlands for a long time.

Transport in the Netherlands without a car? You can!

You decide to work in the Netherlands and wonder what if you choose a bus as your mean of transport? No worries. Our employment agency Ready Steady Go supports all Employees in this matter. Know that if your workplace is more than 15 kilometres away, you are entitled to commute to work in a company car. Driving a long distance to work is therefore not a problem.

A popular mean of transport in the Netherlands is of course also the bicycle. Know that our employees have Dutch and electric bicycles at their disposal, depending on your needs. You can use them not only for commuting to work, but also in your free time. For more information, see this article.

You can also become a company car driver

If you feel very good behind the wheel, you can become a company car driver and drive other Employees to work. Know that you are then entitled to an additional work bonus for the driver. You also do not cover petrol costs. When you receive the keys to your car, you receive a card that you use to pay for fuel and a car wash.

In turn, if you decide to use our accommodation, you will additionally receive a bicycle, which is a convenient, fast and safe form of transport in the Netherlands.

Buses to the Netherlands – economical and comfortable travelling

You already know that the option of travelling by bus is not only cheap, but also… comfortable! When planning a trip to the Netherlands, it’s a good idea to find out what facilities a particular employment agency offers. Our Employees can be provided with a bicycle and, if necessary, a company car. Importantly, we also pay for fuel and a car wash. While choosing an employment agency, pay attention to any benefits it offers its Employees.

Do you have any other questions about going to work in the Netherlands for the first time? Follow our blog or contact us in a private message.

Contributions, pension insurance and… a lot of questions. Dutch pension is a topic that certainly interests all Poles who have decided to emigrate for work in the Netherlands. Are you living and working in the Netherlands and wondering if and when you are entitled to a Dutch pension? Or maybe you are just considering going to work in the Netherlands and this is where you are linking your future to? What should you do before the age of the retirement?

You will find all the answers to the above topics in this article!

Pension in the Netherlands – everything you need to know

First of all, it is worth noting the fact that the Dutch pension system is one of the best and most developed in the world. Retirement in the Netherlands is therefore granted under slightly different rules from those in our country. Before reaching retirement age, you must go to a specific office to apply for a Dutch pension.

However… what is worth knowing as a first step?

The pension. The Netherlands has 3 basic pillars

1. Basic pension (AOW for short)
2. Employee pension plans
3. Individual pension programs

A pension in the Netherlands is possible for Poles after working a certain amount of time. However, due to EU regulations, it is possible to add general work experience to pension calculations. Step by step, we will describe all aspects of the Dutch pension for Poles. Let’s start by describing the three pillars that make up the pension in the Netherlands.

AOW pension entitlement

Algemene Ouderdomswet is otherwise known as the Dutch basic pension (AOW). This pillar covers all persons living in the Netherlands who reach retirement age. It is a type of social pension, and it doesn’t matter at all whether you worked or raised a child while living in the Netherlands. This pillar is available to all residents of the Netherlands.

What is important, the AOW pension also covers all those who have only lived and worked in the Netherlands for a while. Surely this topic will interest you if you have already been working in the Netherlands for some time or are just considering working there.

Every legally employed person in the Netherlands pays social insurance contributions. Part of this is pension insurance, which is paid from the time you reach retirement age, no matter where you will be in your retirement. Usually, you must be employed (insured) in the Netherlands for a least one year to qualify for a Dutch basic pension (AOW).

Are you curious about how your Dutch salary is structured? You can find this information in the salarisspecificatie, or Dutch salary slip. There you will find information about whether a pension benefit has been paid on your salary. Be aware that it is charged after you have worked 26 weeks. We wrote about how to read the Dutch payslip here.

Employee pension programs – what are they?

The second pillar of the Dutch pension includes so-called Employee pension programs. This is a plan that only contributors are entitled to. You should know that they are extremely popular in the Netherlands, with as many as 90% of Dutch people taking advantage of them.

Individual pension programs are especially dedicated to entrepreneurs

The last pillar is individual pension programs, which are directed to people who cannot take advantage of Employee pension plans. These are mainly businessmen, which are self-employed people.

How many years do I have to work to be entitled to a pension in the Netherlands?

OK. You already know the three pillars that comprise the pension system in the Netherlands. So, let’s move on to the details. You are probably wondering after how many years of work in the Netherlands, you are entitled to any pension. The best way to illustrate this is to use specific examples.

Calculating the AOW pension

During the calculation of the AOW basic pension, you always take into account the last 50 years of work. It is worth knowing that for each year worked in the Netherlands, you are granted 2% of the full pension benefit. So, after 5 years of work in the Netherlands, we are entitled to 10% of the pension value.

What is the retirement age in the Netherlands?

Currently, the Dutch retirement age is 66 years and 7 months. However, it is worth keeping in mind that the retirement age will gradually increase as life expectancy increases.

What is the AOW base pension amount?

You can find the exact and most up-to-date totals on the website of the Dutch Sociale Verzekeringsbank, that is, the social insurance bank. As of July 2022, the AOW pension amounts are:

The AOW pension in July 2022 is:

• 1261 euros per month plus holiday allowance for a single person;
• 864 euros per month plus holiday allowance for a person in a relationship.

Does work in the Netherlands count towards a pension in your country?

Of course, if your country belongs to the European Union, both countries have EU coordination of pension systems. This means, therefore, that work in the Netherlands can, in many cases, count as part of a pension in your own country.

Are you interested in this article? Check out our current job offers.

Christmas time is a special time for many Poles. The aroma of Christmas cakes, the resinous scent of a live Christmas tree and the scent of cinnamon wafting throughout the house. However, there are some people who would prefer to escape the festive chaos during the holidays. Perhaps one tempting option would be to work abroad for Christmas?

How about… going to work during Christmas?

In Poland, Christmas is probably one of the most important holidays of the whole year. It is accepted that this time is obligatory to spend with loved ones. With parents, uncles or cousins. The pressure to spend this time with the family is so great that it is impossible to deny the obligation to fulfil the annual ritual with the family. Well. Most of us adopt a conformist attitude, conforming to the encouragement of those around us and… the prevailing tradition. One way to break this obligation, may be to take a seasonal job abroad. Sounds absurd? It turns out that more and more people are taking this step.

An option for singles (and not only)

The Christmas table is also famous for difficult questions from the family. Not everyone likes them, in fact most of us don’t. What if our festivities don’t necessarily look like the ones from American family movies? We can consider going abroad. This is a good option if we don’t have children or if we are single and don’t have the smallest desire for another lonely Christmas. Couples also usually decide to take such a step. They want to spend Christmas in a different way, to explore the Christmas atmosphere of other European cities or simply… to earn good money.

While some people are partying, others are making good money

Of course, the greater part of Polonia living and working abroad decide to return home on festive holidays. This includes both permanent and temporary workers. This is the moment when there is plenty of work during holidays abroad and there is a major lack of Employees. A person who is considering an unconventional trip “across the border” can gain a lot in such a situation. Not surprisingly, there are more and more people willing to work during holidays whether it is Christmas or Easter. It is also worth mentioning that those who undertake work on a holiday are entitled to an additional day off and it must be taken during the settlement period.

What if it is not possible to use the extra day off during the settlement period? Then we can count on an extra for every hour worked on a day of the festivity. What is important, it should be as much as the salary bonus that is paid for overtime work.

Santa’s factory is working at a maximum capacity

The Christmas vacation period is a time of vacations and trips to the home country on the one hand, and a time of increased work in factories and workplaces on the other. Christmas is a period in the Netherlands where almost every industry is working at top speed. Work can easily be found in almost every industry, as the demand for Employees is huge. Broadly defined services are highly popular, and it is easy to find a job in transportation, agriculture and livestock or property protection, among others.

A day off? There are industries that cannot afford it

Especially noteworthy is the so-called continuous work. This is a specific type of work that, for important reasons, must be carried out continuously, which means in a continuous mode. This means that work should be carried out continuously for 24 hours a day, taking into account Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and days that are public holidays. Of course, this system also considers work on festive holidays.

The continuous work system applies to two situations:

1. Due to the production technologies used.
2. Because of the social utility.

The use of continuous work motion in companies is reasonable if machines have to work continuously for technological or economic reasons. Also, it is justified, considering the so-called social utility.

Such work cannot be interrupted for reasons of social usefulness and the interruption of work could cause huge inconvenience to a large group of people, for example, the daily needs of the population potentially could be unsatisfied. We can mention here, as an example, the work of guarding property, protecting people, the transportation industry or agricultural and livestock work.

Not much time, a lot of work and even… more cash

Working during the holidays is worthwhile for at least several reasons. One of them is the high salaries. They are the main temptation for those going to the Netherlands during Christmas. A seasonal worker in just two weeks is able to earn a very attractive and rewarding amount. This is an extremely important aspect, especially in an era of galloping inflation and all-time high prices. Importantly, prices in Netherlands stores are comparable to those in Poland. Therefore, we can return to the country after Christmas with a large boost of money.

The extras also count

When taking up work during holidays, we can also count on many bonuses. Work is in high demand, so you will be charged better overtime rates, as well as an allowance for working on a holiday or days off. In addition, a good employment agency can provide you with well-equipped accommodation, and you don’t have to bring extra bedding, cutlery or dishes with you.

When working with a recruitment agency, you also don’t have to worry about the transport to work, and if you have to commute more than 15 kilometres, you are entitled to use a company car.

Where can I find work during the festive period in the Netherlands?

It is very easy to find a job during the holiday season, and the demand for workers is huge. It is really simple to find work in production even without knowledge of the Dutch language (usually the basics of English are enough).

Why else should you consider working during the Christmas holidays?

A trip to the Netherlands at Christmas time is an opportunity to visit the beautifully decorated Dutch streets and learn about the traditions that are in use in another country. The Dutch people attach great importance to the Christmas trees. You can see them in front of almost every house. Kerstboomverbranding is a festive tradition from the Netherlands that is unfamiliar to Poles. It is based on the burning of already somewhat dried-out Christmas trees in places marked by the municipality. It is worth mentioning that many locals take part in this ritual. Christmas looks a little more modest in the Netherlands than in Poland. The Netherlands is famous for its moderation, and Christmas is treated more as a family holiday than a religious one.