What documents are required to work in the Netherlands?

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.