More security with every phase. Ask which phase you are in.
Equal pay
You are entitled to the same pay as a permanent employee doing the same work at the company where you are placed. That includes pay rises and extras such as breaks, travel costs, holiday days and overtime pay. Your exact pay depends on your experience.
The phase system
Agency contracts are built in phases, and every phase gives you more security.
- ABU: phase A (up to 52 weeks), phase B (up to 3 years or 6 contracts), phase C (a permanent contract with the agency).
- NBBU: phases 1 and 2 (up to 52 weeks), phase 3 (up to 3 years or 6 contracts), phase 4 (a permanent contract with the agency).
Ask your agency which phase you are in.
Which collective agreement applies?
The agency decides whether the ABU or the NBBU collective labour agreement (CAO) applies to you. What you are entitled to also depends on whether the agency is a member of one of these bodies. Check your contract.
Read your contract
Before you start, check who your employer is (usually the agency), your hours, pay, holiday pay and the phase. If housing is offered, ask for the cost, the conditions and what happens to your housing if the job ends, in writing.
Where to get help
- Work in NL information points: free advice on work, housing, contracts and tax.
- Het Juridisch Loket: legal help.
- Netherlands Labour Authority (Inspectie SZW): report unsafe or unfair work.
If you are unsure about something, ask before you sign or accept.
We are here for this
We often help people who are abroad and do not know what they deserve, also when they are not working with us. Send us your question.