Right to Work in the Netherlands Under Temporary Protection: What Ukrainians Need to Know

Employment Rights Under Temporary Protection

Under the EU Temporary Protection Directive, Ukrainians in the Netherlands have the right to work without requiring a separate TWV (tewerkstellingsvergunning). Your employer only needs to notify the UWV. This applies to all forms of employment: full-time, part-time, and temporary contracts.

Self-Employment (ZZP)

If you want to work as a self-employed person (ZZP — zelfstandige zonder personeel), you still need a TWV from the UWV. This is a separate application process. You will also need to register at the KvK (Kamer van Koophandel) and obtain a BTW-nummer. Consult a legal advisor before starting as ZZP.

Minimum Wage and Working Conditions

The Dutch minimum wage (minimumloon) is €13.68 per hour as of January 2025. You are entitled to: paid holiday (20 days minimum per year), sick leave (70% of salary for up to 2 years), overtime compensation, and safe working conditions. If your employer pays less than minimum wage or does not provide a contract, contact us immediately.

Tax and Social Security

As an employee in the Netherlands, you automatically pay income tax (inkomstenbelasting) and social security contributions (premies volksverzekeringen). You may be eligible for toeslagen (allowances) such as zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance) and huurtoeslag (rent subsidy). File your tax return by 1 May each year.

Need help with employment rights or tax questions? Contact the Ukrainian Legal Chamber at info@ulcnl.com or book a consultation at ulcnl.com.