Understanding the different types of leave in the Netherlands is essential for both employers and employees. Paid leave ensures that employees can take time off work while still receiving their salary, whereas unpaid leave applies when time off is needed without pay. Knowing the difference helps create a transparent and fair workplace, and ensures your company’s policies align with Dutch labour law.
Types of Leave: Paid versus Unpaid in the Netherlands
Paid leave in the Netherlands allows employees to take time off while continuing to receive their full salary. This form of leave covers a range of situations, from holidays to family-related absences. On the other hand, unpaid leave provides flexibility for personal circumstances but does not include salary payment during the absence. Below, we’ll explore the main types of leave offered in the Netherlands, grouped by whether they are fully paid, partially paid, or unpaid.
Fully Paid Leave in the Netherlands
When employees take fully paid leave, the employer must pay 100% of their salary during their absence. This type of leave includes:
- Requested vacation days (at least 20 per year)
- Public holidays, depending on the collective labour agreement or employment contract
- Partner or paternity leave, allowing new parents to support their family
Fully paid leave reflects the Netherlands’ strong employee protection system, giving workers the opportunity to rest, recover, or spend time with loved ones without financial stress.
Partially Paid Leave in the Netherlands
Some types of leave provide only partial salary payment, ensuring employees receive income support during longer absences. Examples include:
- Pregnancy and maternity leave (up to 16 weeks)
- Sickness or illness leave (up to 2 years)
- Parental leave (introduced on 2 August 2022)
- Adoption or foster leave
- Short-term care leave
- Special or extraordinary leave
Dutch employers generally pay at least a portion of the employee’s salary during these periods, often supplemented by insurance or social security benefits.
Unpaid Leave in the Netherlands
In most cases, employees in the Netherlands are not automatically entitled to unpaid leave unless agreed upon with their employer. However, unpaid leave can apply in special situations such as:
- Extended maternity or paternity leave
- Long-term care leave
- Special or extraordinary leave
Unpaid leave allows employees to handle personal matters while maintaining their employment relationship. The terms and duration are typically arranged between the employer and employee.
Special or Extraordinary Leave
Certain life events may also qualify for special leave, which may be fully paid, partially paid, or unpaid depending on the collective labour agreement or company policy. Examples include:
- Attending your own wedding or a close family member’s wedding
- Bereavement
- Exams
- Moving house
- Participating in works council or trade union activities
Employers in the Netherlands often adapt these leave options to ensure fairness and flexibility, supporting employees during major life events.
Dutch Law vs. Company Policy on Paid Leave
Dutch employment law sets minimum leave entitlements for full-time employees. However, many companies offer enhanced benefits to attract and retain talent. For example, under Dutch law, employers must pay at least 70% of an employee’s salary during the first year of sickness. In contrast, Octagon Professionals and their clients pay 100% of the salary until employees qualify for long-term leave.
Companies operating in the Netherlands but registered abroad, or those employing staff via an agency, might follow slightly different rules. That’s why having a clear and compliant leave policy is crucial.
Create a Compliant and Attractive Leave Policy with Expert HR Support
The Netherlands offers one of Europe’s most comprehensive frameworks for employee leave. If your company is new to the Dutch market, our HR experts at Octagon Professionals can help you develop a leave policy that is both compliant and appealing to your team.
Send us a message today to discover how our HR specialists can help your organisation build a fair and transparent leave structure, no commitments required!
