What to Do If You’re Fired in the Netherlands (EU Migrant Guide)
Were you fired in the Netherlands? This guide explains your rights, how to claim benefits, what to do next, and when a dismissal is or isn’t legal.
Know your rights and what steps to take when you lose your job
❌ Losing your job? Stay calm — and stay informed.
Being fired in a foreign country can feel confusing and stressful. But even if you’re working via an agency or temporary contract, you still have rights.
This guide helps you understand:
- When a dismissal is legal
- What support you may receive
- What to do immediately after you’re let go
🧾 What counts as a legal dismissal?
In the Netherlands, your employer can dismiss you only for valid reasons, such as:
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| End of contract | Your temporary contract ends and is not renewed |
| Performance issues | With proof and multiple warnings |
| Misconduct | Serious behavior like theft or threats |
| Reorganization | The job disappears due to economic reasons |
| Sick for 2+ years | Only possible after official procedure with UWV approval |
❗ Firing someone while they are on sick leave, pregnant, or without notice is usually not legal.
📄 Do they need a reason to end my job?
Yes — unless:
- You’re in Phase A of a temp contract with no guaranteed hours
- You’re on trial period (proeftijd)
- You’re working under a zero-hour contract
Otherwise, they must:
- Give a valid reason
- Give written notice or termination letter
- Follow notice period rules (usually 1 month)
🕒 What should you do immediately?
- Ask for written confirmation
This could be a dismissal letter or contract non-renewal notice. - Ask for the reason in writing
Even if it’s a Phase A job, it’s useful to have it on record. - Collect your last payslip and check:
- Final payment
- Holiday pay
- Hours worked
- Apply for unemployment benefit (WW-uitkering) within 1 week
💰 Am I entitled to benefits?
You may qualify for unemployment benefits (WW) if:
- You worked for at least 26 out of the past 36 weeks
- You did not leave voluntarily
- You are available to work and actively applying
Apply through UWV.nl using DigiD.
🤝 Can I get help after dismissal?
Yes. Consider:
- Legal aid desks (Juridisch Loket) – free legal help
- Trade unions (vakbonden) – if you’re a member
- Migrant support groups – like ours (MigrantInfoCenter)
🔁 What if I want to dispute the dismissal?
If you believe you were:
- Fired without reason
- Not paid fairly
- Dismissed while pregnant or sick
👉 You can:
- Write a formal complaint to the employer
- Ask for legal help
- File a case with the UWV or go to kantonrechter (labour court)
Don’t delay — deadlines apply.
❓FAQ
Can I be fired during a sick leave?
Usually not. Only possible after 2 years of illness with approval.
Can I be fired by a temporary agency without notice?
Yes — in Phase A, this is possible unless otherwise agreed.
Can I stay in the Netherlands after being fired?
Yes — being unemployed doesn’t affect your residency rights as an EU citizen, but you must continue to work or show active job seeking.
✅ Summary: If You’re Fired
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ask for dismissal reason in writing |
| 2 | Collect last payslip and unused holiday pay |
| 3 | Apply for WW benefit at UWV within 1 week |
| 4 | Seek legal help if dismissal was unfair |
| 5 | Continue job searching to maintain residency rights |
