Do you want to work in the Netherlands, but don’t know where to start? For many people from Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, or Romania, an employment agency is the first step. But how does an employment agency work exactly? In this guide, we explain it clearly, from your initial registration to your first day on the job.
What is an employment agency?
An employment agency is a company that connects job seekers with employers. You are employed by the agency, but you work at another company, such as a warehouse, factory, or distribution center. The agency handles your contract, your wages, and often practical matters like transport and housing.
This is convenient for employers because they can quickly deploy extra staff during busy periods. For you as a job seeker, it is helpful because you can start working quickly without having to apply everywhere yourself.
What exactly does an employment agency do?
An employment agency does much more than just forward vacancies. The most important tasks are:
- Finding suitable work that matches your experience
- Drafting and explaining your employment contract
- Paying your salary on time
- Arranging taxes and insurance
- Providing housing and sometimes transport to work
- Guiding you during your time in the Netherlands
At Charlie works, for example, we speak Polish, Hungarian, Slovak, and Romanian. This ensures you understand exactly what is in your contract and what is expected of you.
How does an employment agency work step-by-step?
To give you a clear picture, we will walk through the entire process. This way, you know what to expect before you arrive in the Netherlands.
Step 1: Registration
You start by registering via the website or by phone. You provide information about who you are, what kind of work you are looking for, and what experience you have. Driver’s license, language skills, and availability are also important to mention.
Step 2: Introductory interview
This is followed by an interview, which can take place online or by phone. A recruiter will work with you to see which vacancy fits best. Do you want to work in a warehouse, in production, or would you prefer a distribution center? On our page about working in a distribution center in the Netherlands, you can read more about the tasks and the salary.
Step 3: Vacancy and contract
If there is a good match, you will receive an offer. You will see who the employer is, what you will earn, how many hours you will work, and where you will live. Do you agree? Then you sign an agency contract. This contract is with the employment agency, not with the employer where you will be working.
Step 4: Travel and arrival in the Netherlands
Many international workers travel to the Netherlands together with other colleagues. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and receive an explanation about your housing, your workplace, and practical matters. On the page about work in the Netherlands with housing, you can see what that looks like with us.
Step 5: Getting to work
On your first day, you will be welcomed at the workplace. You will receive instructions and safety clothing if necessary. In the beginning, you will often shadow an experienced colleague. This way, you quickly learn how everything works.
Step 6: Salary and guidance
You will be paid your wages every week or every four weeks. On your payslip, you can see how many hours you worked and what has been deducted for tax, health insurance, and potentially rent. Do you have questions? You can always contact your contact person at the employment agency.
How does an employment agency work for permanent work?
An agency contract is often temporary, but not always. If you perform well, you can grow into a longer contract or even permanent employment with the employer. Read more here about working in the Netherlands as an international worker and what steps you can take.
What should you look for when choosing an employment agency?
Not every employment agency works the same way. Therefore, pay close attention to these points before you sign a contract:
- Is the employment agency SNA or SNF certified?
- Do you receive a clear contract in a language you understand?
- Is the housing of good quality?
- Is your salary paid on time?
- Is there someone available in your language if you have questions?
Charlie works is SNF certified and offers its own high-quality housing. This ensures you live in a pleasant place during your work in the Netherlands.
Ready to start?
Now you know how an employment agency works and what you can expect. The next step is to find a vacancy that suits you. Check out our page about logistics work in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht or contact Charlie works directly. We are happy to help you further, from your first question to your first working day in the Netherlands.
