Work-life balance
One of the things many internationals appreciate most about living and working in the Netherlands is the strong focus on work-life balance. While work is important, so is making time for family, friends, hobbies and wellbeing.
Dutch working culture generally values efficiency over long hours, and many employers support hybrid/ flexible working arrangements. Outside work, people make the most of their free time, whether that's spending time outdoors, travelling, playing sports or enjoying the country's vibrant cultural scene.
Taking time off is an important part of Dutch working life, and many internationals are pleasantly surprised by how seriously people protect their free time and holidays.
Statuary leave and holiday allowance
Employees in the Netherlands are entitled to a minimum number of paid holiday leave days by law. This equals four times the number of hours you work per week. For someone working full time, this typically means at least 20 leave days per year, although many employers offer additional days through their employment contract or collective labour agreement (CAO).
Most employees also receive an annual holiday allowance of 8% of your salary (vakantiegeld), which is usually paid in May and is often used to fund summer holidays.
Learn more about holiday entitlement in the Netherlands
In addition, the Netherlands has several national public holidays throughout the year (see below). Keep in mind that public holidays do not automatically guarantee a day off. This depends on your employment contract or CAO.
The Dutch approach to holidays
The Dutch are enthusiastic travellers, but they also enjoy spending time closer to home. Popular holidays include camping trips, cycling holidays, time at the coast, stays in holiday parks, and weekend trips across Europe.
Summer holidays are especially important. During July and August, many people take one or two weeks off, and some take even longer breaks. Offices are often quieter, colleagues may be unavailable, and projects can move more slowly. The Dutch generally respect boundaries between work and personal time, making it easier to fully disconnect while on holiday.
For many internationals, this healthy attitude towards holidays and free time is one of the highlights of working in the Netherlands.
Other types of leave
- Maternity/ pregnancy leave: Minimum of 16 weeks, fully funded via UWV.
- Partner/ paternal leave: One week at 100% pay, plus up to five additional weeks at 70% pay via UWV.
- Parental leave: Twenty-six times your weekly working hours, with the first nine weeks paid at 70% if taken in the child's first year.
Other types of statuary leave include adoption/foster parenting leave, short-term and long-term care leave, emergency leave and special leave.
Ways to enjoy a healthy work-life balance
Your checklist for making the most of a balanced working culture in the Netherlands.
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1
Hybrid working, flexible hours and part-time work are common in many sectors to allow for parental and care responsibilities, as well as hobbies, volunteering and other activities. In many organisations, a four-day working week is considered normal, so check this with your employer.
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2
As part of your employment package, check your paid holiday leave allowance, as well as other types of statuary leave, such as parental or care leave arrangements.
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3
Dutch workplaces generally focus on productivity and results rather than long working days. In many office environments, the working day typically finishes between 17.00 and 18.00.
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Outside working hours, be sure to disconnect and enjoy your free time. Explore the myriad of cultural, social and sports activities South Holland has to offer!