Document background
The Certificate of Previous Employment (Getuigschrift) is a mandatory document in the Netherlands, required under Article 7:656 of the Dutch Civil Code. It must be provided by employers upon the termination of an employment relationship, regardless of the reason for termination. The certificate serves as an official record of employment, containing factual information about the employment period, position(s) held, and nature of work performed. While certain information is mandatory, additional details such as performance assessments can be included with the employee's consent. The document plays a crucial role in the Dutch labor market, supporting job applications and providing verified employment history. It must be drafted in compliance with both employment law and privacy regulations (GDPR/AVG), ensuring accuracy and fairness in its content.
