Domestic Worker Contract Template for the Netherlands

When hiring domestic help in the Netherlands, a proper employment contract is not just good practice—it's a legal requirement that protects both you and your worker. A Domestic Worker Contract formalizes the employment relationship under Dutch law, ensuring compliance with specific regulations that govern household employment while providing clear terms for both parties.

When do you need this document?

You need a Domestic Worker Contract whenever you hire someone for regular household duties, whether they work one day a week or full-time. This includes hiring cleaning staff, nannies, elderly care assistants, gardeners, or general household helpers. The contract is particularly important in the Netherlands because domestic workers have special legal protections under the Services at Home Regulation, especially for those working less than four days per week. If you're using an employment agency to find domestic help, the contract may involve the agency as a third party. For workers under 18, a legal guardian must also be involved in the agreement.

Key legal considerations

Your contract must address several critical elements to ensure legal compliance. Working hours and overtime provisions must follow the Working Hours Act, which sets maximum daily and weekly limits. You must guarantee at least the minimum wage as established by Dutch law, plus the mandatory 8% holiday allowance. The contract should clearly define the scope of work, workplace safety responsibilities, and procedures for sick leave under the Sick Pay Act. Privacy and confidentiality clauses are particularly important given the intimate nature of household work. You'll also need to specify notice periods for termination, which can vary based on the length of employment and whether the worker lives in your home.

Legal requirements in Netherlands

Under Dutch Civil Code Book 7, Title 10, your domestic worker contract must include specific mandatory information: full identification of both parties, detailed job description, working hours and location, salary and payment terms, and holiday entitlements. The Services at Home Regulation provides simplified requirements for workers employed less than four days per week, but still requires written agreements. You must register as an employer with tax authorities and arrange proper insurance coverage. The contract must be in Dutch or include a certified translation if the worker doesn't speak Dutch fluently. For live-in domestic workers, additional housing and meal provisions must be clearly specified. Remember that domestic workers in the Netherlands have the same fundamental employment rights as other employees, including protection against unfair dismissal and the right to join trade unions.