Want to work in the Netherlands but worried about employment fraud? Thousands of Spaniards have fallen for agency scams that promise €14/h and end up paying €9, with substandard housing and abusive contracts. We show you how to identify reliable companies and protect your employment rights.
What is a temporary employment agency in the Netherlands?
A temporary employment agency (uitzendbureau in Dutch) is a company that acts as an intermediary between workers and employers in the Netherlands. Under ILO standards, these agencies must meet strict registration and transparency requirements to operate legally in the country.
The Dutch labour market depends heavily on these companies, especially in sectors such as agriculture, logistics and production, where working in the Netherlands through an agency has become the main route for foreigners looking for temporary work.
However, not all agencies operate to the same standards. While there are well-known companies that maintain transparency, others take advantage of foreign workers' lack of knowledge to impose abusive conditions.
Common risks and abuses
Zero-hours contracts and dismissal clauses
Zero-hours contracts are legal in the Netherlands, but many agencies use them abusively. These contracts don't guarantee regular work, which means you can spend weeks without income while still paying fixed costs for accommodation and living expenses.
Immediate dismissal clauses are also problematic. Some agencies include terms that allow the contract to be terminated without notice, leaving workers in a vulnerable situation, especially if they depend on accommodation provided by the company.
Viviendas poco dignas y «nóminas negativas»
Accommodation is one of the main areas of abuse. Many agencies charge €100-150 a week for shared rooms in poor condition, prefabricated houses or converted containers. Some workers report up to 8 people sharing a 3-bedroom house. It is important to stress that in this type of company it is common for accommodation to be shared, with double rooms, but what is not acceptable is accommodation that isn't fit to live in or sharing a room with 3-4 people.
In this respect, through International Job Challenge we offer vacancies in different sectors, and the agencies (which ultimately employ the workers) manage the accommodation. We make sure it meets the conditions for a good standard of living, pass on any problems to the agencies, and the agencies usually have a person responsible for accommodation in the Netherlands to resolve any issues. This way we provide full support to candidates.
Las «nóminas negativas» ocurren cuando los descuentos por alojamiento, transporte, seguro y otros conceptos superan el salario semanal. Esto significa que, tras trabajar toda la semana, el trabajador debe dinero a la empresa en lugar de recibir pago. Esto no ocurrirá con International Job Challenge ya que nos encargamos de cumplir con la legislación al respecto garantizando los derechos de los trabajadores.
Fraud with supposed salaries
The most common deception is advertising inflated salaries. Offers promise €14/hour, but reality is different: the base salary is lower, overtime is paid at a reduced rate, and deductions not mentioned at first significantly reduce net income. That is why it is important to check the conditions of the offers. You can see examples of transparent offers for working in the Netherlands on our jobs page.
Warning signs and checklist
Transparent documentation
Contract in Spanish or officially translated.
Guaranteed minimum hours (at least 30 hours a week).
Clear clauses on dismissal and termination.
Detailed prices for accommodation, transport and insurance.
Online checks
Look for reviews on Google, Google Maps and specialist forums.
Check EURES for officially registered agencies.
Check social media and testimonials from other workers.
Verify registration with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.
Working conditions
Clear net salary after deductions.
Defined schedules and overtime policy.
Safety equipment included at no cost.
Reasonable trial period (maximum 1 month).
How to find a reliable agency
Whether your feeling is good or bad, it can usually be detected easily. However, the best way to be sure is to ask the recruiters all your questions directly and review the documents and processes. At International Job Challenge this is one of our core principles: the interview processes are personal and direct with the recruitment team, and you can ask whatever you need, with the team available to you at all times.
Well-known agencies
Everyone knows the most famous agencies, but what is our recommendation? Look for agencies in Spain that work with agencies in the Netherlands. The reason is simple: you get all the advantages of working in the Netherlands in line with the standards and benefits they offer, and you also have support in your language at all times, which is very positive when it comes to moving to another country, contracts, procedures and paperwork.
The main advantage of agencies such as International Job Challenge is that it belongs to a Dutch business group focused on recruitment ( Labour Power Company ). This group includes Dutch agencies such as Hobij, one of the best known, establishing it as a key partner nationwide. Working in the Netherlands through us guarantees you the best conditions with the best Dutch companies and the security of having an agency in Spain that takes care of the details.
Pre-trip tips
Preparing in advance is crucial for working in the Netherlands successfully. Your CV should be in English or Dutch, concise (maximum 2 pages) and adapted to the Dutch market, where practical experience is valued more than academic qualifications.
Set aside an emergency fund of at least €1,000 for any unexpected events. Make sure you have all the necessary documents (ID card, passport, employment certificates) your recruiter tells you about.
Research the cost of living in the area where you will work. Amsterdam and the surrounding area are significantly more expensive than cities such as Eindhoven or Groningen. This information will help you assess whether the conditions offered are realistic.
What should you do if you are already in the Netherlands?
Review your contract immediately
Compare the original contract with the one you signed at your destination. Any significant change in salary, hours or accommodation should be documented and, if necessary, rejected.
Emergency contacts
Spanish Embassy : +31 70 302 4999
Consulate in Madrid : for complaints from Spain
Dutch police : 0900-8844 (non-emergencies)
FNV union : free employment advice
Documentation and complaints
Keep a record of all communications, payslips and working conditions. If you detect irregularities, you can file a complaint with FACUA from Spain, with local unions or directly with the Dutch police.
Protect your working future in the Netherlands
Working in the Netherlands can be a positive experience if you choose the right agency. Reputable companies exist and offer decent conditions, but they require prior research and constant vigilance.
Remember that you have rights as a European worker, regardless of your level of Dutch or English. Don't let language or unfamiliarity with the legal system make you a victim of abusive practices.
Want to work in the Netherlands? View all our offers and apply directly or upload your CV by clicking here .
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