The flexible labor market in the Netherlands is about to change. With the new bill More Security for Flex Workers, the government wants to ensure fairer working conditions, more income security and better protection for everyone working via a staffing agency or flexible contract. But what exactly does this bill include? And what does it mean for workers and employers?

Why is there a new bill?

In recent years, there has been much criticism of the insecurity that comes with flexible work: zero-hour contracts, unclear pay arrangements and endless chains of temporary contracts.

For workers this often means stress and financial uncertainty. For employers it can result in high turnover and less employee commitment. With this bill, the government wants to create a better balance between flexibility and security.

The main changes

1. End of zero-hour contracts
Zero-hour contracts will disappear. They will be replaced by a basic contract that guarantees a minimum number of hours. Workers always know where they stand, while employers have more predictable labor costs.

2. Equal working conditions
Flex workers will be entitled to the same working conditions as permanent colleagues doing the same job. This includes pay, allowances and reimbursements.

3. End to “revolving door” contracts
The stacking of temporary contracts via staffing constructions will be limited. This prevents workers from being stuck in temporary employment for years.

4. Better protection during illness
Flex workers will receive more income security if they fall ill, making flexible work less risky.

What does this mean for flex workers?

• Always guaranteed minimum hours.

• Same pay and conditions as permanent colleagues.

• More security and stability for the future.

What does this mean for employers?

• Zero-hour contracts are replaced with basic contracts.

• Equal pay and conditions must be applied.

• Less opportunity to endlessly extend temporary contracts.

This means more responsibility, but also more employee engagement and stability.

What do we do as a staffing agency?

We are already preparing by:

• Adjusting contracts and processes to the new rules.

• Communicating transparently with workers and clients.

• Investing in security and quality to remain a reliable partner.

Conclusion

The bill More Security for Flex Workers is an important step towards a fairer labor market. Flexibility remains, but with more certainty and protection for workers. For employers, this means more responsibility, but also greater stability.

At our Eindhoven-based staffing agency, we see this as a positive step: flexible work stays flexible, but with more security for everyone.