Page - The WW-uitkering
The WW-uitkering
( unemployment benefit ) for expats after dismissal in the Netherlands
Losing your job in the Netherlands can be stressful, especially if you are an expat unfamiliar with Dutch social security rules. One of the first questions employees often ask is: Can I receive a WW-uitkering (unemployment benefit) after my dismissal?
The short answer is: yes, but only if your dismissal meets specific legal conditions.
At Settlement-Agreement.nl, our employment lawyers specialise in helping expats negotiate a WW-safe settlement agreement (“vaststellingsovereenkomst”) so they can receive unemployment benefits without problems. Understanding the WW-uitkering after dismissal is essential before signing anything.
What is the WW-uitkering (unemployment benefit)?
The WW-uitkering is a Dutch government benefit that provides temporary financial support to employees who lose their job through no fault of their own. It is managed by the UWV (Employee Insurance Agency).
To qualify, you must have worked and paid social security contributions in the Netherlands.
When is a WW-uitkering possible after dismissal?
A WW-uitkering is possible only when the initiative for the termination comes from the employer, and you are not to blame for losing your job. Below are common situations where expats are eligible:
- Redundancy or reorganisation: For example, your employer restructures the department or moves operations abroad.
- Mutual agreement (“vaststellingsovereenkomst”): If the settlement clearly states that the initiative for dismissal came from the employer and you did nothing wrong.
- Fixed-term contract ending naturally: If your contract expires and is not renewed.
- Company closure or financial issues: When your employer goes bankrupt or discontinues business.
- Resignation by the employee: If you resign voluntarily, UWV considers you responsible for the loss of work.
- Dismissal for cause: For instance, due to misconduct, fraud, or refusal to work.
- Mutual termination at your own request: If you agree to end the contract for personal reasons (e.g., moving abroad).
Our experience shows that many expats unintentionally lose their right to benefits because their settlement agreement is poorly worded. The UWV carefully checks the phrasing — one sentence can make the difference between approval and rejection.
How to apply for the WW-uitkering
Applying for a WW-uitkering is done online via UWV.nl. You will need your DigiD (Dutch digital ID) to log in.
Step-by-step process
- Sign the settlement agreement (make sure it’s WW-proof first, consult our lawyers!).
- Wait until your employment officially ends.
- Apply within one week after your last working day on UWV.nl → “Apply for unemployment benefit (WW-uitkering)”.
- Upload required documents such as:
- Your signed settlement agreement
- Last payslips
- Proof of dismissal date
If your documents are correct, UWV usually decides within four weeks. The first payment follows shortly after.
How long can you receive a WW-uitkering?
The duration depends on your employment history in the Netherlands:
- Minimum: 3 months
- Maximum: 24 months
Every year of employment gives roughly one month of benefit entitlement.
The benefit amount is about 75% of your last salary for the first two months, and 70% after that, with a government-determined maximum.
Examples from our practice
Example 1 – Redundancy due to reorganisation
Alex, a British expat working for a tech company in Eindhoven, was offered a settlement agreement after a restructuring. The first draft stated that both parties “mutually agreed” to end the contract. We adjusted the text to clarify that the initiative came from the employer and added a neutral reference to “business reorganisation.” Thanks to this correction, Alex’s WW-uitkering was approved within two weeks.
Example 2 – Misunderstanding about resignation
Maria from Spain was pressured to “resign voluntarily” after conflicts at work. We advised her not to resign but instead negotiate a settlement agreement mentioning the employer’s initiative. She received a WW-safe agreement and avoided a long waiting period for benefits.
Example 3 – Expired fixed-term contract
Samir from India had a one-year contract that was not renewed. We helped him prepare the online application and ensure UWV recognised the correct end date. His WW-uitkering started without delay.
How Settlement-Agreement.nl helps expats
Our English-speaking legal team combines over 25 years of experience in Dutch employment law. We know exactly how UWV assesses a settlement agreement. Here’s how we help:
- Review or draft your settlement agreement for WW-safety
- Negotiate better financial terms and notice period
- Advise on transition allowance (severance pay)
- Support you with WW-application and communication with UWV
- Prevent wording mistakes that could jeopardize your benefit
Our lawyers understand both Dutch labour law and international employment situations — a crucial advantage for expats working under foreign contracts but residing in the Netherlands.
Frequently Asked Questions about the WW-uitkering after dismissal
Can I get a WW-uitkering if I sign a settlement agreement?
Yes, but only if the agreement clearly states that the employer initiated the termination and there is no employee fault.
Do I need to wait before applying?
You can apply immediately after your last official working day. Do not apply earlier, as UWV will reject premature applications.
What if I plan to leave the Netherlands?
You can still receive WW for a short period while abroad in the EU, but you must inform UWV and meet strict requirements.
Can I combine WW-uitkering with freelance work?
In some cases, yes. UWV deducts income from your benefit, but part-time work is allowed if properly reported.
Reliable legal guidance for your dismissal
Dealing with Dutch dismissal law and unemployment benefits can be complex, especially for expats. A single incorrect phrase in your settlement agreement may cost you months of benefits.
That’s why our lawyers at Settlement-Agreement.nl offer personal legal support in English — to secure your rights and peace of mind.
If you’ve received a settlement proposal or dismissal notice, contact our lawyers before signing anything.
We ensure your termination is fair, financially optimal, and WW-safe.
Author:
Mr. Edwin van Jaarsveld – Employment Lawyer Netherlands
Founder of Settlement-Agreement.nl
With over 25 years of experience in Dutch employment law, Edwin has guided hundreds of expats through dismissal, negotiation, and successful WW-applications.
