2019 Holidays - Netherlands

Netherlands Public Holiday Observance Rules

1. Entitlement to Public Holidays

- No Statutory Right to Time Off: Dutch law does not guarantee employees time off on public holidays. Whether an employee is entitled to a day off depends on the terms outlined in their employment contract or the applicable CAO. Source

- Public holiday observance is typically defined by agreements between employers and employees or by sector-specific collective labor agreements (CAOs).

2. Working on Public Holidays

- Compensation for Work: If an employee is required to work on a public holiday, the terms of compensation—such as additional pay or time off in lieu—are defined in their employment contract or CAO. There is no universal legal requirement for additional compensation. Source

3. Holidays Falling on Weekends

- Observance Practices: When a public holiday falls on a weekend, Dutch law does not mandate an alternative day off during the week. However, some employers may offer a substitute day off depending on internal policies or agreements. For example, in the case of King's Day falling on a Sunday, it may be celebrated on the preceding Saturday. Source

4. Additional Notes

- CAOs and Flexibility: Many sectors operate under CAOs, which may provide specific provisions about public holidays, compensation, or flexibility for observing alternative holidays. Some agreements also allow employees to substitute Christian holidays for other religious observances, such as Eid or Diwali. Source

- Employers and employees are encouraged to review their contracts and applicable CAOs for detailed provisions related to public holidays and work schedules.