Onboarding International Employees: 9 Tips
Welcoming international employees to your company in the Netherlands can be a smooth and enriching process if done correctly. In this guide, we'll provide you with tips and best practices for onboarding international employees. Follow them to make sure you’re compliant with Dutch laws and that you create a positive experience for your new hires.
Understand the Legal Requirements
1. Secure a Work Permit
The first step in onboarding international employees is to make sure they have the right to work in the Netherlands. This process involves verifying their identity and ensuring they meet the eligibility criteria.
2. Compliant Employment Contracts
It's of the utmost importance that all employment contracts comply with Dutch labor laws. At Employor, we provide contracts that are fully aligned with Dutch employment regulations, so that your international employees are legally protected and informed about their rights and obligations.
3. Obtain a BSN (Citizen Service Number)
Once an employee arrives in the Netherlands, they must apply for a BSN (Burgerservicenummer or Citizen Service Number). This unique personal identification number is essential for various administrative processes, including tax and social security matters.
4. Arrange Health Insurance
International employees must arrange Dutch health insurance within four months of their arrival in the Netherlands. This is a legal requirement, and we assist in ensuring that employees are aware of this obligation and help them navigate the process of selecting appropriate coverage.
Provide Comprehensive Support
5. Partner with a Relocation Agency
Given the current housing crisis in the Netherlands, finding accommodation can be a challenge. Employor partners with a relocation agency to assist your employees in securing housing. This service not only helps in finding a place to live but also eases the transition, making your employees feel more welcomed and settled.
6. Offer Administrative Assistance
Onboarding involves several administrative tasks, such as completing tax forms and gathering personal information necessary for legal compliance. Employor is well-versed in these requirements and can assist in navigating these obligations, ensuring a smooth onboarding process.
Create a Welcoming Environment
7. Initial Introductions and Identity Verification
Under our EOR service, we take care of an introductory meeting to verify the identity of your new hire and answer any questions they might have. This personal touch helps build trust and helps your employee feel supported from the outset.
8. Cultural Integration
Help your international employees integrate into the Dutch culture and your company’s culture. Organize social events, provide cultural training sessions, and encourage interactions with local employees. This can foster a sense of belonging and improve overall job satisfaction.
Continuous Support and Development
9. Provide Ongoing Training
Offer training programs to help your international employees understand the Dutch work environment and enhance their professional skills. Continuous development opportunities can boost morale and productivity.
9. Regular Check-ins
Schedule regular check-ins with your international employees to address any concerns or issues they might be facing. This proactive approach shows that you care about their well-being and are committed to their success.
10. Offboarding Procedures
When the time comes for an employee to leave, ensure that the offboarding process is just as smooth as the onboarding. This includes completing necessary forms and conducting exit interviews. For more detailed information, refer to our offboarding guide.
Leveraging Employor's Services
Employor offers a range of services to assist with the onboarding of international employees:
- Work Permit Sponsorship: We sponsor your employees so they can obtain the necessary permits to work in the Netherlands.
- Compliant Contracts: Our contracts adhere to Dutch labor laws, providing legal security for both employers and employees.
- Relocation Assistance: In partnership with a relocation agency, we help employees find suitable housing.
- Administrative Support: We manage all administrative tasks related to onboarding, ensuring compliance with Dutch regulations.
For additional services related to hiring and onboarding international employees, explore our EOR service.
