A move easily takes a whole day, and often more. So it makes sense to wonder whether you get time off work for it. The short answer: there is no legal right to a day off for a move, but many cao's (collective labour agreements) do include something about it. Here is how to find out what applies to you.
What does the law say?
Dutch law does not include a specific moving day. It does have short-term absence leave (kort verzuimverlof): paid leave for short, unforeseen situations or very special personal circumstances. Think of a leak that needs fixing straight away or a sick child you have to pick up from school. You usually plan a move weeks in advance, so as a rule it does not fall under this.
There may be exceptions, for example if you suddenly have to move because of an emergency such as a fire or a home that has been declared uninhabitable. Then short-term absence leave may apply. Always discuss this with your employer straight away.
Check your cao
Many cao's provide special leave for a move. Often it is one day a year, sometimes two days, and sometimes only if you move in connection with your work. The conditions vary a lot. Search your cao for terms such as "bijzonder verlof", "buitengewoon verlof" or "verhuizing" (special leave, extraordinary leave, moving). You can usually find the text on the website of your employer, the trade union or the industry association.
When reading it, look out for these points:
- How many days do you get, and is that per move or per year?
- Does it apply to every move, or only if you have your own household?
- Do you have to apply for the leave in advance, and how far ahead?
- Do you need to show proof, such as a tenancy agreement or an extract showing your new address?
No cao? Check your contract and staff regulations
If your job is not covered by a cao, check your employment contract and the staff handbook. Some employers give a day off for a move of their own accord, even if nothing requires them to. If nothing is written down, you can always ask. An employer who knows you are moving will often be willing to help.
No right to leave: how to handle it
If you do not get special leave, you will usually take a day of annual leave. A few ways to go about it smartly:
- Move at the end of the week. A Friday with the weekend after it gives you time to unpack without extra days off.
- Work from home the day before or after. If your job allows it, you save travel time and stay close to the boxes.
- Hand over the heavy work. If a removal company does the lifting, you are often finished sooner than with friends and a hired van.
- Request leave in good time. Especially in busy periods, such as the summer, you do not want your day to be refused.
Plan your moving day together with work
The sooner you fix your moving date, the easier it is to plan your work around it. Use the moving checklist to see what to arrange when. Want to know what a day with movers looks like? Then read how moving day goes. Through the free moving check you agree a date with GD Verhuisbedrijf that suits you.
Moving for work?
If you are moving because you have a new job or are being transferred, extra arrangements are sometimes possible. Some employers then give more leave or a moving allowance. Under certain conditions, that allowance is tax-free. Discuss it with your manager or HR before you fix your move, so you know where you stand.
Frequently asked questions
Am I legally entitled to a day off when I move?
No. The law does not provide moving leave. Your cao, employment contract or staff regulations may give you a day off, so check those first.
Does a move count as short-term absence leave?
Usually not, because you plan a move in advance. Short-term absence leave is meant for unforeseen situations. In a sudden emergency, things may be different.
Do I have to take a day of annual leave if my cao does not cover it?
Usually, yes. You can of course always ask your employer whether something is possible, such as working from home or making up the hours later.
