Special Leave for Moving
What Are You Entitled To?
Planning to move and wondering if you can get time off? Special leave for moving is not regulated by law in the Netherlands, but many collective agreements do provide it. We explain how it works.
Legal Framework
In the Netherlands, special leave for moving is not included in the Civil Code. There is no legal right to moving leave.
The right to leave for moving is determined by your CAO (collective labor agreement) or your employer's terms and conditions. Some employers have their own policy, even without a CAO.
If nothing is arranged in your CAO or employment contract, you need to use vacation days for your move. You can always discuss a solution with your employer.
Special Leave per Sector
The number of moving days varies per CAO. Below is an overview of common sectors:
| Sector | Days |
|---|---|
| National Government | 2 days |
| Municipality (VNG) | 2 days |
| Education (Primary/Secondary) | 2 days |
| Construction & Infrastructure | 1 day |
| Metal & Technology | 2 days |
| Hospitality | 0 days |
| Healthcare & Welfare | 1-2 days |
| IT / Technology | 1-2 days |
This overview is indicative. Always consult your own CAO or employment contract for the exact terms.
How Many Days Do You Get?
In practice it comes down to this:
Most common: 1-2 days
Most CAOs offer 1 or 2 days of special leave for moving. This is intended for the moving day itself and possibly one day for settling in.
Government: up to 4 days
For a service relocation (moving at the employer's request), government employees can receive up to 4 days.
No CAO: discuss with employer
Without a CAO there is no automatic right. But many employers are willing to work something out, especially if you discuss it early.
Maximum once per year
Most policies apply a maximum of once per year. Some CAOs limit it to once every two years.
How to Request It?
Check your CAO or employment terms
Look in your CAO or employee handbook for 'special leave' or 'extraordinary leave'. Is moving listed? Then you know what you're entitled to.
Request it on time
Submit your request at least 2-4 weeks in advance to your manager or HR department. The earlier, the better.
Provide proof
Some employers require proof of moving: a rental agreement, purchase deed or registration at the new address.
Confirm in writing
Ask for written confirmation of the approved leave. This prevents misunderstandings.
Plan smart
Combine your moving leave with a weekend for extra time. Move on Thursday or Friday and use the weekend to settle in.
Smart Tips
- Plan your move around a weekend for maximum time
- Request leave at least a month in advance
- Keep your rental agreement or purchase deed as proof
- Check if your partner is also entitled to moving leave
- Consider professional movers so you need fewer days off
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I entitled to paid leave for moving?
That depends on your CAO or employment contract. There is no legal right to paid moving leave in the Netherlands. Most CAOs offer 1-2 paid days.
Does moving leave apply when moving in together?
In most CAOs yes, as long as you actually change your address. Some policies only apply when moving to independent housing.
Can my employer refuse moving leave?
If it's in the CAO, your employer cannot simply refuse it. Without a CAO provision, it's a matter of negotiation. An employer should not unreasonably decline reasonable requests.
Do I get extra leave if I move far away?
Some CAOs offer an extra day for moving to a different municipality or region. Check your own CAO for specific conditions.
Related Articles
Moving: What Do You Need to Arrange?
Complete overview of everything you need to arrange for a move. From 8 weeks before to after moving day.
Moving Checklist: 8 Weeks to Moving Day
Complete week-by-week guide for your move. Don't forget anything with our comprehensive checklist.
Related Services
Move Planned? We'll Do It Fast
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