News item | 24-01-2024 | 2:45 PM
To combat abuses, the government is introducing a new admission system for employment agencies. Migrant workers often depend on a temporary employment agency for their work, housing, transportation and health insurance. The new law ensures better rules and enforcement. A number of aspects of the new law are being elaborated by General Administrative Order (AMvB).
As of today, Minister Van Gennip of Social Affairs and Employment will put this AMvB into internet consultation so that those involved can respond to it.
In 2020, the Boosting Team for the Protection of Migrant Workers (Roemer Committee) presented the report ‘No Second-Class Citizens’. This report describes the abuses that migrant workers face in the areas of work and living. Minister Van Gennip has also seen these abuses frequently during working visits. The cabinet is implementing the recommendations of the Roemer committee fully and with urgency. And will continue to do so during the outgoing phase with the support of the House of Representatives. Because this approach cannot wait. Migrant workers must be seen and treated as equal and full participants in our society. In addition, abuses surrounding migrant workers have consequences for society as a whole. It leads to pressure on public facilities and the living environment and to an uneven playing field for companies.
An important measure in tackling abuses is the bill ‘Act on the Authorization of the Supply of Labor’. This law was sent to the House of Representatives last fall and is awaiting consideration. The proposal ensures better protection of workers in the temporary employment sector and prevents rogue parties from the market. As of January 1, 2026, only approved employment agencies are allowed to hire out people. And companies that use temporary workers may only hire workers through an approved agency.
To be admitted, employment agencies must, among other things, submit a Declaration of Good Conduct (VOG), transfer a deposit of one hundred thousand euros, show that they pay the correct wages and pay their taxes. Periodic checks are carried out to ensure that employment agencies continue to adhere to the rules. The Labor Inspectorate will monitor the obligations for hirers and lenders.
A number of aspects that this bill regulates will be further elaborated in the AMvB. This Order in Council details, among other things, the designation of inspection institutions, the calculation of wage costs for peer lending and the exchange of data between system parties.
Those involved who wish to respond to this have four weeks to respond via www.internetconsultatie.nl.