Work and pay
Ziekmelding
Reporting sick
What does Ziekmelding mean?
A ziekmelding is the act of reporting sick to your employer, usually by phone before your shift on the first day. While you are sick, your employer keeps paying at least 70% of your salary for up to 104 weeks, and in the first year at least the minimum wage. Many CAOs and contracts top this up to 100% in the first year. Your recovery is guided by the company doctor (bedrijfsarts), not your own GP.
Key facts
| Pay while sick | At least 70% for up to 104 weeks |
| First year minimum | At least the statutory minimum wage |
| Who assesses you | The company doctor (bedrijfsarts) |
| Diagnosis | You do not have to tell your employer |
What to do
- Report sick following your employer's sick leave rules (verzuimreglement), usually by phone to your manager.
- You do not have to say what illness you have. Say only how long you expect to be off and whether you can do other work.
- Stay reachable and keep appointments with the company doctor.
- If you are sick for a longer period, cooperate with the reintegration plan (plan van aanpak).
- Report recovery (hersteldmelding) as soon as you can work again.
Worth knowing
Your employer may ask how long you expect to be off and what work you can still do, but not what illness you have. Medical details go only to the company doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How much pay do I get when sick in the Netherlands?
At least 70% of your salary for up to 104 weeks, and in the first year at least the minimum wage. Many employers pay 100% in the first year under their CAO or contract.
Do I need a doctor's note to report sick?
No. The Dutch system does not use sick notes from your GP. The company doctor assesses your capacity to work if your absence lasts or your employer asks.
Can I travel while on sick leave?
Only with your employer's agreement, and usually after advice from the company doctor, because it must not slow your recovery.
Read next
Official sources
More Dutch terms: work and pay
Plain-English explanations of the words on your letters and contracts.