UWV in the Netherlands: Providing Employment and Social Support

Introduction

The Employee Insurance Agency in the Netherlands, known as UWV or Uitvoeringsinstituut Werknemersverzekeringen, is an autonomous administrative authority under the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment (SZW). It is responsible for implementing various employee insurances and offering assistance in different areas, from employment to social medical affairs.

Responsibilities of UWV

UWV plays a crucial role in administering several employee insurances, including the Unemployment Insurance Act (WW) and the Sickness Benefits Act, among others. These insurances are essential for individuals seeking unemployment benefits or sickness benefits in the Netherlands.

Areas of Assistance

Employment and Unemployment

If you find yourself unemployed due to dismissal, UWV is the place to apply for unemployment benefits. However, meeting specific requirements is necessary to be eligible for these benefits. Additionally, if you’re seeking a job in the Netherlands or with international companies, you can register as a job seeker on their website “werk.nl,” accessed through a DigiD. UWV also provides guidance for individuals facing unemployment or the expiration of their employment contracts.

Employee Sickness

UWV’s Social Medical Affairs division handles cases involving employee sickness. They assess the capacity to work and the ability to take on workload when an employee falls sick. In cases where an employee is sick without an employer, they may be eligible for Sickness Benefit.

Data Management

The agency maintains a comprehensive database that includes wage, benefit, and labor relation information of all employed individuals in the Netherlands. This data is shared with other Dutch organizations and agencies, including the Dutch tax office (KvK), the Social Insurance Bank (SVB), and Statistics Netherlands (CBS).

Expats & UWV

Expats may interact with UWV in several situations, such as applying for unemployment benefits, seeking employment, or when their employer wants to terminate their contract, where seeking legal help is advised. Additionally, if an expat becomes sick and requires an assessment, UWV can assist in such cases as well.

Contacting UWV

The UWV helpdesk operates in Dutch, so non-Dutch speakers may find it helpful to contact a tax advisor for assistance. However, if you are comfortable speaking Dutch, you can reach the UWV by telephone during weekdays from 8 am to 5 pm. The telephone number for private parties is 0900-92 94, and for employers, it is 0900-92 95. There are specific calling charges associated with these helplines.

Visiting UWV and Werkplein

If you have an appointment with a doctor or labor expert at an UWV office, you will receive a letter with the office’s address details. For those seeking to send a letter of appeal, designated offices are available to receive such correspondence. Additionally, individuals using the “werk.nl” website to find a job can visit UWV offices during walk-in hours for advice and support.

Conclusion

The UWV in the Netherlands is a crucial institution responsible for administering employee insurances and providing labor market and data services. From helping individuals find employment to providing support during sickness, UWV plays a vital role in the social welfare of the Dutch workforce.