Working in the Netherlands with DB Work

23.10.25

Are you working in the Netherlands with DB Work? Here are the most common reasons why you might not start work immediately after arrival.

You’ve just arrived in the Netherlands, ready to start your new job — but then you’re informed by the DB Work team that you’ll need to wait a few days before you can actually begin working. Even though you’ve passed the interview and successfully traveled to the Netherlands, it’s possible that you won’t start on site or in the factory on your first or second day.

This is not an unusual situation. There are several perfectly normal and expected reasons for a short waiting period, especially when working with a reliable agency like DB Work.
During this time, your accommodation (with utilities) is already arranged, you receive full support from the DB Work team, and you have access to all the information and resources needed to start your job fully prepared.

Moreover, these transition days also help you adapt to the Dutch workplace culture — a well-organized environment built on respect, punctuality, and open communication.

Here are the most common reasons why there may be a short waiting period between your arrival and your first working day — and how DB Work supports you along the way:

1. Project scheduling and coordination

Sometimes, you may need to wait because the project you’ll be working on starts on a specific date or the full team needs to be organized first.

DB Work solution: During this time, we provide you with accommodation and, whenever possible, assign you to a temporary project so you don’t lose time or income.

2. Workplace safety training (Safety Induction)

Some Dutch companies require special safety training before you can begin work.
This training may take from a few hours to a few days and is mandatory for accessing factories, shipyards, or workshops.

DB Work solution: We schedule your safety induction immediately after arrival and guide you through the process step by step so you’re fully prepared.

3. Obtaining the VCA certification

For many jobs in the Netherlands — especially in the construction, industrial, and maritime sectors — the VCA (Veiligheid, Gezondheid en Milieu Checklist Aannemers) certificate is mandatory.
It’s a safety test that proves you know how to work in conditions that protect both you and your colleagues.

DB Work solution: We help you register for the VCA test right away, and during the waiting period, we provide study materials and full support so you can pass it on your first try.

4. Project cancellation or delay

Occasionally, the Dutch employer might cancel or postpone a project just before it starts — a rare but possible situation in dynamic fields like shipbuilding, industry, or logistics.

DB Work solution: Our recruiters act quickly to find you another suitable project so you can begin work as soon as possible. Throughout this period, you continue to receive accommodation and full support from our team.

Conclusion

It’s not unusual if you don’t start working immediately after arriving in the Netherlands. This doesn’t happen often, but it’s important to be fully informed.
The preparation phase — from certifications and training to equipment delivery — is an essential part of ensuring your safety and long-term success.

At DB Work, we make sure that every waiting day is used to prepare you 100% for your first day on site, in the factory, or in the workshop.

Benefits Offered by DB Work

DB Work ensures that its employees have all the necessary conditions for working in the Netherlands under the best possible circumstances. Benefits include: