What to Ask Before Getting Hired

24.06.26

Questions to Ask Before Accepting a Job in the Netherlands

A good job starts with the right information

When you receive a job offer in the Netherlands, it is normal to want to start as soon as possible. However, before signing anything, it is important to clearly understand the job, the contract, and the conditions offered.

A serious agency answers your questions openly and explains every step. At DB Work, we encourage candidates to ask questions, read the contract carefully, and make an informed decision. Many DB Work professionals say they left their home country with more peace of mind because they received the necessary information before employment.

Here are some important questions you should ask before accepting a job in the Netherlands.

1. Can I see the contract before I leave?

The first question you should ask is whether you can receive the employment contract before departure.

A serious agency provides the contract so you can review it and explains all important clauses. You should not sign something you have not had time to read or understand.

At DB Work, the contract is presented before departure, and recruiters answer any questions you may have about salary, schedule, or working conditions.

2. How is the accommodation organized?

Accommodation is one of the most important aspects when you go abroad for work.

Ask:

  • where it is located;

  • how many people live together;

  • what utilities are included.

At DB Work, accommodation is organized before arrival in the Netherlands, and utilities are included, so the adaptation process is as simple as possible.

3. How do I get to work every day?

It is not enough to know where you will live. It is just as important to know how you will get to work every day.

Ask:

  • whether local transport is provided;

  • how long the trip to the workplace takes;

  • whether there are any extra costs.

DB Work professionals benefit from local transport organized with the DB Work car fleet, which means fewer worries and lower costs.

4. What is the duration of the contract?

It is good to know from the beginning whether the job is for a project of a few months or for a longer-term collaboration.

Ask:

  • how long the project lasts;

  • whether there is a possibility to extend the contract;

  • what happens if the project ends.

This information helps you make your plans in advance.

5. Is health insurance included?

In the Netherlands, health insurance is mandatory.

Ask:

  • whether it is included in the contract;

  • what services it covers;

  • what you need to do if you need a doctor.

At DB Work, basic health insurance is included, and the support team helps you with all the necessary formalities.

6. Who helps me after I arrive in the Netherlands?

Another important question is who will support you after you start working.

Ask:

  • who your coordinator is;

  • how you can contact them;

  • what you should do if a problem appears.

At DB Work, professionals receive support from the local team throughout the entire collaboration, both for work-related matters and administrative issues.

Warning signs — when it is good to be careful

There are a few situations that should raise questions before you accept a job:

  • you do not receive the contract before departure;

  • it is not very clear how much you will be paid;

  • answers about accommodation or working conditions are avoided;

  • you are asked for money to find a job;

  • there is no contact person to support you after arriving in the Netherlands.

A serious agency communicates transparently and gives you all the information you need before signing the contract.

Other frequently asked questions

What is the most important thing to ask before accepting a job in the Netherlands?

The most important question is: “Can I see the written and translated contract before I leave?” If the answer is no, refuse the offer. A serious agency has nothing to hide.

Do I have to pay anything to accept a job in the Netherlands?

No. A serious agency does NOT ask you for money to find you a job. All costs are either covered by the agency or deducted transparently from the salary — but never paid in advance.

How can I check if an agency is serious?

Look for online reviews, ask on forums and groups of Romanians in the Netherlands, and check whether the agency has official offices and a professional website. At DB Work, there are operational offices in the Netherlands and recruitment in Romania, with physical offices and teams that respond promptly.

Conclusion

The questions above can save you months of unpleasant situations. A serious recruitment agency answers all of them clearly and openly. A less serious one will try to avoid or postpone them. You can also read our article about myths related to working in the Netherlands to understand what wrong ideas are circulating in the market.

And to see what DB Work recruiters ask during the interview — and how to prepare — read our guide about the recruitment process.

 

WHAT BENEFITS DOES DB WORK OFFER WHEN YOU START WORKING IN THE NETHERLANDS?