Are You Receiving Your Work Schedule on Time?
Introduction
In principle, employees in the Netherlands should receive their work schedule at least 28 days in advance. However, there are exceptions, especially for on-call workers and in sectors where planning ahead is more difficult. In this blog, we explain what rules apply and what rights you have if your schedule is changed at the last minute.
The 28-day rule
Dutch employment law provides that regular employees should receive their work schedule at least 28 days in advance. This helps ensure predictability and a healthy work-life balance. That said, not all sectors are able to plan so far ahead, and collective labour agreements (CAOs) may provide different terms.
Exceptions for certain sectors
Some jobs simply can't be scheduled a month in advance due to the nature of the work, for instance, in healthcare, hospitality, or logistics. For these sectors, a shorter planning period may apply.
On-call workers: the 4-day rule
For on-call workers, a specific rule applies: if you’re called in to work, your employer must inform you at least 4 days in advance. If your CAO says otherwise, a shorter notice may be allowed, in the hospitality sector, for example, the minimum can be 24 hours.
If no CAO applies, the 4-day rule is binding. You are not obligated to work if you're called in with less notice.
Cancellation and late changes
If your employer cancels your shift less than 4 days before the scheduled start, or changes the shift times within that period, you are still entitled to be paid for the originally scheduled hours. This is a statutory right and a key protection for on-call workers.
Conclusion
Whether you are a regular or on-call worker, there are clear rules about when you must receive your work schedule. Employers must respect these timeframes, and you may be entitled to wages even if your shift is cancelled on short notice. Make sure to check your CAO and speak to your employer if schedules are being changed unfairly.
This blog was written by Mr. Stijn Blom
Employment law attorney at expatlawyer.nl B.V. Stijn has extensive experience in employment law and supports entrepreneurs on a daily basis with a wide range of employment law issues. From dismissal cases to drafting watertight agreements and regulations – with his practical and personal approach, he helps employers and employees move forward. Want to know more? Visit Stijn’s page.
Expatlawyer.nl is happy to think along with you if you have questions about the topic of schedules? Feel free to get in touch.
June 2025
