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On January 1, 2026, new regulations will come into effect in the Netherlands to better secure the financial future of temporary workers.
Thanks to the new collective labor agreement (CAO) rules, workers will benefit from a stronger pension system. Here's what that means.
Higher pensions for temporary workers in the Netherlands – will I be saving more from 2026?
Yes. The new regulations guarantee higher pension contributions. Starting January 2026, the total pension contribution will be 23.4% of your gross salary, of which:
- 15.9% is paid by the employer (i.e. the employment agency)
- 7.5% is the employee’s share (deducted from your salary)
Out of this total amount:
- 20% goes directly into your individual pension account – the savings you'll receive when you retire.
The rest covers:
- Life insurance (for your partner and children)
- Disability savings
- Administrative costs and financial reserves (also known as buffers)
Source: Dutch Association of Temporary Employment Agencies
So yes, the agency pays the larger part of the contribution. You will also contribute 7.5%, but this means you’ll be saving more for your future.
Other pension terms are part of broader changes for temporary workers in the Netherlands
Until now, pension schemes for temporary workers were less favorable compared to those of permanent Dutch employees. That will change in January 2026 — your pension will become part of the equal pay principle.
Just like your salary must match that of a permanent employee, your pension conditions will also be considered when aligning your employment terms. This is part of a wider reform in the Netherlands aimed at equal treatment of workers (read more here: Temporary work in the Netherlands – what’s changing in 2026 and 2027?)
What if the company I work for offers a better pension scheme?
This is an important point. The new rules cover such situations:
- If the pension scheme at the company is better than the standard one – you will receive compensation.
- If the company’s scheme is worse or doesn’t exist at all – your current pension arrangement will stay the same.
You are guaranteed that the 2026 changes won’t leave you worse off — only better.
Why does this matter?
A decent pension means security for your future. Thanks to these changes, as a temporary worker in the Netherlands:
- You’ll have more savings for retirement
- You’ll gain equal rights to those of permanent employees
- Your temporary job will offer a greater sense of long-term stability — not just now, but years down the line
Looking for well-paid work in the Netherlands?
At 24/7 drive, we’re hiring for roles in:
- Distribution
- Waste transport
- Industry & Agriculture
- Transports
- Building & Construction
- Distribution & Restaurants
- Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
- Others
- Public transportation
We hire not only in the Netherlands, but also in Belgium and Poland.
Got questions?
Your 24/7 drive coordinator can help you understand how the new regulations affect your employment with us.
Sources
- Government announcement – Bill for more security for flexible workers
- Dutch Association of Temporary Employment Agencies – Pension Transition Explained