Migrants' Access to Social Protection in the Netherlands

Abstract

As a general rule, persons (both EU citizens and third-country nationals) working in the Netherlands are treated in the same way for social security as resident Dutch nationals (however, for certain categories such as posted workers, different rules apply). Migrants who are not working, but live in the Netherlands have restricted access to social assistance benefits, although after five years of residence they are treated the same as Dutch nationals. Export of benefits within the EU is regulated by the EU coordination rules on social security. Export of benefits outside the EU is governed by bilateral agreements.