23 January 2025
Employment contracts and mortgage in the Netherlands
Egle Kemezyte
Growth Marketer
Debunking the myths: how your employment contract affects your mortgage application. There is often significant confusion about employment contracts and how they can potentially impact the home-buying process.

In this blog article, we provide an overview of the different types of employment contracts and explain how these contract types may affect your ability to obtain a Dutch mortgage.

Temporary vs fixed work contracts in the Netherlands
  • Indefinite ('onbepaalde tijd/vast') contract  can only be terminated if the employee resigns (e.g., by finding another job in the Netherlands or abroad) or if the employer has a valid reason to end the contract, which must comply with strict legal guidelines.

  • A temporary ('tijdelijk') contract has an end date and must be renewed at the end of the term by either an indefinite contract or another temporary contract. In contrast, a temporary contract is for a specific period, such as six months or one year, with a predetermined end date. Your employer has a notice period to terminate a temporary contract when it expires.

Can I get a mortgage with a permanent contract in the Netherlands?

Yes, you can get a mortgage with a permanent contract. Obtaining a mortgage in the Netherlands with a permanent contract is straightforward, as lenders view this as a stable and reliable source of income. This often makes you eligible for more favourable terms and interest rates. Additionally, the process of buying a house in the Netherlands with a permanent job is typically faster and smoother compared to those with temporary or self-employed incomes.

Can I get a mortgage with a temporary contract?

Yes, you can get a mortgage with a temporary contract. However, you must provide your lender with a letter of intent from your employer, which is part of the employer's statement. This letter indicates whether your employer plans to make your position permanent after your contract expires, provided your performance and business conditions remain stable. The lender uses the employer's statement and the letter of intent to assess your ability to meet mortgage repayments, treating your situation similarly to a permanent contract. If you can't get a confirmed intention from your employer, you can still get a mortgage. Schedule a call with our mortgage specialists to see what's possible.

Can I get a mortgage if I have just started a job?

Securing a mortgage in the Netherlands can be difficult shortly after starting a new job. Lenders typically prefer a stable income history, so getting approved may be challenging if you are still in your probationary period.

You might need a letter of intent from your employer stating that your position will become permanent after probation.

If your partner has a stable income, it can support your application. Like self-employed individuals, lenders may look at your income history over the past few years without a permanent contract. Offering a larger down payment can also improve your chances. Consulting our mortgage specialists can help clarify your options.

Getting a mortgage when switching job contracts

Keeping jobs the same during the mortgage application process is highly advisable. Please get in touch with our mortgage specialists to learn how changing jobs might impact your application. Most lenders discourage job changes during the mortgage offer period, preferring new income from an immediate, indefinite contract without a probationary period. Otherwise, they rely on the average income from the past three years.

Can I get a mortgage as a self-employed (ZZP/freelancer) individual?

Yes, you can get a mortgage as a freelancer in the Netherlands. Lenders typically review your income history over the past 12 months. You need to provide additional documentation, such as tax returns, profit and loss statements, and sometimes an income projection/forecast from an accountant. Our Mister Mortgage team, specialising in mortgage advice for freelancers, can help you navigate the process and find the best mortgage options.

Other Mortgage application requirements

To get a mortgage approved in the Netherlands, you must meet other requirements besides your job contract. Factors such as your debt-to-income ratio, property valuation report, BSN number, and savings (for closing fees) also play a role. For more information or if you have any questions, please get in touch with our mortgage specialists.

How does your contract impact your mortgage options?

Schedule a free introductory call with our mortgage specialist to understand your mortgage options in the Netherlands.

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  • Highly competitive rates and flexible terms

  • Guidance through the entire mortgage process

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Meet the team
Sezer Yilmaz
Founder
Tomislav Magas
Financial Specialist
Egle Kemezyte
Growth Marketer
Robin Uijtdehaage
Client Director & Financial Specialist