Article 7:652 Dutch Civil Code, Book 7

Paragraph 1

If the parties agree a probationary period, it is the same for both parties.

Paragraph 2

The probationary period is agreed in writing.

Paragraph 3

When an employment contract for an indefinite period is entered into, a probationary period of no more than two months may be agreed.

Paragraph 4

When an employment contract for a fixed term is entered into, a probationary period may be agreed of no more than:

1. one month, if the contract has been entered into for longer than six months but shorter than two years;

2. two months, if the contract has been entered into for two years or longer.

Paragraph 5

If the end of an employment contract for a fixed term has not been set at a calendar date, a probationary period of no more than one month may be agreed.

Paragraph 6

No probationary period may be agreed if the employment contract:

1. has been entered into for no more than six months;

2. concerns a successive employment contract between an employee and the same employer, unless that contract clearly requires different skills or responsibilities of the employee than the previous employment contract; or

3. concerns a successive employment contract between an employee and another employer that must reasonably be deemed to be the successor of the previous employer with regard to the work performed.

Paragraph 7

Derogation from paragraph 4(a) and paragraph 5 to the detriment of the employee is permitted only by collective labour agreement or by a regulation issued by or on behalf of an administrative authority competent to do so.

Paragraph 8

Any stipulation contrary to this Article is void.