Workers must always be able to show a valid identity document whilst working at the work location. When a worker reports to the work location for the first time, they must be able to identify themselves with a valid identity card or passport before they may begin work.
Valid identification for workers
For workers, only a passport or an identity card is approved as an identification document. At the first registration at the work location, the worker must carry a valid passport or a valid identity card. This also allows you to establish the worker's nationality. A driving licence is not a valid form of identification, as it does not include information about nationality or residency status.
Valid identification for third parties and Visitors
For third parties or Visitors, a driving licence is a valid form of identification. This is because they do not perform work at the work location and are not subject to the WKA (Dutch Chain Liability Act), WAV (Dutch Foreign Nationals Employment Act), and so forth. You establish identity solely for safety purposes.
Two nationalities
If a worker holds a second nationality, one of which is Dutch, use the Dutch identity document (not a driving licence) where possible.
Copy of identity document
Companies that employ workers directly must include a copy of the worker's identity document in their records. Retain this copy for up to five calendar years after the end of the employment or the work.
For non-European nationals: A valid passport and/or residence document must always be present. A work permit (tewerkstellingsvergunning) is also mandatory. Ensure that this permit has been issued by the country in which the work is carried out.
What do you include in the records as a contractor or hirer?
By recording certain data in your records, you can demonstrate the nationality of the hired worker. If the worker comes from Switzerland, Turkey, or the EEA, a copy of the identity document is not required. In other cases, you must retain a copy. Under the WAV (Dutch Foreign Nationals Employment Act), this must always be a valid document.
In WorkpassID, you can add the expiry date of documents. The system sends a notification when a document is about to expire or has expired.