Work-Related Disability in The Netherlands
Work-related disability cases require careful handling. Dutch sickness and disability law places extensive obligations on employers, with strict timelines, documentation requirements, and significant financial risks if mistakes are made.
Sørensen Lawyers supports employers at every stage of the process – from the first day of sickness to long-term disability and WIA procedures – ensuring compliance, clarity, and defensible decision-making.
Sickness and Reintegration Law (Wet verbetering poortwachter)
Dutch law requires employers to take active responsibility for employee reintegration during sickness. The Wet verbetering poortwachter imposes detailed obligations that start immediately after the first sick day and continue for up to two years.
We guide employers through the full reintegration process, including:
- Structuring compliant reintegration trajectories (first and second track)
- Case management and coordination with occupational health services
- Drafting and reviewing mandatory documentation and action plans
- Assessing reintegration feasibility and proportionality
- Reducing the risk of wage sanctions imposed by the UWV
Our focus is on keeping employers in control, avoiding procedural errors, and demonstrating demonstrable compliance.
Disability Employment Law (WIA and Long-Term Disability)
When sickness becomes long-term, employers face additional legal and financial exposure. Incorrect handling can result in extended wage obligations, sanctions, or disputes with employees and authorities.
We advise employers on:
- WIA procedures and employer responsibilities
- Assessing eligibility and legal positioning during disability assessments
- Preventing and challenging wage sanctions
- Managing employer obligations after two years of sickness
- Strategic decision-making in complex or disputed disability cases
- Our advice combines legal precision with practical risk management, allowing employers to move forward with confidence.
ABOUT
Sørensen Lawyers: employment law firm in Rotterdam.
Dutch employment law specialists for contracts, dismissals & HR advice.
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Long-Term Illness and Employer Decision-Making
When employees remain ill beyond statutory timelines, employers must make careful, well-documented decisions. This includes balancing legal duties, business continuity, and employee rights.
We support employers with:
- Strategic guidance in prolonged sickness cases
- Structuring compliant documentation and internal decision-making
- Advising on continuation or termination of employment
- Managing sensitive communications and legal risk
- Ensuring decisions withstand scrutiny from UWV, courts, or regulators
We help employers act decisively while remaining compliant, fair, and legally protected.
Our Approach
- Clear advice – No unnecessary complexity or legal jargon
- Hands-on support – Practical guidance throughout the entire process
- Risk-focused – Preventing sanctions, disputes, and unexpected costs
- International mindset – Experienced in advising non-Dutch employers operating in the Netherlands
Need guidance on sickness or disability cases?
Whether you are dealing with short-term sickness, reintegration obligations, or complex long-term disability issues, Sørensen Lawyers provides clarity and control.
Contact us for a confidential consultation
Contact Sorensen Lawyers today. We are ready to help you find a clear and effective solution.
