Download the whitepaper (Dutch)The new collective labor agreement (CAO) for flexible workers will come into effect on January 1st, 2026. This change will affect you as a client. In this FAQ, we answer the most frequently asked questions about what this means for your organization and how to prepare for it.
On January 1st, 2026, the new ABU collective labor agreement for flexible workers will come into effect. What does this collective labor agreement entail?
The collective labor agreement contains several important changes regarding flexible workers. The most significant change is undoubtedly the one regarding equal pay. From January 1, 2026, flexible workers will be entitled to terms and conditions of employment that are at least equivalent to those of permanent employees at the client in similar positions. Until now, flexible workers were only paid equally on ten elements of the total package of terms and conditions of employment. This will therefore change thanks to the new collective labor agreement.This amendment replaces the current user company remuneration.
How long will this new collective labor agreement remain in effect?
The collective labor agreement for temporary workers will take effect on January 1st, 2026, for a period of three years.
What other changes are included in this new CAO?
Three other amendments in the new collective labor agreement relate to, for instance:Market-based pension planImmigrant workersLegal status and flexibilityFor more information and details, feel free to download the whitepaper.
What will change for employers/clients?
Employers must ensure that the terms and conditions of employment for temporary workers are equivalent to those of their own employees. This could lead to more paperwork, insight into what permanent workers receive, and possibly adjustments to some regulations.Want to know more about the new CAO? Click here to download the ABU whitepaper (Dutch).
