How do I apply for benefit under the Work and Income (Capacity for Work) Act outside the Netherlands?
If you work abroad and have become unable to work (in part or in full) due to sickness or disability and you meet the conditions for Dutch benefit under the Work and Income (Capacity for Work) Act (WIA), you can apply for it from the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV).
First check whether you are entitled to WIA benefit in the country where you live
Whether you qualify for WIA benefit in the country where you live depends on which country you are insured in. First check what applies in your situation.
What you need to apply
- Your citizen service number (BSN)
- Your DigiD or a recognised form of eID from another European country
- Information about your employers during the past 5 years
- Information about your education and training
- Your bank account number
If you are entitled to incapacity benefit not only in the Netherlands but also in another EU/EEA country or Switzerland, the UWV will make sure that these countries pay a part of your benefit. But you apply for benefit from the UWV only.
After submitting your application
On the basis of your application the UWV determines whether you are entitled to of form of WIA benefit in the country where you live. Sometimes you have to undergo a medical assessment. Assessments usually take place in the country where you live.
Application denied
If the UWV denies your application, you may be entitled to payment under another scheme. Find out what you can do if you become unable to work due to sickness or disability outside the Netherlands.
Contact
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.