Getting a Mortgage with a Temporary Contract in the Netherlands (2026)

Don't have a permanent contract? You can still get a mortgage in the Netherlands in 2026. While a "vast contract" (permanent employment) is ideal, many banks now accept temporary contracts, especially from expats working in stable industries.

Can I Get a Mortgage with a Temporary Contract?

Yes, in most cases. The Dutch mortgage market has evolved, and many lenders now recognize that temporary contracts are common, especially for expats and in certain industries.

Key factors that determine your eligibility:

• Your industry and profession
• Remaining contract duration
• Contract history (have you been renewed before?)
• Employer's size and stability

Which Industries Have the Best Chances?

Banks favor industries with high demand for skilled workers, where contract renewal is common:

What Banks Look For

Remaining Contract Duration

Most banks prefer at least 6-12 months remaining on your contract at the time of application. However, this isn't a strict rule—your overall situation matters more.

Contract Renewal History

If your temporary contract has already been renewed once or twice, banks view this very favorably. It shows your employer values you and renewal is likely.

Employer Letter of Intent

A letter from your employer indicating intent to renew or offer a permanent contract can significantly strengthen your application. We can provide a template.

Industry Outlook

Banks consider whether your industry has a shortage of workers. In sectors like IT and healthcare, finding new employment quickly is realistic even if your current contract ends.

How Banks Calculate Your Income

With a temporary contract, banks may apply different approaches:

Approach 1: Full Income

Some banks count your full income if you work in a stable sector and have good contract history. This is the best outcome.

Approach 2: Reduced Income

Other banks apply a 10-20% reduction to your counted income to account for employment uncertainty. Your €70,000 salary might be counted as €56,000-€63,000.

Approach 3: Average of Past Years

If you've had multiple temporary contracts, some banks average your income over the past 2-3 years, similar to self-employed calculations.

Strategies to Improve Your Chances

Special Case: Highly Skilled Migrants

If you're in the Netherlands on a highly skilled migrant visa (kennismigranten), banks often view your temporary contract more favorably because:

• You're in a high-demand field
• Your employer had to demonstrate a genuine need
• Salary minimums for the visa indicate stability

Learn more in our highly skilled migrant visa guide.

Special Case: Probation Period

Can you apply during your probation period? It's challenging but not impossible:

• Most banks prefer waiting until probation ends
• Some accept applications with a strong employer letter
• Large, reputable employers make approval easier

Documentation You'll Need

• Current employment contract showing end date
• Any previous contracts (showing renewal history)
• Last 3-6 payslips
• Annual statement (jaaropgave)
• Employer declaration (werkgeversverklaring)
• Employer letter of intent (if available)

See our complete document checklist.