Working for the government as a freelancer

Working as a self-employed professional within the Dutch government is an increasingly popular path. More organisations are hiring experts via platforms and networks, trend visible on specialised platforms.

This guide explains what government assignments involve, why they are attractive, which fields they cover, how to find them, typical rates and project durations, and practical tips for success.

What Are Freelance Assignments in the Government?

Freelance assignments for the government are temporary contracts where independent professionals (ZZP’ers) are hired by public sector organisations, ranging from ministries to municipalities, water boards, and semi-public institutions.

Unlike permanent employment, these assignments are:

• temporary, project-based, and often flexible in hours and duration

• focused on specific expertise or tasks

• not employment contracts but agreements with the client

Why Choose Freelance Work in the Government?

There are many reasons why self-employed professionals choose government assignments. Key advantages include:

Benefits for Freelancers

Reliable client: government organisations are financially stable and pay on time. Wide range of assignments: Striive reports hundreds of government assignments are added daily.Variety in projects: from policy development to IT, opportunities exist for multiple skill sets. Societal impact: work on projects that directly affect citizens and society.Professional development: assignments add value to your CV.

Benefits for Government Organisations

• They gain access to specialised expertise
• Workforce capacity can be flexibly adjusted
• Projects can be completed more efficiently
• Less administrative commitment compared with hiring permanent staff

Fields With Freelance Opportunities

Government assignments exist across many professional fields, from technical to policy work. Current trends show IT and HR roles are particularly in demand. 

Popular Fields

• IT & Data (e.g., system developers, security specialists)

• Project and Programme Management

• Policy and Governance Advisory

• Communications & HR Consulting

• Legal Support

• Environmental & Sustainability Specialists

Common Roles With Examples

• Sustainability Policy Officer: advises on climate and environmental programmes

• IT Project Manager at the Tax Authority: coordinates digital transitions

• HR Advisor for Local Councils: optimises personnel processes

• Legal Advisor Social Domain: provides specialist legal knowledge
  

Rates and Projects Duration

Hourly Rates for freelancer in the government

Rates vary depending on role and seniority. Striive data shows assignments average around €90 per hour, depending on specialisation and experience. Factors affecting rates include niche expertise, experience, and project complexity. Government rates may differ from the private sector.

How long do projects last?

Short-term: 1–3 months: small advisory or completion tasks

Medium-term: 3–6 months: standard projects

Long-term: 6+ months: strategic or ongoing support

Practical Tips for Freelancers in the Government

Legal and Tax Aspects

Are you working as an independent professional for a government organization? Then there are a few legal and tax points you need to know. Government bodies and the Dutch Tax Authority closely monitor correct working relationships, especially with the increased focus on preventing false self-employment.

Avoiding False Self-Employment

False self-employment occurs when you are formally self-employed but effectively work as an employee. This can lead to additional tax assessments and penalties for both you and the client. From January 1, 2025, employment relationships will be checked more strictly.

The Tax Authority looks at factors such as:

• No employer authority: the client cannot dictate how you perform your work.
• Independence in how you plan and execute tasks.
• You carry commercial and financial risk.
• Use of your own materials and business resources.

Taxes: VAT, Income Tax, and Obligations

As an entrepreneur, you are responsible for:

• VAT: When you register as self-employed, you receive a VAT number. If your annual turnover exceeds €20,000, you must charge VAT and file quarterly returns. Below this threshold, you may qualify for the Small Business Scheme (KOR), which exempts you from VAT.
• Income Tax: Your profit is taxed under regular income tax rules.
• Administration: Keep invoices, receipts, and contracts for audits.

Depending on your situation, you may benefit from deductions such as the self-employed deduction and start-up deduction (if you meet the hours criterion).

Insurance

Government projects often require the following insurances:

• Professional liability insurance (BAV)
• Business liability insurance
• Disability insurance (AOV)

Administration and Preparation

A professional administration is essential for smooth collaboration and risk management.

Project Documentation and Contract Management

• Keep all documents such as agreements, purchasing terms, and attachments.
• Record agreements clearly: scope, deadlines, rates, hours, and payment terms.
• Document project progress so you can always show what has been delivered.

Use a digital system or accounting software to simplify this process.

Invoicing and Organization

• Include on invoices: Chamber of Commerce number, VAT number, date, invoice number, payment terms, and description of services.
• Track business expenses and receipts for tax deductions.
• File VAT and income tax returns on time.
• Set aside funds for taxes and unexpected costs.

A well-organized administration signals professionalism, something government clients value highly.