“You don’t need to come in tomorrow anymore.”
“This isn’t working; we’re ending it.”
“Good luck going forward.”
Many young people get fired via WhatsApp. Especially with side jobs, part-time work and temp work this happens every day. The question is: is that even allowed?
The short answer: sometimes, but often not.
In this blog, we explain when termination via WhatsApp can be valid and when it cannot, and what you should do immediately.
Is termination via WhatsApp allowed at all?
The law does not literally say: “WhatsApp termination is not allowed.”
But: termination must be clearly, lawfully, and correctly carried out.
And that’s where it often goes wrong.
When is a WhatsApp dismissal usually invalid?
In these situations dismissal via WhatsApp is often not legally valid:
1. There is no valid ground for dismissal
A message like:
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“It doesn’t click”
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“We have no more work”
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“The manager is not satisfied”
is no valid reason for dismissal.
2. The correct dismissal procedure was not followed
For most contracts:
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dismissal must go through official channels
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sometimes with permission
-
sometimes with a notice period
A WhatsApp message is then not sufficient.
3. You have a current contract
Do you have:
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a temporary contract
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a zero-hours contract
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a temp agency contract without a valid agency clause
Then a simple WhatsApp message cannot simply mean the end of your job.
4. Dismissal via WhatsApp after illness
Do you fall ill and then get a WhatsApp message saying you no longer need to come in?
👉 That is highly suspicious and often not permitted.
When can termination via WhatsApp actually be valid?
In exceptional situations, for example:
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during a valid probationary period
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in the case of a justified summary dismissal
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if the WhatsApp message is a confirmation of something that has already been properly arranged
But even then, all conditions must be met.
Why WhatsApp dismissals occur so often among young people
Employers often think:
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“It’s just a side job”
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“It’s flexible work”
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“That’s how we always do it”
But convenience for the employer means not that it is legally correct.
What if you don’t respond to the WhatsApp message?
Not responding means not automatically that you agree.
But note: doing nothing is also risky.
It is important to:
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to clearly state that you are available
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to not give consent
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to save the message
What should you do immediately if you are dismissed via WhatsApp?
Follow these steps:
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Take screenshots of the message
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Respond calmly and professionally (do not agree)
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Indicate that you are available for work
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Keep contract, schedules and payslips
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Have a legal expert assess whether the dismissal is valid
One wrong answer can be used against you later.
Common mistakes by young people
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react angrily or emotionally
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text back “okay”
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quit on your own
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leave everything alone
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thinking that WhatsApp is automatically valid
That’s a shame. Often the employee strong.
Are you unsure about your WhatsApp dismissal?
Are you:
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student
-
part-timer
-
temp worker
-
young person with a part-time job
and has your employer fired you via WhatsApp or told you that you no longer need to come in?
Then have it checked. In many cases it turns out that:
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the dismissal is not legally valid
-
you are entitled to wages or compensation
-
the employer acted too quickly
👉 Feel free to get in touch to have your situation assessed.
Practical Advice: What Should You Do if You Receive a WhatsApp Dismissal?
Receiving a dismissal via WhatsApp can be distressing and confusing. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some practical steps to take:
- Do not respond impulsively. Take time to carefully review the message and avoid making hasty decisions or replies.
- Request a formal written confirmation. Ask your employer to provide an official dismissal letter detailing the reasons and the effective date of termination.
- Check your employment contract and collective labor agreement (if applicable). These documents often contain specific rules about termination and notice periods that your employer must respect.
- Note the date and time of the WhatsApp message. This can be important evidence if you decide to challenge the dismissal later.
- Seek legal advice promptly. Dutch employment law provides various protections against unfair dismissal, and an expert lawyer can help you understand your rights and options.
Legal Framework for Dismissals in the Netherlands
Under Dutch law, termination of employment must comply with strict regulations set out in the Dutch Civil Code (Burgerlijk Wetboek) and related legislation. Key points include:
- Grounds for dismissal: Employers must have a reasonable and objective ground for dismissal, such as economic reasons, long-term incapacity, or inadequate performance.
- Permission from the UWV or the court: In many cases, employers need to obtain approval from the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV) or the subdistrict court before terminating an employee.
- Notice periods: Employers must respect statutory or contractual notice periods, which can vary depending on the length of employment.
- Form of termination: While the law does not explicitly forbid digital communication, official termination usually requires a written letter, ensuring clarity and formality.
Failure to comply with these requirements can render the dismissal invalid, allowing employees to potentially claim reinstatement or compensation.
Examples of When WhatsApp Dismissal Is Problematic
Consider these scenarios where termination via WhatsApp may be challenged:
- An employer sends a brief WhatsApp message without explanation or formal documentation, then expects the employee to leave immediately.
- The dismissal message lacks clear grounds or contradicts prior verbal agreements or warnings.
- Notice periods are ignored, and the employee is forced out without proper compensation.
In such cases, employees have the right to dispute the dismissal, often successfully, with the assistance of legal counsel.
How Arslan Advocaten Can Help
Dismissal is a serious matter that can significantly impact your financial and emotional well-being. If you have been dismissed via WhatsApp or any informal method, it is crucial to act quickly. At Arslan Advocaten, we specialize in employment law and are experienced in handling unfair dismissal cases. We provide clear, practical advice tailored to your situation and ensure your rights are protected.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward resolving your employment dispute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal for my employer to dismiss me through WhatsApp?
While the law does not explicitly prohibit dismissals via WhatsApp, the termination must be lawful, clearly communicated, and follow proper procedures. Many dismissals through WhatsApp are invalid if these requirements are not met.
Can I be dismissed via WhatsApp if I am on a temporary or zero-hours contract?
No, in most cases, a simple WhatsApp message cannot legally end your employment if you have a temporary, zero-hours, or agency contract. Proper termination procedures must be followed regardless of contract type.
What should I do if I receive a dismissal message on WhatsApp?
You should take screenshots, respond calmly to acknowledge receipt, clearly state your availability if appropriate, and consider seeking legal advice to understand your rights and options.
When is a WhatsApp dismissal considered valid?
A WhatsApp dismissal can be valid in exceptional cases, such as during a valid probation period or a justified summary dismissal, but only if all legal conditions and proper procedures are strictly followed.
