The Non-Negotiable: Why You Need a Certificate of Conduct and How to Get One
15 May 2026
If you’re applying for a role in logistics, production, or technical services in the Netherlands, you’ll eventually hear the term **Certificate of Conduct. **This usually refers to the certificate issued by the authorities from your home country - *Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag *(VOG) is a different document, requiring more thorough procedure handled by relevant Dutch authorities.
For many candidates, this feels like just another piece of paperwork. But in reality, it’s a very strong asset for any candidate on the temporary employment market. Without it, many of the best employers in the Netherlands simply cannot legally put you on their floor.
Why does it matter?
Dutch employers, especially in sectors involving high-value goods or safety-sensitive environments, have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure a safe workplace. A Certificate of Conduct is the standard way to verify that a candidate doesn't have a criminal record that would be relevant to the job.
Think of it as a badge of reliability. It shows your future employer that you are a professional who can be trusted with their equipment, their products, and their team.
How to get yours (by country)
The process varies depending on where you are from. Here is a quick, systematic guide for some of our most common candidate locations.
Poland (Zaświadczenie o niekaralności)
The Polish system is quite efficient and can be handled entirely online if you have a trusted profile (Profil Zaufany).
Where to apply: Krajowy Rejestr Karny (e-KRK)
The Tip: If you’re already in the Netherlands, you can still apply online. The digital version is usually issued within minutes or hours.
Romania (Cazier Judiciar)
In Romania, the process has become much easier recently with the introduction of online portals, though some cases still require a visit to a police station.
Where to apply: Ghișeul.ro or the Hub of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
The Tip: Ensure you request the version specifically for "employment abroad" to avoid any translation or recognition issues later.
Bulgaria (Свидетелство за съдимост)
Bulgaria offers an electronic certificate for citizens who were born in the country and have not been convicted.
Where to apply: Electronic Criminal Records Portal
The Tip: You will need a qualified electronic signature (QES) to use the online service. If you don't have one, you’ll need to visit a regional court.
Slovakia (Výpis z registra trestov)
In Slovakia, the process is traditionally handled through the General Prosecutor's Office or at integrated service points (IOMO) like post offices.
Where to apply: Register trestov GP SR or any IOMO post office.
The Tip: You will need your ID and birth certificate. If you are abroad, you can apply through a Slovak embassy.
Keep it fresh
Most Dutch employers require a certificate that is no older than 3 to 6 months. If yours is older than that, it’s time to request a new one.
At Jobroad, we don't want you to miss out on a great role because of a missing document. We recommend starting this process as soon as you decide to look for work in the Netherlands. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in how fast we can get you started.
Happy to discuss if you’re having trouble navigating the application in your country.