Inspection and accreditation: who does what?
Four roles are involved in NEN 4400 and SNA, and they are easy to confuse. SNA explains that independent inspection bodies, accredited by the RvA (Raad voor Accreditatie, the Dutch Accreditation Council), carry out the SNA inspections. The RvA assesses the inspection body , not your labour provider company. Under the Wtta , the NAU makes the final decision on licensing.
This difference determines what evidence you can expect. An inspection is an assessment of your records and practice. Accreditation is an assessment of the competence and independence of the inspection body. An SNA registration is the outcome of the private scheme. A Wtta licence is a public decision.
On the NEN 4400 and SNA hub, you first see the choice between standard parts and routes. For preparation, see the requirements checklist.
Last checked: 5 September 2026.
The roles side by side
| Role | Who? | What happens? | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standards framework | NEN and SNA | The requirements and scheme are published and maintained | Standards and additional scheme requirements |
| SNA inspection | Contracted inspection body | Records and practice are examined | Inspection report to SNA |
| RvA accreditation | Raad voor Accreditatie (Dutch Accreditation Council) | Assesses the competence, independence and working method of the body | Accreditation for a specific scope |
| SNA decision | Stichting Normering Arbeid (Dutch Foundation for Labour Standards) | Processes results and supervises the certificate | Registration, correction, suspension or removal |
| Wtta decision | NAU on behalf of the minister | Assesses the inspection report and other application information | Statutory licence, exemption or refusal |
The body that carries out your SNA inspection therefore does not issue the SNA certificate itself. SNA receives and processes the result. For the Wtta, an inspection body must also be designated by the NAU. The government website keeps that information .
How do you choose an inspection body?
Start with the current SNA list and check whether your standard part, place of establishment and modules fall within the body’s scope. Then ask how the body selects the sample, which documents you need in advance and how it assesses correction. Compare quotes on content and planning. There is no universal price that applies to every company.
Pay attention to the exact legal entity in the agreement. An inspection for a Dutch B.V. cannot simply be used for a foreign sister company. Also record whether you want the body to assess only making labour available, or also contracting work, brokering or intermediation.
What does accredited mean?
Accreditation means the body has been assessed against a recognised scheme, including on competence and independence. It does not mean your company automatically complies, that every file will be approved or that all legal risks disappear. Therefore, also check the SNA register yourself and keep up your own supplier checks.
SNA and the RvA have different responsibilities. Use the word “accredited” for the inspection body, not as a synonym for a licensed or risk-free labour provider.
Frequently asked questions
Is SNA a certification body?
SNA manages the private certificate and processes inspection results. The actual checks are carried out by contracted inspection bodies.
Is an RvA-accredited body automatically designated under the Wtta?
No, not automatically. For Wtta inspections, designation by the NAU is needed in addition to suitable RvA accreditation. Check the current government list.
Who decides on Wtta licensing?
The NAU decides on behalf of the minister. According to government information, a positive inspection report is important, but not sufficient on its own.
For the application, read applying for the SNA certificate. For the statutory planning, read Wtta and SNA.