Can I go on vacation during track 2?
- 06/04/2026
- Posted by: Rosalie Derksen
- Categories: Uncategorized, Uncategorized
Taking vacation during a track 2 reintegration program raises many questions for employees who are on long-term sick leave. Are you allowed to go away? What rules apply? And what does this mean for your benefits? These questions are understandable, because during track 2 reintegration you are still employed by your employer while looking for new work with another employer.
The combination of illness, reintegration and vacation brings specific obligations and limitations. It is essential to understand these well, so that your vacation does not come at the expense of your reintegration program or your legal position.
What exactly is track 2 reintegration?
Track 2 reintegration is a legally required program that starts during your employment when returning to your own employer proves impossible. It focuses on finding new work outside your current organization, while your employer still continues to pay your salary.
This program consists of three clear phases that follow each other. In phase 1, orientation and preparation take place, where a personal profile is created and the program plan is established. Phase 2 involves active labor market approach with targeted job applications and possible additional training. Phase 3 forms the completion with placement or the determination that this is not feasible.
Track 2 usually starts around week 46-52 after your sick leave notification, during the first-year evaluation. It is important to understand that there is no legal right to track 2 after 13 weeks of illness. The employer decides on the deployment of track 2, not the UWV. The program runs in principle as long as your employment exists and reintegration efforts are needed within the 104 weeks of the Sickness Benefits Act.
What rules apply to vacation during track 2?
During track 2 reintegration, the same vacation rules apply as with regular illness: you must always ask permission from your employer in advance. Vacation is not automatically allowed because you are on sick leave, not even during a reintegration program.
The main rules are:
- Written permission from your employer is mandatory before going on vacation.
- Your vacation may not hinder your recovery and reintegration process.
- Scheduled appointments with your reintegration counselor take priority.
- You remain available for urgent matters during your absence.
- Upon return, you must immediately make yourself available for the program again.
The UWV assesses afterwards whether sufficient reintegration efforts have been made. Vacation that unnecessarily delays the program can therefore have negative consequences for the assessment of your file. Transparency and good communication with all parties involved are essential to prevent problems.
How do you ask permission for vacation during track 2?
You request permission for vacation during track 2 in writing from your employer, preferably at least two weeks in advance. Clearly explain why the vacation is necessary for your recovery and how you ensure that the reintegration program is not delayed.
Follow these steps for a successful application:
- First consult with your reintegration counselor about the planning.
- Ensure that no important appointments or deadlines fall during your vacation.
- Submit a written request to your employer with concrete dates.
- Mention the purpose of your vacation and how this contributes to your recovery.
- Indicate how you remain available for urgent matters.
- Wait for written approval before booking.
In your request, you can indicate that the vacation is part of your recovery process and that after return you will be fully available again for the reintegration program. Employers are often willing to give permission if they see that you handle your obligations responsibly and take the program seriously.
What happens to your benefits during vacation?
Your benefits continue normally during approved vacation in track 2, because you are still employed by your employer, who continues to pay your salary. Nothing changes in your financial situation as long as your employer has given permission.
Salary continuation during illness remains maintained because vacation with permission is considered part of your recovery process. Your employer continues to pay your regular salary, regardless of whether you are at home or on vacation. This is an important difference from people who receive WIA benefits; different rules apply to them.
However, note that non-approved vacation can have serious consequences. If you go on vacation without permission, your employer can stop salary continuation and even consider dismissal. The UWV can also later conclude that you have insufficiently cooperated with reintegration, which can lead to a wage sanction for your employer that may be passed on.
Which vacation destinations are allowed during track 2?
In principle, all vacation destinations are allowed during track 2, provided they support your recovery and do not hinder the reintegration program. The destination must fit with your medical limitations and the nature of your illness.
When choosing your destination, you must consider various factors. First, the vacation must contribute to your recovery and not conflict with medical advice. A stressful long-distance trip is not suitable, for example, if you are recovering from burnout. Second, you must remain available for urgent matters, so choose destinations with good communication possibilities.
Avoid destinations and activities that:
- Are contrary to your medical limitations.
- Are extremely physically demanding while you are recovering from physical complaints.
- Make you completely unreachable for extended periods.
- Do not align with the nature of your illness.
Always discuss your plans in advance with your treating physician and reintegration counselor. They can provide advice on what is and is not wise given your specific situation and recovery process.
Can vacation disrupt your reintegration program?
Vacation can disrupt your reintegration program if it is poorly timed or lasts too long, but a well-planned vacation can actually contribute to a more successful program by promoting your recovery.
Disruption occurs mainly when vacation coincides with crucial moments in your program. Think of important conversations with your counselor, job interviews or deadlines for reports. A long absence can also take the momentum out of the program, which reduces the chances of successful placement.
On the other hand, vacation can contribute positively to your program. Good recovery increases your employability and motivation, which is essential for a successful reintegration process. A well-rested person performs better during job interviews and shows more resilience in setbacks.
To prevent disruption:
- Plan vacation outside peak periods of job application activities.
- Keep vacation limited to a maximum of 2-3 weeks consecutively.
- Ensure good handover with your counselor before departure.
- Make new appointments immediately after return to continue the program.
How UFIND helps with track 2 reintegration
We understand that track 2 reintegration is a complex period in which many questions arise about what is and is not allowed. That is why we offer complete guidance that takes into account all aspects of your situation, including the balance between recovery and reintegration.
Our approach is characterized by:
- Customized programs that align with your specific situation and limitations.
- One dedicated coach who guides you throughout the entire program.
- Clear communication about rights and obligations during the program.
- Active monitoring of progress to maintain momentum.
- Expertise in both reintegration and recruitment for optimal results.
Do you have questions about vacation during your track 2 program or want to know how we can help you with successful reintegration? Contact us for a no-obligation conversation about your situation.