To start a business on the side without a permanent contract as an employee

You have a temporary contract, are working as an interim or have a fixed-term contract. At the same time, the idea of starting your own business is tempting. But is it really wise to start a side hustle without the security of a permanent job?

The pitfall of “certainty first, then enterprise”

Many aspiring entrepreneurs believe they need a permanent contract before they can start a side business. It seems logical: why take risks when your income is already uncertain? But this thinking often holds you back for longer than necessary.

The reality is that Legally speaking, nothing stops you. to start a secondary job, not even with a temporary contract. Your employer cannot forbid this, unless there is a conflict of interest or competition.

Why a side hustle can be a smart move, even without a permanent contract

Starting a side hustle while not having a permanent contract even offers advantages:

Flexibility as a strength

With a temporary contract, you often have more flexibility to arrange your own time. Between assignments, you can work on your own business without having to take holiday days.

Building a financial buffer

A side hustle provides you with an additional stream of income. Especially when your job is temporary, this can bring more financial security than relying solely on your employer.

Expand network

By starting your own business, you build a professional network that can also help you find new assignments as an employee.

Practical considerations when starting

VAT liability and administration

Please note the VAT threshold of €25,000 per year. If you exceed this, you will become liable for VAT. This means more administration, but also that you can reclaim VAT on business expenses.

Social contributions

As a part-time self-employed individual, you will pay social contributions to a social insurance fund for the self-employed from the second year onwards. The minimum amount is around €800 per year, but this can increase depending on your turnover.

Additional insurance

Ensure that you are well-insured. A long-term disability insurance policy for the self-employed can fill a gap that your employee insurance may not cover.

Choose a smart structure

For most secondary jobs, start as a sole trader The simplest option. You're quickly operational and the administrative burden remains limited. Only when your turnover structurally increases (think €50,000+ per year) does a company become more interesting due to fiscal optimisation.

At Bizantium, we will guide you through both options. We will look at your situation together and advise on the best structure for your ambitions and circumstances.

Avoiding the main pitfalls

Communicate transparently with your current employer about your secondary occupation. As long as there is no competition or conflict of interest, no one can stop you. However, check your employment contract for any clauses regarding secondary activities.

Keep your records from day one. Good bookkeeping will prevent future problems with the tax authorities and give you insight into the profitability of your side business.

Ready to take the leap? Starting a side hustle takes courage, but it doesn't have to be complicated. At Bizantium, we handle the administrative side quickly and transparently, so you can focus on what you do best: entrepreneurship. Plan a free introductory meeting today and discover how we can support your entrepreneurial ambitions, regardless of your contract type.