So, you’re looking for a job in the Netherlands. You’re probably wondering: am I going to be stuck in the office Monday to Friday, 9-to-5? Good question. Thankfully, we have all the answers!
The Dutch have a slightly different outlook on working life than other countries. Over the last few years, the Netherlands has consistently ranked very high or even at the top in work-life balance world rankings.
This means that, if you are working in the Netherlands, you can expect a little less work and a little more play.
The average work week in the Netherlands
Across the world, it’s been mostly accepted that the average work week is somewhere between 35 hours and 50 hours a week.
However, in the Netherlands, this number varies between 35 and 40 hours per week.
Looks like people are ready to say goodbye to stuffy office cubicles! Image: Unsplash
That being said, you could actually find yourself working even less! Terrific news for us couch potatoes (and anyone who works to live, not vice versa)! 🥔
Let’s talk about stats, baby
According to Statistics Netherlands (CBS), the average number of hours Dutch people worked in 2023 was 1,439 hours.
Sounds like a lot at first, right? But actually, this works out at around 28.8 hours worked per week, if we take into account a two-week break during the year.
Holiday leave in the Netherlands
We couldn’t forget those holidays! In the Netherlands, the number of leave hours an employee is due is four times the number of weekly working hours.
For example: If you work four days a week from 9 AM to 5 PM, you’ll be owed a grand 128 hours of annual leave!
Get those bags packed, because, with such a good work/life balance, you may well find yourself at the beach a few more times a year. 🏖
However, the thing about averages is that they’re just that: averages. But don’t let your hopes dampen just yet!
Across the board in the Netherlands, most people can expect to be working no more than 33 hours per week.
There’s always an exception — working in Dutch hospitality and retail
Yet, though most Dutch workers can expect to work fewer than the 50-hour workweeks employees in other countries face, there’s one catch to it — hospitality and retail jobs!
The thing with the typical 9-to-5 is that, well, you’re working from nine to five every day. If you’re working in a restaurant, bar, or even a clothes shop, your hours are going to (naturally!) differ.
The dreaded 9-to-5 is a myth to most hospitality workers. Image: Pexels
So, while people in offices might be out by 4 PM on a Thursday, the people working in late-night bars or coffee shops haven’t even clocked in yet.
The nature of hospitality and retail jobs is that they operate on a changing shift schedule.
In the office, you might be scheduled to work 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday every week, but in these industries, your roster can change from week to week.
In most cases, the normalised 9-to-5 is a myth to employees in these industries, but even if you’re new to the Netherlands, we expect you already know this. 😉
The Dutch and the four-day workweek
Ah, the much-rumoured four-day workweek. An item of jealousy across the world.
But, is it a made-up story fabricated to draw employees to the land of cheese, stroopwafels, and windmills? Or is it a real thing?
Well, we here at DutchReview can confirm that the four-day workweek is a real thing!
Four-day work week plus a longer weekend equals more sociable workers! Image: Pexels
Most of us work on a four-day-a-week basis, and we even have a hybrid working policy. That means we work some days in the office and some days from home!
And we’re not alone in this: while it’s not completely universal, many companies in the Netherlands are now offering a four-day workweek to their employees.
Benefits of the four-day workweek: less work, more play
Why do we work like this? It’s easy. Say hello to a longer weekend and pumped-up, energised writers. 🥂
And we have the receipts to prove it!
According to 2023 research by the Christian National Trade Union Federation (CNV), more than 1 in 5 workers in the Netherlands face burnout due to work stress and overworking.
This increased burnout is a big reason behind practices such as the four-day workweek.
With fewer hours, employees would have more time to rest (😴), which means they come into the office ready and excited for the week ahead!
Less stress, more success
Fewer hours with less stressed employees means a higher productivity rate.
Many companies in the Netherlands have tried and tested this theory, including healthcare platform LUSCII.
When trying out the reduced work week, “productivity went up by 15 to 20%,” LUSCIIfounder Daan Dohmen tells EenVandaag.
With more time off, the Dutch have the chance to sit back, relax, and enjoy family life. Image: Unsplash
“When we started, we measured the results for 12 weeks. We saw that people were very happy and satisfied. Sickness absence decreased,” Dohmen explains.
Now, they are “happier and more productive than ever” — relatable, Daan!
With such a huge difference in productivity levels, as well as general enthusiasm from employees, it won’t be long until more and more Dutch companies hop on this practice, too!
Countries that offer the four-day workweek
In February 2022, Belgium introduced a new policy that allowed workers to be entitled to a four-day workweek.
COVID-19 changed the way the Dutch (and countries all over the world!) treat remote work
Due to increased awareness of possible health concerns, the Netherlands went into a country-wide lockdown — but the work didn’t stop.
Hundreds of companies moved to remote work in 2020. Now, many of these have kept remote working or hybrid work policies.
This is nothing new to Dutch people, seeing as there have been policy plans for years allowing employees to request to work from home.
Plus, the Dutch seem to really enjoy working from home.
According to a 2020 survey, 60.8% of remote employees considered themselves satisfied with their experience working from the comfort of their home office (or sofa).
How did this affect the Dutch 9-to-5?
Remote work, or hybrid work, also redefines the idea of the usual 9-to-5.
Though you might be technically working from 9 AM to 5 PM, working from home cuts out the dreaded commute from home to the office, making it that much more bearable.
Love working from the comfort of your couch? With the Netherlands’ remote-friendly work culture, you needn’t drag yourself into an office. Image: Freepik
Roll right out of bed and into your office (which is not-so-secretly also your bed 🛌💤) and enjoy all the wonders of working from home.
Be ready to constantly ask yourself questions like “what will I make for lunch today?” and “why are my neighbours always staring at me?”
So, is the 9-to-5 dead in the Netherlands?
The unfortunate answer is no, the 9-to-5 is not dead.
While the four-day workweek and availability for remote work are becoming more and more popular, that doesn’t mean that the 9-to-5 is completely gone.
Most job postings out there still ask for employees to work on a full-time basis of 36-40 hours per week, and, though it’s nice to think our average 28.3-hour work week is the same across the board, this isn’t always the case.
It’s also important to take into account that almost half of those registered as employed in the Netherlands work part-time. That’s 4.5 million people!
So, with so many people working only part-time, that’s sure to throw statistics off a little bit. As the Dutch say, helaas pindakaas.
That being said, the typical dreary nine-to-five is definitely on the way out. With an increased opportunity to personalise working hours and better working conditions, people have more and more options.
Do you think the 9-to-5 in the Netherlands is dead? Let us know in the comments below!
“Why are there three Xs on Amsterdam’s flag?” And “What do they mean?” If you live in Amsterdam, like me, you’ve probably had visitors ask these questions multiple times.
You can’t blame them, the place does have a reputation.
Even before tourists get here, they’re already thinking about a certain area of town. You know it, it’s the one with a red glow and people practising the world’s oldest profession. ❌❌❌
Interestingly, the flag isn’t just a depiction of the triple-X entertainment that Amsterdam usually has to offer. Instead, it’s the official symbol of the Dutch capital.
What does the Amsterdam flag look like?
Just in case you’re not familiar with the flag, let’s have a look. It has three horizontal stripes — red, black, and red. The black one is slightly thinner, and it has three white Xs in it.
The Amsterdam flag is very distinctive. Image: Unknown/Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain
Why does Amsterdam’s flag have three crosses?
Depending on whether you have the maturity level of a teenager or not, I have some good news (or bad news): those Xs find their origins in Christianity.
That’s right, the XXX on Amsterdam’s flag is actually representative of St. Andrew’s three crosses, one of Jesus’ apostles, who was crucified on an X-shaped cross.
St. Andrew also used to be a fisherman, that is, during the first century AD. But, it’s interesting to know that, back in 1505, when Amsterdam was a renowned fishing town, all the registered ships that sailed around Amsterdam had this flag hanging on from their boats. 🛶
Unlike what many people may think, it’s actually just a funny (or unfortunate) coincidence that the Amsterdam flag’s triple X symbol is the same as, well, adult entertainment. The flag’s symbols have nothing to do with sex.
Where do the three Xs on the Amsterdam flag come from?
As cool as the flag looks on its own, it doesn’t usually stand on its own. In reality, it’s borrowed from the city’s coat of arms, where the popular red flag rests as the centrepiece.
A common legend about the flag is that the three crosses represent fire, floods, and the black plague. Why? Those are precisely the problems that Amsterdammers had to deal with a little too often back in the day, unfortunately.
But, that theory isn’t true either. 🤷♀️
The meaning and symbolism of the coat of arms symbol are actually still unknown. 🤫
Why are there three crosses everywhere in Amsterdam?
Another thing any visitor to Amsterdam will notice is that the iconic XXX symbol is plastered across nearly every surface in Amsterdam.
Those crosses aren’t just on the flag. They’re carved into the bricks on buildings and sticking out of the little poles that keep cars off the sidewalk. They’re printed on bus stops, museum signs, and even on official letters.
And, they’re also in every single tourist shop, in the “things you don’t need” section (but will probably buy anyway). 🛍
Although I am not a mom (yet), I have always wanted to be one. As I already hear the tick-tock of my biological clock, I cannot think of a better place to raise my future baby than in the Netherlands.
In honour of Mother’s Day, here are the seven reasons why I would want to be a mom in the Netherlands.
1. Happiness of Dutch children
As we already know, Dutch kids and Dutch moms are the happiest.
That’s promising for both me and my kid(s) — and by proxy, my husband, who would be surrounded by me and a possible horde of little gremlins.
Even though our kid would be a Canadian-American raised in the Netherlands, for the rest of this article, I’ll refer to them as a Dutch kiddo.
Dutch kids are among the happiest children in the world. Image: Pexels
One must only watch the Lentekriebels episode from De Luizenmoeder to get a hilarious perspective on the debate about teaching kids about the birds and the bees, which should not be as controversial as they make it out to be in my home country, the USA.
Also, they can cycle around on their own when they’re old enough (that saves me from driving them everywhere in my future Prius).
Having said that, I do secretly look forward to cycling in a bakfiets with a kid or two. How gezellig.
3. Children learn multiple languages in the Netherlands
My Dutch kid would learn a gazillion languages. Okay, well, maybe not a gazillion.
However, there are more than 7,000 living languagesin the world, with 23 of them accounting for more than half of the world’s population.
So even if they learned just three of them (English, Dutch, and maybe French —my husband’s mother tongue), they’d be good to go.
Besides, for Europeans, multilingualism is standard in many places, especially for younger generations, not just another set of job skills to develop.
Brainiac child with an all-natural, organically-cultivated, enhanced IQ? Why not?
4. Education in the Netherlands
My Dutch kid would be able to get a college degree without being crushed under the burden of a student loan, as they would have, if I were to raise them in the US.
With tuition fees in the Netherlands being a bit more than €2,000 annually, I wouldn’t need to save tens of thousands of US dollars per year. My plan to pay for my future kiddo’s higher education is therefore greatly simplified — and doesn’t have to start pre-conception.
Affordable tuition fees AND a lot of universities to choose from… Need I say more? Image: Depositphotos
Naturally, the trade-off is that I’m paying higher income tax, but that’s another story.
I could also do what some Dutch (and American) parents do and let my kids figure it out on their own: take on a student loan and get a job, as many young adult Dutchies do.
5. Dutch children are healthier
My Dutch kid would probably not need to consume even half the amount of antibiotics that I did growing up.
Why, you ask? Dutch doctors are notoriously stingy in prescribing antibiotics, prescribing the fewest antibiotics of all countries in the European Union.
By the way, before their 18th birthday, there is no premium to pay for that sniffling kid to have standard health insurance and dental care.
6. Dutch children are tough cookies
As a follow-up to number five, my Dutch kid would grow up tough-as-nails.
A Dutch friend recently told me she got a nasty gash on her leg during an obstacle course, which required a visit to spoedeisende hulp (SEH, or the emergency room) for some stitches.
In the Netherlands, if you need stitches, no biggie. Depositphotos.
And it was no big deal at all. She got the stitches with zero anaesthesia.
Okay, so don’t quote me on this, but in America, I would get sued for child abuse for letting my kid get stitches without any anaesthetic. Plus, I would ask for the lidocaine myself.
But wow, I was definitely shocked and mildly impressed.
7. Health care in the Netherlands
Finally, let’s say that in seeking an older first-timer pregnancy status, I encounter fertility problems. Thankfully, I would not need to shell out thousands of dollars for fertility care and treatment.
Fertility treatments are part of the Dutch standard health insurance package, with some eigen risicoor co-payment needed, which is far less than in the US.
Maternity care is part of a standard health insurance package. Image: Depositphotos
When the time comes for maternity care, midwifery services, and then popping that baby out of the womb and into the world (birth care), these services are also part of the standard insurance package.
So, Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms and moms-to-be, for when you give birth to a Dutch-born kid who is happier, more independent, smarter, tougher, and more insured against a lot of health issues.
Would you want to be a mom in the Netherlands? Let us know in the comments below!
Health authorities are monitoring around 60 people for potential exposure to the Andes virus (a variant of the hantavirus) after a Dutch woman who died of the disease was briefly aboard a KLM flight to Amsterdam.
The 69-year-old woman was removed from KLM flight KL592, en route to Amsterdam from Johannesburg, on April 25 after the crew determined she was too ill to fly. Sadly, she died in a Johannesburg hospital the following day.
Now, a contact tracing investigation is being led by the GGD Kennemerland, the regional public health service covering the area around Schiphol.
Who is being monitored (and how)?
GGD Kennemerland has divided passengers into three groups based on proximity to the woman.
The five people who had direct, intensive contact with her (including the flight attendant who assisted her) are being actively monitored by the GGD with daily calls. Their condition will be monitored until June 1.
Group two consists of about 50 passengers who were seated in the same row as the woman or in the two rows directly in front of or behind her. They have been asked to watch for symptoms until June 1 and to contact their local GGD if any develop.
Everyone else on the plane is not considered to be at risk. Passengers on connecting flights are being informed separately by the RIVM (Dutch Health Institute).
If you were in one of the monitored groups and are feeling unwell, please contact your huisarts (GP) or local GGD.
According to the RIVM, two results have come back negative, while the third is still being analysed. All three continue to be monitored by the GGD.
Meanwhile, the WHO has now confirmed five cases linked to the outbreak on board the cruise ship MV Hondius, three of whom have died — including two Dutch nationals.
Have you ever struggled to impress your friends that Dutch culture goes far beyond a love of kaas and broodjes? Fear no more, this expat’s viral videos perfectly encapsulate the Dutchies’ weird and wonderful cultural quirks.
Claudia Arroyo originally comes from Peru, but as her TikTok videos will tell you, she fell for a Dutchie like many of us expats.
Life as a lovepat and mother in the Netherlands certainly has its challenges.
Thankfully, Claudia has risen to them, and she has shared some of her hilarious observations with the world along the way. 👇
As with anyone’s TikTok profile, there’s a lot to unpack when you visit Claudia’s page — but let’s start with some interesting Dutch obsessions she’s noticed…
The Dutch obsession with Buienradar…
I’m glad I’m not only confused by the Dutch’s unyielding trust in this rain radar app.
For example, anyone who has been living in the Netherlands for some time either has heard of (and maybe even experienced — if so, we’re so sorry) the anxiety-inducing circle of death at Dutch birthday parties…
Even more obscure is the Dutch toilet calendar. Is this a thing? Honestly, it doesn’t surprise me when you consider how closely some Dutchies cling to their agendas.
With all that scheduling, it’s probably best to keep yourself and others updated on future business whilst attending to, ahem, toilet business.
While expats certainly experience the Netherlands in different ways, I think there is one aspect of Dutch culture that we all collectively struggle with — is it “de” or “het“????
Some wholesome takes
While Claudia enjoys poking fun at Dutchies, you can also see from her videos that she loves her life as an international in the Netherlands.
The D66 party headquarters in The Hague was targeted with a firework bomb late last night, leaving the building on Lange Houtstraat visibly damaged.
No one was injured, despite around thirty people being inside at the time, and police have since arrested a suspect, reports RTL Nieuws.
Those present were members of the party’s youth branch, the Jonge Democraten (Young Democrats). They escaped through a rear emergency exit.
‘A cowardly act of intimidation’
Prime Minister and D66 leader Rob Jetten described the attack in an X post as “a cowardly act of intimidation,” adding that a democratic society “will never allow itself to be silenced by violence.”
Een vuurwerkbom door de brievenbus van het partijbureau van D66. Een laffe daad van intimidatie. Voor wie denkt angst aan te kunnen jagen, heb ik een boodschap: wij laten ons in democratisch Nederland nooit het zwijgen opleggen door geweld. Veel dank aan politie en brandweer voor… https://t.co/F9DMMtQ5Td
Translation: A firework bomb was thrown through the letterbox of the D66 party office. A cowardly act of intimidation. To those who think they can instil fear, I have a message: in a democratic country like the Netherlands, we will never allow violence to silence us. Many thanks to the police and fire service for their swift response.
Mayor of The Hague Jan van Zanen called the violence “unacceptable,” saying that “in a democracy, you disagree with words.” He said he was in touch with both Jetten and parliamentary leader Paternotte in the wake of the attack, RTL Nieuws reports.
The Lange Houtstraat office has been targeted before. Last autumn’s far-right riots (triggered by a demonstration on the Malieveld) left the building with smashed windows and €34,000 in damage.
Speaking on the television program Pauw & De Wit, Minister of Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation Sjoerd Sjoerdsma, D66, described the latest perpetrators as “scum of the earth.”
At this time, the police have confirmed one arrest, and the investigation is ongoing.
What are your thoughts on this latest political violence in the Netherlands? Share your thoughts below.
Ah, The Hague. The international city of peace and justice, home to many international institutions, and the seat of the Dutch government.
Already falling asleep? Us too! Instead, here are seven things about The Hague that you (probably) didn’t know! 👇
1. The Hague is tackling food waste in a big way
Food waste is a significant environmental issue. Over 88 million tons of food waste is generated in Europe each year. Nifty businesses in The Hague are finding cool ways to deal with this.
For example, the Conscious Kitchen prepares delicious vegan dinners each Thursday using leftover vegetables from the Hague Market.
Meanwhile, Lekkernassuh (Hagenees for “yummy food”) allows you to order a box of fresh veggies from local providers weekly. The provider only orders the amount people request in advance.
2. The Haagse Bos was used to launch rockets during WWII
During World War II, the Germans used Haagse Bos (Hague Forest) to launch their V-1 and V-2 rockets. The Allies tried to bomb it during the war, but accidentally hit the nearby Bezuidenhout district.
The bos has an interesting history in other ways: its name gave rise to the word “Holland.”
It was originally called “Die Hout, ” which later changed to “Houtland,” a name that, as you can see, could (and did) easily morph into “Holland.”
The forest also escaped being completely cut down during the French occupation in the 19th century.
3. Nobody knows if it’s a university city by now
Leiden University says The Hague is the Netherlands’ fastest-growing student city. Before the arrival of Leiden University’s “The Hague Campus” in 2010, Den Haag was home only to the The Hague University of Applied Sciences (Haagse Hogeschool).
Is it still Leiden University if it’s in The Hague? Image: Depositphotos
Each year, more and more students arrive in The Hague, particularly from outside the Netherlands.
While there are downsides to this (housing is pretty difficult to find), international students bring more life to a traditionally suits-and-skyscrapers city.
4. The Hague has some awesome vintage stores
Possibly due to the increasing number of fashionable-but-poor students arriving in the city, The Hague has a wide selection of vintage and second-hand stores.
With clothes dating back to the ’40s and ’90s, The Hague could bring your Pinterest board to life. All while reducing the demand for fast fashion (talk about a win-win).
Our favourites include Vintage Island on the beautiful Korte Poten and Rejoes, next to Grote Markt.
Plus, there’s no better way to explore the city than to wander from shop to shop. Some stores will even have furniture, second-hand books, or records to peruse.
5. Scheveningen isn’t the only beach in The Hague
Everyone has heard of Scheveningen, which is fair enough; it’s a super cute part of the city right by the sea. But there are two other equally gorgeous beaches in The Hague. In my opinion, both are slightly better than Scheveningen for a couple of reasons.
Zuiderstrand is breathtakingly beautiful. As you cycle up to it, you pass dunes covered in wild roses during the summer. It’s also emptier than Scheveningen, even on the hottest days of the year.
A beautiful sunset at Kijkduin. Image: Prasenberg/Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain
Then there’s Kijkduin. It is much smaller than Scheveningen, but with an awesome selection of shops and restaurants lining its shore. And, as the name would suggest, it is surrounded by gorgeous dunes.
6. It has a lot of amazing street art
Street art is probably the last thing you’d expect to find in this city.
In the centre, The Hague is perfectly manicured, buttoned up, and well-tamed by the municipality. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t amazing murals in other parts of the city to enjoy.
Thanks to investments by Aight, a non-profit that aims to work with students and young people in The Hague to improve social cohesion, there has been a huge increase in street art in recent years.
You can check out their projects on their website. Sometimes, they even organise guided tours!
7. You can watch live hearings in The Hague’s courts
We all know The Hague is known as the International City of Peace and Justice, but did you know that you can watch hearings in both the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court?
Both are open to the public, unless a judge orders a closed hearing, which is almost always the case.
The best part? You don’t need to register at all! You can arrive at a hearing, and if you’re early enough, it’s easy to secure a spot (it’s first-come, first-served).
Want to see more of The Hague, but you’re low on cash? Geen probleem! There is plenty to see in The Hague, entirely for free!
Did you know these things about The Hague? Let us know in the comments below!
Life in the Netherlands can be hectic and fast-paced — and navigating the daily hustle can be time-consuming. So, how can you make the most of your day and reclaim some of those precious moments?
These 7 time-saving hacks for life in the Netherlands can help!
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1. Use public transport apps 📲
Although the Dutch public transport system is known for its efficiency, it can sometimes (and by that I mean often) be a mess.
Workers go on strike; trains get geannulleerd (cancelled); buses are vertraagd (delayed) — you know the drill.
You find yourself standing on the platform, waiting for a ride that may never come, and wasting your valuable time. The solution? Handy-dandy Dutch public transport apps. 🪄
Save yourself a lot of time by keeping up with real-time public transport updates. Image: Depositphotos
Unlike trains, buses, and trams, apps like 9292 or NS Travel Planner are very reliable.
They give real-time updates on your bus, train, or tram, with information on delays, cancellations, and alternative routes. They also often pick up issues that aren’t flagged by Google Maps.
This allows you to plan your journey more efficiently, avoid unnecessary delays, and stop wasting time by waiting.
2. Order nutritious ready-made meals 🥗
I’ll make a confession here: I don’t like cooking.
It’s time-consuming, I’m not great at it, and the washing up takes me ages. So, what do I do? I eat bread for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s simple, but it’s not good for me. 👀
But there’s a solution for people like me: healthy, ready-made meal services.
Companies like Factor, HelloFresh, and Marley Spoon offer high-quality meals delivered to your doorstep — helping you save precious time on meal prep.
Good to know: Most major Dutch supermarkets like Albert Heijn also offer grocery delivery, if you’d prefer meal-prepping yourself.
3. Swap out Netflix for Spotify 🎧
This point may come as a surprise, but don’t underestimate its efficiency!
Did you know that you can save a heck of a lot of time by switching from binge-watching series to binge-listening to podcasts?
Your favourite podcast can make that dreaded run a lot more fun. Image: Depositphotos
Yup, swapping out Netflix for Spotify can save time in your day-to-day life by allowing you to enjoy entertainment while accomplishing small tasks, turning downtime into a productive and enjoyable experience.
By combining productivity with enjoyment, you can “slaa twee vliegen in een klap” (kill two flies with one clap), as the Dutch like to say — and increase your overall productivity. Win-win!
4. Embrace Dutch cycling culture 🚲
Embracing the magic of your fiets (bike) is another great time-saving hack for your life in the Netherlands.
By immersing yourself in Dutch cycling culture, you’re not only integrating into society but also saving time, staying active, and getting some fresh air!
Cycling from door to door, from your flat to work, for example, eliminates the need for transfers, helps avoid getting stuck in traffic, and saves time wasted walking to and from public transport stops.
For example, on days when I feel lazy (or it’s pouring down rain), I take the bus to our cosy DutchReview office here in Leiden. Between walking to the bus stop, being stuck at red lights, and walking from the stop to the office, this can take around 20 minutes.
On days when I cycle, however, I can easily slash in half. *Checks Apple Watch*: when I bike, it takes me exactly 10 minutes and 9 seconds.
That’s 10 minutes saved — twice daily — and valuable time I can use to snooze a little longer in the morning. 😉
5. Hire a cleaning service 🧹
Have you ever heard the saying “cluttered house, cluttered mind”? Well, research shows it’s very true.
Neuroscientists have found that disorganisation in the home majorly affects our brains and can even cause a rise in our levels of cortisol, our stress hormone.
A messy flat can impact us when we work from home, for instance, but it also affects our overall mental well-being.
And yes, they’ll get all those spots you tend to forget about. 😉 Image: Depositphotos
So, why not clean up your home (and mind) by hiring a cleaning service?
Getting help from a cleaning service can eliminate stress, free up valuable leisure time and, of course, ensure a consistently tidy living space.
It’s a practical solution for those who prefer a clean home but have a busy schedule.
6. Negotiate your work conditions 🧑💻
Find that you’re wasting time and energy on your daily commute to the office? Talk to your boss!
It seems scary, we know, but working from home or flexible hours can eliminate commute time and allow you to structure your day to maximise productivity ( — and we’re sure your boss will be happy about that 😉).
Even if working from home is not the norm in your company, you have the right to request to work remotely on certain days with your employer.
Your request must be made in writing two months ahead of time, and can only be rejected for valid business-related reasons.
7. Automate regular purchases 🧻
In our modern day and age, we should use technology to our advantage! How? By letting it do our shopping.
Think about your home: what are some things you always need and run out of? For me, it’s toilet paper, my favourite cereal, and dish soap. For you, it may be cat food, eggs, and toothpaste.
With subscription services, you can automate some of your routine tasks — saving you precious time. Image: Magnific
Either way, the point is that you can save a lot of time by setting up subscriptions for certain things to make sure you’re always stocked.
This way, you save time at the supermarket while eliminating the worry about essential household items.
To automate your regular purchases, find out:
What you can automate and where (e.g. Amazon, your pet food supplier, etc.), and
How frequently you need different items restocked
On Amazon, for example, you can use the “Subscribe & Save” feature on eligible products. Select your preferred quantity and frequency, and you’re all set!
Whether it’s optimising your commute, outsourcing chores, or embracing the local culture, these time-saving hacks will help you reclaim precious time and simplify your daily routines. Will you try them?⌚️
Do you have any more tips for saving time in the Netherlands? Share them in the comments!
The first of two medical evacuation flights carrying patients from the hantavirus-stricken cruise ship MV Hondius has landed at Schiphol. At least one patient on board has been taken to Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC).
The flights transported a Dutchman (41), a British national (56), and a German (65). As well as two symptomatic crew members.
While both flights departed from Praia in Cape Verde, the first aircraft arrived at Schiphol on Wednesday evening. The second evacuation flight made an unscheduled stop in Gran Canaria, according to RTL Nieuws.
British man in Dutch hospital
The LUMC will not release any information about the patient it received. However, according to Sky News, a British man who worked as an expedition guide on the cruise ship is currently in isolation in a Dutch hospital.
“I have no idea how long I have to stay in the hospital,” he tells Sky News.
Meanwhile, the German patient has been sent to the UKD Academic Centre in Düsseldorf. This is according to the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which says it is also in contact with the UK government.
At the time of writing, the second flight carrying a third patient has yet to arrive at Schiphol.
Cruise ship heads to Tenerife
The MV Hondius has been anchored off the Cape Verde coast since Sunday, denied permission to dock by local authorities. At the WHO’s request, Spain agreed to take the vessel in, with the Canary Islands as the closest port of call.
Spanish Health Minister Mónica García announced the ship will dock at Granadilla port on Tenerife within three days.
Once the Hondius reaches Tenerife, all passengers on board will undergo a medical examination. Spanish nationals will then be flown to Madrid and placed in quarantine at a military facility.
Meanwhile, those from other countries who later develop symptoms will still be required to go into quarantine in Spain.
Are you following the MV Hondius situation? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Divorce in the Netherlands can put expats in a tricky and unknown territory. However, it’s good to know that you’re not alone — and that you have come to the right place.
From understanding the key principles of Dutch divorce laws to discussing residency requirements, the divorce proceedings, financial aspects, and alternatives, we’re here to guide you through the steps.
Getting a divorce as an international in the Netherlands
First things first, let us tell you that the fact that you are getting a divorce as an international should have no effect on your divorce proceedings.
As long as the Dutch courts have jurisdiction (more on this below), you will have the same rights as any Dutch citizen.
Yes, the divorce could affect your residency permit in the Netherlands (more on this below). However, the bottom line is that you should still receive the same treatment as any Dutchie while going through divorce proceedings.
I want a professional, now what? Now it’s time to find experts in divorce in the Netherlands who know the complexities of an international divorce. GMW lawyers are here to specifically fill this role. They know Dutch law — and they also know how it affects internationals.
You can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that a divorce in the Netherlands doesn’t play the blame game.
That’s because Dutch law considers an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage as grounds for divorce.
Getting a divorce as an international in the Netherlands may seem confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. Image: Freepik
Basically, if a relationship has been permanently disrupted, the judge will, in principle, pronounce the divorce. There’s no need to throw accusations at one another and air out dirty laundry: simply say, “It’s not working,” and the Dutch law will take your word for it.
It’s a more humane approach that acknowledges the complexities of relationships, making the Netherlands a good country to untie the knot.
Different ways of divorcing in the Netherlands
When you and/or your partner opt for a divorce, you need to decide together how you should approach it. Can the two of you tackle this breakdown of the marriage side by side? Or will you be coming at it from different angles?
Your answer will determine which route to divorce you will take.
Perhaps the most favourable option is a joint divorce. In a joint divorce, you both share an attorney or (attorney)-mediator. They will help the two of you reach an agreement together.
If approaching the divorce together isn’t an option, you and your partner can opt for separate attorneys. In consultation with the two of you, your attorneys will try to reach a mutualagreement about the specifics of the divorce.
If an agreement between your two attorneys isn’t possible from across the table, then it’s time to take the divorce to court. The court will then decide how the divorce should be carried out.
Good to know: In the Netherlands, it is an obligation to have either a shared attorney or separate attorneys when your divorce is taken to the Dutch court.
Embracing mediation for a smooth divorce in the Netherlands
M is for marriage — but when it comes to your divorce, it’s also for mediation.
The emotions involved in getting a divorce can be messy, and even when you have the best intentions, it can be hard for negotiations not to get heated.
In the Netherlands, there are different ways of divorcing. Image: Freepik
This is why you should opt to get a mediator involved. This process involves a neutral third party — the mediator — who helps you and your partner find a mutually beneficial resolution to your issues.
Getting a mediator is a way to keep the conversation civil, reduce conflict, and lay the groundwork for a positive post-divorce relationship (which is especially crucial when kids are involved.)
When can you divorce in the Netherlands?
With the above in mind, let’s answer the simple question: when can you get a divorce in the Netherlands as an international?
In short, a link with the Netherlands is needed in order for the Dutch court to have jurisdiction.
This link with the Netherlands could be, for example, that you and/or your spouse have Dutch nationality or that you and/or your spouse live in the Netherlands.
Can internationals get a divorce in the Netherlands? Yes! If they meet certain requirements. Image: Freepik
Having lived in the Netherlands in the past or merely being married in the Netherlands with no other link to the Netherlands is insufficient for the Dutch court to have jurisdiction over the divorce.
In need of a legal expert? GMW lawyers are experts in family and divorce law. They’ll navigate you through the Dutch divorce process with care, attention, and expert advice for your personal situation. Learn more.
If you are legally married
This one is quite self-explanatory, but yes, you have to be legally married in order to get a divorce.
It doesn’t count if you dressed your golden retriever as a wedding officiant, gave each other a kiss, and then all danced around the garden.
Unless you’ve signed all the papers and dotted all the i’s, you’re not legally married, and a divorce cannot be carried out.
Mastering the divorce procedure in the Netherlands
It doesn’t matter if this is your first divorce or your seventh. No matter what your experience, you’re going to need the experts involved in order to tackle divorce in the Netherlands — but don’t stress.
Filing for divorce in the Netherlands
First things first, you’ve got to officially file the paperwork. Getting started with a divorce in the Netherlands might seem intimidating, but fear not! Your attorney will submit a petition to the District Court on your behalf.
If both parties are on the same page, a joint application is highly recommended as it simplifies the procedure.
It’s best to get an expert involved when you are going through a divorce in the Netherlands. Image: Freepik
Mediation and settlement
Once you have both agreed to a joint application (or perhaps you haven’t), it’s time to call on your mediator.
The mediation process can be an invaluable tool during your divorce in the Netherlands. It’s a chance to discuss and resolve issues privately, reducing potential conflicts and fostering a collaborative environment.
Through mediation, you and your partner can tackle the stickier stuff involved in a separation.
Covering everything from asset division to child custody, a mediator can help the two of you reach a settlement agreement in a less confrontational setting.
Navigating the (financial) aspects of divorce in the Netherlands
If there’s one huge element in divorce, it’s the (financial) issues that come along with it.
After years of marriage, who decides who gets that duck-shaped wine holder? Those porcelain cows? Or that broken-down bike?
More importantly, is there alimony involved? What happens with the care arrangements for the children? And do you have to divide the pensions that you accrued?
Perhaps the most difficult aspect of any divorce is making financial decisions. Image: Freepik
Before we look at this in more detail, it is good to know that every international divorce case is different. When you divorce in the Netherlands, the Dutch court does not apply Dutch law automatically.
Instead, the (international, European and/or national) treaties and laws determine what law the Dutch court needs to apply.
Did you live outside the Netherlands at the time of your marriage? For example, in Spain? The division of assets and debts may then have to take place under Spanish law in the Dutch courts.
An international divorce can get complicated, but the good news is that you do not have to find this out on your own. An international divorce attorney or mediator can help you with this.
GMW lawyers are experts in family and divorce law. They’ll guide you through the Dutch divorce process with care and can offer expert advice for your personal situation. Find out more.
Property division in a divorce in the Netherlands
When Dutch law applies to the property division, it is usually the case that you enter into what is known as a ‘limited community of property system’ (beperkte gemeenschap van goederen). This is true unless you arranged a prenuptial agreement before or during the marriage.
However, how the community of property is applied may still vary depending on factors such as when you were married.
Married before January 1, 2018: You likely fall under community of property, meaning almost all assets and debts — whether acquired before or during the marriage — are considered joint property unless a prenuptial agreement states otherwise.
Married on or after January 1, 2018: The limited community of property applies, meaning only assets and debts acquired during the marriage are shared. Inheritances and gifts generally remain personal property unless they were mixed with joint assets.
Alimony in the Netherlands: what you need to know
Much like property division, when it comes to alimony in the Netherlands, there are a number of variables that will determine how it is applied in your personal situation.
In the case where Dutch law is applicable, the court will examine whether alimony is needed. If it is, which type of alimony should it be? For example, partner alimony and/or child alimony.
Whether or not you receive these is determined by aspects such as your child’s age.
Pensions and retirement funds: planning for the future post-divorce
If the question of your pension does fall under Dutch jurisdiction and Dutch law is applicable, then something called pensioenverevening is applied.
This translates to pension equalisation and essentially means that any pension built up during the marriage will be split into two equal parts.
However, when it comes to international couples, there can be some complications.
Waarom? Because you may have accrued your pension through an international company — and foreign pension funds do not always recognise the Dutch court’s rulings.
How much does a divorce cost in the Netherlands?
Of course, one financial aspect of getting a divorce in the Netherlands is the cost of the divorce itself.
These costs will depend on the complexity of your situation and whether you have your own business, home and/or children involved.
On average, a divorce in the Netherlands costs somewhere between €2,000 and €4,000. However, the more complex the relationship, the more expensive the divorce.
In the Netherlands, divorce costs are typically shared between spouses, but the exact distribution depends on the circumstances and agreements between the parties.
Addressing child-related matters in a divorce in the Netherlands
More important than the assets are any children involved. In the Netherlands, children’s best interests are paramount in any divorce proceeding. Let’s look into this in more detail.
If your situation falls under Dutch jurisdiction and Dutch law, this is how the child-related matters of your divorce will be handled:
Parenting plan: a roadmap for your kids’ future
Since 2009, the Dutch divorce process must include the submission of a parenting plan (ouderschapsplan) for those with children.
Your parenting plan will outline how you and your ex-partner will handle key decisions about your child’s upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and other important areas.
The child comes first when you get a divorce in the Netherlands. Image: Freepik
This a way to ensure your children continue to receive love and support from both parents without putting them in the middle of future disagreements.
Parental authority when getting a divorce in the Netherlands
Speaking of both parents, the Dutch courts often favour shared parental authority.
This means that even after divorce, both parents are responsible for matters involving the child, such as education and the managing of the child’s assets.
When parents divorce, they can make a contact arrangement as to when the child spends time with one parent or the other.
Child support in the Netherlands: ensuring the well-being of the children
In the Netherlands, child support, or child maintenance (kinderalimentatie), as the Dutch call it, is determined using a specific formula that, among other things, takes into consideration the child’s age, the contact arrangement, the parent’s income, and the cost of care.
It may also take into account any exceptional costs, such as the costs of enrollment in an international school. However, this is not guaranteed.
It’s designed to cover all the child’s basic needs, ensuring they can continue to live a life as uninterrupted as possible.
Child support is paid until the child reaches the age of 21.
If a parent fails to pay? Well, then the Landelijk Bureau Inning Onderhoudsbijdragen (National Maintenance Collection Agency) will be sent to collect — so no parent is left alone to tackle the financial burden.
Exploring alternatives: divorce isn’t the only option in the Netherlands
While you and your partner may be considering divorce, you should know it’s not the only option available. In the Netherlands, there are alternatives.
Considering legal separation as an alternative to divorce in the Netherlands
If you’re unsure about divorce, legal separation might be an option worth exploring. These are technically possible in the Netherlands, but aren’t common.
A separation offers a chance to have some space, which can sometimes bring clarity.
Divorce isn’t always the answer, sometimes it’s best to consider other routes. Image: Freepik
It’s also a good alternative if you can’t divorce because of your religion.
However, it’s worth noting that if you opt for a legal separation, you’re still going to have to do some bureaucratic heavy lifting.
In the Netherlands, a legal separation requires that you settle all the same topics you would encounter when getting a divorce.
Opting for dissolution of marriage in the Netherlands
After a three-year separation, dissolution of marriage can be a gentler way to end your relationship in the Netherlands. It’s like the quiet fade-out at the end of a song rather than an abrupt stop.
Staying in the Netherlands after a divorce
After a divorce in the Netherlands, your residence permit status depends on the type of permit you hold. If it is based on your marriage or partnership with a Dutch citizen or resident, you’ll lose your right to stay in the country after the divorce — unless you qualify for a different type of residence permit.
It’s recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer to explore your options. These could involve applying for an independent residence permit based on work, study, or other grounds.
In certain cases, you may qualify for continued residence under special circumstances, such as if you have children with Dutch nationality, have experienced domestic violence, or would face hardship returning to your home country.
Your residence permit in the Netherlands could be impacted by a divorce. Image: Depositphotos
If there is a child involved, the IND may also allow you to stay if it would be in the best interest of the child to remain in the Netherlands. This is especially true if the child attends school in the Netherlands or has strong ties to the country.
If you do not qualify for any of these alternative residence permits, the IND will send you a notice stating that your current permit will be revoked.
Finding help and support during your divorce in the Netherlands
Regardless of how fair or simple a divorce process is, it’s rarely an easy time in someone’s life.
For that reason, you should reach out for guidance, support and help from both your family and the experts who can make the transition run as smoothly as possible.
It’s important that you have support while going through divorce proceedings. Image: Freepik
The value of professional guidance during a divorce in the Netherlands
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Family law attorneys experienced in Dutch divorce law can be invaluable allies, ensuring your interests are protected and that you understand the process every step of the way.
Navigating a divorce in the Netherlands can seem daunting, but keep in mind that you’ve got the tools, the resources, and the strength to get through this.
Important Dutch terms when getting a divorce in the Netherlands
Navigating a divorce is enough stress in itself. Add to that the issue of a foreign language, and you can be left feeling overwhelmed.
Don’t fret, it can be done. Here are a few Dutch terms to understand while going through divorce proceedings.
Dutch 🇳🇱
English 🇬🇧
Scheiding
Divorce
Bemiddeling
Mediation
Advocaat
Attorney
Afscheiding
Separation
Rechtbank
Court
Alimentatie
Alimony
Echtscheidingsrecht
Divorce law
Gemeenschap van goederen
Community of property
Ouderschapsplan
Parenting plan
Kinderalimentatie
Child support
Bemiddelaar
Mediator
Partneralimentatie
Partner alimony
Pensioen
Pension
Huwelijkse voorwaarden
Prenuptial agreement
Have you gone through a divorce in the Netherlands? Share your experience in the comments below.
Divorce in the Netherlands: Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a divorce in the Netherlands?
The duration of a divorce in the Netherlands varies depending on the complexity of the case.
Generally, an uncontested divorce takes around three to six months, while a contested divorce may take more than a year due to legal procedures and negotiations.
How much does a divorce cost in the Netherlands?
The cost of a divorce in the Netherlands varies depending on factors like legal assistance, court fees, and potential additional expenses.
Consulting with an attorney can help you understand the specific costs involved in your situation.
Good to know! In the Netherlands, you can apply for legal aid if you are not financially able to fund divorce proceedings.
What is the divorce law in the Netherlands?
The divorce law in the Netherlands follows a “no-fault” principle, where neither party needs to prove fault or wrongdoing.
The law focuses on the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. It promotes mediation and encourages divorcing couples to reach agreements on matters like property division and child custody through negotiation.
How do I get a divorce in the Netherlands?
To initiate a divorce in the Netherlands, you need to file a divorce petition at the district court (rechtbank).
The process involves submitting necessary documents, such as a marriage certificate and a settlement agreement if you’ve reached one. It’s advisable to seek legal advice to ensure a smooth procedure.
How can I stay in the Netherlands after a divorce?
If you are a non-EU citizen and your residence in the Netherlands was dependent on your spouse’s visa, a divorce may affect your residency status.
You should consult with an immigration lawyer to explore options like applying for an independent residence permit based on work, study, or other grounds to stay in the country legally.
How does child custody work in the Netherlands?
In the Netherlands, child custody arrangements prioritise the child’s best interests. The standard practice is joint custody, where both parents share equal responsibility for the child’s upbringing.
However, if joint custody is not feasible or in the child’s best interest, one parent may be granted sole custody.
How does alimony work in the Netherlands?
In the Netherlands, alimony or spousal support is typically awarded when one spouse lacks sufficient income to support their living expenses.
The amount of alimony is determined on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as age, income and learning capacity. Both partners can agree on the amount, or in the absence of an agreement, a court will decide.
For expats facing a divorce in the Netherlands, it’s crucial to understand these financial obligations and perhaps consult with a family law attorney to navigate this aspect.
