The most cherished (and orange) day in the Netherlandsis coming up. But this year’s Koningsdag celebrations could look slightly… depleted. In some cities, major parties are being cancelled altogether.
On both King’s Day and King’s Night, many entrepreneurs who have previously hosted massive parties are calling it quits this year. 😔
“Not profitable”
Rising costs and stricter regulations are hitting King’s Day festivities hard, a survey from RTL Nieuws reveals.
Organisers are feeling the financial pressure to step up security measures, deck out expensive stages, plus book quality entertainment acts.
“We used to be able to do it with eight security guards, but now we need 26,” explains Kai Bertelmans, co-organiser of a large party on Almere’s Grote Markt.
Cancellations coming
It’s not just free events struggling — even those with an entrance fee are pulling the plug this year.
That’s the case for festivals in Rotterdam and Amsterdam, and you can expect downsized or cancelled events in cities like Den Bosch, Roermond and Hoorn too.
“It is not profitable. We have to pay extra, so we are stopping”, entrepreneur Otto van den Groenendaal admits.
Not all doom and gloom
Don’t throw away the orange outfit you’ve been planning the entire year just yet!
Plenty of parties are going ahead thanks to sponsors, volunteer teams and local enthusiasm. Some municipalities are even considering providing subsidies to help keep all parties alive.
And let’s be honest: this is King’s Day, after all. Even with fewer events, the chances of finding a wild, beer-fueled corner on the street is very likely. 🤪
What are your plans for King’s Day?Let us know in the comments below!
If you’re looking to up your financial game, there are plenty of digital banks in the Netherlands ripe for the picking.
Digital banking has changed the financial landscape, offering all kinds of convenient and innovative features — but choosing the best bank for you can be difficult.
We’ve tried and tested plenty of these banks, considering features such as global accessibility, money transfers, investment options, and savings accounts.
Here are the top digital banks in the Netherlands. 👇
This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement.
With services in English, an easy sign-up process, and sustainable banking options, bunq is arguably one of the most popular digital banks in the Netherlands.
We particularly liked having up to 25 accounts with separate Dutch IBANs, scheduling direct debits, and the Autosave feature, which rounds up payments into savings.
N26 is jam-packed with convenient features, like an intuitive mobile app for on-the-go banking, affordable monthly fees, and access to all these features from across the globe.
Making an international money transfer is a breeze without hidden costs or extra fees — handy if you have family or businesses abroad.
Revolut is another digital bank in the Netherlands that offers easy international transactions, free ATM withdrawals, and the best investment opportunities of any digital bank in the country.
Whilst the bank has a slightly higher monthly fee than its competitors, its multi-currency accounts and overall flexibility made up for it.
With a generous 2.25% interest rate and a range of powerful investment features, Trade Republic is also a stellar option for internationals who want to dip a toe in the world of stocks, ETFs, and crypto.
However, let op: Trade Republic doesn’t offer traditional banking services like making card payments or providing loans.
In addition to giving you access to soaring interest rates at banks across Europe, Raisin also offers you the freedom to shop around for banks that best suit your needs — with no registration required.
The only downside? Raisin only focuses on savings, so you won’t find any traditional banking services or investing opportunities here.
Openbank: Best for a traditional banking experience
OpenBank is a user-friendly digital bank in the Netherlands, giving customers access to cheap international transfers, high-interest savings, and diverse options for investment.
This all-digital bank has strong security measures and 24/7 support — ideal for internationals and expats who travel often and want to stay on top of their finances.
Consider digital banks with a strong track record of protecting customer data, using advanced security measures, and monitoring fraud to ensure your money and personal information are protected from any threats.
💸 Transaction fees
Transaction fees can significantly change your overall banking cost.
You’ll need to assess what transaction fees your digital bank charges and see whether important features like tap-to-pay are available. Image: Freepik
If you’re concerned about hidden costs and fees, consider digital banks in the Netherlands, which have transparent fee structures and low to no fees for common transactions like ATM withdrawals and bank transfers.
🌍 Global accessibility
Global accessibility is another important factor when choosing a digital bank in the Netherlands, especially if you travel frequently.
If you want to bank worldwide, choose a digital bank that allows you to access your accounts from anywhere and partners with international ATMs for each cash withdrawal.
🗺️ International money transfer availability
If you need to send or receive money internationally, consider a digital bank that supports international transfers with low fees and competitive exchange rates.
Some digital banks in the Netherlands specialise in international transfers and offer faster, more affordable transfer options than traditional banks.
💲 Access to multiple currencies
Similar to global accessibility and international money transfers, you may want a bank that offers access to multiple currencies.
In addition to determining how globally accessible your digital bank is, it’s important to find out if you’ll be able to open multi-currency accounts. Image: Freepik
A digital bank in the Netherlands that allows you to hold multiple currencies can help you avoid costly transaction and withdrawal fees, especially if you travel often.
☎️ 24-hour customer support
Having access to all-day customer support is a plus, whether it’s a problem with transactions, security, or withdrawals.
To reach customer support easily, look for a bank that provides round-the-clock support through different channels.
🏦 High interest on savings accounts
If you’re looking to save money for emergencies, retirement, or a rainy Dutch day, consider a digital bank with high interest rates on savings accounts.
Digital banks in the Netherlands offer different rates for fixed-rate and flexible savings accounts depending on your needs.
Ultimately, picking a digital bank in the Netherlands isn’t difficult if you know your needs and priorities. Now, get ready to open a bank account and make sure your finances are healthier than ever!
Do you have any tips for digital banking in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!
Best digital banks in the Netherlands: frequently asked questions
What is the best digital bank in the Netherlands?
Picking the best bank in the Netherlands can be a daunting task, but it depends on what you want from your digital bank.
Each one has different pros and cons, so consider which factors are important for you and pick accordingly.
We recommend bunq as the all-around digital bank in the Netherlands, as it has a combination of the most affordable monthly fees, savings account interest rates, banking services, and access to innovative features.
Do I need a BSN to open an account at a digital bank in the Netherlands?
It depends on the bank! For a traditional bank like ING, you need a BSN (burgerservicenummer or citizen service number).
Which digital bank in the Netherlands has the best interest rate on savings accounts?
Trade Republic currently offers 2.25% interest on deposit savings accounts. Raisin also offers access to banks with high-yield savings accounts across Europe.
Dutch digital bank bunq also offers 2.46% interest on savings accounts.
Can I bank in English in the Netherlands?
Yes, most digital (and traditional) banks in the Netherlands offer their services, customer support, and apps in English, which means you can still bank without worrying about the language barrier. Although, we certainly encourage learning Dutch anyway!
Prepaid SIMs offer affordability and a no-strings-attached approach to their data bundles — making them an excellent choice for internationals in the Netherlands.
With year-long contractual commitments and the steep prices of some SIM-only packages, getting a mobile data connection can be an utter headache for tourists and new residents to the Netherlands.
However, there’s a ray of light in the darkness: prepaid SIM cards. ✨
This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement.
First things first: What are prepaid SIMs?
Prepaid SIMs are physical or digital SIM cards that enable you to pay upfront for all the data, call minutes, and texts you use.
Whether you’re a heavy data user or just want to make a call now and then, prepaid offers you the most flexibility with packages. Image: Freepik
These SIMs are pay-as-you-go, making them perfect for tourists, temporary residents, and commitment-phobes, as no pesky, year-long contracts are required.
Best prepaid SIMs in the Netherlands
Ready to sample your own prepaid plan? We’ve tested the best, and found the most wallet-friendly and feature-packed prepaid SIMs on the Dutch market! 👇
Offering the most affordable prepaid SIMs on our list at just €5, Simyo punches well above its weight in terms of features.
You’ll benefit from unlimited calling, texting AND data options at your fingertips — all with access to KPN’s blazing-fast network (for a fraction of the price!).
With super-low calling/texting costs for 44 countries in their handy ‘All in International’ bundle, it’s no coincidence that Lebara is one of the most popular prepaid SIMs on offer at Dutch airports.
Even better? With plans like their 3+1 bundle, you can even get one month of data completely free!
Boasting one of the Netherlands’ fastest and most extensive mobile networks, KPN is a true heavyweight in terms of feature-packed prepaid bundles.
Whilst this is one of the more costly providers on our list, their wide range of monthly or daily data packages and ultra-reliable network more than justify the price.
Whether you’re keen on an unlimited data bundle or want the best of both worlds with calling minutes and messages too, the sky’s the limit with Odido’s range of flexible packages.
In addition to being valid throughout the EU, they offer combi bundles at various price points — ensuring you never overpay for the data you want.
If you’re looking to surf the web, play your favourite Spotify tunes, and maybe stream a show or two, Vodafone’s handy unlimited data bundles are right up your alley.
Despite their validity ranging from a single day to one week, they’re a stellar prepaid option for data-hungry travellers who don’t want unnecessary contracts or commitments.
Prepaid refers to prepaid mobile credit that a customer can buy and generally involves a monthly terminable SIM plan. Most prepaid credit comes in the form of call minutes, a set number of messages, and/or mobile data.
Great news for data-lovers: many prepaid providers offer unlimited data packages! Image: Depositphotos
SIM-only, on the other hand, involves signing up for a mobile subscription. In most cases, this will lock you into a contract for a year or two — though certain providers still offer a monthly terminable option (for an added fee!).
For users who’ll be spending a limited time in the Netherlands (or who simply don’t want to sign off on a year-long subscription without testing the product first), prepaid SIMs offer more flexibility.
With affordable prices and the ability to cancel your subscription monthly, prepaid SIMs are one of the best choices for internationals in the Netherlands.
Have you ever used a prepaid SIM plan in the Netherlands or abroad? Tell us all about your experiences in the comments below!
Prepaid SIM cards in the Netherlands: Frequently asked questions
With a lot of information and options to wade through, it’s only natural that you’d have a few questions. 🕵🏻♀️
How can I get a prepaid SIM in the Netherlands?
Dutch prepaid SIM cards can be bought at all mobile stores in the Netherlands. More conveniently, you can order SIM cards online and have them delivered to your new home or hotel.
In addition to this, prepaid SIM cards are often available at airports, by the checkout at many supermarkets, and several convenience stores/corner shops.
Can I get a Dutch SIM without a mobile plan?
It’s perfectly possible to buy a prepaid Dutch SIM card without needing to splurge on a full mobile data plan.
With a prepaid plan, however, you’ll be paying for 30 days’ worth of mobile data and call credit — instead of paying for a year’s subscription that renews monthly.
What’s the cheapest Dutch prepaid SIM card?
The cheapest prepaid SIM card on the Dutch market at the moment is offered by Simyo for €7.50.
With 500 MBs of mobile data and 75 minutes of call time, it’s a great starter package for internationals who want to get connected in a pinch.
Do Dutch mobile data providers offer prepaid SIM cards?
Several mobile data providers in the Netherlands offer prepaid SIM cards. These providers include KPN, Simyo, and Lebara.
Can I buy a SIM card in the supermarket in the Netherlands?
Yes, you can buy prepaid SIM cards from the most popular mobile data providers at various large supermarket chains in the Netherlands.
Typically, they can be found close to the checkout.
Can’t get enough of the Netherlands? Here’s a list of books based in the Netherlands that’ll take you on a journey of bikes, cobblestones, canals, and typisch Dutch houses.
The charming Dutch streets have inspired innumerable authors for decades.
Here are 11 tales of love and loss, pleasure and pain, and life and death that’ll make you laugh, cry, or maybe even inspire a trip. ✈️
1. Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier (1999)
A riveting read backed into many facets of Dutch culture and heritage. Image: DutchReview
Set in 17th-century Delft, US-British author Tracy Chevalier was so fascinated by Johannes Vermeer’s masterpiece, “Girl with a Pearl Earring”, that she filled in the blanks herself about the enigmatic girl in this enthralling work of historical fiction.
To financially support her family, young Griet is forced to work as a maid in the Vermeer household. Calm turns to storm: Griet is drawn into Vermeer’s personal world as his vengeful and jealous wife is offended by the painting of Griet wearing her pearl earrings.
Done reading and need more? The artwork is one of the most famous inhabitants of the Mauritshuis in The Hague and the book has even been made into a highly successful Hollywood film starring Scarlett Johanssen!
2. The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton (2014)
Burton’s thrilling story, with wonderful twists and turns, takes place in a very Dutch setting. Image: DutchReview
When British novelist Jessie Burton stumbled upon “The Miniaturist”, a doll’s house at Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum, it inspired a story of love and intrigue within the confining social hierarchy of the 17th-century Dutch capital.
When Petronella Oortman weds wealthy sugar merchant Johannes Brandt, he gifts her a beautifully carved doll’s house as a wedding present.
The Miniaturist, a mysterious man from the netherworld, secretively delivers tiny items to furnish Petronella’s little house. Except, why does he send pieces that she hasn’t asked for? And why do they predict the future?
The imaginative work was adapted for TV, and fans can also check out the sequel, “The House of Fortune” — which is just as addictive.
3. The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt (2013)
There’s a pattern emerging between great paintings inspiring wonderful Netherlands-set reads! Image: DutchReview
Dutch painter Carel Fabritius’ “The Goldfinch” (another masterpiece on display in The Hague’s Mauritshuis) provided US novelist Donna Tartt with the creative motivation for this thrilling portrayal of Amsterdam’s crime world.
This book based in the Netherlands follows the story of Theodore Decker, who, after surviving a bombing in New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art that killed his mother, steals “The Goldfinch” from the museum’s rubble.
What follows is a transatlantic chase as the painting passes from criminal hand to hand. 😲
Tartt takes the reader on a wonderfully colourful romp through the cobbled streets of Amsterdam — but the film, starring Ansel Elgort, offers an even greater imaginative visionary.
4. Tulip Fever by Deborah Moggach (1999)
A terrific tale dazzles among picturesque tulips. Image: DutchReview
British writer Deborah Moggach tells a lush, lyrical love story set in 1630s Amsterdam during the “Tulip Mania” period, when prices for the iconic Dutch flower reached staggering levels.
As the craze for colourful tulips rages, so does the desire of a young wife to escape her forced marriage.
The historical romantic drama comes complete with a tangled web of lies and secrecy, an extramarital affair and an elaborate plan for the lovers to elope and indulge their fantasies.
5. The Dinner by Herman Koch (2009)
Koch’s novel seems to gain relevance with each passing year… Image: DutchReview
How far would you go to protect your children from the rule of law? In this contemporary novel, that’s what Dutch author Herman Koch asks his readers to consider.
Over an exquisite five-course meal in an upmarket restaurant in Amsterdam, two families confront the consequences of a murder carried out by their two sons.
The novel brings the underbelly of Amsterdam society to the fore, revealing a city grappling with modern problems and raising important questions about the behaviour of the wealthy.
6. The Evenings by Gerard Reeve (1987)
It can get dark and gloomy on Dutch winter days, and this novel knows how to capture just that. Image: DutchReview
Cold winter nights in Amsterdam provided the creative inspiration for Gerard Reeve’s retelling of 10 evenings in a young man’s life.
Set shortly after World War Two, protagonist Frits van Egter fills the short, dark days between Christmas and New Year’s by wandering the streets of Amsterdam. Naturally, he indulges in gloomy thoughts about the future of his existence.
This dark-humoured homage to the Dutch capital leaves no room for positivity in Egter’s existentialist life. Critics adored the fact that nothing is off-limits in this story. You can also check out the film!
7. The Laws by Connie Palmen (1991)
The Laws is a unique tale of learning about the world and the self, in unconventional ways. Image: DutchReview
The Laws is an Amsterdam-based woman’s coming-of-age story.
This semi-autobiographical-turned-fiction book based in the Netherlands tells the story of Marie Deniet, a young philosophy student who fancies herself with seven much older men.
What do these unlikely suitors have in common? They’re all Dutch intellectuals.
Dutch author Palmen brings to life a rather unconventional love story that allows Marie to investigate the strengths and weaknesses of different fields of study as she tries to understand the world and herself.
8. The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank (1947)
Image: DutchReview
This list wouldn’t be complete without Anne Frank’s diary, the world-famous journal written by then-13-year-old Anne Frank, a German-born Jewish girl during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands.
Living in the secret annex of an old office building in Amsterdam, Anne Frank and her family must be quiet as mice so as not to let the Nazis know of their whereabouts.
Young Anne’s diary entries describe in heartbreaking detail her experience as she lived through this terrifying time and the eventual capture of her family by the Nazis.
Anne’s former house in Prinsengracht, the Anne Frank museum, is visited by around one million people each year.
9. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (2012)
If you didn’t read The Fault in Our Stars growing up, now is your time to catch up on a YA classic. Image: DutchReview
In this young adult fiction novel, two teenage cancer patients travel to Amsterdam in search of the elusive author (who wrote a story about a girl also suffering from cancer).
The close bond enjoyed by the two friends is celebrated throughout the novel, but when the author is finally found, the teenagers face an unexpected reality.
Despite the sad shadow cast throughout, the story received critical acclaim for teaching young people about dealing with love and loss. Both the novel and film remain classic titles for all ages to enjoy.
10. The Girl Who Got Revenge by Marnie Riches (2018)
This one kept us tense with suspense the whole way through! Image: DutchReview
Revenge is a dish best served cold — deathly cold, apparently.
British author Marnie Riches draws on her own time spent in the Netherlands to craft a fast-paced, highly suspenseful crime thriller set in and around Amsterdam.
Prepare for a truly nail-biting experience as the highly effective partnership of Inspector Van den Bergen and criminologist George Mackenzie delves into the murky world of human trafficking.
No spoilers, but expect to cling to the edge of your seat for this one. It will leave you wanting more, so luckily Riches has plenty crime thrillers out there for your enjoyment.
11. The Fall by Albert Camus (1957)
One of the most famous philosophical tales out there, and it’s set in Amsterdam (though not as you might expect). Image: DutchReview
The Fall is not a novel for the faint-hearted. In this thought-provoking work of philosophical fiction, French author Albert Camus describes the downfall of a judge, Jean-Baptiste Clamence.
The well-respected lawyer falls from grace from the heights of Parisian high society and descends into a void where self-hatred is his only company.
That’s where he finds himself wandering aimlessly through the rings of Amsterdam known as “the last circle of hell.”
The Amsterdam of The Fall is not the vibrant, friendly city we are used to reading about, but rather a cold, wet, hellish concrete jungle in which life is absurd and alienating.
If these books based in Amsterdam don’t spark your curiosity about the small land of canals, we don’t know what will. Happy reading! 📖
Which of these 11 books would you buy for your bookcase? Tell us in the comments below!
The backlash isn’t just from activists. Now, the Dutch party VVD wants the EU to punish U.S. firms, with Tesla in focus.
“It is good that the EU is hitting back strongly, with targeted counter-tariffs, for example against Teslas,” says VVD MP Roelien Kamminga.
Stuck in the past
What’s more, Tesla’s lineup is collecting dust. 💨
The once-dazzling Model S sold a total of four units in March. The Model X managed a measly six. As for the fabled “affordable Tesla”? Still just a bedtime story.
#Tesla’s sales in key European markets dropped for the third straight month in March. 🚗📉$TSLA
When life deals you a good hand (ahem, living in a luxe villa worth around a million), you might easily lose touch with reality. Not if you’re René and Helma Bos, though.
The couple are selling their stunning Zoetermeer home. Knowing just how bad the Dutch housing crisis is, they want to use this sale to help new home-buyers.
Dutch house of dreams
The Bos family home is a beautiful waterfront property with six bedrooms and its own boat in Zoetermeer, AD shares. 🤩
René bought the house mansion when he was just 28 (it was the 90s…). Not too shabby, right? The value estimates concur.
The Bos’s real estate agent listed the house on Funda for €925,000, while Funda places the upper limit at a whopping €1,061,000.
So, part of the profits of the Bos’s Zoetermeer property will be deposited into a fund to help home starters in the Netherlands.
“All those starters who can’t get started with their lives and The Hague doesn’t follow through,” says René, “That’s why we came up with the [initiative]. Because we believe in sharing.”
How does it work?
The Bos family will donate part of the earnings from the house sale: 10% of everything over the Funda estimate of €984,000, and every euro above the upper limit of €1,061,000.
The fund is meant for people aged 30 and over, who still live at home. It gives them a maximum rental contribution of €300 per month, for a maximum of one year.
The Bos family hopes others will join their initiative and donate to the fund. Dutch 30-year-olds living at home share this hope. 🙏
What do you think of the Bos family initiative? Let us know your thoughts!
An issue that I faced when moving within the Netherlands for the first time was that I suddenly landed in a room that was much smaller than my last.
I had the same number of winter coats and books, but about five square metres less to work with. Sounds familiar? After all, Dutch apartments have their pros, but spaciousness is usually not one of them.
On the other hand, there are people in your neighbourhood who face the opposite issue — extra room but nothing to do with it.
Now, there’s a solution for both of you: BuurBox, the service that connects verified people in need of storage with their neighbours who have some extra room.
Find a helping hand
Maybe you’re moving, maybe spring cleaning left you with a bunch of clutter you forgot you had, or maybe you transported your skiing equipment to the lowlands like the optimist you are. 😉
Whatever it is, extra storage room can come in handy. And if that storage room is affordable and within walking distance of your house? Even better.
Yep, this is your chance to finally get those holiday decorations out of your space! Image: Depositphotos
You can easily request storage on BuurBox by listing the products you’d like to store and your monthly budget.
BuurBox will then match you with a verified neighbour in your area who can store your belongings and negotiate the best price for you.
Afterwards, you’ll get your storage options sent to you and can arrange to meet your potential host. If it’s a match, great! Now, your final step is to drop off your belongings.
📦 Storing bigger things? Geen probleem, you can count on BuurBox for free pick-up and drop-off services.
A sustainable and safe solution
BuurBox isn’t just cheaper than self-storage; it also gives the tedious task of decluttering a personal edge by connecting you to someone from your community.
To ensure safety, BuurBox meets all potential hosts, checks their space, and provides a property protection fund of up to €10,000. So no, your life-size Pitbull cardboard cutout isn’t going to any shady characters. 😌
Even better, by using this service, you’re not only helping yourself by living in a more organised space, you’re also helping the environment. How so? Because BuurBox doesn’t construct any new storage facilities but only uses already existing under-utilised spaces.
Extra room means extra bucks
If you’re the proud owner of one of those under-utilised (or even empty) spaces and have no idea what to do with it, might we suggest being a helpful neighbour while also making some money?
Whether it’s a whole attic, a garage, or just an empty closet or shed, you likely have more storage space to offer than you think.
What a lovely empty closet! If only there was a way to fill it up… 👀 Image: Depositphotos
If you’re ready to go for it, all you’ll have to do is describe your space on BuurBox and set a desired price. After that, you’ll get matched with a neighbour, and if you like what you see, you can arrange a meetup.
To make the process as easy for you as possible, BuurBox creates digital rental contracts and manages payment collection, ensuring you get your money straight to your bank hassle-free.
So, if you were looking for a way to fill up your empty space, or finally get rid of all those cardboard boxes you have crammed in the living room, now’s your chance!
Would you try BuurBox? Let us know in the comments!
The most noticeable thing about living in the Netherlands is how tall everyone is. It’s normal to walk around the Netherlands and see many Dutchies who have the height potential to be great basketball players or supermodels.
If you’re used to being the tall one in your friend group back home, don’t get too cocky — here, you’ll be looking up. Way up. 🦒
Well, not exactly. But hey, you can have kids with a Dutchie and pass those long-legged genes along.
Or, if you’re looking for a quicker fix, there’s always the classic hack: platform shoes. No judgment — we’ve all wanted to reach the top shelf without scaling a kitchen cabinet.
What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below! 👇
Considering the minimum wage in the Netherlands and how your potential salary compares is essential before you accept a job offer in the Netherlands.
But first, you have to know what minimum wage is, how it works, and if it’s even enough for you.
I’ve worked since arriving in the Netherlands at the start of 2023 and have done the research so you can easily understand how minimum wage in the Netherlands works.
Here’s the quick guide to the Dutch minimum wage in 2025.
Minimum wage in the Netherlands as of January 1, 2025
The Dutch government re-evaluates and adjusts the minimum wage every six months, on January 1 and July 1.
Here’s the gross minimum wage of the Netherlands as of January 1, 2025. 👇
Age (years)
Minimum wage per hour
21 and older
€14.06
20
€11.25
19
€8.44
18
€7.03
17
€5.55
16
€4.85
15
€4.22
Up until January 1, 2024, the Dutch minimum wage was based on a month, week, or year amount.
However, as of 2024, the Dutch government switched to an hourly minimum wage. This made it simpler to calculate and fairer for employees who, depending on their industry, worked between 36 and 40 hours per week for the same monthly wage.
Minimum wage for the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa
If you are a Highly Skilled Migrant who is living and working in the Netherlands, you get a stack of benefits — including your salary.
While the Netherlands also has the third-highest minimum wage in Europe, some things can be confusing to understand about wages.
Many people in the Netherlands have shorter work weeks. Image: Freepik
Although the Dutch government now states minimum wage per hour, most employment contracts will state your monthly salary. You’ll need to divide your monthly salary but your contracted monthly work hours to find your hourly rate.
You should know:Volunteers, interns, apprentices, and freelancers do not have to be paid minimum wage in the Netherlands.
Gross pay and net pay
You might be a bit bewildered when you get paid and the amount that lands in your bank account is substantially less than what you were expecting.
Why is this? It’s because the minimum wage is your gross pay (bruto salaris). You’ll still be taxed and have other deductions on that amount. The amount you receive in your account is your net pay (netto salaris).
Number of hours in a full working week in the Netherlands
So you know about some perks of working in the Netherlands, such as the weekly borrel and the lack of hierarchy, and now all about the minimum wage.
Do you know how many hours you have to work to receive minimum wage for a full-time job, though? A full working week in the Netherlands usually has 36, 38, or 40 hours.
It differs depending on the position and industry, but any of the above is considered working full-time.
Not everyone works full-time, though. The Dutch love their work-life balance, so many people in the Netherlands have four-day work weeks.
Work-life balance is important in the Netherlands, making days less stressful. Image: Freepik
In 2022, the average weekly working hours in the Netherlands was just 30 hours. That leaves more time to sit on terrasjes sipping wine. 🍷
Average salaries in the Netherlands
While the Netherlands is one of the world’s best-paying countries, the amount you get paid depends on the type of wage you earn, the industry you work in, years of experience, and other factors.
The average salary in the Netherlands for 2022 was around €35,000 per year, according to Statistics Netherlands (CBS).
However, when looking for a job in the Netherlands, it’s good to remember that, like with everything, average is not what everyone gets. There are, naturally, always lower salaries and higher salaries.
If you’re wondering how your salary compares to others your age, check out the average yearly salary for different age groups. 👇
Age group (years)
Average yearly salary
15-19
€5,530
20-24
€18,740
25-29
€34,300
30-34
€42,430
35-39
€46,890
40-44
€49,960
45-49
€51,850
50-54
€52,090
55-59
€50,330
60-64
€47,350
65+
€26,060
Helaas, in 2022, there was also a gender pay gap of 34.7% in the Netherlands. Men earned an average of €47,930 per year, while women earned €31,290.
Luckily, the gender pay gap is decreasing every year. Hoera for equal pay! (Well, at least some time in the near future, we hope. 😉)
Extra salary benefits in the Netherlands
On top of your salary, your payment package will likely include some extra benefits.
Dutch employers often cover public transport costs for their employees. Image: Freepik
Thirteenth month (a month’s salary paid at the end of the calendar year)
Stock options
Transport costs
Gym membership
You’ll also almost always have sick leave and holiday leave.
What do you think of the minimum wage in the Netherlands? Do you think it’s high enough? Tell us in the comments!
Minimum wage in the Netherlands in 2025: Frequently asked questions
How much does a job in the Netherlands pay per hour?
The average job in the Netherlands pays around €20.21 per hour or €35,000 per year. The minimum wage for individuals over the age of 21 is equivalent to €14.06 per hour.
How much is the minimum wage in the Netherlands 2025?
As of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage in the Netherlands is €2,437.07 per month for workers over the age of 21 years old.
What is the Netherlands minimum wage annually?
The minimum wage in the Netherlands is re-evaluated and adjusted every six months. From January 2025, the annual minimum wage is €29,477.04.
What is a good salary in the Netherlands?
A good salary is one that allows you to pay for all your necessities and still live comfortably (wine drinking and holidays included). That’s why it’s a good idea to know how much you can expect to spend to have the type of lifestyle you want and base the salary you want on that. A gross salary of around €3,000 is quite good and would put you in the top 30% of earners in the Netherlands.
How many times a year is the Dutch minimum wage adjusted?
The Dutch minimum wage is adjusted twice a year, on January 1 and July 1. The adjustment is based on the average wage development in the Netherlands, ensuring it keeps pace with overall salary increases.
When moving to a new country, there are a lot of things you may not think about at first — even though they will greatly affect you. An example? The local employment laws.
We’re sorry for coming at you with such Dutch directness, but it’s true: the intricacies of Dutch labour law aren’t always easy to wrap your head around (especially as non-Dutch-speaking expats like us 😉).
That’s why I asked the experts! From sick leave to dismissal and from obligations to rights — I sat down with GMW lawyers to discuss the most important things to know as an international working in the Netherlands.
Meet the experts
Founded in 1989, GMW lawyers is a law firm based in The Hague offering various legal services.
I had the pleasure of meeting two of their best employment lawyers, Godelijn Boonman and Seliz Demirci, at their charming office to chat about Dutch labour law.
I asked all the most burning questions. Image: DutchReview
Having worked in employment law for more than 33 years, Godelijn tells me that she “enjoy[s] working with internationals because it always brings me to another country.” After all, “employment law is employment law,” she smiles, “but it’s the people with whom I work that make all the difference.”
Seliz, who also specialises in employment law, agrees: “Working with internationals is refreshing. It’s nice to get an international perspective on how we do things here in the Netherlands.”
Now, the question is: How do they do things here in the Netherlands? What do expats need to know? What should we be wary of? I asked all the questions; here’s what Seliz and Godelijn had to say. 👇
So, what do internationals need to know about working in the Netherlands?
Naturally, working conditions, culture, and employment law vary greatly per country. That’s why it’s a great idea to read up on the local legislation before accepting a job abroad.
When it comes to the Netherlands, you’ll be happy to hear that your working conditions will most likely be similar — or better! — than those in your home country.
“Overall, we have a very strong protection of employees in the Netherlands”, says Godelijn — “not like in the US and the UK, for example. Internationals are usually happily surprised.”
☝️ In the Netherlands, your employer can’t fire you ‘just because’
In almost all cases, your boss first has to give you the opportunity to improve. Image: Depositphotos
Firstly, you should know that you can’t get fired in the Netherlands just because your boss’s cat got sick in their bed that morning. Your boss must provide a solid case for why you should be let go.
“What makes a big difference in the Netherlands is our closed dismissal system,” Seliz explains. “We have nine legal grounds stipulated in law — and an employer needs to stand on at least one of them (or a combination of them) to be able to let someone go.”
Each of these legal grounds also comes with specific obligations for the employer. “For example, if an employee underperforms, the employer has to give them a chance to improve.”
“That means you cannot fire someone just because you don’t like them”, she tells us.
In general, employees in the Netherlands aren’t fired willy-nilly, and if you have a permanent contract and don’t agree with the dismissal proposed by your employer, then the only way you can be let go is in court.
The only exception to this rule is if you are a statutory director, in which case the shareholders can dismiss you without first going to court.
🤧 You can get sick pay for a very long time
Feeling sick or burnt out? As part of your employee rights in the Netherlands, you will still receive a salary. Image: Depositphotos
Another important aspect of your work rights in the Netherlands is your right to sick leave (ziekteverlof in Dutch).
“The internationals I speak to are always surprised by this,” says Seliz.
Why? Well, in the Netherlands, your employer is obligated to pay you a whopping two years of sick leave if you fall ill and cannot do your job.
By law, your Dutch employer must continue paying at least 70% of your salary (up to a maximum monthly wage, which is now €6.322,07 gross) — and many employers even choose to pay the full amount during the first year of illness.
Also good to know: In the first year you are sick, you are entitled to at least the minimum wage, even if this is more than 70% of your salary. In the second year of illness, your sick leave paid may be less than the minimum wage.
Dutch labour law is elaborate and complex — but it’s good to know that, in most cases, the law is on the employee’s side. 😉 Got any questions about Dutch law or a specific situation you’d like to discuss? Geen problem!
👩💻 Working from home is not a right in the Netherlands
This one may come as a surprise, but your Dutch employment rights do not include the right to work from anywhere. Image: Depositphotos
I’ll be honest: For the longest time, I was convinced that the right to remote work was legally prescribed in the Netherlands — but it’s not.
Yup, although the Netherlands is often dubbed the “WFH capital of Europe”, and almost 75% of employees in the Netherlands work remotely at least some of the time, “it is not a legal right to work from home in the Netherlands”, says Godelijn.
That being said, there’s no need to worry. Especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, most employers in the Netherlands allow their workers to work from home on at least a part-time basis.
Let op: working from home means working from home, as the lawyers tell me — unfortunately, you can’t just bog off to Thailand for 8 months and work from there (sorry!).
The Dutch government had previously proposed a “working from anywhere” law, but this was rejected.
Good to know: If working from home is not the norm in your company, you can simply make a request to work remotely with your employer. This request must be made in writing two months ahead of time, and your employer can only reject it for valid business-related reasons.
🇳🇱 Cultural differences will affect you in the workplace
Letting loose at the work borrel? Make sure you still behave (somewhat) professionally. 😉 Image: Depositphotos
It’s no myth that the Dutch are famously direct. “That’s the first thing internationals have to be aware of when working in the Netherlands”, Godelijn laughs. At the same time, Dutch work culture is very non-hierarchical.
In the workplace, this combination can be lethal — or, well, it can end in conflict. Godelijn explains: “A lot of Dutch people need to learn that their jokes can harm people, even if they think it’s just a joke.”
“A Dutch employer once called me about a joke that was made on the work floor. A person had made fun of an Asian employee for not being able to pronounce the English “r”-sound.”
She adds: “The Dutch person just didn’t understand how that was a problem. To him, it was ‘just a joke’.” That’s how cultures can clash and situations can get sticky.
“Especially Christmas parties seem to have a bad reputation.” Image: DutchReview
Seliz agrees: “Internationals often say that Dutch people make a lot of silly jokes. We want to keep things gezellig — but in other countries, jokes aren’t made that freely, especially not at work”.
At the same time, Seliz and Godelijn agree that “internationals can sometimes be a little sensitive sometimes, too.”
“Yes, sometimes things should be done differently,” Godelijn says, “but a lot of the time, it’s not as serious as internationals make it out to be. Both sides need to adjust to each other.”
Did you know: Conflicts like these don’t always require a legal battle. Instead, it may be a good option to talk to a mediator or to make an internal complaint. “My tip for internationals,” says Seliz: “always communicate openly with your employer”.
📑 If your one-year contract doesn’t get extended, your employee rights are limited
Contract up? You may just have to pack your things. Image: Depositphotos
Although, in most ways, the Netherlands is a true haven when it comes to employment law, one big issue still affects many international employees in the Netherlands: temporary contracts.
Especially for internationals who have moved their whole life to a different country, not knowing for how long they will be employed can be a very stressful situation.
But why are temporary contracts such a big thing here?
“It’s probably because of the many employee-friendly clauses in Dutch employment law”, Godelijn thinks. “Because employees are protected in such a high way, employers are often wary when starting with new employees.”
She explains: “Legally, companies can offer three one-year contracts before someone has to be given a permanent contract, but decent employers usually don’t wait out the three years. They should do one year and then move onto the permanent contract.”
The bad news? If a one-year contract runs out, “there are no legal obligations because the contract ends by operation of law.”
That means there will be no severance pay other that the statutory one, which amounts to 1/3rd of a month’s salary per worked year. Even if you are sick, your employer can simply let your contract run out.
What is your experience with the Dutch job market? Share your thoughts in the comments!
