With Simyo’s snazzy new international data bundles, you can wave doei to scary roaming charges and hoi to affordable, stress-free connectivity while abroad.
Sure, the EU has its handy “roam like at home” policy, but travelling outside of the EU can get very expensive very quickly. Before you know it, your mobile bill could get even scarier than the thought of taking a red-eye flight next to a screaming baby.
Luckily, Simyo has a little something up their sleeve to keep those costs manageable. Let’s dive in! 👇
Simyo: Why this provider is SIMply the best
Not only was Simyo voted the best mobile provider in 2025 by the Dutch Consumer’s Association, but they’ve also racked up a truly impressive 35 awards in their trophy cabinet.
While they’re marketed as a “budget” provider, they consistently outcompete the Netherlands’ biggest providers in terms of quality, reliability, and customer service.
Plus, their plans run on the highly awarded KPN network, giving you access to one of the strongest and most reliable signals in the country — for a fraction of the cost of a standard KPN plan.
Premium network access for a discounted price? Sign us right up! Image: Freepik
As internationals ourselves, we’re also big fans of the fact that Simyo offers their SIM-only plans in eSIM format.
This gives us the freedom to purchase a plan (including an international bundle) within minutes. There’s no need to set foot in a brick-and-mortar store or stress about needing a SIM card thirty minutes before your flight.
From the US to Egypt, Simyo now covers these countries
Reflecting their diverse customer base, Simyo has expanded their coverage to include data bundles for several non-EU countries.
While these bundles vary in terms of data and price, most offer you around 10-20GB for €20-35, with coverage for up to 31 days. They may not offer unlimited data, but they’re significantly cheaper than activating data roaming on your Dutch SIM card.
So, whether you’re heading to visit family in Turkey, going on a business trip to the US, or exploring the wilds of South Africa, Simyo has a plan for you.
Here’s the current list of destinations where you can activate an international data bundle:
Canada,
the Caribbean Netherlands,
Egypt,
Indonesia,
Morocco,
Serbia,
Singapore,
Thailand,
Turkey,
the United States,
and South Africa.
The only catch is that you’ll need to be a Simyo SIM-only user to apply for these bundles. (Sorry, prepaid users!)
Are the bundles worth it? Let’s talk price and value
If you’re travelling home from the Netherlands and don’t want to swap out your Dutch SIM card for a local one, Simyo offers you a great alternative in their international data bundles.
These bundles can be purchased as add-ons to your SIM-only plan.
As they’re factored into your bill at the end of the month, you needn’t worry about paying the costs upfront or while you’re on the road.
Whether you’re touring the wilds of South Africa or the beaches of Indonesia, these eSIMs are a handy travel companion. Image: Freepik
And, even better? Simyo’s data bundles might even be cheaper than certain travel eSIMs.
Take Simyo’s Canadian data bundle, for example.
A 31-day bundle offers you 10-20 GB of data for around €25 to €35, which is a far cry from the €85 to €90 that some travel eSIMs cost for a similar number of days.
However, if you’re a heavy data user, you might find Simyo’s data limits a little underwhelming. There’s no unlimited data option, and the number of GBs in each package tends to vary depending on which location you choose.
Here’s how to activate your foreign data bundle
We aren’t tech wizards over here at DutchReview, so we really appreciated the sheer simplicity of it. There were no fussy email downloads, no QR codes, and no multi-page list of instructions to read through.
All you really need to do to activate one of Simyo’s data bundles is:
Check Simyo’s website to see if there’s an international bundle available for your destination,
Choose the amount of GBs you want for your trip,
Send an SMS with an activation code to 1330, and
Enjoy your data, stress-free!
And, if the data in your bundle is running out, it’s simply a question of texting a short activation code to 1330 and… boom, more data.
So, should I try Simyo’s bundles on my next trip?
As a workplace full of internationals, we found these bundles a great alternative to travel eSIMs.
While they’re especially handy for existing Simyo users with family outside the EU, the ease of sign-up and activation means they’re also a solid option for internationals who want to switch to an expat-friendly provider.
Combining excellent service with wallet-friendly prices and features tailor-made for internationals, these bundles are a stellar alternative to regular travel eSIMs. Image: Freepik
In our opinion, if you’re only away for a week and can live off your family’s WiFi connection, getting one of these bundles may be a waste of money.
However, if you’re travelling the world for a few weeks and want to avoid the hassle of juggling multiple SIM cards, Simyo’s bundles are an excellent choice.
Would you try one of Simyo’s international data bundles on your next trip home? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
We all thought arcade culture saw the last of its heyday 20 years ago. However, it’s managed to make a strong comeback in the past decade, and we can partly thank the Netherlands for its roaring return. 🇳🇱🕹️
Arcades in the Netherlands were bustling hubs in the ‘80s and ‘90s. Children and teenagers alike could leave school stress behind and spend hours trying to beat their high score.
As mobile apps became an indispensable part of people’s lives, Pac-Mac and pinball machines quickly became a thing of the past.
Nevertheless, in recent years, the Netherlands has established a multitude of new arcades, enabling the world of coin-slotted machines to flourish once more. 🎉
From old-school classics to modern-day VR, here are 17 arcades in the Netherlands that’ll make you fall in love with gaming all over again!
1. TonTon Club
One way arcades could bounce back in the 21st century was by combining two popular, worldly pastimes: drinking booze and playing games. From this, arcade bars were born. 🍻
Beer drinkers and gamers are welcome at arcade bars in the Netherlands! Image: Pexels
One of the first arcade bars to reach the Netherlands is the TonTon Club in Amsterdam! Renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, fine beer selection, and variety of old, nostalgia-inducing games, this place knows how to game in style.
Die-hard gamers and newcomers can take a trip to the past with Mortal Kombat and the pinball machine, or if reimagined classics are your thing, they also have Dance Dance Revolution and Mario Kart!
Of course, all that gaming requires some sustenance, and TonTon Club happens to come with an exciting fusion of Japanese and American-style cuisine. You know what that means… milkshakes and ramen burgers! 🍔
📍 Location:Polonceaukade 27, 1014 DA Amsterdam 💰 Cost: Tokens cost €1 each or €5 for 6 tokens. ⏰ Opening hours: Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday: 4 PM to 1 AM; Friday: 2 PM until late; Saturday: 1:00 PM until late.
2. Blast Galaxy
A blast from the past. Image: Blast Galaxy
Okay, gamers, sentimentality is real with this one. We can all tip our hats to the creators of Blast Galaxy for replicating arcade centres from the ‘80s or ‘90s almost to the tee.
This is the go-to arcade in Amsterdam if you’re looking to kill an afternoon (or more) binge-playing old-fangled masterpieces, like Donkey Kong, Pac-Man, Millipede, Street Fighter, Galaga… need we go on? 😉
Blast Galaxy is filled to the brim with vintage arcade cabinets, and you won’t have to worry about blowing all your coins at once.
Instead, the arcade offers a ticket upon entrance that can be used to play any game for as long as you want.
📍 Location:Magneetstraat 5, 1014 CC Amsterdam (Sloterdijk) 💰 Cost: Entry ticket for €15 ⏰ Opening hours: Wednesday: 12 PM to 6 PM; Thursday: 4 PM to 11 PM; Friday: 4 PM to 12:30 AM; Saturday: 12 PM to 12:30 AM, Sunday: 12 PM to 8 PM.
3. Gamestate
Gamestate opened in 2013 and later became the biggest arcade chain in the Netherlands. It also operates in Belgium, Germany, Poland, and Slovakia.
Now, their neon storefront sign can be seen across a handful of Dutch cities in the Randstad.
One of the largest arcades in the Netherlands is right up your alley. Image: Gamestate
Their shtick revolves around being a family-friendly gaming centre, where winners can exchange cash for prizes. So basically a Dutchified version of Chuck E. Cheese, only without the rat mascot and recycled pizza slices. 🍕
However, if you’re looking for old-school retro vibes, you won’t find them at Gamestate. This place takes a more contemporary angle on arcades, offering a selection of carnival-type games to gamble your time away with.
Virtual reality has revolutionised the gaming world in ways we never thought possible a few years ago.
In the Netherlands, VR technology has experienced a huge increase in demand to the point that now, it can be seen in almost every arcade centre.
Playing VR for the first time is an experience you’ll never forget! Image: VR Game Park
One such arcade that caters to a new generation of video games is VR Game Park in Amsterdam. With over 600 square metres of space, everything this underground arcade offers comes in sensational 4D simulations. You can also find them in Eindhoven and Den Haag.
Each virtual simulation allows you to envision yourself in exhilarating situations: riding on a steep roller coaster, stealing dough in a heist, or hunting zombies in an apocalypse. 🧟
📍 Location:Overhoeksplein 15, 1031 KS Amsterdam 💰 Cost: The pricing depends on the chosen package, group size, location and time of booking. ⏰ Opening hours: Every day 10 AM to 8 PM
5. National Video Game Museum
A strong contender fighting for the title of “best arcade in the Netherlands” is the National Video Game Museum in Zoetermeer.
With more than 50 vintage arcade cabinets on display, this spacious arcade lets you relive the glory days of old-time gaming.
Just take a look at this vintage collection of Nintendos! Image: National Video Game Museum
It all began as a community project led by a few passionate Dutchies. And now? The arcade has grown so they’ve gained recognition from big brands such as Nintendo and Microsoft.
One aspect that makes this arcade extraordinary is that it consists of little areas designed as antique living rooms.
These were specially built to give patrons the true experience of playing video games as an ‘80s kid at home rather than on a generic metal bar stool.
📍 Location:Theaterplein 11, 2711 EK Zoetermeer 💰 Cost:Ticket prices vary depending on how many hours you wish to play ⏰ Opening hours: Wednesday and Friday: 12 PM to 6 PM; Saturday and Sunday: 10 AM to 6 PM
6. The Dutch Pinball Museum
In the days before video games, arcades in the Netherlands were chock-full of pinball machines.
People might not realise, though, that an incredibly broad array of pinball machines were produced over the years.
Have you ever seen an arcade with this many pinball machines in the Netherlands? Image: DutchReview
However, only a few stood out as all-time classics, and the Dutch Pinball Museum in Rotterdam honours them.
If you consider yourself an old-timey pinhead (no, not that kind of pinhead), then a visit to this museum is a must. It has about 100 pinball machines to play on, and some even date as far back as the ‘30s and ‘40s. 👾
📍Location:Voorhaven 12, 3024 RM Rotterdam 💰 Cost:Depends on the day and kind of ticket ⏰ Opening hours: Wednesday: 12 PM to 5 PM; Saturday and Sunday: 11:50 AM to 6:10 PM
7. Enversed VR
A virtual reality centre that’s gained quite a popular rep in Europe, Enversed VR allows you to immerse yourself in video games as the main character you always knew you were.
Who needs to do real paragliding when you’ve got VR? Image: DutchReview
Located in Eindhoven, this place allows you to play out all your child-like fantasies and experience things you otherwise couldn’t in the real world.
Step into the virtual world by solving challenging puzzles in an escape room, shooting huge paintballs from the sky with a bow and arrow, or becoming a resistance fighter in a dystopian society.
📍 Location:Torenallee 100-02, 5617 BE Eindhoven 💰 Cost:Varies by the kind of VR escape room and the number of people ⏰ Opening hours: Wednesday and Thursday: 2 PM to 7 PM; Friday: 1 PM to 7 PM; Saturday: 11 AM to 7 PM; Sunday: 11 AM to 6 PM
8. Amaze VR
Woners (residents) in the Netherlands can consider themselves lucky to experience the cutting-edge technology that is virtual reality, and in almost any city. If you’re casting around for a good VR centre in The Hague specifically, Amaze VR is your best bet.
Located centrally, Amaze endeavours to provide a compelling experience: once you put the headset on, you will magically spend hours in a different world.
Their arcade supplies over 50 highly-rated VR games to play, where you can join a group of spies on a mission, become a detective to decipher clues, and so much more. Rest assured that you can let your imagination run wild here.
📍 Location:Torenstraat 140, 2513 BW Den Haag 💰 Cost: VR arcade: €35; VR escape room: €35; VR zombie shooter: €79 (for two people) ⏰ Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 12 PM to 8 PM; Friday: 12 PM to 10 PM, Saturday: 10 AM to 10 PM, Sunday: 10 AM to 8 PM
9. Bonami Games and Computer Museum
A nostalgic kick and any nerd’s paradise, Bonami Games and Computer Museum in Zwolle is the hidden gem you didn’t know you were missing. It’s by far the coolest place to be for gaming aficionados.
— RetroWizzard@oldbytes.space (@RetroWizzard) August 10, 2021
Everyone can turn back the clock and re-live their childhood with the largest collection of old PC games, computers dating back to the 1950s, and vintage arcade cabinets.
With up to 250 square metres of space, you can easily lose all sense of time drooling over the copious amounts of collector’s items and retro technology — and the best part? These old machines can actually be played. So, prepare for gamer’s thumb!
It also gives those who were born after the decline of arcades to get a true, educational experience of playing on authentic consoles — just as their parents once did.
📍Location:Ossenkamp 4, 8024 AE Zwolle 💰 Cost: Children up to 4 years: free; 5 years and above: €18.50 per person ⏰ Opening hours:Varies per day
10. Molly’s Arena
Inspired by the bustling shopping district of Akihabara in Japan, Molly’s Arena in Amsterdam is a mecca for any Otaku or casual watcher of anime.
The arcade centre opened its doors to appreciate Japanese pop culture by offering a wide range of manga-themed video games to play. Needless to say, it’s heaven on earth for any weeaboo gamer.
Since it’s on par with the goods served in Japan, you can expect their food selection to include traditional Asian cuisine, from fluffy pancakes to delectable ramen with the right level of spiciness. 🍜
📍 Location:Osdorpplein 771, 1068 TC Amsterdam 💰 Cost: Choose between three starter bundles that include a smart card and game credits ⏰ Opening hours: Wednesday to Thursday: 12 PM to 10 PM; Friday to Sunday: 11 AM to 10 PM
11. Zero Latency VR
We all know VR centres score big in the Netherlands, but perhaps you haven’t yet found one that offers a completely wireless setup.
All suited up and ready for action! Image: Maarten Peelen
To expedite your hunt for free-roam VR gaming, Rotterdam boasts Zero Latency VR, a centre which gives players the ability to traipse in the virtual world without worrying about tripping on tangled wires.
Once you choose one of the eight video games to play, you’re then suited up with a high-powered computer, a super cool vest, and a top-notch headset. The arcade also comes with a huge space for players to walk around and explore the virtual world with ease.
📍 Location:Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht 💰 Cost: €39 per person for each video game package ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 3 PM to 10 PM; Saturday: 11 AM to 10 PM; Sunday: 11 AM to 7 PM
12. Sir Winston Fun & Games
Centred around being a family-friendly hub, Sir Winston Fun & Games is a great choice if you’re looking to kill a rainy afternoon playing funfair-style gambling games and arcade cabinets.
The perfect mixture of fun-fair and retro arcade games. Image: Sir Winston Fun & Games
Similar to Dave & Buster’s over in the US, this arcade uses the age-old system where you can win prizes by collecting tickets from the various games on display. It also offers a small menu consisting of finger-bite foods like chicken wings, frietjes, and burgers.
The only drawback? Arcades like this largely cater to big families, so on a regular weekend, expect it to be home to adults and (screaming) children alike.
Anyone who’s ever been to the famous Scheveningen Pier in The Hague has no doubt heard about the arcade hall around the corner!
A familiar name amongst Dutchies since 1985, Hommerson Funland guarantees a good time for hardcore gamers and newbies alike.
Whether you’re 12 or 70 years old, folks of all ages can find fun at this arcade in the Netherlands. Image: Pexels
Go wild with old-timey classics like Pong and Pac-Man, as well as newly developed mainstreams like Flappy Bird and Dancing Stage, all set up for you in the arcade.
Though we can argue that the best part of the arcade, which truly sets it apart from the rest, is that folks can play a wide range of games while enjoying a gorgeous view of the beach. 🌅
📍 Location:Gevers Deynootweg 990-8, 2586 BZ Den Haag 💰 Cost: Entrance is free. Individual games are paid for with “Funland coins” or regular euro coins. ⏰ Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10 AM to 10 PM; Friday and Saturday: 10 AM to 1 AM
14. The Games Guild
One of the most highly-rated places in the Dutch city of Alphen aan de Rijn, The Games Guild is a small, yet vibrant arcade that’s garnered plenty of attention from a close-knit community of gamers.
This arcade in the Netherlands is any D&D player’s best friend. Image: The Games Guild
Its founders strived to bring digital communities together by offering like-minded gaming enthusiasts a space to connect and play with each other.
The arcade has several rooms serving different purposes, each stuffed wall-to-wall with retro technology. So, trust that you can satisfy all your gaming needs here with ubiquitous classics like Dungeons and Dragons and Super Smash Bros.
If you’re looking to play from a sweeping collection of funfair-style games and traditional arcade machines in a single day, then The Game Box is sure to give you maximum bang for your buck.
Eat, play, and win at this arcade in the Netherlands! Image: The Game Box
Open all year round, this arcade offers the latest hip games, from air hockey to basketball, as well as racing simulators and pinball machines. They’ve also managed to raise the stakes by giving folks something that no other arcade in the Netherlands has: bumper cars!
In addition, you can win tickets through some of the games, which you can then exchange for great prizes. The arcade nailed the Dutch crowd; because of this, it became available in multiple cities across the lowlands!
Preserving arcades, as we once knew them, grows more difficult in the Netherlands as the gaming industry becomes overwhelmingly online.
However, there is hope in boundary-pushing companies that aim to evoke nostalgia and celebrate the classic machines by creating a place for them in today’s world. 🕹️
Have you visited any of these arcades in the Netherlands? If so, which was your favourite? Tell us in the comments below!
Wherever you live, utility costs can be a pain in the backside. Looking at your energy bill can make you seriously consider living in a cave. But before you live among the bats, there are ways you can reduce the costs of that hefty energy bill in the Netherlands.
Here are 14 real things you can do in the Netherlands to cut down that energy bill (so you can have a bit more cash to spend on important things, like poffertjes 😉).
This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement.
1. Turn down your heating at night
Did you know that by turning down the heating to 15 degrees at night, you could save up to €100 a year? You can be snug in bed and sleep happily knowing you’re saving cash! 💤
How we sleep knowing the energy bill will be less this month. Image: Freepik
Even turning down the heating at night by just one degree can save you up to 7% on your yearly energy bill in the Netherlands — those extra pennies can go towards pints in the pub.
Tip! If you have underfloor heating, turn your thermostat down by just two degrees overnight. Otherwise, you’ll spend more money heating it in the morning. 😉
In the Netherlands, you can choose between fixed and variable energy rates.
Variable rates typically change every six months, on January 1 and July 1. Whereas, with fixed rates, the energy price remains the same for the entire duration of your contract.
Do your research! Image: Freepik
While variable rates are great when energy prices are decreasing, total energy costs are usually lower with a fixed-rate contract.
Soaring energy prices due to geopolitical conflict have made fixed contracts the more attractive option.
A one-year contract with fixed rates is often the cheapest option, as it allows you to sniff out the best deal every year and potentially get a discount. 🔍
3. Choose a green energy provider
What’s better than just saving money? Saving the planet! Green energy is an increasingly popular (and affordable) option for Dutch consumers.
Not only is Budget Energie the Netherlands’ most wallet-friendly energy provider — they’re one of a handful of providers that produce 100% green energy.
With their combination of windmills, hydroelectric plants, and solar parks, Budget Energie offers a range of fixed, variable, and dynamic contracts for super low rates.
Whether you opt for a fixed, variable, or dynamic energy contract from Vattenfall, you can rest assured that all their power is wind, water, and solar-based.
They also opt for green gas — made from natural resources such as manure and organic waste — over the more pollutant-rich traditional gas.
One of the first Dutch energy companies to go green, Essent is an excellent choice for an environmentally-friendly energy contract at a competitive rate.
Their energy is generated by a mix of wind and solar power — ensuring that your fixed, variable, or dynamic contract stays as sustainable as possible.
Vandebron powers its fixed, variable, and dynamic contracts with local green energy sources — such as biomass, solar panels, and windmills.
In addition to their commitment to sustainable power, Vandebron also offers handy energy applications and smart charging features for electric vehicles.
Supplying the Netherlands with power for over 100 years, Delta Energie relies on a mix of windmills, hydroelectric plants, biomass facilities, and solar parks.
Thanks to this powerful combo, Delta is able to offer great discounts on fixed and variable energy contracts — whether you’re heating your home or turning on the AC.
With their fixed, flexible, and Innova Dynamic contracts, Innova Energie provides green electricity at affordable prices.
Even better? With a Zon Zeker contract, households with solar panels can enjoy three years of waived fees for feeding surplus electricity back into the power grid.
What is the easiest way to save money on your Dutch utility costs? Use power at night.
Electricity in the Netherlands is cheaper during “off-peak hours” — at night, during the weekend, and on public holidays.
Technically, you only need to turn on the light when the sun is not out. Image: Freepik
This means that it’s smarter to do your laundry on a Sunday instead of Monday, turn on the dishwasher before you go to sleep, and charge laptops and smartphones overnight.
Check with your energy provider to find your province’s exact times! For example, in Amsterdam, off-peak hours are between 11 PM and 7 AM on weekdays.
User beware! You’ll need a smart metre that automatically switches between the two rates. Old metres means every hour is a peak hour.
Wondering what a smart metre is? Great question. 👇
5. Invest in a smart metre
Dutchies pride themselves on being smart, which includes tracking their energy usage.
A smart metre tracks exactly how much energy you use, meaning you only pay for your consumption. 🤔
The Dutch government is also making it more expensive for those who don’t have a smart metre.
Look how sleek a smart metre is. Image: Freepik
Since July 2021, anyone with an old energy metre in the Netherlands is charged the same rate both night and day. Meaning, they can’t benefit from the reduced night tariff.
If you switch to a smart energy metre, you can keep getting those sweet discounts and only pay for the power you actually use! 💰
6. Get a Dutch app to control your appliances
Several energy suppliers in the Netherlands have their own apps, especially if they provide one of those smart metres we mentioned earlier.
However, many useful energy-tracking apps are not connected to a specific provider.
Futuristic, huh? Image: Freepik
EnergyFlip lets you compare your energy usage to that of other households and will even notify you when your energy contract is due to expire.
Meanwhile, the UMeter app lets you know your energy consumption and gives you insight into the yield of your solar panels — a great choice if you’re going green!
7. Install solar panels
You might not think so (because of how rarely the sun comes out), but solar panels are a double win for your wallet and carbon footprint. All thanks to the Dutch net metering system.
It’s pretty simple: if your solar panels generate more energy than you use as a household, you can send the excess energy to the public grid.
Installing solar panels is becoming cheaper, and it’s great for the environment. What’s not to love? Image: Depositphotos
Further, you can get a partial tax refund for generating your own sustainable electricity!
8. Make sure your house is properly insulated
The Netherlands is known for its gorgeous canal-facing houses. While these are beautiful, they were most likely built before modern-day insulation was invented.
If you own a house in the Netherlands, it’s worth investing in insulating it properly.
This may seem like a high cost upfront, but you will reap the rewards in years to come when your heating isn’t (literally) going out the window. 🔨
Best to check that your home insulation is up to par! Image: Freepik
Talk to your landlord if you’re renting and think your home could be more energy efficient.
However, if they refuse to help, there are some cheap tricks you can try if you can’t afford a complete revamp.
Try sealing drafty windows with self-adhesive draft tape, but make sure you have good ventilation. This prevents you from heating a humid house (which soaks up more energy).
9. Change out old devices
Household appliances are like cars: the newer the model, the more energy-efficient it is. ⚡
Household items made before the year 2000 are like your dad’s old Jeep — greedy guzzlers.
Getting a newer fridge or switching from a gas stove to an induction hob will require much less energy.
Be sure to check the EU energy label on your kitchen appliances! Image: Freepik
Not sure which models are the most efficient? Look out for the EU energy label. You’ll probably recognise the colour-coded list of energy efficiency.
This ranks from A to G (dark green A+++ is the most efficient, G being the least efficient).
10. Take a shorter shower
We’re all guilty of standing in the shower for longer than we need to, but to save on your energy bill, you’ll need to have a splash-and-dash mentality. 🚿
Showers should be short and sweet. Image: Freepik
Experts warn that if you shower for longer than 10 minutes, you might as well be having a bath.
While showers are great places to develop new ideas, your shower routine will be more economical if you turn the tap off sooner.
And, if you want to go one step further, try having a cold shower a few times a week to avoid the extra heating costs. PS: A cold shower is also the best cure for a nasty hangover!
11. Switch your gas stove to an electric one
Compared to the US, electricity in the Netherlands is cheaper than gas.
And, with the threat of gas supplies being turned off, it might be worth investing in an electric stove.
Out with the old! Image: Freepik
It costs €1.15 to cook rice on a gas stove compared to €0.08 on an electric stove.
Not only will they save your cents from being spent, but you’ll also be doing a good deed for the environment. 🌲
12. Air dry your clothes
Using one less appliance will make a world of difference. Skip out on the tumble-drying and invest in a humble clothing stand.
Say no to the dryer, and yes to the clothesline! Image: Freepik
Benefits, benefits, benefits. Not only will you save costs, but airdrying is also more eco-friendly, reduces creases, and lengthens the life span of your clothes!
It’s cheaper to head down to your local Action and fill your cart with fleece blankets, fuzzy socks, and electric heaters than to sell your kidney to pay an exorbitant energy bill.
Finally, an excuse to stay wrapped up in blankets all day! Image: Freepik
Moreover, your wind-down time in the evenings could surely use some more cosiness. Add a warm cup of chocomel to your routine, and you’d have made the best out of a bitter winter.
14. Use your devices wisely
Smart metres, smartphones, smartwatches: the world is full of small smart devices that can do much of the hard work for you.
But sometimes, we need to be smart, too — especially regarding how we use our household appliances and electronic devices.
Use LED lighting instead of incandescent and halogen lamps, as they are up to 85% more efficient.
Turn off appliances you’re not using — this can save you up to €100 per year.
When you’re done charging your phone and laptop, don’t leave the charger in the socket.
Favour an electric kettle over the stove when boiling water. Don’t boil more water than you need — this saves energy AND water.
Defrost food from the freezer in your fridge instead of the microwave. The cold that’s being released will be used for cooling, making the refrigerator use less energy.
These handy tips will change the way you think about your energy bill: from something you dread, to something that shows you how much money you managed to save.
Do you know of any more handy tips to save money on your energy bill? Tell us in the comments below!
Three couples said “I do” at Amsterdam City Hall on April 1, exactly 25 years to the day since the Netherlands made history as the first country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage.
Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema officiated the weddings herself, calling it “one of the most special moments as mayor.”
According to RTL Nieuws, the ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Rob Jetten, who became the Netherlands’ first openly gay prime minister after D66’s election win last year (and who has his own wedding plans in the pipeline).
A quarter century of history
On April 1, 2001, then-Mayor Job Cohen married four same-sex couples at the same city hall, in what became global news overnight.
Cohen was present again last night, and Halsema quoted his words from that day on social media: “Soon you will be able to say ‘we are married,’ and that sounds a lot better than saying ‘we are partnershiped.'”
Since that first ceremony, more than 36,000 same-sex couples have married in the Netherlands. The country’s lead has since been followed by more than 30 others, though the majority of the world still hasn’t caught up.
‘I belong, just like everyone else’
Jetten addressed the three couples personally, wishing them a happy marriage.
In a social media post afterwards, he reflected on what the original 2001 weddings had meant to him at just 14: “Thanks to the couples who led the way back then, as a 14-year-old teenager, I saw confirmed what I still doubted inwardly: I belong, just like everyone else.”
He was quick to add, however, that nothing should be taken for granted.
“This acquired right is not a self-evident right,” he said, adding that the best response is to do what the couples did, giving each other “the most important place in your life in front of everyone.”
Where were you when same-sex marriage became legal, and what does this 25th anniversary mean to you? Let us know in the comments.
Dutch pantry staples Calvé, Knorr, and Hellmann’s are about to get a new American owner, as Unilever has agreed to merge its entire foods division with US spice company McCormick.
On March 31, the Anglo-Dutch brand Unilever announced it would fold its food division into McCormick & Company. Based in Maryland, the group is best known for its spices, seasonings, and hot sauces.
The merged group will keep the McCormick name, its US headquarters, and its New York Stock Exchange listing.
But the Netherlands isn’t entirely out of the picture.
What stays in the Netherlands
While the deal makes financial headlines — especially after Unilever’s food division was valued at around $45 billion — many Dutch consumers are more concerned with what the change means for their everyday favourites.
But rest assured, pindakaas fanatics, Unilever promised the Dutch cabinet in 2020 that it would retain its food division in the Netherlands in the event of a sale.
Honouring Unilever’s word, McCormick plans to set up an international headquarters in the Netherlands. Meanwhile, Unilever’s food innovation centre in Wageningen and headquarters in Rotterdam will also remain.
Today, we announced an agreement to combine Unilever’s Foods business with @McCormickCorp, creating a scaled, global flavour powerhouse and positioning Unilever as a pureplay HPC business.
Despite being (legally) considered a British company, Unilever chose to list its newest venture, the Magnum Ice Cream Company, on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange in 2025.
And, although the NOS reports that McCormick is planning a secondary European listing, whether the ball goes to the London or Amsterdam exchange is unclear.
The cabinet has already had a tête-à-tête with Unilever. Now, Minister of Economic Affairs Heleen Herbert plans to enter talks with McCormick.
Money talks
Once the deal is closed, Unilever will gain a whopping $15.7 billion in cash.
Together, Unilever and its shareholders (including BlackRock and Vanguard Group) will hold 65% equity of the merged entity. McCormick’s existing shareholders will own the remaining 35%.
Unilever’s portfolio has been dwindling since 2017, when it sold its origin story: the margarine brands Blue Band and Becel, to a US investment group. The renowned brands Conimex, Unox, and De Vegetarische Slager met the same fate.
The silver lining? Unilever itself retains a 9.9% stake in the new company.
This means that, while the new company will be officially American, the Netherlands will continue to influence its products. (A small but meaningful win for national pride in the country’s pantry staples!)
While the merger is expected to save around $600 million per year, its completion is targeted for the middle of 2027, pending regulatory approval and a vote by McCormick shareholders.
Update: Hold your horses and look at the publishing date. Hope you had a good laugh, and we’ll catch you next April Fool’s — and remember, always check your sources. 🤭
Dutch rail company NS has announced that, due to increased public transport usage and crowded trains, new “standing compartments” will be introduced across all major NS-run train networks.
As gas and energy prices continue to rise, NS expects a significant increase in train usage in the coming months.
To address the upcoming crowding, NS CEO Wouter Koolmees announced this week that new trains will be introduced ahead of King’s Day 2026. That’s just a month away!
What to expect
While the old trains have two main sections (first and second class), second class will be cancelled, and the new trains will include carriages for standing passengers.
The hope is to offset crowded rides during rush hour and accommodate new passengers switching from driving to public transport.
Here’s what things will be looking like come King’s Day 2026! Image: Freepik
Koolmees is optimistic about the plans: “We’ve had a long-standing desire to try this out,” he said earlier this week. “It’s time to get on our feet and make it happen!”
The new trains are already on their way to the major stations: according to reports, they’ll be fully functional by 27 April in order to properly flood Amsterdam for King’s Day.
Bicycle carriage
The new trains will also include a separate carriage for those with bikes, to keep them from getting in the way in other train cars.
Here’s what those bike carriages will look like, according to NS. Image: Freepik
These additional carriages will reportedly be able to hold up to 30 bicycles and their owners. It is still being discussed whether fatbikes will be allowed.
Jetten cabinet approves
The new cabinet is also on board. It’s been widely publicised that the new cabinet places public transport concerns high on its list of priorities.
In an effort to promote greater use of public transport, the cabinet is standing up for the NS and offering €265 million in funding to support the fast-paced initiative.
“I know where I stand on this issue,” Jetten said yesterday: “We need our trains to be fully optimised and ready to rail us into an upstanding future.”
What do you think of the new trains? Let us know in the comments!
The internet is full of financial advice, but one of the main mantras? Money kept in your bank account is dead money. You need to be investing.
Why? The argument behind this is pretty straightforward: money sitting in a bank loses value over time because inflation grows faster than interest rates on a traditional savings account.
But when it comes to putting your money somewhere where it’ll actually grow, many newbies feel overwhelmed by the options, the apps, and the possibility of losing their hard-earned cash.
So how do you start without risking it all? Here are five types of investments you could try (or at least investigate) as a beginner.
Everyone starts somewhere. Platforms like Lightyear make those first investing steps a little easier. With one simple app, they allow you to explore different tools, learn as you go, and see how your money grows over time.
Sign up with the code DUTCHREVIEW and get up to €100 to your account. T&C apply. Investing involves risk.
💡Disclaimer: Investing involves risk of losing some or all of your money. Speak to a qualified financial adviser if you have doubts.
1. Look into opening a high-yield savings account
You know that epic trip around the world you really want to take next year? Or that wedding you’re planning in two years and need to save up for? Those are both examples of short-term goals.
And to save up for short-term goals, you want to put your money in a place where you have guaranteed returns and where its value won’t fluctuate too much. Enter: high-yield savings accounts.
High-yield savings accounts are great for short-temr financial goals. Image: Freepik
They act as a solid parking lot for your cash while you figure out your long-term investments, and because you can typically access the money quite quickly, they are also a great place to keep your emergency fund.
However, high yield doesn’t mean a high return, so don’t expect to make a killing. The best options currently available offer interest rates of no more than 3% APY (as of November 2025).
Overall, if you want to keep your cash extra safe and still make at least a little bit on it, a high-yield savings account is a good bet.
2. Give Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) a try
With your shorter-term wishes and dreams covered, it’s time to think about medium to long-term financial goals. So, where can you look if you want higher yields than the previously mentioned option?
The best place to start as a beginner is with Exchange Traded Funds.
An Exchange Traded Fund, aka ETF, is a type of investment fund that’s made up of various assets like stocks, bonds, or commodities.
The fund typically tracks the performance of a specific sector, such as tech or healthcare, or a specific market index, such as the S&P 500 (which looks at how the leading 500 companies on US stock exchanges are doing).
When the index goes up, the money you invested in the fund goes up as well and vice versa.
The handy thing about ETFs is that they can be bought and sold like stocks, meaning their prices fluctuate throughout the day, and you can trade them at any point when the stock exchange is open.
This makes them different from mutual index funds, which only trade at the end of the day and typically aren’t available to retail investors like yourself.
ETFs are a great option if you don’t want to research individual stocks. Image: Freepik
Why are ETFs a great pick for beginners? Firstly, they’re simple.
Since an ETF is made up of a portfolio of stocks and bonds, you don’t need to spend precious time digging into the performance of every single company to figure out whether its stocks are a good investment.
This comes hand in hand with another benefit: diversification. By investing in an index fund, you’re making sure that you haven’t put all your eggs in one basket.
ETFs have broad market access. This means you can invest in practically anything from emerging markets to specific industries like tech or pharma, or even commodities like oil and gold.
Because they are managed passively, the associated fees are typically lower as well. On top of that, you can access information about what they’re made up of, so you know exactly what you own.
💡 Pro-tip: Buying ETFs with Lightyear won’t cost you an execution fee (though the usual suspects like fund charges or currency costs may still sneak in).
3. Start a personal pension account
The great thing about investing is that you really can start small and simple. And by simple, we mean with a pension fund.
Pensions in the Netherlands are typically made up of two main pillars:
The first is the AOW (Algemene Ouderdomswet or National Old Age Pension Act), which is a basic pension provided by the government to anyone who lives in the Netherlands and pays income tax.
The second is an employee pension. Many companies offer this as a perk, but it’s not actually mandatory for an employer to pay your pension unless this is stated in your CAO (Collective Labour Agreement).
That is why many people in the Netherlands actually opt for a third pillar: a personal pension account. You can set one up through your bank, insurer, or other financial institution.
What are the advantages? Large pension funds invest money into things you might not access on your own, such as large infrastructure or alternative assets. And because you’re looking at a long-term investment, you don’t have to worry about short-term fluctuations in price.
There’s also a sweet perk that you can benefit from: Investments into a private pension account can be deducted from your taxes.
4. Move on to individual stocks
Stocks represent the more “classic” form of investing. What do we mean by that? Basically, you buy shares of an individual company, for example, Apple or Philips.
It’s a high-risk, high-reward type of thing where if your selected company does really well, you can make big bucks. However, if it does poorly, you can lose it all just as easily.
If, with time, you want to get serious about investing and aren’t deterred by doing a bit of research and checking out earnings reports, stock investing can be a great teacher.
Lightyear offers various options for investing. From earning higher interest by investing in savings to putting your money in funds and stocks, you can choose how you want to grow your money depending on your risk appetite.
Sign up with the code DUTCHREVIEW and get up to €100 to your account. T&C apply. Investing involves risk.
On top of that, investing in stocks gives you full control: you decide what business you support with your money and which ones you avoid.
However, as a beginner investor, you shouldn’t bet all your money on stocks. Start with just a portion and put the rest in diversified funds. As you become more advanced, you can adjust your strategy.
5. Try investing in a Real Estate Investment Trust
Let’s be real: buying a house in the Netherlands in the current housing market might not be a possibility for everyone. But what if you still want to have some of your money in real estate?
One thing you can consider is investing in Real Estate Investment Trusts. A REIT is a company that owns or produces real estate that generates income (think offices, shopping malls, apartments).
Can’t afford to buy real estate? You can always invest in a REIT instead. Image: Freepik
While you cannot invest in just any REIT, some are publicly traded, and you can buy shares like you would with a company. Similar to owning company shares, investing in REITs typically comes with investor voting rights.
REITs are obligated to distribute most of their taxable income, which means you can get regular dividends as an investor.
However, keep in mind that they are subject to other tax rules in the Netherlands than regular shares.
That being said, they are a great way to diversify your portfolio and have something that behaves differently from stocks and bonds.
Last but not least, it is a highly liquid product, meaning you can quickly convert your shares into cash (which is not always the case with a physical house).
While investing might seem scary for a newbie investor, there are relatively easy ways to start building up your portfolio.
Start small with lower-risk options, keep it simple, and remember, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. As your confidence grows, you can start looking into more complex and higher-risk options.
What is your experience with investing? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Unless you know the ropes, taking a taxi in the Netherlands can be a confusing and expensive experience. But not anymore — here‘s the full lowdown on 11 things you need to know.
Picture this: You’ve just landed at Schiphol Airport, filled with excitement at the thought of Amsterdam’s iconic pebbled streets and visiting your first coffeeshop.
Welcome to the Netherlands! But hold on, not so fast. How can you get around effectively and safely? And most importantly, how will you be able to go sightseeing?
We’ve compiled all the essential information you need to know about taxis in the Netherlands. You’ll learn how to spot official taxis, how to get a good fare, about alternative taxis and how to file a complaint.
We’ve done all the legwork for you. So, open up that bottle and read on.
Is there a specific question you want answered? Jump ahead to the right section!
First things first — before you decide to hail your very first taxi in the Netherlands, you need to ensure you’re spotting the real deal. Unfortunately, unlicensed taxis do exist in Amsterdam, so to find a real one, make sure you can see the following:
A blue number plate,
A driver’s licence attached to the inside of the taxi’s windshield,
A tariff card that is visible on the inside and outside of the taxi.
When in Amsterdam, make sure you’re hailing a real, licensed taxi! Image: Depositphotos
2. Where to find a taxi
Like in most cities, you can hail any taxi that is driving down the street — easy! But, if you’re having no luck, make sure you’re not in a bus or tram lane. It’s illegal for taxis to stop in these areas.
Tourist areas where you’ll easily find a taxi include the Rembrandtplein, the Dam, and the Leidseplein. Look out for the blue signs sprinkled around the city marking taxi stops.
A good alternative to hailing would be to book a taxi by phoning them. They can also help you with fare advice.
There is a different share taxi service in each region of the Netherlands. To find your nearest one, call: 0900 9292.
Warning: at Schiphol Airport, beware of touts trying to grab your attention. They may lead you to unlicensed taxi drivers who pay them for the service.
3. How much a taxi in the Netherlands will cost you: taxi fares
How taxi fares are calculated is complicated, but we’ll give you a rough idea. The 30-minute ride between Schiphol Airport and downtown Amsterdam will cost you approximately €55.
See Amsterdam through the window of a taxi. Image: Depositphotos
While most drivers will run the metre by default, you can also attempt to make a fare agreement with them before entering the taxi. Once the meter starts, this is no longer possible.
Almost all taxis will accept cash, and some also accept credit cards. Make sure to check with the driver about what options they have. If riding with TCA, you can also download their app for a fixed-fare service and other payment options, including PayPal.
4. Taxi too expensive? Then…
Be a true Dutchie and grab a bicycle to get your blood pumping!
You can rent them for around €10 from various different places, such as MacBike, right at Amsterdam’s main train station. Just look for the word fietsen (bikes) for a bike rental shop.
A phone app makes everything easier! You can order an Uber without having to deal with call anxiety. Plus, Uber has a reputation for being cheaper than taxis most of the time.
No luck with hailing a taxi cab? You can call your trusty friend, Uber! Image: Depositphotos
Although you can conveniently pay with your credit or debit card, the downside is that they generally don’t accept cash.
6. Never use an unlicensed taxi
There is some truth behind the adage, “if it is too good to be true, it probably is”. If someone is offering you a suspiciously low price for a taxi ride, it’s time to walk away. These drivers will conveniently ‘forget’ the low-price offer by the end of your drive.
Unlicensed taxis have become a big problem for Amsterdam.
At some point, the Taxi situation deteriorated so drastically that the federal government put a ‘Taxi Law’ into place in 2000. Prior to that, there were strict rules, and it was difficult to obtain taxi licences.
The ‘Taxi Law’ was designed to halt the monopolisation of TCA. However, this backfired horrendously. Instead, the quality of drivers plunged, and drivers began to select customers based on the distance they intended to travel — despite it being illegal.
7. Taxi scams do occur
Some taxi drivers view international passengers as money-filled prey. 💰
Amsterdam Shallow Man has an incredibly informative and funny article that goes into detail on some of the scams, but here are a few quick tips to consider when taking a taxi in Amsterdam:
Firstly, beware of the driver setting a high minimum price. If you ask the driver why they’re charging more than the maximum amount, you’re likely to be told that this is the “night rate” that is charged in Amsterdam — do not believe this!
Next, try to pretend you’re a local, and definitely don’t say it’s your first time in Amsterdam. A whiff of that tourist smell and they’ll take you twice around the city for “sightseeing”
Don’t agree to take the highway because the charges are per kilometre. You will get to your location more quickly, but there will be a hefty price to pay.
Finally, be wary of them “forgetting” to turn on the meter. This is always on purpose, so don’t be fooled!
Pro tip: If you think a taxi driver could be scamming you, make sure to remove all your luggage from the vehicle before attempting to dispute the price. There is a chance they could drive away with your belongings out of spite.
8. Share a taxi with a stranger
Taxi sharing is not common, but it does exist and could be a solution to avoid exorbitant costs. Deeltaxi (share taxi) is a service that allows people to share a taxi with other passengers at a more sensible rate.
Train stations don’t always reach the far corners of the Netherlands, so this service is essential for those living far away.
9. How to call a taxi company
We have put together an array of options of official taxis, so that you’re never stranded during your trip:
Tell the driver. You have the right. Don’t keep it bottled up inside!
If you cannot reach a solution with the driver, you can submit a written complaint to the taxi company. You can demand a complaint form from the driver and find more information here.
You must remember the date and time of your journey, as well as the taxi’s registration number or licence plate.
If you don’t have enough information or evidence, you can submit your complaints to the National Taxi Complaints Office on 0900 202 1881 (€0.13 per minute). They will then forward your complaint to the right taxi company.
If you can’t resolve the issue with the taxi company, you will have to take it a level higher and bring it to a Dispute Committee (geschillencommissies).
11. Taking a taxi in the Netherlands: the true experience
What is it really like to take a taxi in Amsterdam? We’ve asked our readers in the DutchReview Facebook Group to share their honest experiences!
Joey Marissa: “My experience of taxis in Amsterdam was absolutely phenomenal! Way better than in Bali.”
“The taxi drivers were fun and enthusiastic. Some of them were like psychiatrists. My partner and I at the time had an amazing time getting escorted to parties and restaurants around town.”
You’ll be all ready to take your first taxi and sightsee the beautiful city of Amsterdam after all these tips! Image: Depositphotos
Ian Lockley: “After a recent return flight into Schiphol, which was delayed by 3 hours, I had no real choice other than to get a taxi home to Rotterdam. The bill was €171!”
Wendy Hilton: “I had a job interview and had come over for the first time, so I wanted to be on time. The hotel called the taxi, and I showed him the address on my paperwork.”
“I was suspicious as he put something else in the SATNAV, and after about 10 minutes, I felt we were going the wrong way and said so. They told me that he misunderstood what I said!”
“Anyway, he turned around, and got me there on time, but he charged me €45 — no apologies — for a journey I now know would have been a 20-minute walk! I try to avoid cabs at all costs now.”
Are there any other things one should know when jumping into a taxi in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!
Staying on top of important financial dates in the Netherlands is important for everyone — whether you’re a bright-eyed international or a born-and-raised Dutchie.
Between tax deadlines, budget announcements, and wage adjustments, it’s handy to know what’s coming your way so you can plan ahead and avoid unwanted surprises.
Here’s an overview of the key Dutch financial dates to keep in mind for 2026.
Healthy finances start with a good banking partner, like ING. As the biggest bank in the Netherlands, ING has you covered for everything: from savings accounts to insurance!
Taxes and income-related dates
What’s the key to enjoying your Dutch life to the fullest? Staying on top of your income and taxes.
To do so, mark these dates down in your agenda. 👇
January 1, 2026: Wealth tax calculation day
Each year, the Dutch tax authority (Belastingdienst) assesses your savings, investments and other assets to calculate your taxable wealth.
This is done every year on January 1, and your wealth on that day determines how much Box 3 tax (vermogensrendementsheffing) you’ll pay the following year.
And if your financial situation changes later on in the year? Geen problem, it’s January 1 that counts, so plan ahead to help you manage your tax burden.
January-March 2026: Municipal tax bills arrive
During the first few months of the year, you’ll get some unwelcome mail: bills for services like trash collection, sewage, and your regional water authority.
These can quickly add up to large sums, so it’s important to be prepared for the expense. For example, in Amsterdam, a single-person household can expect to pay:
The exact timing of these bills can vary by municipality, but they are generally sent out between January and March.
Sorry, it’s not a love letter. 👀 Image: Freepik
These taxes are unavoidable for most residents, but the good news is that they can often be paid in instalments.
In some cases, lower-income households may be eligible to apply for a tax waiver, so it’s worth checking with your municipality to see if you fall in that category.
March 1, 2026: Income tax season begins
From March 1, 2026, anyone required to file an income tax return in the Netherlands (aangifte inkomstenbelasting) can start to file.
Each year, you’ll file your taxes for the previous calendar year, so in 2026, you’ll file your 2025 income tax return.
Depending on your type of income, the Belastingdienstmay provide a pre-filled return, making it easy-peasy. For freelancers and business owners, income tax season may be a little more complicated.
Either way, there are a few key dates to keep in mind here:
April 30, 2026: Deadline to submit your tax return if you want to receive your assessment before July 1.
May 1, 2026: Final deadline to submit your tax return without penalty, or
May 1, 2026: Deadline to request an extension if you need more time to file. This usually extends the deadline until September 1.
March 2026: Property value assessments
In March of each year, homeowners in the Netherlands receive an assessment of the value of their property, called a WOZ assessment, with WOZ standing for Waardering Onroerende Zaken (valuation of immovable property).
This estimated property value is used by the Belastingdienst to determine some of your taxes, including the income tax on homeownership.
Think your property has been overvalued? Then you have six weeks from the date you receive the assessment to file an objection.
May or June 2026: Holiday pay is deposited
With summer around the corner, many employees in the Netherlands will get their vakantiegeld (holiday pay) paid out in May or June.
This extra payment is intended to help cover your vacation costs (yes, it’s amazing!). Holiday pay is accrued throughout the year and is typically 8% of your gross annual salary.
Not sure if you’ll receive holiday pay? Good news: All full-time employees automatically receive vakantiegeld, as it is a legal requirement for employers to pay it.
Those who work part-time also receive vakantiegeld, but it may be included in their monthly salary instead of being paid as a separate payment.
Staying home and putting your vakantiegeld towards your savings? An ING savings account offers heaps of nifty features to help you reach your financial goals.
July 1, 2026: Statutory holidays accrued last year expire
In the Netherlands, each employee is entitled to a minimum of four times their weekly working hours in statutory holidays each year. For example, if you work a 40-hour week, you’re entitled to at least 160 hours (20 days) of paid vacation.
However, all of these statutory holidays from the previous year must be used by July 1 of the following year.
If you fail to use your statutory holidays by this time, they expire — and we don’t want that to happen now, do we?
💡 Statutory vs non-statutory holidays: What’s the difference?
While statutory holidays (wettelijke vakantiedagen) are the minimum number of vacation days you are legally entitled to, non-statutory holidays (bovenwettelijke vakantiedagen) are extra vacation days granted by employers through contracts or collective labour agreements. These may have different expiration rules or can be paid out if unused.
End of January, April, July, October: Quarterly VAT returns are due for ZZP’ers
Self-employed in the Netherlands (ZZP’er)? That means you have to file your BTW (VAT) return every quarter — a.k.a. report the VAT you’ve charged clients for your work and the VAT you’ve paid for your business expenses.
The deadline to report these is the last day of January, April, July, and October for the previous quarter. This means you file your Q4 VAT of the previous year in January, and so on.
Benefits and allowances-related dates
One beautiful thing about the Netherlands is that the government can pay you allowances (toeslagen) to help cover certain costs.
Here are the important Dutch financial dates to keep in mind when it comes to these.
🤔 What are toeslagen in the Netherlands?
Toeslagen are government allowances to help residents cover essential costs. These include:
zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance),
huurtoeslag (rent allowance),
kinderopvangtoeslag (childcare allowance), and
kindgebonden budget (child-related budget).
Eligibility depends on factors like income, household composition, and living situation.
Got kids in the Netherlands? You may be eligible for a childcare allowance! Image: Depositphotos
20th of each month: Healthcare, rent, and childcare allowances arrive
If you’re eligible for any kind of government allowances, you can expect these to be paid out to you on the 20th of each month.
If the 20th falls on the weekend or a public holiday, your payment may be a few days early or late.
Before September: Deadline to retroactively apply for allowances
Were you eligible for a government allowance but did not apply for it? No worries, as you can retroactively apply to receive your allowances from the previous year.
When doing so, keep in mind the deadline of September 1.
You can apply for healthcare, rent, and supplementary child benefits for a specific year until 1 September of the following year. For example, you can apply for benefits from 2025 until 1 September 2026.
Other important financial dates in the Netherlands
There’s more? Yup, but we’re almost at the end. Get your agendas out one last time for these important financial dates in the Netherlands.
January 1 and July 1, 2026: Dutch minimum wage adjustments
Since 2024, the Netherlands no longer has fixed minimum monthly, weekly and daily wages.
Instead, there is now one minimum hourly wage, adjusted twice yearly to keep up with inflation and the cost of living.
The minimum hourly wage is indexed on January 1 and July 1 of each year. As of January 2026, the minimum hourly wages in the Netherlands are as follows:
Age
Minimum hourly wage
21 years and over
€14.71
20 years
€11.77
19 years
€8.83
18 years
€7.36
17 years
€5.81
16 years
€5.07
15 years
€4.41
September 15, 2026: 2027 budget announced
September 15, 2026, is a special day in the Netherlands: it’s Prinsjesdag (Prince’s Day)!
What’s that, you ask? It’s a ceremonial day when the Dutch government reveals the key plans for next year’s budget.
Prinsjesdag consists of extravagant festivities. Image: Dreamstime
It is always celebrated on the third Tuesday in September, and can affect us common folk in two ways:
Changes in taxes: The government may announce adjustments to income, sales, or property taxes that could impact your financial situation.
Social benefits: Any changes in allowances like healthcare, childcare, or rent subsidies may affect your monthly payments.
December 2026: Year-end bonuses (hoera!)
We’ve officially made it to the end of the year (and the article), and you know what that means: You deserve a bonus!
Year-end bonuses are typically given in December, often in the form of a so-called “thirteenth month”.
However, whether or not you’ll receive one depends on your employer and your contract. While some companies automatically offer a bonus, often based on company performance or individual achievements, others may not provide one at all.
The easiest way to find out what applies to you is by checking your employment contract.
Ka-ching! Image: Freepik
December 31: Deadline to switch your Dutch health insurance
In the Netherlands, you can change your zorgverzekering (health insurance) once a year, and the deadline to do so is December 31.
If you want to switch providers or adjust your coverage for the next year, you must cancel your current policy by this date. After cancelling, you have until January 31 to choose a new insurer, but your new policy will be backdated to January 1 to ensure continuous coverage.
Why would you want to switch, you ask? Well, many people switch to get better coverage, lower premiums, or a policy that better fits their healthcare needs.
Health insurance options are endless in the Netherlands — so why not keep it all in one place and let ING handle it? Through ING, you can get insured with CZdirect, one of the largest health insurers in the Netherlands, with tens of thousands of contracted healthcare providers.
From taxes to allowances and government budgeting, the Dutch year is full of important financial dates to keep in mind. Now that you’re in the know, you can rest assured knowing you won’t have any nasty surprises. ✨
What other financial dates do you keep in your agenda? Share them in the comments below.
I am the furthest from handy. Though I’ve never touched a drill machine, moving to a whole new country requires you to whip out some handyman skills.
Luckily, I didn’t need to, because I chanced upon Fix That Now.
This Dutch platform is basically Tinder for people who need a professional handyman, contractor, cleaner, painter, electrician, plumber, and more.
It allows you to compare rates, find your match, and let someone else worry about how to install those bathroom shelves while you tackle life in the Netherlands.
Whether it’s the shock of learning that a lot of homes come without flooring or trying to unclog a tiny toilet, the struggle is real.
It can be a challenge to find a professional electrician, plumber, or general handyman when you’ve only just moved to the Netherlands. Image: Freepik
Add a language barrier to the mix, and you’re screwed.
Many online platforms take advantage of internationals by charging exorbitant rates for home services.
As a newbie in the Netherlands, I found myself in a dilemma. I refused to pay through my nose for odd jobs around the house, but I couldn’t do them myself either.
I posted my job (assemble a closet) on their website for free, included my budget, and within 24 hours, I had a freelancing handyman reach out to me through the website.
Here’s where it gets good: professionals willing to take on your job can send up to five quotes per listing.
These will all appear on your dashboard. No phone spam, just a clean overview where you can compare prices side by side.
Even better? Every professional is verified through the Chamber of Commerce, and you can see their badges and reviews.
Not sure if a handyman’s up to the task? You can review their badges and reviews. Image: Freepik
Although I was a bit suspicious of giving my phone number to Fix That Now, the platform only shared my digits once I accepted a professional’s quote.
After the job is done, you pay the professional directly. Just as agreed, no hidden fees.
A range of services
Fix That Now offers every service under the sun, from roofing, tiling, bathroom renovations, electrical work, plumbing, painting, deep cleaning, plastering, insulating, and more.
It’s especially handy for new internationals, as you can post multiple jobs at once.
Whether you need a freelancer for a quick job or a full company for a bigger project, this platform is for you.
Have you ever tried this service? Tell us your experience in the comments.
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