What Workers in the Netherlands Need to Know About Labour Law Changes
Several new rules are being introduced in 2025, and more are planned for 2026. These changes are meant to give workers more security and reduce unfair practices. Here’s what it means for you:
Already in effect (2025)
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No more bogus self-employment
If you’re treated like a freelancer but really work like an employee, the tax office is checking more closely. From January 1, 2025, enforcement is back. There’s a one-year transition: no fines if your employer is fixing it, but after that, action will be taken. -
Changes to the 30% ruling
If you came to the Netherlands for work and get the 30% tax-free allowance:-
For contracts starting after Jan 1, 2024, the 30% stays until the end of 2026, then drops to 27% from Jan 1, 2027.
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If your contract started before 2024, nothing changes — you keep the 30%.
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Stricter rules for foreign workers
To get or keep a Dutch work/residence permit, you need to earn above a certain salary. If your income falls below the threshold, you may lose your permit. This applies to non-EU/EEA and Swiss nationals. -
Bigger fines for illegal work
From Feb 1, 2025, if a company hires people without a valid permit, they can be fined up to €11,250 per worker (higher if there’s exploitation involved).
Coming soon (expected Jan 1, 2026)
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Clearer rules on employment status
If you earn €32.24/hour or less, the law will assume you’re an employee. The employer has to prove otherwise if they claim you’re a freelancer. -
Non-compete rules changing
Employers won’t be able to “lock you in” for too long.-
Max duration = 12 months
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They must clearly explain why and where it applies (geography)
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They must pay you 50% of your monthly salary for every month it restricts you from working elsewhere.
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More security for flexible workers
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Zero-hours and min-max contracts will be replaced by basic contracts with guaranteed weekly hours.
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Employers cannot force you to work outside your contract hours.
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Temporary contracts will be restricted: after three in a row, employers must wait five years (instead of six months) before offering another temporary contract.
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Agency workers will also gain stronger rights.
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✅ Bottom line:
If you’re a flex worker, freelancer, or on a temporary contract, the law is moving in your favor. You’ll get more certainty in your hours, stronger protections if you’re wrongly called a freelancer, and fairer treatment if you face non-compete restrictions.
