As of January 1, 2026, the Dutch minimum wage has increased to €13.68 per hour for workers aged 21 and older. This applies to all employment contracts, including part-time and flexible work arrangements.
What are the new rates?
Since 2024, the Netherlands uses an hourly minimum wage instead of a monthly rate. Here are the 2026 figures:
| Age | Hourly rate | Monthly (40h/week) | Annual (excl. holiday) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21+ years | €13.68 | ~€2,371 | ~€28,450 |
| 20 years | €10.94 | ~€1,897 | ~€22,760 |
| 19 years | €8.21 | ~€1,423 | ~€17,070 |
| 18 years | €6.84 | ~€1,186 | ~€14,225 |
Monthly and annual figures are approximate, based on a 40-hour work week and 52 weeks per year. Holiday allowance (8%) is excluded from these amounts but must be paid on top.
How does this compare to 2025?
The 2026 minimum wage represents an increase of approximately 3.5% from the 2025 rate. The Dutch government adjusts the minimum wage twice per year (January and July) based on collective bargaining agreement (CAO) wage developments.
What this means for expats
- Salary negotiations: If you're being offered a position near the minimum wage, make sure the offer complies with the new rates. Any contract below €13.68/hour (for 21+) is illegal.
- 30% ruling impact: The minimum wage increase doesn't directly affect the 30% ruling salary thresholds, which are set independently at €48,013 (standard) or €36,497 (under 30 with master's) for 2026.
- Benefits and allowances: Several Dutch benefits are linked to the minimum wage, including unemployment benefits (WW) and social assistance (bijstand). Higher minimum wage means slightly higher benefit caps.
- Net salary: At the minimum wage level, effective tax rates are relatively low thanks to the general tax credit (algemene heffingskorting) and employment tax credit (arbeidskorting). Use our salary calculator to see your exact net take-home.
Employer obligations
Employers must pay at least the minimum wage. This includes:
- Regular working hours at €13.68/hour minimum.
- Holiday allowance of 8% on top of the gross salary.
- Overtime compensation — if your contract specifies a 36- or 38-hour week, the hourly minimum still applies to all paid hours.
The Dutch Labour Inspectorate (Nederlandse Arbeidsinspectie) enforces minimum wage compliance. Violations can result in fines of up to €10,000 per employee.
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