If you are thinking about working in the Netherlands, the first question is almost always the same: what is the minimum wage in the Netherlands in 2026 and how much is left in your pocket. Below you will find the official figures, explained simply, plus what you need to check before signing a contract.
Minimum wage in the Netherlands in 2026: official figures
In the Netherlands, the minimum wage (minimumloon) is set per hour and is updated twice a year, on January 1 and July 1. For workers aged 21 and over, the gross values are:
| Period | Gross minimum wage per hour (21+ years) |
|---|---|
| January 1 – June 30, 2026 | €14.71 / hour |
| from July 1, 2026 | €14.99 / hour |
Since 2024, the Netherlands no longer has a fixed minimum wage per month or per week. Your earnings depend on the number of hours worked (including paid leave and sick days). For young people under 21, lower percentages of this amount apply.
How much do you earn gross per week and per month?
A few simple calculations, at the minimum wage of €14.99/hour (from July 1, 2026):
- 36 hours/week: approx. €540 gross per week
- 38 hours/week: approx. €570 gross per week
- 40 hours/week: approx. €600 gross per week, which is around €2,600 gross per month
Many jobs in warehouses, production, or construction pay above the minimum wage, especially if you work shifts (night or weekend), have experience, or have a forklift license. Shift bonuses are set by the collective labor agreement (CAO).
Gross vs. net: what is deducted from your salary
From the gross salary, income tax and social contributions are deducted. How much money remains net depends on several factors: the number of hours, whether the tax reduction (loonheffingskorting) applies, bonuses, and what deductions you have from the contract. Therefore, always ask for a net salary estimate before departure.
In addition to taxes, from the salary, deductions may be made if you have accepted these services:
- accommodation provided by the employer or agency (there are legal limits on how much can be deducted);
- health insurance (zorgverzekering), mandatory for everyone working in the Netherlands;
- transportation to the workplace, if it is not free.
Extra money: vacation allowance (vakantiegeld)
In the Netherlands, you are entitled to a vacation allowance of at least 8% of the gross salary. It is usually paid once a year (in May or June) or, at some agencies, weekly, along with the salary. Check in the contract how you receive this money.
What you need to check before signing
- The gross hourly wage is at least equal to the legal minimum (€14.99 from July 1, 2026).
- How many hours are guaranteed per week.
- How much accommodation costs and what it includes (private or shared room, utilities, transport).
- How the 8% vacation allowance is paid.
- Who provides your health insurance and how much it costs.
- If you receive help with registration at the municipality and obtaining the BSN number.
How Irimia Recruitment helps you
We only work with verified employers in the Netherlands and Belgium and explain in Romanian, before departure, how much you earn, what is deducted, and what you receive. See available jobs now, create a free CV for Dutch employers, or read the complete guide for working in the Netherlands and Belgium.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum wage per hour in the Netherlands in 2026?
For workers over 21 years old, it is €14.71 gross/hour between January 1 and June 30, 2026, and €14.99 gross/hour from July 1, 2026.
Is there a monthly minimum wage in the Netherlands?
No. Since 2024, the minimum wage is calculated only per hour. The monthly amount depends on how many hours you work.
Am I entitled to vakantiegeld if I work through an agency?
Yes. The vacation allowance of at least 8% of the gross salary also applies to workers employed through an agency.
Updated information in October 2026, based on data published by the Dutch government (rijksoverheid.nl). The amounts are gross, and the calculations are indicative.
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