Name: NLCompass
Address: Netherlands, NL
Price range: Free

Question 1

Can ZZP (sole proprietorship) freelancers get the 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

No, ZZP/eenmanszaak structures are not eligible. Only employees qualify for 30% ruling, requiring BV setup with director employment. The freelancer must establish a Dutch BV and employ themselves as director to access 30% ruling benefits. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 2

What happens if my freelance income is below €67,000?

Accepted Answer

You can still get partial 30% ruling benefit with the minimum €46,660 salary, but tax savings are minimal. The 30% ruling only applies to salary amounts above €46,660, making €67,000 the practical minimum for meaningful tax reduction and full benefit. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Calculator.

Question 3

Can I transition from employee 30% ruling to freelancer BV?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you currently have 30% ruling from employment, you can establish a BV and maintain the ruling without the abroad recruitment requirement. This is often the easiest path for existing 30% ruling holders who want to freelance. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 4

How long does BV + 30% ruling setup take?

Accepted Answer

Complete process takes 3-6 months. BV incorporation takes 2-4 weeks, while 30% ruling application processing takes 2-6 months after submission. Start the process well before you plan to begin freelancing through the BV structure. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 5

What are ongoing costs for BV + 30% ruling structure in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Annual BV operating costs: €2,500-€5,800 including accounting (€1,500-€3,000), tax compliance (€500-€1,500), payroll processing (€200-€500), and VAT handling (€300-€800). Initial BV setup costs: €1,800-€2,500 (notary, KVK registration, formation). Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 6

What is the 30-20-10 rule reversal for 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

The progressive scaling reduction (30% for first 20 months, 20% next 20 months, 10% final 20 months) was officially cancelled in December 2024. Current: constant 30% through 2026, then 27% flat rate from 2027 onwards. No further reductions. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 7

How are dividends taxed for BV freelancers with 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

30% ruling only applies to salary (Box 1), not dividends (Box 2). Dividends taxed at 39-44% combined rate (15% withholding + 9.5-31% personal Box 2 tax). DGA minimum salary guideline: €56,000 (2025). Strategy: maximize salary under 30% ruling before taking dividends. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 8

What is the maximum salary eligible for 30% ruling in 2026?

Accepted Answer

€262,000 (WNT cap for 2026, increased from €246,000 in 2025). The tax-free 30% ruling allowance cannot exceed 30% of this cap (approximately €78,600 maximum in 2026). Salary above the cap is taxed normally without 30% benefit. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 9

Can I have international clients with BV + 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the BV can invoice clients worldwide. This is a major advantage of the BV structure for international freelancers, allowing global business operations while accessing Dutch 30% ruling tax benefits through proper employment structure. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 10

What is the 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

A tax benefit allowing highly skilled migrants recruited from abroad to receive 30% of their income tax-free for up to 5 years (as of 2025). Criteria regularly change. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 11

Who qualifies for the 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

You must be hired outside the Netherlands, meet minimum salary thresholds, and have special skills. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 12

Can I get the ruling after coming on a partner visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you can prove you lived and worked mainly abroad prior to employment in NL and meet other requirements. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 13

If I change jobs, do I keep the ruling?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if the new employer is a recognized sponsor, and the transition between jobs is less than 3 months. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 14

Can I visit NL for interviews before being officially hired?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Short visits for interviews do not affect eligibility. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 15

Are there other perks to the 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

Yes-facilitated Dutch driver's license exchange, potential tax-exempt reimbursements, and sometimes dual residency tax advantages. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide and Driver's License Exchange Guide.

Question 16

Is agency work (uitzendbureau) safe for expats in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

Agency work has significant risks: 66% wage theft, 14-hour workdays documented, housing costs can be €800-€1,200 deducted monthly. However, there are legitimate agencies. Learn red flags and protections in our Agency Work Exploitation Prevention Guide.

Question 17

What are the biggest red flags with Dutch recruitment agencies?

Accepted Answer

Top warning signs: mandatory company housing (gives control leverage), vague contracts with hidden deductions, weekly pay (blocks bank accounts), holiday pay paid "later" (often lost), non-Dutch contracts (avoids legal protections). Full checklist in Agency Work Guide.

Question 18

How much should agency housing cost in Netherlands 2026?

Accepted Answer

Fair rate: €400-€500/month for shared room. WARNING: Many agencies charge €800-€1,200/month (illegal extraction). With €14.71/hour minimum wage (€2,550/month gross), housing over €500 leaves you with poverty-level income. See Agency Work Housing Reality.

Question 19

Can I refuse agency housing and find my own?

Accepted Answer

Legally YES. Agency cannot force you to use their housing. However, practical reality: many agencies refuse to hire you without their housing (gives them control). If they insist, major red flag for exploitation. Options in Agency Work Exit Strategies.

Question 20

What's the minimum wage for agency work in Netherlands 2026?

Accepted Answer

€14.71/hour for 21+ years (January 2026). 40 hours/week = €2,550 gross (€1,900-€2,050 net after tax). After €600-€800 rent + €150 insurance, you have €950-€1,300 for food/transport/savings. See full budget breakdown in Agency Work Financial Reality.

Question 21

How do I report an exploitative recruitment agency in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

Report to: Dutch Labor Inspectorate (Inspectie SZW), FairWork advocacy (specializes in migrant exploitation), local police (if criminal), Polish/Romanian embassy consular sections. Evidence: pay stubs, contracts, photos, messages. Full reporting guide in Agency Work Legal Protections.

Question 22

What are the three main BSN registration paths in Amsterdam?

Accepted Answer

Amsterdam offers three paths: 1) Student Registration Days (immediate BSN for international students), 2) IN Amsterdam (premium expat center for highly skilled migrants), and 3) Regular Stadsloket offices (7 locations citywide with standard processing). Learn more in our BSN Registration Amsterdam Guide.

Question 23

How do I register for Amsterdam student registration days?

Accepted Answer

International students can register for special student days through Amsterdam Municipality website. These sessions run from August to September and provide immediate BSN issuance. Location is typically at Stadsloket West (Bos en Lommerplein). Learn more in our BSN Registration Amsterdam Guide.

Question 24

What is IN Amsterdam and who can use it?

Accepted Answer

IN Amsterdam is the premium expat center for highly skilled migrants and their families. It offers same-week appointments, multilingual support, and streamlined services. You must be registered as a highly skilled migrant to access these services. Learn more in our BSN Registration Amsterdam Guide.

Question 25

Which Amsterdam Stadsloket location should I choose?

Accepted Answer

Amsterdam has 7 Stadsloket locations: Centrum, Oost, West, Noord, Zuid, Nieuw-West, and Zuidoost. Choose the one closest to your address or with earliest availability. All provide the same BSN registration services. Learn more in our BSN Registration Amsterdam Guide.

Question 26

How long does Amsterdam BSN registration take?

Accepted Answer

Student registration days provide immediate BSN issuance. IN Amsterdam offers same-week appointments with quick processing. Regular Stadsloket appointments may take 2-4 weeks to schedule and BSN is typically issued within 5-10 business days. Learn more in our BSN Registration Amsterdam Guide.

Question 27

What makes BSN registration in The Hague different from other cities?

Accepted Answer

The Hague offers specialized international registration services through The Hague International Centre, with multi-language support (Dutch, English, French) and priority services for diplomatic and international organization staff. The city has dedicated services for its 60,000+ international residents. Learn more in our BSN Registration The Hague Guide.

Question 28

How long does it take to get a BSN appointment in The Hague?

Accepted Answer

Average wait time is 3-5 weeks, but The Hague International Centre often has better availability for international community members. Diplomatic staff and international organization employees may access expedited services. Learn more in our BSN Registration The Hague Guide.

Question 29

What documents do I need for BSN registration in The Hague?

Accepted Answer

Essential documents include valid passport/EU ID, proof of address in The Hague, and birth certificate (apostilled if not in Dutch/English/French/German). Non-EU citizens need residence permit/MVV visa. Diplomatic staff need additional diplomatic ID and assignment documentation. Learn more in our BSN Registration The Hague Guide.

Question 30

Can I get emergency BSN registration in The Hague?

Accepted Answer

Yes, The Hague offers expedited services for diplomatic staff (24-48 hours), international organization employees (same-week), and medical emergency cases. Contact The Hague International Centre directly for urgent situations. Learn more in our BSN Registration The Hague Guide.

Question 31

Can I use Rotterdam Expat Centre if I'm staying less than 4 months?

Accepted Answer

No, Rotterdam Expat Centre is for stays 4+ months. Use RNI (non-resident) registration at Rotterdam municipality for shorter stays. Learn more in our BSN Registration Rotterdam Guide.

Question 32

What if I live in Schiedam or Capelle - can I register in Rotterdam?

Accepted Answer

If you live in Schiedam or Capelle aan den IJssel, check specific municipality requirements. Some areas coordinate with Rotterdam Expat Centre. Learn more in our BSN Registration Rotterdam Guide.

Question 33

Do I need to speak Dutch for Rotterdam BSN registration?

Accepted Answer

Rotterdam Expat Centre provides English-speaking services. Standard Rotterdam municipality primarily uses Dutch with limited English support. Learn more in our BSN Registration Rotterdam Guide.

Question 34

How long does Rotterdam BSN registration take?

Accepted Answer

Rotterdam Expat Centre: Same-day BSN issuance. Standard municipality: Immediate BSN or within 1 week depending on appointment type. Learn more in our BSN Registration Rotterdam Guide.

Question 35

Can my employer handle my Rotterdam BSN registration?

Accepted Answer

Employers can coordinate appointments and provide information to Rotterdam Expat Centre, but you must attend in person for registration. Learn more in our BSN Registration Rotterdam Guide.

Question 36

What is a BSN and why do I need it?

Accepted Answer

BSN (Burgerservicenummer) is the Dutch citizen service number. You need it for work, health insurance, opening a bank account, signing rental contracts, accessing government services, receiving benefits, and using digital IDs. Without it, functioning in Dutch society is impossible. Learn more in our BSN Registration Guide.

Question 37

How do I get a BSN?

Accepted Answer

Upon registering at your municipality (gemeente) after arriving and having a Dutch address. Book the appointment online. Bring your passport, proof of address, and residence permit if non-EU. You will typically receive the BSN immediately or by post within 1-2 weeks. Learn more in our BSN Registration Guide.

Question 38

Can I get a BSN before moving?

Accepted Answer

No; you must be physically present, with a Dutch address and booked appointment. Learn more in our BSN Registration Guide.

Question 39

What if I lose my BSN?

Accepted Answer

Your BSN is permanent. If you lose documentation, request it from your municipality or find it on your Dutch tax, insurance, or municipality records. Learn more in our BSN, DigiD & Tax Forms Guide.

Question 40

Do I need a new BSN if I change cities?

Accepted Answer

BSN is for life; only your address is updated at your new gemeente, which may be done online or in person. Learn more in our BSN Registration Guide.

Question 41

What is an RNI number?

Accepted Answer

For non-residents staying under 4 months-RNI is a partial BSN registration, which upgrades to a full BSN if you take up longer residence. Learn more in our BSN Registration Guide.

Question 42

What is the best Dutch bank for expats in 2025?

Accepted Answer

ING Bank is considered the best overall choice for expats due to excellent English support, fastest account opening (20 minutes), largest branch network, and established expat infrastructure. For digital-first expats, bunq offers premium features like no BSN requirement initially and high savings interest rates (2.01% EUR). Learn more in our Dutch Banking Comparison Guide.

Question 43

Can I open a Dutch bank account without a BSN number?

Accepted Answer

Yes! ABN AMRO offers a 90-day grace period to provide your BSN, and bunq allows account opening without BSN initially. N26 (German bank) never requires BSN. However, most traditional Dutch banks like ING and Rabobank require BSN immediately. Learn more in our Banking & Money Tips Guide.

Question 44

Which Dutch banks offer full English language support?

Accepted Answer

ING, ABN AMRO, bunq, and N26 offer excellent English support including websites, mobile apps, and customer service. Rabobank has limited English support, while ASN Bank and SNS Bank are Dutch-only. Digital banks generally provide the best multilingual experience. Learn more in our Dutch Banking Comparison Guide.

Question 45

What are the monthly costs for Dutch banking as an expat?

Accepted Answer

Monthly fees range from €0 (bunq Free, N26 Standard) to €1.88 (ING). ABN AMRO and Rabobank cost €1.55/month. Premium digital accounts cost €3.99-17.99/month but offer advanced features like high interest rates and international banking benefits. Learn more in our Dutch Banking Comparison Guide.

Question 46

Should I choose a traditional or digital bank in the Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

Traditional banks (ING, ABN AMRO) offer branch networks and established expat services, ideal for first-time expats needing guidance. Digital banks (bunq, N26) offer innovative features, better international support, and higher interest rates, perfect for tech-savvy expats and professionals. Learn more in our Dutch Banking Comparison Guide.

Question 47

Which banks are best for expats?

Accepted Answer

ABN AMRO (expat-friendly, good English support), ING, Bunq (digital, easy/no initial BSN), Rabobank (outside cities). Learn more in our Banking & Money Tips Guide.

Question 48

What documents do I need to open a bank account?

Accepted Answer

Passport, BSN or appointment confirmation, Dutch address, and (for non-EU) residence permit. Some banks may ask for employment contract. Learn more in our Banking & Money Tips Guide.

Question 49

Are there monthly fees?

Accepted Answer

Yes (€2-5/month for standard current account, extra for credit cards). Learn more in our Dutch Banking Comparison Guide.

Question 50

What is iDEAL?

Accepted Answer

The standard Dutch payment system linked to your bank account, essential for online purchases, public transport, and utility payment. Learn more in our Banking & Money Tips Guide.

Question 51

What is the 30% tax ruling in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

The 30% tax ruling allows eligible expat employees to receive 30% of their salary tax-free to cover extra costs of working abroad. This significantly reduces your taxable income and increases your take-home pay. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Calculator.

Question 52

How long does the 30% tax ruling last?

Accepted Answer

The 30% tax ruling is valid for a maximum of 5 years from when you become a Dutch tax resident. You cannot extend this period, and it applies to all your employment in the Netherlands. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 53

How much can I save with the 30% tax ruling?

Accepted Answer

Savings vary based on salary, but typical savings range from €8,000-€15,000 annually. Higher salaries see greater absolute savings due to the progressive tax system in Netherlands. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Calculator.

Question 54

What percentage of income should I spend on housing in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

The general rule is maximum 25-30% of gross income for rent, and maximum 4.5x annual salary for mortgage. With 30% ruling, your affordability increases significantly. Learn more in our Housing Affordability Calculator.

Question 55

How does the 30% ruling affect housing affordability?

Accepted Answer

The 30% ruling increases your effective income by 30%, significantly improving your housing affordability for both rental and mortgage applications. Learn more in our Housing Affordability Calculator.

Question 56

How much do international schools cost in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

International schools in Netherlands cost €10,000-€25,000 per year for tuition, plus extras like registration fees (€500-€1,000), books (€200-€500), and uniforms (€150-€300). European schools are cheaper at €5,000-€12,000/year. Learn more in our Family Guide.

Question 57

What childcare subsidies can expat families get?

Accepted Answer

Expat families can receive kinderopvangtoeslag (childcare allowance) covering 33%-96% of childcare costs based on income. Apply through Belastingdienst within first month. Childcare costs €8-€12/hour (€200-€1,200/month full-time). Learn more in our Family Guide.

Question 58

How much is kinderbijslag child benefit in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

Kinderbijslag pays €231-€320 per child per quarter. Additional kindgebonden budget provides €100-€700/month based on income. Apply via SVB.nl after municipal registration with BSN. Learn more in our Family Guide.

Question 59

Can expat children attend Dutch public schools for free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Dutch public schools are free for all children including expats, with only small voluntary contributions (€50-€200/year). International preparation classes (IKC) available for non-Dutch speakers. Learn more in our Family Guide.

Question 60

How do I bring my pet to Netherlands from outside EU?

Accepted Answer

Non-EU pets need: microchip (ISO 11784/11785), rabies vaccination (21+ days before travel), EU health certificate from official vet (within 10 days of travel), and tapeworm treatment for dogs. Cost: €200-800 total. Some breeds are restricted (Pitbull-types). Register with RVO.nl within 14 days of arrival. Learn more in our Pet Relocation Guide.

Question 61

How much paid parental leave do I get in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

Each parent gets 9 weeks of paid leave at 70% salary (€203.47/day max) plus 17 weeks unpaid. Partners get 1 week at 100% (birth leave) plus 5 weeks at 100% (additional partner leave). Total: 26 weeks per parent until child turns 8. Learn more in our Parental Leave Guide.

Question 62

Does my partner get parental leave too?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Partners (non-birthing parents) get: 1 week at 100% salary (geboorteverlof, paid by employer), 5 weeks at 100% salary (aanvullend geboorteverlof, paid by UWV), plus the same 26-week entitlement (9 paid + 17 unpaid) as the birthing parent. Learn more in our Parental Leave Guide.

Question 63

How do I apply for paid parental leave in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

Step 1: Request leave from employer in writing 2+ months in advance. Step 2: After taking at least 1 week of leave, apply to UWV via Mijn UWV with DigiD. Step 3: UWV pays benefit to employer, who forwards to you. Apply within 15 months of first day of leave. Learn more in our Parental Leave Guide.

Question 64

Can I take all 9 paid weeks at once?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can take all 9 paid weeks consecutively or spread them out (e.g., 2 days per week). The paid weeks must be taken within the child's first 12 months. The remaining 17 unpaid weeks can be taken anytime until child turns 8. Learn more in our Parental Leave Guide.

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