As you may already know, the statutory minimum hourly wage in the Netherlands is adjusted every six months. Another indexation will take place on July 1, 2026. In this article, you will find the new rates and the most important changes for both employers and employees.
Since the introduction of the statutory minimum hourly wage in 2024, there is no longer a fixed monthly amount. The salary an employee receives depends directly on the number of hours worked. As of July 1, 2026, the hourly wage for adults (aged 21 and older) will increase to € 14.99 gross per hour. This represents an increase of approximately 1.9% compared to the start of the year.
Rates as of July 1, 2026
The table below shows the gross minimum hourly wages per age category applicable from July 1, 2026:
| Age | % of Minimum Wage | Minimum Hourly Wage (Gross) |
| 21 years and older | 100% | € 14.99 |
| 20 years | 80% | € 11.99 |
| 19 years | 60% | € 8.99 |
| 18 years | 50% | € 7.50 |
| 17 years | 39.5% | € 5.92 |
| 16 years | 34.5% | € 5.17 |
| 15 years | 30% | € 4.50 |
Why is the minimum wage increasing?
The semi-annual adjustment of the minimum wage is anchored in Dutch law. The government bases this adjustment on the average development of contractual wages in the Netherlands. Because wages in the market and public sectors have risen, the minimum wage is following suit as of July 1, 2026, to maintain the purchasing power of employees.
Exception: BBL Students
For young people between the ages of 18 and 20 who have an employment contract under a professional vocational training path (BBL), different scales apply.
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20 years (BBL): € 9.22
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19 years (BBL): € 7.87
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18 years (BBL): € 6.82
Note: A major reform for minimum youth wages is planned for January 1, 2027, where percentages are expected to rise significantly. It is advisable to take this into account when budgeting for next year.
What does this mean for you?
As an employer, it is crucial to update your payroll administration in time to reflect these new rates. Furthermore, please note that the holiday allowance (8%) must also be calculated based on this increased wage.
Do you have questions about what this increase means for your personnel costs or the remuneration of temporary workers? Please reach out to your contact person at Staffice.
