Tax season is in full swing, and February brought major shifts in the Dutch mobility landscape. With stricter visa rules, the 30% ruling changes still in sight, and rising rents it’s a smart move to stay compliant and protect your international talent employees.
In Today’s Edition
- Stricter Rules for Highly Skilled Migrants
- 30% Ruling: Political Uncertainty Returns
- Quick News Bites
- Dutch Tax Season is Here
1. Stricter Rules for Highly Skilled Migrants
New proposals could limit migration to essential sectors only, require talent to hold European Blue Cards, and restrict the use of agencies and intermediaries.
What You Need to Know:
- Only workers employed directly by the hiring company may qualify.
- Eligibility may be confined to roles on critical shortage lists (criteria remain under review).
- Companies relying on third-party hiring agencies might need to overhaul their recruitment processes.
Source: I Am Expat.
2. 30% Ruling: Political Uncertainty Returns
The 30% ruling, which offers a tax-free allowance to highly skilled migrants, is back on the table for potential changes. Proposals under review would reduce or phase out the benefit entirely, despite its importance in attracting international talent.
What You Need to Know:
- Future tax planning for highly skilled migrants could be affected.
- Compensation packages may need to be restructured to remain competitive.
- Final decisions are expected during the upcoming Spring Memorandum negotiations.
Source: Dutch Review.
3. Quick News Bites
- Work Permits: Over 20,000 work permits were issued to non-EU workers in 2024, underlining strong demand despite tighter policies. Source: Schengen Visa News.
- Long-term Integration: Indian migrants are staying longer in the Netherlands, signaling successful integration. Source: CBS.
- GVVA Updates: For 2025, GVVA work permits now feature higher salary thresholds and fees, necessitating careful new hire planning. Source: Nairametrics.
- Rising Rents in the Netherlands: Starting July 2025, rental hikes of up to 7.7% could increase relocation costs and extend housing searches, impacting the attractiveness of relocation packages. Source: I Am Expat.
4. Need expert tax support for your employees?
Tax season can be overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. From filing deadlines to maximizing benefits, we ensure your employees stay compliant and maximize benefits—without adding extra work for your HR team. Explore Our Tax Solutions
Have Questions?
The global mobility landscape in the Netherlands is shifting fast — but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Let’s review your mobility strategy and make sure your hiring, payroll, and relocation processes are future-proof.
