If you’re coming to work in the Netherlands through Charlie works, you’ll naturally want to know what you can earn. In the Netherlands, there is a statutory minimum wage that ensures everyone receives fair compensation for their work. In this blog, you’ll read about what the minimum wage is, how it’s calculated, and what it means for you as an international employee.
What is the minimum wage?
The minimum wage is the lowest amount an employer is legally required to pay employees aged 21 and over. The Dutch government sets this wage twice a year on January 1 and July 1.
The minimum wage applies to everyone working in the Netherlands, regardless of nationality. If you work through Charlie works, you will always receive at least the statutory wage or more, depending on your position and the collective labor agreement (CLA) of the sector you work in.
More information can be found on the Dutch government’s website.
How is the minimum wage calculated?
From 2024, a minimum hourly wage will apply in the Netherlands instead of a monthly wage. This means your wage will be calculated directly per hour worked.
The amount of the minimum wage depends on:
- Your age (a youth wage applies from age 15)
- The number of hours you work per week
- The agreements in your contract or CLA
For employees aged 21 and over, a minimum hourly wage of €13.68 (gross) will apply from July 1, 2025. If you work full-time (for example, 40 hours per week), you will earn approximately €2,374 gross per month. Note: this amount can be higher if you work under a CLA with higher pay scales or allowances.
Extras on top of your wage
In addition to your hourly wage, you are also entitled to:
- Holiday pay: at least 8% of your gross annual salary, usually paid in May or June.
- Allowances: extra payment for evening, night, or weekend work.
- Overtime pay: if you work more hours than stated in your contract.
At Charlie works, we ensure that your payslip always clearly shows what you have earned and what allowances you have received.
Minimum wage and CLA agreements
Many sectors in the Netherlands operate with a CLA (collective labor agreement). These contain specific agreements about wages, working hours, and compensations. If you work in logistics, production, or horticulture, for example, your wage may be higher than the minimum wage, depending on the CLA that applies to your employer. Charlie works always checks whether your wage complies with the CLA and legal requirements.
How do you know if you’re getting the right wage?
At Charlie works, you get paid weekly and receive a payslip where you can see exactly:
- How many hours you have worked
- Your gross and net wage
- Any allowances and holiday pay
- The taxes and premiums withheld
Our coordinators are happy to explain how you can check your wage and what everything on your payslip means. This way, you can be sure everything is correct.
Conclusion
The minimum wage in the Netherlands protects employees from underpayment and ensures fair working conditions. At Charlie works, you can trust that you will always receive a fair salary, according to Dutch law and CLA.
Working through Charlie works
Do you want to work in the Netherlands with certainty about your salary and good working conditions? Then check out our vacancies at Charlie works. We ensure everything is well arranged, from your contract and salary to housing and guidance.
