As of 1 July 2025, several legislative changes have taken effect in the Netherlands. These developments are particularly relevant for international entrepreneurs with operations, personnel, or real estate holdings in the country. This article outlines the key legal updates regarding financing, labour law, and property rental regulations, along with practical next steps to ensure compliance and readiness.

1. More Flexible Financing Options for Businesses

Abolition of Contractual Prohibitions on Assignment of Receivables

The Dutch legislator has removed restrictions that previously prevented companies from pledging or assigning receivables, such as unpaid invoices, as collateral—even when a contract explicitly prohibited this.

What this means in practice:

• All commercial receivables can now be used for financing (e.g., bank loans, factoring)
• Exceptions apply to certain types of receivables (e.g., G-rekening and payment accounts)
• Action required: Existing contracts must be updated before 1 October 2025, or conflicting clauses will be deemed void

Tip for international businesses: If you wish to secure Dutch-based financing using your receivables portfolio, it is essential to review and amend your Dutch commercial contracts in time.

2. Increased Labour Costs Due to Minimum Wage Rise

New statutory gross minimum wage: €14.40/hour

As of 1 July, the legal minimum hourly wage for employees aged 21 and older has increased from €14.06 to €14.40.

Implications for employers:

• Higher wage costs, particularly in lower-salary segments
• Potential impact on collective labour agreements (CAOs)
• Relevance for foreign companies with Dutch payrolls, branches, or seconded staff

Make sure to update your HR systems, payroll processes, and employment contracts accordingly.

3. Stricter Rental Regulations for Residential Properties

If your company leases out residential units in the Netherlands—whether for investment purposes, employee accommodation, or temporary housing—new rental rules now apply under the fully implemented Affordable Rent Act.

Key changes:

• Maximum annual rent increases for social housing:
  • Rent above €350: max. 5%
  • Rent below €350: max. €25
  • For higher-income tenants: up to €50 or €100
• Also applies to:
  • Room rentals
  • Mobile homes and pitch rentals
• WWS points system reinstated:
  • Properties with fewer than 143 points no longer qualify as free-sector rentals
• Tenants may request rent reductions retroactively—this can be done directly with the landlord, without involving the Rent Tribunal

Attention foreign investors and landlords: These changes affect both institutional and private landlords, including non-Dutch entities. It is advisable to review all existing Dutch lease agreements under the new legal framework.

Quick Action Checklist for International Entrepreneurs

Area	What You Should Do Now
Financing	Review and update contracts for receivables pledging
Employment / HR	Adjust payroll and wage policies to reflect the new minimum wage
Real Estate / Leasing	Reassess lease agreements and rental pricing to comply with the Affordable Rent Act

Need Assistance?

Do you have questions about how these changes affect your Dutch business operations or legal arrangements?
Our team is experienced in advising international clients and can help you navigate the Dutch regulatory landscape with clarity and precision.

Contact us via email at info@acginter.com today to schedule a consultation.