Youth Minimum Wage Scale in Utrecht
The youth minimum wage scale under Dutch employment law provides a tiered pay structure for young workers aged 15 to 21 in Utrecht. Wages start lower and increase with age until reaching the full minimum wage for those 21 and over. Ideal for Utrecht starters and students in part-time jobs at local supermarkets or hospitality venues in the city center. This article explores the Minimum Wage Act, with tips for residents of Utrecht.
What does the youth minimum wage mean for Utrecht?
For young people under 21 in Utrecht, the youth minimum wage applies, starting lower than the adult minimum wage and rising each year of age. A 15-year-old in a Utrecht shop earns less than a 20-year-old in hospitality, but from age 21, the standard rate applies. This structure helps employers in the vibrant student city of Utrecht attract young talent.
As of 1 January 2024, 21-year-olds are also entitled to the full wage. The amounts are percentages of the hourly, weekly, or monthly adult wage and are adjusted annually.
Legal basis
Article 12 of the Minimum Wage and Minimum Holiday Allowance Act (Wml) requires employers in Utrecht to pay the youth wage percentage to those under 21. The Minister of Social Affairs sets the rates, published in the Staatscourant.
As of 1 July 2024, the minimum hourly wage is €13.68 (for a 36-hour week, excluding holiday pay). Percentages remain the same, but amounts increase accordingly. Note the Working Hours Act for additional rules applying to minors under 18 in Utrecht, such as restrictions on working hours.
The scale at a glance (as of 1 July 2024)
For a gross monthly wage of €2,010 for those 21 and over, the scale for young people in Utrecht is as follows:
| Age | Percentage | Monthly Wage (gross) | Hourly Wage (€13.68 adult) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 years | 32.15% | €646 | €4.40 |
| 16 years | 42.85% | €862 | €5.86 |
| 17 years | 52.55% | €1,057 | €7.19 |
| 18 years | 60.85% | €1,224 | €8.33 |
| 19 years | 71.60% | €1,439 | €9.79 |
| 20 years | 84.45% | €1,698 | €11.55 |
| 21+ years | 100% | €2,010 | €13.68 |
Rounded figures, excluding 8% holiday pay. Check Rijksoverheid.nl for precise tools.
Examples from Utrecht practice
A 16-year-old working 20 hours/week at a supermarket in Utrecht East: minimum €5.86/hour, so €481 gross/month (excluding holiday pay).
A 19-year-old student working full-time (36 hours) at a café on the Oudegracht: €9.79/hour, €1,439 gross/month. Paying less? That's a violation of the Wml.
Turning 21 mid-month? Full wage from the first working day of that month.
Rights and obligations in Utrecht
Young workers' rights:
- Scale wage based on calendar age.
- Pro rata for part-time work.
- 8% minimum holiday allowance.
- Overtime protection, especially under 18.
Employers' obligations:
- Payslip showing age and percentage.
- Minimum pay within one month.
- No evasion through part-time jobs.
Employees: Report your birthday. If short-paid: demand from employer, then District Court of Utrecht or Juridisch Loket Utrecht.
Frequently asked questions for Utrecht residents
Entitlement to youth wage from what age?
From age 15 with an employment contract. Under 15: strict Working Hours Act, no minimum wage.
Less for part-time jobs in Utrecht?
No, always the scale. Exceptions for internships/BBL.
Turning 21 mid-month?
Full wage from first day of that month; employer adjusts.
Temp work in Utrecht?
Yes, scale mandatory. Check NEN 4400-1 certified agency.
Tips for young people in Utrecht
- Check payslip with the Rijksoverheid calculator.
- Unsure? Call Netherlands Labour Authority (0800-5151) or Juridisch Loket Utrecht.
- Written contract with specifications.
- For under-18s: extra local support via Municipality of Utrecht for safe jobs.