Minimum Wage and Youth Minimum Wage in Utrecht
The Minimum Wage Act ensures that employees receive a basic income. The rates are revised every six months.
Statutory Minimum Wage 2024
As of 1 January 2024, the minimum wage has been set at €13.27 gross per hour for employees aged 21 and older.
Youth Minimum Wage
Employees under the age of 21 receive a percentage of the standard minimum wage:
- 20 years: 80%
- 19 years: 60%
- 18 years: 50%
- 17 years: 39.5%
- 16 years: 34.5%
- 15 years: 30%
What Counts Towards the Minimum Wage?
Only the basic salary is included. Extras such as overtime, holiday allowance, bonuses or end-of-year payments are excluded.
Holiday Allowance
In addition to the minimum wage, you are entitled to at least 8% holiday allowance.
Statutory basis: Minimum Wage Act and [minimum holiday allowance](https://rechtshulpilburg.nl/encyclopedie/minimumvakantiebijslag-wml)
Contact and Assistance in Utrecht
For legal questions or disputes about minimum wage, you can go to the Utrecht Legal Desk at Catharijnesingel 55. For court cases, the District Court of Midden-Nederland at Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1 is competent.
Frequently Asked Questions about Minimum Wage
How much minimum wage do I receive as a 19-year-old?
As a 19-year-old, you are entitled to 60% of the adult minimum wage, which in 2024 amounts to €8.00 gross per hour. This rate is adjusted twice a year, so keep an eye on the updates. Allowances such as holiday pay are added on top.
Can my employer pay less than the minimum wage?
No, employers are obliged to pay at least the minimum wage or youth minimum wage. If this does not happen, you can report it to the Netherlands Labour Authority (Inspectie SZW). They can impose sanctions. You can also take legal action to claim the outstanding wages.
Is holiday pay included in the minimum wage?
No, holiday pay does not form part of the minimum wage. This is based solely on your basic income, without additional allowances. However, you are entitled to at least 8% holiday pay, often paid out in May or June.
What to do if paid too little salary?
Check your payslip and compare it with the statutory minimum wage for your age. Discuss any discrepancies with your employer. If this does not help, you can report it to the Netherlands Labour Authority (Inspectie SZW), which can intervene and impose a fine.
Does minimum wage also apply to agency workers in Utrecht?
Yes, flex workers, agency workers and on-call workers are also entitled to the minimum wage. If you work through an employment agency, that agency is responsible for the correct payment, regardless of the client.