Housing Permit: criteria explained
A housing permit determines whether you are entitled to social rental housing in the Netherlands. The criteria are strict and are determined by municipalities and housing associations. These rules are intended to combat housing shortages and give priority to those with the most urgent housing needs. In this article, we explain the most important criteria, the legal basis and how you can increase your chances.
What is a housing permit?
A housing permit is an official permission indicating that you are entitled to social rental housing. This permit is not granted automatically, but depends on various criteria such as income, family circumstances and urgency. The permit is usually issued by the municipality or the housing association, in collaboration with the Central Housing Allocation Bureau (CBW).
The criteria for a housing permit are laid down in the Rent Allowance Act and the Housing Act. In addition, local rules of municipalities and housing associations play an important role.
Legal basis
The most important laws and regulations regarding housing permits are:
- Housing Act (articles 1.1 and 1.2): regulates the general provisions on housing allocation.
- Rent Allowance Act (article 10): determines who is entitled to social rental housing.
- Housing Permit Regulation (varies per municipality): this regulation specifies which criteria apply and how urgency is assessed.
Every municipality and housing association has its own rules, but they must comply with national guidelines. The Central Housing Allocation Bureau (CBW) plays a coordinating role and ensures a fair distribution of housing.
Which criteria apply?
The criteria for a housing permit may vary per municipality, but there are some general rules that apply everywhere. The most important criteria are:
1. Income
Your household income is one of the most important criteria. Your income must meet the following requirements:
- Your gross income must not be too high. In general, your income may not exceed the maximum income established for social rental housing. This amount varies per municipality and per composition of your household.
- For 2024, the maximum income for a single person is approximately between €30,000 and €35,000 gross per year, depending on the municipality. For families with children, this amount is higher.
- Your income is checked based on your income statement, tax return and any other sources of income.
Consult the website of your municipality or housing association for the exact income limit.
2. Urgency
Urgency is a key criterion for obtaining a housing permit. The more urgent your situation, the higher your chance of getting a home. Urgency is determined based on the following factors:
| Urgency category | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Extremely urgent | Urgent medical, safety or social reasons. | You live in a home that is uninhabitable due to flooding or fire. |
| Very urgent | Major health risks or severe overcrowding. | You live in a home that is too small with five children. |
| Extended urgent | Financial or social problems that require housing allocation. | You are a victim of domestic violence and have no safe shelter. |
| Normally urgent | Normal housing need, but no acute necessity. | You live in a bad neighborhood and want to move for better schools. |
More information about urgency and how to demonstrate it can be found in our article on urgency.
3. Family circumstances
The composition of your household also plays a role. For example:
- Singles: often have less chance than families with children.
- Families with children: often receive priority, especially if the number of children is high or if there are specific needs (e.g., medical).
- Non-nationals: in some municipalities g ```