Minimum Wage and Youth Minimum Wage in Westland
The Minimum Wage Act guarantees a basic income for all employees. 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
For young people under the age of 21, the amounts are lower, based on a percentage of the adult 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 standard wage is taken into account. 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 on your wages.
Statutory basis: Minimum Wage Act and [minimum holiday allowance](https://rechtshulpilburg.nl/encyclopedie/minimumvakantiebijslag-wml)
Frequently Asked Questions about Minimum Wage in Westland
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. For 2024, this means €8.00 gross per hour (60% of €13.27). This rate is adjusted twice a year, so keep an eye on the updates. Only your basic wage counts; extras such as holiday pay are paid separately.
Can my employer pay less than the minimum wage?
No, it is legally required to pay at least the minimum wage or youth minimum wage. If this does not happen, you can report this to the Netherlands Labour Authority (Inspectie SZW). They can impose sanctions. You can also take legal action via the District Court of The Hague to claim outstanding wages.
Does holiday allowance count towards the minimum wage?
No, holiday allowance does not form part of the minimum wage. This wage concerns exclusively your basic income, without extras such as overtime or bonuses. However, you are entitled to at least 8% holiday allowance, often paid in May or June.
What to do if paid too little?
Check your payslip and compare it with the statutory minimum wage for your age group. Discuss any discrepancies with your employer. If this does not provide a solution, you can contact the Netherlands Labour Authority (Inspectie SZW) or seek advice from the Juridisch Loket Westland.
Does minimum wage also apply to flexible workers in Westland?
Yes, the minimum wage applies to all employees, including flex workers and temporary agency workers. If you work via a temping agency, that agency must ensure proper payment, regardless of the client.