A holiday arrangement specifies how school holidays and public holidays are divided between parents. This is included in the parenting plan to avoid conflicts.
Division of School Holidays
Common divisions are:
| Holiday Period | Arrangement |
|---|---|
| Summer Holiday | 3 weeks per parent or a 2-2-2 week arrangement |
| Christmas Holiday | Alternate annually between parents |
| Spring Holiday | Every other year with the other parent |
| May Holiday | Alternate annually |
| Autumn Holiday | Alternate every other year |
Public Holidays Arrangement
Public holidays are often specifically agreed upon:
- Christmas: First Christmas Day with one parent, second with the other (or vice versa)
- Easter: Similar division as Christmas
- Child's Birthday: Child celebrates with both parents or alternates annually
- Mother's Day and Father's Day: Child with the relevant parent
Making Arrangements
When establishing a holiday arrangement:
- Establish a deadline for submitting holiday wishes
- Determine who gets to choose the holiday periods first
- Make arrangements for conflicting plans
- Take into account the work schedules of both parents
- Consider rules for travel abroad (consent)
Travel Abroad
For holidays outside the Netherlands:
- Notify the other parent in good time
- Share the travel destination and contact information
- In case of joint authority: consent is formally required for travel documents
- Take a consent form with you (recommended)
Passport and Identity Card
In case of joint authority, both parents must agree to the application for a passport or ID card for the child. This also applies to international travel.
What if we cannot reach agreement on holidays?
Try to reach a solution together first. If that fails, mediation may provide a solution. As a last resort, the court may impose an arrangement.Is consent from my ex needed for a holiday abroad?
In case of joint authority, consent is officially required. Within Europe, informal agreement is often sufficient, but outside Europe written consent is advisable.Can I go on holiday longer than agreed?
This is only permitted with the consent of the other parent. Unilaterally deviating without agreement may be regarded as obstructing contact.Frequently Asked Questions
How can the summer holiday be divided fairly?
Often a choice is made for 3 weeks per parent or a 2-2-2 week schedule. Agree on who chooses first and record this in the parenting plan. Take work and other obligations into account.
May I travel abroad with my child without consent?
In case of joint authority, consent is required. Within Europe, verbal agreement is often sufficient, but outside Europe a written declaration is recommended to prevent problems.
What if my ex does not cooperate with the holiday arrangement?
Try to discuss first or engage mediation. If this fails, the court may make a decision. Document all communication for any legal proceedings.
How do I arrange public holidays such as Christmas?
Public holidays are often divided alternately, such as first Christmas Day with one parent and second with the other. For birthdays, the child may see both parents or alternate annually.
Can I unilaterally amend the arrangement?
No, without the consent of the other parent you may not change the arrangement. This may have legal consequences. Consultation or mediation is the first step in case of disagreement.
Additional information: For legal support in Westland, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Westland. In case of disputes, the Rechtbank Den Haag (district) may be involved.