In this article
Is there a general minimum wage or earnings per shift?
Topic
Earnings
Freelance shift
Employed shift
31 Jul 2026
For employed shifts, a minimum wage applies and is determined by several factors, while for freelance shifts, you set the minimum hourly rate you want to earn for yourself.
Employed shift
To determine the minimum hourly wage for an employed shift, we look at three things:
- General minimum wage
For all employed shifts, you’ll always earn at least the statutory minimum hourly wage. This amount is determined by the government and can be found on the website of the Dutch government.
- Industry-specific minimum wages
Different industries might have their own CAO (collective labour agreement) and minimum wages. Be sure to check the relevant CAO for up-to-date information.
- Inlenersbeloning
In addition to these wages, companies (inleners) are required to pay temporary workers (temps) at least the same salary as a directly hired employee doing the same job. This is known as the 'inlenersbeloning’.
Freelance shift
For freelancers there is no minimum earnings. And you’re also free to negotiate your rate when applying. If you’ve got solid experience and feel confident in your skills, don’t hesitate to negotiate a higher rate and explain why you’re worth it to the client.
