Firmer line on self-employment 


The new Dutch government has promised to take firmer action against those who “maliciously” use self-employment to evade paying taxes and social contributions.


The Netherlands has a high proportion of self-employed workers, who pay lower tax and other contributions than direct employees. 


In 2016, the previous government introduced new legislation intended to tackle those abusing the system through bogus self-employment. However, this legislation was never effectively implemented.


The new government has now promised to introduce new rules from 2020 but said that in the interim it will take a tougher line against those who abuse the system.


FNV, the main Dutch union grouping, has welcomed the move. Frederique Zebeda, representing the FNV’s young members, said: “We have been arguing for enforcement for some time now and we are pleased that the cabinet will at least make a start.