Vakantiegeld: Understanding the 8% 'Bonus' in Your Dutch Paycheck

If you’ve been working in the Netherlands for a few months, you might have noticed your colleagues getting a bit more excited lately. It’s not just the better weather or the spring holidays — it’s because May is the month of Vakantiegeld (Holiday Allowance).

For many international workers, seeing an extra amount on their May payslip is a great surprise. But it’s worth knowing that this isn't a "gift" or a random bonus from your employer. It’s a legal right built into the Dutch system to make sure everyone can actually afford to take a break.

What exactly is Vakantiegeld?

By law, every employee in the Netherlands is entitled to a holiday allowance of at least 8% of their gross annual salary. The idea is simple: the government wants to ensure you have the financial resources to rest and recharge.

Whether you’re a permanent employee or working through an agency like Jobroad, you earn this allowance with every hour you put in.

How is it calculated?

The math is pretty straightforward. You take your total gross salary earned between June 1st of last year and May 31st of this year, and multiply it by 0.08 (8%).

Example: If you earned €25,000 gross over the last 12 months, your Vakantiegeld will be €2,000 gross.

Keep in mind this is a gross amount. Just like your regular wage, it’s subject to income tax. Because it’s considered "extra" income, it’s often taxed at a slightly higher rate than your monthly pay, so the net amount in your bank account will be lower than the 8% gross figure.

When do you receive it?

For most people in the Netherlands, Vakantiegeld is paid out as a lump sum in late May. It’s timed perfectly for booking summer trips.

If you’re working on a temporary contract or through an agency, there are a few ways it might happen:

• Lump Sum: Most agencies follow the standard May payout.

• Pro-rata: In some cases, the 8% is calculated and paid out with every weekly or monthly paycheck.

• End of Contract: If you leave your job before May, your accrued Vakantiegeld is paid out with your final settlement.

Why this matters

Understanding Vakantiegeld is part of knowing how the Dutch market works. It’s one of the reasons the Netherlands is known for a great work-life balance.

At Jobroad, we make sure every candidate receives exactly what they’ve earned. We don't hide behind complicated process language — we just ensure the numbers are right and the payout is on time. If you see "Vakantiegeld" on your payslip this month, enjoy it. You’ve worked hard for it.

Happy to discuss if you have questions about your specific situation.

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