The 30/20/10% ruling explained
The 30% ruling, is a Dutch tax advantage designed to attract skilled professionals from abroad. Under this scheme, eligible employees can receive part of their salary tax-free for a limited time. This is meant to offset the extra costs of moving to and living in the Netherlands - also known as extraterritorial costs.
In 2024, the traditional “30% ruling” was adjusted into a phased benefit structure, reducing the tax-free benefit over time. It’s now often referred to as the 30/20/10% ruling, and here’s how it works:
- First 20 months: 30% of your gross salary is tax-free
- Next 20 months: 20% tax-free
- Final 20 months: 10% tax-free
- After 60 months: The benefit ends
The tax break is intended to help with the costs of relocating to a new country, such as travel expenses, costs of international education or furnished housing.
Who qualifies?
Are you wondering if you qualify for the 30% tax ruling? Head over to this article from the official Dutch tax office to check!
How is the 30% ruling applied in payroll?
From a payroll perspective, this tax ruling significantly impacts how your gross salary is taxed and, therefore, your net income. If you are eligible, your employer applies the tax benefit directly to your monthly payslip, so you don’t have to claim it separately.
Let’s break it down with an example:
You have a gross monthly salary of €5,000, and you qualify for the ruling.
In the first 20 months:
- 30% of €5,000 = € 1,500 is tax-free
- You will be taxed only on the remaining €3,500
This means your take-home pay is higher than it would be without the ruling.
As time progresses, the tax-free portion gradually decreases to 20%, then 10%, which will reflect in your payslips accordingly. Your employer's payroll system will automatically adjust the ruling period and percentages.
Why has it changed?
The Dutch government revised the ruling to make it more sustainable and fair, while still keeping the Netherlands attractive for internationals. By phasing out the benefit over five years, the system now encourages long-term settlement and supports those who truly need help when relocating.
What should you keep in mind?
- You must meet certain criteria regarding salary levels, skills, and recruitment distance;
- The total benefit lasts for a maximum of 5 years;
- Each month, the tax-free portion should be clearly visible on your payslip;
Your employer is the one who has to apply the ruling in payroll, so it’s important to inform them.
Need support?
Our partner Hilfort supports internationals and we take care of all the administrative and legal details and at the end of each month. If you’re unsure how the ruling applies to your situation, we are happy to walk you through the process.
Already have the employee on your payroll but need help with specific tasks, like IND advice or applying for the 30% ruling? No problem. We offer each of our payrolling services individually on a consultancy basis, so you get exactly what you need.
This article was co-written with our partner Hilfort.
