As of January 1, 2025, the Netherlands has implemented a series of significant legal changes impacting various sectors. The minimum wage has increased to €14.06 per hour for workers aged 21 and older, reflecting a broader trend of rising wages across the country. Additionally, the taxation on lottery winnings has risen from 30.5% to 34.2%, increasing the burden on significant prizes.
In healthcare, the basic insurance package will now cover more rehabilitation services for the elderly, while premiums are expected to rise by approximately €11 per month. Moreover, zero-emission zones will be introduced in 14 municipalities, banning older vans and trucks from city centers to promote environmental sustainability.
Amid these changes, the Netherlands is also preparing for a regulated cannabis trial in ten cities starting in April 2025, aiming to control and monitor cannabis sales more effectively