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FlashNetherlandsOctober 17, 2026

Netherlands Sees First Decline in Self-Employed in 20 Years as Freelancers Shift to Permanent Jobs

PublishedEditorial policy

The number of self-employed individuals in the Netherlands has decreased by 10% (131,000 people) since late 2024, marking the first decline in two decades. The Central Bank of the Netherlands (DNB) reports that former freelancers are quickly securing permanent positions, indicating a market reorientation.

Netherlands immigrationDutch residencyself-employment Netherlandsfreelance visapermanent jobs

Key takeaways

  • Freelancing in the Netherlands is becoming less of a default option, with companies actively recruiting for permanent staff. If you planned to start as self-employed, competition for permanent roles has increased.
  • The rapid transition of 131,000 individuals into employed positions over several months signals a market reorientation, not a crisis. For relocators, focusing on securing a permanent contract may now be a more strategic approach than self-employment.
  • Legislation concerning self-employment may tighten in parallel with this trend. It is advisable to verify current visa and permit requirements if your relocation plans heavily rely on a freelance setup.

Netherlands Sees Shift from Self-Employment to Permanent Roles

The Central Bank of the Netherlands (DNB) has reported the first decrease in the number of self-employed individuals in 20 years. Since late 2024, the self-employed population has fallen by 131,000 from a peak of 1.3 million, representing a 10% reduction. This trend is characterized by former freelancers rapidly transitioning into permanent employment.

This shift is attributed to companies actively hiring for staff positions. Economic stability or potential changes in self-employment legislation may be encouraging individuals to opt for salaried work. For those considering relocation to the Netherlands and viewing freelancing as a viable initial pathway, this indicates a growing demand for permanent positions and a reorientation of the job market.

Source: DutchNews — https://www.dutchnews.nl/2026/10/self-employment-declines-as-freelancers-quickly-find-new-jobs/

Sources

Based on Emigro corridor reporting. Primary links below.

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