Youth Minimum Wage Scale for Young People in Leiden
The youth minimum wage scale under Dutch employment law sets out a stepped pay structure for young workers aged 15 to 21 in Leiden. Wages increase with age up to the full minimum wage for adults. This graduated system rewards experience suited to young people, perfect for Leiden students with part-time jobs. This article explores the Minimum Wage Act with local tips.
What does the youth minimum wage mean for Leiden?
The youth minimum wage applies to anyone under 21. Unlike the adult wage, it starts lower and follows an age-based scale: a 15-year-old earns less than a 20-year-old, with full minimum wage from age 21. In student city Leiden, it helps employers hire entry-level workers in hospitality or city-centre shops.
The scale promotes youth employment and eases employer burdens. It represents a percentage of the adult wage (monthly, weekly or hourly). Since 1 January 2024, 21-year-olds also receive the full amount.
Legal Basis
The rules are laid down in the Minimum Wage and Minimum Holiday Allowance Act (Wml), specifically Article 12 Wml. Employers must pay young people up to age 21 at least the scale percentage. The Minister of Social Affairs and Employment (SZW) sets percentages and amounts annually in the Government Gazette.
As of 1 July 2024: €13.68 hourly wage (36-hour week, excl. holiday pay). Percentages are fixed; amounts rise with adjustments. Note the Working Hours Act for extra protections for under-18s, relevant for Leiden side jobs.
The Scale at a Glance (as of 1 July 2024)
Based on adult wage of €2,010 gross/month:
| Age | Percentage | Monthly Wage (gross) | Hourly Wage (€13.68 basis) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 years | 32.15% | €646 | €4.40 |
| 16 years | 42.85% | €862 | €5.86 |
| 17 years | 52.55% | €1,057 | €7.19 |
| 18 years | 60.85% | €1,224 | €8.33 |
| 19 years | 71.60% | €1,439 | €9.79 |
| 20 years | 84.45% | €1,698 | €11.55 |
| 21+ years | 100% | €2,010 | €13.68 |
Rounding applied, excl. 8% holiday allowance. Check Rijksoverheid.nl for exact tables.
Examples from Leiden Practice
A 16-year-old works 20 hours/week in a supermarket on Haarlemmerstraat: min. €5.86/hour, €481 gross/month (excl. holiday pay).
A 19-year-old student full-time (36 hours) in a café during vacation: €9.79/hour, €1,439 gross/month. Paying less? Breach of Article 12 Wml.
Turn 21 mid-month? Full wage from first working day of that month.
Rights and Obligations in Leiden
Young workers' rights:
- Scale wage based on calendar age.
- Pro rata for part-time work.
- 8% minimum holiday allowance.
- Overtime protection (under 18).
Employers' obligations:
- Payslip showing age and percentage.
- Minimum pay within one month.
- No evasion through side jobs.
Employees: Report your birthday; claim shortfalls from employer or sub-district judge at the District Court of Leiden.
Frequently Asked Questions
From what age does youth minimum wage apply?
From age 15 with an employment contract. Under 15: strict Working Hours Act rules, no minimum wage.
Less for a side job?
No, always the scale. Exceptions for traineeships/BBL.
Turning 21 mid-month?
Full wage from start of the month; employer makes correction.
Temp workers?
Yes, scale mandatory. Check NEN 4400-1.
Tips for Leiden Residents
- Verify payslip using the Rijksoverheid calculator tool.
- Any doubts? Call the Labour Inspectorate SZW (0800-5151) or Het Juridisch Loket Leiden.
- Written contract with full specifications.
- Check Gemeente Leiden for local job openings.
- In disputes: go to the District Court of Leiden.