A holiday arrangement specifies how school holidays and public holidays are divided between parents. This is included in the parenting plan to avoid conflicts.
Division of Holidays
Common divisions are:
| Holiday Period | Division |
|---|---|
| Summer Holiday | 3 weeks per parent, or a 2-2-2 weeks division |
| Christmas Holiday | Alternate annually |
| Spring Holiday | Every other year with the other parent |
| May Holiday | Alternate annually |
| Autumn Holiday | Alternate every other year |
Public Holidays Division
Public holidays are often specifically agreed upon:
- Christmas: First Christmas Day with one parent, second Christmas Day with the other (or vice versa)
- Easter: Similar division as Christmas
- Child's Birthday: Celebration with both parents or alternate annually
- Mother's Day and Father's Day: Child with the relevant parent
Making Agreements
When establishing a holiday arrangement:
- Set a deadline for notifying holiday plans
- Determine who gets to choose a period first
- Make agreements on conflicting wishes
- Take into account both parents' work schedules
- Consider rules for travel abroad (consent required)
Travel Abroad
For holidays outside the Netherlands:
- Notify the other parent in good time
- Share the travel destination and contact information
- With joint custody: official consent is required for travel documents
- Carry a consent form (recommended)
Passport and Identity Card
With joint custody, both parents must agree to the application for a passport or ID card for the child. This also applies to international travel.
What if we cannot reach agreement on holidays?
Try to discuss it together first. If that does not work, mediation can provide a solution. As a last resort, the court can impose an arrangement.Is consent from my ex needed for a foreign holiday?
With joint custody, official consent is required. Within Europe, informal agreement is often reached, but outside Europe, written consent is advisable.Can I go on holiday longer than agreed?
This is only allowed with the consent of the other parent. A unilateral change may be regarded as obstructing contact.Frequently Asked Questions
How can the summer holiday be divided fairly?The summer holiday is often split into periods of 3 weeks per parent or a 2-2-2 weeks schedule. Make clear agreements on who chooses first and record this in the parenting plan. Take work obligations into account. Can I travel abroad without the other parent's consent?
With joint custody, consent is required. Within Europe, it is often agreed verbally, but outside Europe, a written declaration is advisable to avoid legal issues. What if my ex does not cooperate with the holiday arrangement?
Try to discuss it first or engage a mediator. If this does not help, the court can establish a binding arrangement. Document all communication for any potential case. How do I arrange public holidays such as Christmas and birthdays?
Public holidays are often celebrated alternately, such as first Christmas Day with one parent and second with the other. For birthdays, the child can see both parents or alternate annually. Record this in the plan. May I adjust the holiday arrangement myself?
No, a unilateral change without consent is not permitted and may have legal consequences. In case of disagreement, consider mediation or involving the court.
Relevant Institutions in Leiden:
- District Court of The Hague, Leiden Location
- Legal Aid Office Leiden, Stationsweg 46