Understanding Housing Allowance (Huurtoeslag) in the Netherlands – What Expats Should Know

For many newcomers to the Netherlands, huurtoeslag (housing allowance) can help make rent more affordable. This government benefit is designed to support tenants with lower incomes, making it easier to cover housing costs.

However, not everyone meets the requirements — and that sometimes includes certain expats. Knowing the rules before you start your rental search can help you plan your budget with confidence.

1. What Is Huurtoeslag?

Huurtoeslag is a monthly financial contribution from the Dutch government to help tenants pay their rent. The amount you receive depends on:

Your income and assets

Your age

Your rent price

Your household composition

It is managed by the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration (Belastingdienst).

2. Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for huurtoeslag, you generally need to meet the following conditions:

Registered address (GBA-inschrijving) in the Netherlands

Legal residence permit if you’re not an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen

Rent within allowed limits for your age group and household size

Income and savings below certain thresholds

A rental property that meets certain safety and self-contained housing requirements

3. Why Some Expats May Not Qualify

Some common reasons why expats might not be eligible include:

Holding a short-term visa without a permanent BSN registration

Renting a property with rent above the huurtoeslag threshold

Having income or savings above the limit

Staying in housing that doesn’t meet self-contained requirements (e.g., shared facilities)

4. Planning Ahead Without Huurtoeslag

If you discover you don’t qualify, there are still ways to find affordable housing:

Expand your search area beyond the city center to surrounding towns

Look for all-in rental prices that include utilities

Use housing platforms like Huisly to view listings from Funda, Pararius, Kamernet, and more in one place, making it easier to compare prices and find a match for your budget

Consider shared housing options for lower monthly costs

5. Staying Informed

Rules for huurtoeslag can change from year to year. Checking the official Belastingdienst website or seeking guidance from an expat housing advisor can help ensure you’re working with the most up-to-date information.

Conclusion

While huurtoeslag can be a valuable benefit, not all expats will meet the criteria. By understanding the rules early, exploring other housing options, and using tools like Huisly to compare listings, you can make confident and informed decisions about your rental search.