Story perspectives

Netherlands Deregisters 21,000 Freelancers Amid Crackdown

1/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In December, the Netherlands deregistered over 21,000 sole traders amid a crackdown on "phantom freelancers."
New business registrations dropped by 13%, resulting in a net loss of 6,776 self-employed workers.
The number of sole traders increased by 3.1% in 2024, a decline from previous years' 8%.
The tax office will target companies breaching freelance regulations, issuing warnings prior to fines.
Education and healthcare sectors worry about filling vacancies due to these stricter regulations.

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Story summary

In December, the Netherlands deregistered over 21,000 sole traders amid a crackdown on "phantom freelancers."
New business registrations dropped by 13%, resulting in a net loss of 6,776 self-employed workers.
The number of sole traders increased by 3.1% in 2024, a decline from previous years' 8%.
The tax office will target companies breaching freelance regulations, issuing warnings prior to fines.
Education and healthcare sectors worry about filling vacancies due to these stricter regulations.