Expats looking for a property in the Netherlands often experience being treated differently from Dutch tenants. They sometimes have to pay a higher deposit, face stricter conditions or are even refused. This can be regarded as discrimination on the housing market, which is prohibited in the Netherlands.
The rental law lawyers at Arslan Advocaten explain what discrimination looks like, what your rights are as an expat and what you can do if you are treated unequally.
How does discrimination manifest for expats?
Expats regularly encounter the following problems:
Higher deposit – expats often have to pay 3 or even 6 months' deposit, while Dutch tenants pay 1 or 2 months.
Higher rent price – for the same property, expats are charged higher rent.
Refusal – some landlords prefer not to rent to expats or impose stricter income requirements.
Extra conditions – such as mandatory administration fees or cleaning costs.
What does the law say?
In the Netherlands, the principle of equality applies: landlords may not discriminate based on nationality, origin or residency status.
This means expats have the same rights as Dutch tenants. Extra deposit or higher rent purely because of expat status can be classified as discrimination.
Practical examples
Expat in Amsterdam: had to pay 6 months' deposit. The court ruled this was excessive and discriminatory; the deposit was reduced.
Expats in The Hague: were offered a rent price €300 per month higher than for Dutch tenants. This was reversed after objection.
International student in Utrecht: was refused because he "did not have a permanent job". The court determined this was indirect discrimination.
Your rights as an expat
You are entitled to a reasonable deposit (usually 1 to 2 months).
You can have an excessive rent price or deposit assessed by the Rent Tribunal.
You can take legal steps in case of discrimination.
You may not be refused solely because you are an expat.
Checklist for expats regarding discrimination
Always ask for a written rental contract.
Compare your conditions with those of other tenants.
Ask for an explanation if your deposit or rent is higher than normal.
Consult a rental law lawyer if you suspect discrimination.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. May a landlord ask more deposit from an expat?
No, the rules apply to everyone: 1 to 2 months' rent is normal.
2. What can I do if I pay more rent than Dutch tenants for the same property?
You can have this assessed by the Rent Tribunal or court.
3. May a landlord refuse to rent to expats?
No, this can be regarded as discrimination.
4. Do I as an expat have the same rights as Dutch tenants?
Yes, you have exactly the same rights.
Conclusion
Expats often face discrimination when renting a property, especially regarding deposit and rental conditions. Remember that you have the same rights as any Dutch tenant and that you can take legal steps in case of inequality.
The rental law lawyers at Arslan Advocaten help expats with disputes about deposits, rent prices and discrimination.