As of 1 July 2024, permanent rental contracts have become the standard for renting to expats. Temporary leases are only allowed in exceptional cases, such as student housing or during renovations. Want to know how to flexibly rent out your furnished, semi-furnished or unfurnished home under the new rules? Keep reading.
As a landlord, there are several rights and obligations to consider when renting to expats:
Renting to expats is subject to stricter regulations since 1 July 2024. Temporary contracts are only allowed under specific conditions; expats are entitled to rental protection. Mid-range rental homes are now subject to capped rent prices: €1,157.95 in 2024 and €1,184.82 in 2025. Rent increases are capped at 7.7%. Want to offer a temporary lease? Make sure to check the exceptions.
The affordable rent act, which took effect on 1 July 2024, introduces stricter rent control laws. It expands the housing valuation system (WWS) to include mid-range rentals, meaning more homes fall under rent cap regulations. This prevents excessively high rent and protects tenants from steep increases.
Under this legislation, temporary rental contracts have largely been abolished. Temporary leases are only permitted in specific cases, including:
A permanent rental contract cannot be terminated without a legally valid reason, even in the case of expat tenants, who have the same right to rental protection as any other tenant. Landlords may only terminate leases under certain conditions, such as:
Without one of these legal grounds, the lease remains valid.
Rent increase limits differ per rental category in 2025:
The WWS also determines the maximum rent for many mid-range properties to prevent excessive pricing. For self-contained units, the increase may be higher depending on base rent and household income.
If the current rent is €1,000:
mid-range → max €1,077 (€1,000 × 1.077)
If the rent is €1,500 (private sector):
max → €1,561.50 (€1,500 × 1.041)
If the rent is €650 (social housing):
max → €682.50 (€650 × 1.05)
Note: for self-contained units, the limit can be higher based on rent and income.
Can I offer a temporary lease?
Under the new law, temporary leases are only allowed in specific situations. If you want to rent to expats, check whether your situation qualifies for an exemption.
In addition to general exceptions, other possibilities include:
If a temporary lease was signed before 1 July 2024, it remains valid until the agreed end date. It cannot be extended; if renewed, it automatically becomes a permanent contract.
When renting to expats, a clear and legally sound rental agreement is essential. It should include:
It’s also important to define maintenance responsibilities and clearly state the notice period and termination terms so both parties know where they stand.
Expats renting in the Netherlands have the same rights and responsibilities as other tenants.
Read more about tenant rights
Renting out your property to expats can be financially rewarding, but you must comply with the latest laws. Since 1 July 2024, permanent leases are the norm, and temporary renting is only allowed in exceptional situations. Make sure your contract is watertight and that both you and the expat tenant know your rights and obligations.
Ready to start renting? List your property for free on Kamer.nl. Still have questions about the rules for renting to expats? Contact us.