Many expats who rent a home in the Netherlands, think they have fewer rights than Dutch tenants. Landlords and real estate agents sometimes consciously give that impression, for example by saying that expats do not have tenant protection. That is not correct.

The tenancy law attorneys of Arslan Advocaten explain which rights expats have, when tenant protection applies, and how you can defend yourself against unjust behavior from landlords.

What is tenant protection?

Tenant protection means that a tenant cannot simply be evicted and that the landlord must adhere to strict rules when terminating the rent.

In the Netherlands, the tenant is well protected. This also applies to expats, regardless of their nationality or residency status.

Misconceptions about expats and tenant protection

1. “Expats have no tenant protection.”
   Wrong: expats have the same legal rights as any tenant.

2. “A temporary contract offers no protection.”
   The tenant also has the right to reasonable conditions and protection against abuse with temporary contracts.

3. “The deposit may be higher for expats.”
   No, deposit rules are the same for everyone (usually 1 to 2 months rent).

When does tenant protection apply for expats?

• For a rental agreement for living space (both apartments and rooms).

• Also for temporary contracts, as long as they are not unjustly or unfairly drafted.

• In disputes over deposit, service costs or rent.

⚠️ Exception: short stay contracts that are not legally considered as “rent” (for example hotels), do not offer tenant protection.

Examples from practice

• Expat in Amsterdam: was pressured to leave within 2 weeks. The judge ruled that the landlord did not adhere to the rules; the expat received tenant protection.

• Expat couple in Rotterdam: was imposed a deposit of 3 months. This was reduced to 2 months because the deposit was excessive.

• International student in Utrecht: received a rent increase of 15%. The judge ruled that this was in violation of the rent regulations.

Your rights as an expat

• You can have the rent and service costs checked by the Rent Committee.

• You cannot be evicted without a court judgement.

• You have the right to a reasonable deposit and its repayment.

• You have the right to transparent agreements and written confirmation with temporary contracts.

Checklist for expats: tenant protection

• 📑 Make sure you have a written rental contract (preferably also in English).

• 📉 Check whether the rent and deposit are reasonable.

• ✉️ Respond immediately in writing when threatened with eviction.

• ⚖️ Consult a tenancy law attorney in case of disputes.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. Do expats in the Netherlands have tenant protection?
Yes, expats have the same legal rights as Dutch tenants.

2. Can a landlord just evict an expat from the house?
No, a landlord must go to court to enforce eviction.

3. Can I have my rent checked?
Yes, through the Rent Committee or court.

4. Are temporary contracts for expats always binding?
Only if they comply with the legal rules. If there are errors, a temporary contract can continue indefinitely.

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Conclusion

Expats have the same tenant protection in the Netherlands as Dutch tenants. So do not let yourself be pressured by landlords who say you have fewer rights.

The tenancy law lawyers of Arslan Advocaten assist expats in disputes over lease contracts, deposit, and unjust termination of rent.