10 transformations in the job market: What the De Wever I coalition agreement means for you
The world of work is changing. Not gradually, but fundamentally. The new De Wever I government agreement introduces reforms that don’t just influence how we work, but also how we think about work. These changes present both challenges and opportunities for employers and employees. The real question is: how do we adapt?
1. Doubling of tax-free student income
Students can now earn up to €12 000 per year tax-free. This provides greater financial independence for young professionals and allows businesses to attract fresh talent without additional costs.
2. Permanent increase in student work hours to 650
The 650-hour annual cap remains in place, ensuring stability in sectors like hospitality and retail that rely heavily on student labor to handle peak periods.
3. Stricter measures against false self-employment
The government is tightening regulations to combat false self-employment. With fewer tax benefits for management companies and increased audits, freelancers and businesses alike must ensure compliance.
4. Expansion of the copyright tax scheme
The favorable tax regime for copyright income is now extended to digital professions. This means IT professionals, marketers, and creative freelancers can benefit from a more tax-efficient structure, recognizing the value of intellectual property.
5. Increased flexibility in work models
With the introduction of an annualized work hour system and the removal of minimum part-time work requirements, both employers and employees gain greater flexibility. Work-life balance just got easier.
6. Voluntary overtime
Employees can now work up to 360 voluntary overtime hours per year without additional social security contributions or personal income tax. A game-changer for industries with seasonal peaks.
7. Expansion of flexi-jobs
The income cap for flexi-jobs rises from €12,000 to €18,000 per year, and eligibility extends to sectors like education, childcare, and culture. This makes the labor market more dynamic and accessible.
8. Reform of social dialogue
Fewer joint labor committees will lead to more efficient decision-making, reducing bureaucratic hurdles for employers and streamlining negotiations.
9. Stricter controls on consecutive daily contracts
To prevent abuse, tighter regulations on consecutive daily contracts will be enforced. Employees gain more job security, while employers will need to adapt their workforce planning.
10. Increase in tax-free income
All workers will see an increase in net income due to a higher tax-free threshold. More purchasing power strengthens the economy as a whole.
What does this mean for you?
These changes are not barriers, they are invitations to rethink work. They challenge us to find new ways to be more flexible, fair, and future-proof. The question isn’t whether we should adapt, but how we can do it in the smartest way possible.
The exact implementation dates for these measures have not yet been finalized, but their impact is inevitable. Now is the time to stay ahead and align your HR strategy with these developments.
At Tentoo, we understand that change brings questions. How do these new rules affect student employment? What do these reforms mean for flexi-jobs? How can you keep your business agile without sacrificing stability?
We are here to guide you. Not just to help you comply with regulations, but to use them strategically, so you emerge stronger from this transition. Because work is evolving. The real question is: are you ready?