The aftermath of Prinsjesdag is clear: the 2026 Tax Plan contains several measures that may directly impact your finances, especially if you are an expat or international knowledge worker. Below we outline the key changes, their possible effects – and what you can do about them.
Key Changes in 2026
- Box 3: Savings and Investments
The notional return (forfaitary yield) used to calculate tax on assets will increase. At the same time, the tax-free allowance will be reduced. This means that many people with savings or investments will face a higher tax bill in 2026, unless they can demonstrate that their actual return was lower. - Income Tax
The labour tax credit will rise slightly, offering some relief to employees. At the same time, however, the first tax bracket rate will also increase, meaning many will still pay more overall. - Excise Duties and Other Levies
The temporary cut on excise duties, such as those on fuel, has been extended until 2027. On the other hand, air passenger tax will rise, as will other consumption-based levies. - Employer Allowances
A small but symbolic change: private international phone calls can no longer be reimbursed tax-free. For internationally active employees, this may add up over time.
Political Tinkering
As expected, the package is directionless which is no surprise with a cabinet minding the store for successors. Higher earners once again bear a greater burden, and certain unpopular proposals, such as raising VAT on cultural activities, were dropped after lobbying pressure.
Impact on Expats and Knowledge Workers
| Area | Likely Impact | What You Can Do |
| Wealth & Investments | Higher Box 3 taxes on savings/investments. | Consider diversifying, assess possibilities for challenging assumed returns, or restructure savings to maximize exemptions. |
| Overall Tax Burden | Slightly higher rates despite a larger tax credit. | Review deductions and tax-efficient arrangements, especially if you have cross-border ties (e.g. housing, education costs). |
| Transport & Travel | Fuel excise relief continues, but air travel will cost more. | Plan flights wisely, use commuting reimbursements, or discuss mobility budgets with your employer. |
| International Communication | Reimbursements for private international calls taxed. | Reconsider phone/communication arrangements with your employer; use digital alternatives where possible. |
Impact on your Financial Plan
If you have wealth, you will be taxed earlier than before, and if you do not object, you will likely pay considerably more. Likely, but not certainly. If anything, Dutch taxation will mean more tax consulting is necessary to determine if it makes sense to apply the real return or not.
We see several clients making a change in structuring their wealth which makes sense if the intention to stay in the Netherlands is sufficiently long, and if considering a timely shift of that wealth to children is part of that plan.
A word to the wiser: elections will change parts of the fiscal outlook. Looking back at when to expect new policies, this could be well into the next fiscal year. So maybe it is better to start moving nevertheless.