By raising the youth wage, the minister ensures a significant improvement in the wages of young people. The increase in the minimum youth wage applies to young people aged 16 to 20 years. From 2027, the wage will gradually increase per age category.
For example: starting July 1, 2025, the minimum youth wage for a 19-year-old is €8.64 per hour. With the increase starting in 2027, the minimum youth wage for a 19-year-old will rise to 75% of the regular minimum wage. If this increase were to be implemented now, the minimum youth wage for a 19-year-old would be €10.80 per hour. However, this example is hypothetical because the minimum youth wage will not be raised now, but in two years. Additionally, the regular minimum wage amount that will serve as the basis for calculating the minimum youth wage from January 1, 2027, is not yet known.
Minister Van Hijum: “I see raising the youth wage as an important step towards more security of existence for young people. When you are young, you should not have to choose between studying or working because otherwise you cannot make ends meet. In conversations with young people themselves, these concerns came to light. By raising the youth wage, young people will have more financial independence and can fully participate in the labor market in exchange for fair compensation.”
Below is an overview of the current percentages of the minimum youth wage and the percentages from which the minimum youth wage will be derived from the minimum wage starting in 2027
- 20 years 80%
From 2027 87.5%
- 19 years 60%
From 2027 75%
- 18 years 50%
From 2027 62.5%
- 17 years 39.5%
From 2027 50%
- 16 years 34.5%
From 2027 40%
- 15 years 30%
From 2027 30%
Cabinets response to the exploration of the minimum youth wage
The Ministry of SZW has conducted an exploration into the minimum youth wage. The aim was to compile all relevant factual information about the youth wage. A comprehensive cabinet response to this exploration and the decision to raise the youth wage will follow before the summer.