The enforcement on false self-employment led to a clear shift in 2025: approximately 80,000 freelancers moved (temporarily or otherwise) into salaried employment, a decline of nearly 8% in the total number of self-employed professionals in the Netherlands. Yet this figure tells only one side of the story.
Although the share of freelancers in the workforce declined from 11.1% to 10.3%, the data shows that the desire to work independently remains strong among people in salaried employment.
So there is no mass return to traditional forms of employment. Rather, this points to a temporary correction driven by new regulations.
The Talent Monitor report identifies three key factors:
Especially self-employed professionals in the mid-segment — with lower rates or less distinctive positioning — experienced increased risk. For them, salaried employment mainly offers peace of mind, stability, and continuity.
In sectors where rates are under pressure (such as parts of ICT), the likelihood increases that freelancers will temporarily return for security.
The market is shifting toward more experienced professionals, where risk is generally lower. Junior professionals are being affected more strongly.
According to the Talent Monitor, it’s too early to tell. There’s no structural upheaval for now, but 2026 could become a turning point if enforcement continues to intensify.
the outflow is temporary
inflow into self-employment remains strong
and the appeal of freelancing is still extremely high
So self-employment isn’t disappearing, it’s evolving.
Position yourself in roles with lower risk of being classified as embedded.
Build a strong differentiating profile (skills, niche, seniority).
Stay alert to rate pressure and shifts within your sector.
Clients need clear, honest guidance on risk.
Rate advice must become more realistic: some segments are under pressure, others are not.
The need for strong contract management and risk control is increasing.
One thing is clear: the flexible labor market is moving, but not toward less self-employment. On the contrary, once the dust settles, a market will emerge that is more professional, transparent, and mature than ever before.
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