Side Hustles Netherlands: Why Start a Side Income in 2026?
Side hustles in the Netherlands are more popular than ever. Research by the CBS shows that over 1.2 million Dutch people have a second source of income alongside their main job. The reasons are diverse: extra financial security, turning a passion into income, or the first step towards full entrepreneurship. In this extensive article, you'll discover the best side hustles for the Dutch market - with practical tips, expected startup times, and a realistic view of what you can earn.
Whether you're a student, working full-time, or looking for a flexible way to earn extra money: there's a side hustle in the Netherlands that suits you. We've categorized the options so you can quickly find the best match for your situation.
What Do You Need to Start a Side Hustle?
Before you start a side hustle in the Netherlands, there are a few practical matters to arrange:
- KvK registration - For most side hustles, you need to register with the Chamber of Commerce (sole proprietorship, costs around €75)
- Tax return - You must report extra income to the Tax Authority, even as a freelancer or self-employed person
- Employer's permission - Check your employment contract for a clause on secondary activities
- Bank account - A business bank account is handy for overview, but not always required
- Insurance - Consider liability insurance, depending on your activities
E-commerce Side Hustles in the Netherlands
E-commerce is one of the most lucrative categories for side hustles in the Netherlands. With platforms like bol.com, Amazon, and your own webshop, you can start selling relatively quickly.
1. Selling on bol.com
With over 13 million active customers, selling on bol.com is one of the most popular side hustles in the Netherlands. You can start with a small assortment and scale up as you gain more experience. Tools like Boloo help you with product research, sales analysis, and listing optimization.
2. Dropshipping
Dropshipping via bol.com or your own webshop is a low-threshold way to start with e-commerce. You don't need to hold stock - the supplier ships directly to your customer. Note, however, that margins are often lower and you have less control over delivery times.
3. Print on Demand
Design your own t-shirts, mugs, posters, or phone cases and sell them through platforms like Printful or Printify. You only pay for production after a sale, so the risk is minimal.
4. Selling Digital Products
E-books, templates, courses, and digital downloads have virtually no production costs after the initial investment. This makes them ideal as a passive income source alongside your main job.
5. Selling Handmade Products
Platforms like Etsy and your own webshop are perfect for selling handmade products. From jewelry to knitted clothing - if you have a creative hobby, you can earn money with it.
| E-commerce Model | Startup Costs | Startup Time | Expected Monthly Income* | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Selling on bol.com | €200 - €2.000 | 2-4 weeks | €200 - €5.000+ | Average |
| Dropshipping | €100 - €500 | 1-3 weeks | €100 - €2.000 | Average |
| Print on Demand | €0 - €100 | 1-2 weeks | €50 - €1.000 | Low |
| Digital Products | €0 - €200 | 2-8 weeks | €100 - €3.000 | Average |
| Handmade Products | €50 - €500 | 2-4 weeks | €100 - €1.500 | High |
*Expected income after 3-6 months of being actively involved. Results vary greatly per person and niche.
Freelance Side Hustles
If you have specific skills, you can use them directly as a freelancer. This is one of the fastest ways to generate extra income.
6. Freelance Writing
Writing content for websites, blogs, and social media is a popular side hustle. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.nl provide access to clients. With SEO knowledge, you can charge premium rates.
7. Graphic Design
Designing logos, social media content, flyers, and brand identities are in-demand services. Tools like Canva and Adobe Creative Cloud make it more accessible than ever.
8. Web Development and Design
Building websites for small businesses and entrepreneurs is one of the best-paid freelance side hustles. With WordPress, Webflow, or Shopify, you can quickly deliver professional sites.
9. Virtual Assistant
As a virtual assistant, you help entrepreneurs with email management, calendar planning, social media, and administration. The barrier to entry is low, and you can start right away.
10. SEO Consultant
Companies are constantly looking for better visibility in Google. If you have knowledge of search engine optimization, you can help companies improve their online visibility.
11. Social Media Management
Many small businesses need help with their social media. Creating content, planning posts, and managing ad campaigns - it can all be done alongside your main job.
Online Services and Coaching
12. Online Coaching or Consulting
Do you have expertise in a specific area? From business coaching to health advice - online coaching is a growing market in the Netherlands. Via Zoom or Google Meet, you can serve clients worldwide.
13. Online Tutoring
Offering tutoring in subjects like math, English, or programming via platforms like Bijles.com or Superprof. Hourly rates vary from €15 to €50+, depending on the subject and your experience.
14. Creating Online Courses
Create an online course on a topic you're an expert in. Platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, and Teachable make it easy to share your knowledge and generate passive income.
Content Creation as a Side Hustle
15. Starting a YouTube Channel
A YouTube channel can generate income through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. Popular Dutch niches include tech reviews, cooking, finance, and gaming.
16. Hosting a Podcast
Podcasting is growing rapidly in the Netherlands. With platforms like Spotify for Podcasters and Anchor, you can start for free. Income comes from sponsorships, ads, and premium content.
17. Blogging
Starting a blog about a niche you're knowledgeable about can generate income in the long run through ads, affiliate links, and sponsored content. It requires patience, but can grow into a serious source of income.
18. Affiliate Marketing
Promote products from other companies through your website, social media, or email list and earn a commission per sale. Popular affiliate programs in the Netherlands include bol.com Partner, Amazon Associates, and Bol.com sales partners.
| Content/Freelance Model | Startup Costs | Time to First Income | Scalable? | Passive Income? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freelance Writing | €0 | 1-4 weeks | Limited | No |
| YouTube | €100 - €1,000 | 6-12 months | Very High | Yes |
| Blogging | €50 - €200 | 6-18 months | High | Yes |
| Online Courses | €0 - €500 | 2-6 months | Very High | Yes |
| Affiliate Marketing | €50 - €200 | 3-12 months | High | Yes |
| Podcasting | €100 - €500 | 6-12 months | Average | Partially |
Creative and Alternative Side Hustles
19. Stock Photography
Got a good camera? Sell your photos via Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, or iStock. Each download earns you a small amount, but with a large portfolio, it can add up.
20. App Development
If you can program, you can develop and publish apps in the App Store or Google Play. From productivity tools to games - the possibilities are endless.
21. Translation Work
The Netherlands is a multilingual country. If you're fluent in multiple languages, you can offer translation services to companies and individuals. Platforms like ProZ.com and TranslatorsCafé help you find assignments.
22. Mystery Shopping
Stores and restaurants hire mystery shoppers to evaluate the customer experience. It doesn't pay much, but it's a fun way to earn some extra money while you shop or dine out.
23. Renting Out Assets
Rent out your parking space, storage space, tools, or camera equipment via platforms like SnappCar, MyWheels, or PeerBy. An easy way to make money with things you already own.
24. Surveys and Market Research
Not the most lucrative option, but platforms like Swagbucks, Toluna, and Euroclix pay you for filling out surveys and testing products. Ideal if you have little time.
25. Reselling (Second-Hand Sales)
Buy products cheaply at flea markets, thrift stores, or online auctions and sell them for a profit via Marktplaats, Vinted, or bol.com. Popular categories include clothing, electronics, and collectibles.
How to Choose the Best Side Hustle?
With so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose. Use these criteria to select the best side hustle for your situation:
- Available Time - How many hours per week can you dedicate? Freelancing requires active effort, while digital products can generate passive income
- Startup Capital - Some side hustles require an investment (inventory management), while others can be started for free (freelancing)
- Skills - Build on what you already can do. A graphic designer has an advantage in design-related side hustles
- Scalability - Do you want to grow in the long term? E-commerce and digital products are more scalable than hourly wage-based work
- Passion - You'll stick to a side hustle longer if you enjoy the subject
Side Hustles and Taxes in the Netherlands
An important aspect of side hustles in the Netherlands that many beginners overlook is the tax side:
- Income Tax - You add your side hustle income to your regular income and it's taxed in box 1 (up to 49.5% in 2026)
- BTW - If your annual turnover is under €20,000, you can use the small business scheme (KOR) and don't have to pay BTW
- Entrepreneurial Allowance - If you spend at least 1,225 hours per year on your business, you're eligible for the entrepreneurial allowance
- Start-up Allowance - In your first three years as an entrepreneur, you get extra tax deductions
- Administration - Keep all receipts and invoices. Tools like automatic invoicing can simplify this
Tips for Success with Your Side Hustle in the Netherlands
After analyzing hundreds of successful Dutch side hustlers, we're sharing the most important tips:
- Start small, think big - Begin with a minimal investment and scale up once you know what works
- Be consistent - Spend a fixed number of hours on your side hustle every week, even if the results are slow to come
- Use data - Make decisions based on data, not feelings. Tools like Boloo's Product Tracker help you find the right products
- Automate where possible - Use tools for email campaigns, accounting, and inventory management to save time
- Build a network - Join communities of like-minded entrepreneurs for tips and motivation
- Keep learning - The online market changes quickly. Take courses and keep developing your skills
Frequently Asked Questions about Side Hustles in the Netherlands
How much can I earn with a side hustle?
This varies greatly depending on the type of side hustle and the time you invest. Freelancers earn an average of €25-€75 per hour, while e-commerce side hustles can generate €500-€5,000+ per month after 6 months. The key is consistency and choosing a niche that suits you.
Do I need a KvK number?
In most cases, yes. As soon as you generate income with a side hustle on a regular basis, you're required to register with the KvK. The cost is a one-time fee of €75 for a sole proprietorship.
Can I combine a side hustle with a full-time job?
Yes, you can. Check your employment contract for a clause on side activities. Most employers allow side activities as long as they don't compete with the company and don't affect your performance.
What's the best side hustle for beginners?
For beginners, we recommend starting with selling on bol.com or offering freelance services. Both have a low barrier to entry, and you can quickly generate your first income.
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