Oil & Gas and IT contractors are in prime position to take advantage of the 30% ruling in the Netherlands. Application for the tax break, offered by the Dutch government to expat contractors possessing specialist skills, should be considered as an essential part of financial planning.
Partial Non-Resident Status
When an expat relocates for work purposes to the Netherlands, they are considered as Dutch tax resident. However, under the 30% ruling they may opt to be treated as a partial non-resident for Dutch income tax purposes for the duration of their contract or posting. The choice of partial non-resident status can be revised each year by the expat.
With this status contractors are exempt from Dutch taxation on investments, other than those in Dutch real estate. This means that expats with offshore pensions or investments are not taxable on any gains declared to the Dutch revenue.
To apply for the 30% ruling: consult a mobility specialist
There are a number of mobility specialists in the Netherlands that can assess and request the 30% rule on your behalf. It is possible to have the 30% rule apply on your first day of contracting; you do how ever need to apply for the ruling in good time. The mobility specialist will work in association with the tax authorities to ensure that your application is handled quickly and efficiently.
For information on how to apply for the 30% ruling or for a more detailed explanation on how it effects your tax position in the Netherlands, please contact us.