Sometimes things don’t work out the way you planned. Perhaps you bought something, and it turns out to be broken. Maybe your flight has been delayed or you have a complaint about a seller. What are your rights as a consumer in the Netherlands? Who can you turn to when you need help with matters such as these? The pages in this section explain what you need to know.
What are your consumer rights when you shop in the Netherlands?
What are your rights when you buy something in a shop in the Netherlands and are your rights any different if you buy something online or via the phone? What if the product you bought is damaged? How does warranty in the Netherlands work? And what's the deal with subscriptions and memberships? Can you just cancel your subscription at any time?
A purchase (both at a physical shop and online) made from a seller by a consumer is called a consumentenkoop, which is an oral or written agreement between you and the seller. This comes with rights and obligations for both parties. Find out more about your rights when it comes to shopping in the Netherlands.
Helpful Dutch consumer rights organisations
Are you experiencing issues with a particular product or service you've purchased? There are a few helpful consumer rights organisations in the Netherlands that may be able to help you out, depending on your problem. Organisations such as De Geschillencommissie, Kifid, Consumentenbond, Fraud Help Desk and Landelijk Meldpunt Zorg are there specifically to make sure you know your rights and to help you file complaints if necessary. Read more about Dutch consumer rights organisations.
What are your rights when it comes to flight delay and cancellation in the Netherlands?
As an expat, you might find you travel more than the average Dutch person. This is why it's handy to know your rights when it comes to delayed and cancelled flights in the Netherlands. You might be entitled to compensation and not even know it! It all depends on how much you've been delayed and why the delay or cancellation occurred. Read more about the compensation rules.
What can you do if you have a complaint about healthcare in the Netherlands?
Do you have a complaint about your GP, a nursing home, pharmacy, hospital or health insurer? Find out what you can do.