From 1 July 2025: housing permit required for tenants in Amsterdam

From 1 July 2025, things will change for tenants in Amsterdam. A housing permit will then be required for many social rented and medium-rent homes. By doing so, the municipality wants to ensure that affordable housing remains available for people with a matching income. We are happy to explain what this new rule means - and what you can do as a tenant.

What does the new permit mean?

The housing permit is a permission from the municipality to live in a regulated rental home. Without this permit, a tenant will soon not be allowed to move into such a property. It applies to houses within the social rent and medium rent up to a certain rent limit.

In short, the municipality checks whether your income matches the property you want to rent. This keeps the housing supply fairly distributed.

When do you need the permit?

The permit applies to tenants of regulated houses within the social rental and middle rental sectors. If you rent through a housing association, the association will usually arrange the permit for you. It does not apply to owner-occupied houses, rooms or temporary rentals.

How does the application work?

The application is digital via the municipality of Amsterdam. You can complete the application via this link.

Vb&t and the housing permit

Naturally, vb&t adheres to the housing permit issued by the municipality of Amsterdam. For properties where this applies, you will see an indication here. Our staff will be happy to inform you if you need to apply for a housing permit.

Are you looking for a rental property in Amsterdam? Then take a look at our housing offer in Amsterdam.

Source: Applying for a housing permit - Municipality of Amsterdam