Dutch Court fees are a crucial part of the Dutch legal system. These are the Dutch legal fees that must be paid to the court to initiate or remain involved in a legal case. While court fees might seem straightforward, they can be an unexpected burden, especially when costs quickly add up. In this blog, I will delve into the changes we can expect in 2026 regarding court fees for civil cases. What do these changes mean for businesses, individuals, and the role of court fees in the legal process?
What are Court Fees under Dutch law?
Dutch Court fees are the costs that both the claimant (the one starting the case) and the defendant (the one defending the case) must pay to the court in civil cases. This applies to different types of legal proceedings, such as commercial disputes, family law cases, urgent applications (except for summary proceedings), and insolvency cases. The court fee varies depending on the value of the case, the type of parties involved (natural persons or legal entities), and whether the party qualifies as having low income.
Court fees contribute to the operational costs of the judiciary system. They ensure that the judicial system functions effectively and that the process is fair. Paying court fees is a necessary step for both individuals and companies involved in legal actions. However, the fees can be significant, especially in cases with high stakes.
Court Fees in the Netherlands in 2026: The New Tariffs
For 2026, the tariffs for court fees in civil cases have been indexed once again. The fees for different types of cases are as follows (approximately):
| Type of Case | Court Fee for Legal Entities | Court Fee for Natural Persons | Court Fee for Indigents |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cases of Undefined Value (e.g., request for conservatory attachment) | €735 | €341 | €93 |
| Cases with a Claim or Request up to €100,000 | €3,083 | €1,414 | €93 |
| Cases with a Claim or Request Between €100,000 and €1,000,000 | €7,062 | €2,803 | €93 |
| Cases with a Claim or Request Above €1,000,000 | €10,487 | €2,803 | €93 |
| Deposit of the First Distribution List or Approval of a Settlement | €820 | €820 | €820 |
| Inheritance Deeds | €165 | €165 | €165 |
Who Pays the Court Fees in the Netherlands?
In civil cases, both the claimant and the defendant are responsible for paying court fees in the Netherlands. The amount of the court fee depends on the value of the claim or request, as shown above. An important point is that fees for companies are often much higher than for natural persons, as companies fall into the “legal entity” category. As a result, the court fee for businesses can be substantial, particularly in high-value cases.
Additionally, there is the option for individuals or legal entities with low income to pay a reduced court fee by qualifying for the indigent rate. This applies to both natural persons and legal entities who can demonstrate financial hardship.
Specific Changes for Dutch court fees for 2026
The changes in 2026 involve an increase in court fees, particularly for higher-value claims. Companies and individuals involved in cases with a value exceeding €100,000 can expect higher costs, especially if the case exceeds €1,000,000.
Why Are These Increases Happening?
The increase in court fees is a result of annual indexing, which adjusts the fees to align with inflation and other economic factors. The additional revenue from court fees also helps maintain the accessibility of the justice system. By increasing the rates, the government ensures that the costs of the judiciary are responsibly shared.
How Can You Lower or Avoid Dutch Court Fees?
There are several ways to reduce or even avoid court fees.
1. Request for a Reduction in Court Fees:
If you have a low income, you may qualify for the lower court fee for “indigents.” This can be done through a legal aid certificate or an income statement. Your lawyer can assist you with this process.
2. Apply for Legal Aid:
If you qualify for subsidized legal assistance (legal aid certificate), your lawyer will handle the court fee reduction for you. This means you only have to pay your personal contribution, depending on your income.
3. Reduce Fees During the Proceedings:
If you only realize after starting the proceedings that you may qualify for a reduced court fee, you can still apply for this. You must inform the court as soon as possible, preferably before the final judgment. In some cases, the court fee can be reduced.
The Importance of Timely Payment of Dutch Court Fees
It’s essential to pay the court fee on time, otherwise, the court will not proceed with the case. The payment deadline starts the day after the first hearing (in summons cases) or from the moment the application is filed (in application cases). If you fail to pay the fee on time, the court may reject the case or issue a decision without considering your defense.
Payment After the Hearing:
For summons cases, the payment term starts the day after the first hearing. For application cases, the term starts from the date the application is submitted. The court fee must be paid within 4 weeks to avoid complications.
Dutch Court Fees in Urgent Procedures and International Disputes
One notable aspect of court fees is their application in urgent proceedings. If you have a legal aid certificate and wish to proceed in summary proceedings, you must submit the certificate at the hearing. This prevents the full court fee from being charged.
For international cases, it is possible to pay court fees at the Netherlands Commercial Court (NCC). This applies to international business disputes, which often involve additional complex regulations and higher costs.
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Court fees are an unavoidable part of the civil justice process. In 2026, court fees will increase, particularly for higher-value claims. Both businesses and individuals need to be aware of these changes and the importance of paying court fees on time to avoid legal complications.
For those who find themselves in financial difficulty, the legal system offers ways to reduce costs, such as applying for a legal aid certificate or qualifying for the indigent rate. With the right knowledge and preparation, the costs of the legal process can become more manageable.
If you need advice or assistance regarding court fees and how to start a legal procedure, don’t hesitate to reach out to our specialized Dutch lawyers in Amsterdam. Our Dutch lawyers at MAAK Advocaten are available to support you with any legal questions regarding Dutch court fees, especially when you have concerns about the specific tariffs for 2026 or need help with applying for legal aid.
