Netherlands

The Netherlands legalized sex work in 2000 by lifting the national brothel ban. Sex workers must be 21+, registered, and pay taxes. Licensed brothels and escort agencies operate legally. Independent escorts register as self-employed (ZZP). Only EU citizens can work legally — non-EU nationals cannot obtain work permits for sex work.

Amsterdam's De Wallen is world-famous. Most major cities have legal infrastructure. Police focus on unlicensed operations and trafficking. An opt-in registration system is being implemented nationwide. Attitudes are pragmatic. The system has moved toward stricter regulation in recent years.

Low. Strong Dutch and EU privacy protections (GDPR). No border phone searches. Advertising open and legal.

Good for touring EU citizens. Non-EU citizens cannot legally work. KvK (Chamber of Commerce) registration as self-employed is straightforward. Amsterdam is the main hub; Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht also established. Must provide ID for registration.

Kinky.nl, Hookers.nl, Sexjobs.nl, Veronicapage.nl, international platforms.

• PROUD — Dutch union for sex workers
• Soa Aids Nederland — sexual health services