Can You Be Paid in Bitcoin?
Can You Get Paid in Bitcoin? Here's What the Law Says
More and more people are exploring crypto beyond their investment portfolios. But what if you want to receive your salary in bitcoin? Is that legally allowed in the Netherlands? And what happens if the value of bitcoin crashes right after payday?
In this blog, we explain how salary payments in cryptocurrency work, what the law says, and what protections are in place for employees.
Salary in bitcoin: is it allowed?
The short answer is yes, but with important conditions.
Under Dutch law, wages must generally be paid “in money.” This doesn't necessarily mean euros, if both employer and employee agree, part of the salary may be paid in another form, such as cryptocurrency. This is considered a form of “payment in kind.”
However, strict rules apply.
Minimum wage must always be paid in euros
By law, the minimum wage must be paid in euros. Only the part of your salary above that minimum may be paid in bitcoin (or another form), provided you explicitly agree.
In short:
Your base salary must be paid in euros
Bonuses, commissions, or other extras may be paid in crypto
All agreements must be clearly documented
What if the bitcoin price drops?
Cryptocurrencies are known for volatility. If you're paid partly in bitcoin and the value drops, you bear that risk, provided you've given prior, informed consent.
But there’s a safeguard: under Dutch law, you can always withdraw your consent and request that your full salary be paid in euros again. This must be communicated with reasonable notice to your employer.
Real-world example: Domino’s Pizza
This is not just theory. In 2021, Domino’s Pizza Netherlands offered employees at 16 branches the option to receive part of their salary in bitcoin. This was arranged through an external service provider to ensure compliance with all tax and legal requirements. As required by law, only the portion above the minimum wage was paid in crypto.
While interest in crypto salaries has cooled slightly, the example shows that crypto payment is legally viable, if well-structured.
What should you do as an employee?
If you're considering crypto salary payments:
Discuss it openly with your employer
Make sure all agreements are in writing
Be aware of tax implications and price risks
Know you can always switch back to euros
What should employers be aware of?
Employers must:
Respect the legal requirement to pay minimum wage in euros
Handle crypto correctly in payroll records
Document employee consent clearly and thoroughly
Conclusion
Receiving part of your salary in bitcoin is legally possible in the Netherlands—but only under certain conditions. Minimum wage must be paid in euros, and any alternative form of payment must be clearly agreed upon. With proper arrangements and clear expectations, crypto salaries can be a bold but legitimate option.
This blog was written by Mr. Stijn Blom
Employment law attorney at expatlawyer.nl B.V. Stijn has extensive experience in employment law and supports entrepreneurs on a daily basis with a wide range of employment law issues. From dismissal cases to drafting watertight agreements and regulations – with his practical and personal approach, he helps employers and employees move forward. Want to know more? Visit Stijn’s page.
Expatlawyer.nl is happy to think along with you if you have questions about the topic of salary arrangements? Feel free to get in touch.
June 2025
