Debt collectors need a permit

What changes?

Do you have a debt collection agency? Debt collectors will need a permit to perform their collection services. Those agencies will be included in a public collection register.

Debt collectors are also required to use careful and understandable language, to make sure people understand their rights and obligations. Requirements concerning quality and professionalism will be drawn up and compliance will be monitored through a system of supervision and enforcement.

For whom?

• debt collection agencies that represent creditors
• professional purchasers of unpaid bills

When?

It is expected this change in regulation will come into force on 1 January 2022.

Please note: The effective date of this measure is not yet final. Entry into force is subject to its passing through the upper and lower houses of parliament or proclamation of the Order in Council (Algemene Maatregel van Bestuur, AMvB) or ministerial decree and publication in the Staatsblad or the Staatscourant (in Dutch).