New SNF standards: what has changed as of 1 July 2025?

The Stichting Normering Flexwonen (SNF) announced new standards for the housing of migrant workers, effective 1 July 2025. These tightened requirements are intended to further improve residents' living comfort, privacy, and well‑being. In this article we explain what these new SNF standards entail, who they apply to, and what this means for employers and housing organizations.

Why have the SNF standards been tightened?

Migrant workers are now an integral part of our society. Good housing is, of course, important for the well‑being of this group and to limit nuisance for the surrounding community. The new standards are a logical next step in the pursuit of structurally better living conditions. With this, SNF aims to continue challenging and encouraging the sector to invest in future‑proof and responsible housing.

What exactly has changed?

The Stichting Normering Flexwonen tightened its standards as of 1 July 2025 to take a new step toward structurally better housing conditions for migrant workers. The main changes that take effect are:

Greater usable floor area per resident

For new hotels/guesthouses and new development sites for which the first environmental permit is applied for after 1 July 2025, an increased minimum usable floor area applies. The new standard stipulates that the living area (including bedroom) per resident must be at least 15 m² of usable floor area.

In addition, the following applies:

  • A bedroom may, by default, be occupied by only one person.
  • Only at the express request of the residents, for example in the case of partners, may a room be shared.

Stricter requirements for daylight access

A second adjustment is that the requirement for the presence of daylight in habitable rooms is being tightened. A home with abundant daylight provides a pleasant and healthy living environment. It contributes to the comfort of the residents and makes the home even more attractive.

Who do the new SNF standards apply to?

The tightened SNF standards apply to a specific group of accommodation locations. They primarily concern new initiatives that, from that moment on, intend to fall under SNF certification. SNF's aim is to prevent outdated or unduly cramped housing from being used in future projects.

  • New-build sites for which the first omgevingsvergunning (environmental/planning permit) is applied for after 1 July 2025.
  • New hotels and guesthouses that fall under SNF certification after that date.

For existing certified locations, the old standards remain in force for the time being. That means that, in the short term, nothing changes for accommodation already listed in the SNF register, unless there is a large-scale renovation or redevelopment. In those cases a new assessment may be required, in which the new standards will indeed apply.

Eemsdelta Housing: your partner in certified housing

At Eemsdelta Housing we place great value on good and responsible housing. We strive to align our locations with the guidelines of the Stichting Normering Flexwonen (SNF) and closely monitor the changes that have been in effect since 1 July 2025. Together we are happy to consider future-proof solutions.

Do you have questions about certified housing or are you looking for a reliable partner?

Please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to assist you further.