A holiday arrangement specifies how school holidays and public holidays are divided between parents. This is included in the parenting plan to avoid conflicts in Zoetermeer.
Holiday Division between Parents
Common agreements regarding holidays are:
| Holiday Period | Division Schedule |
|---|---|
| Summer Holiday | 3 weeks per parent, or a 2-2-2-weeks arrangement |
| Christmas Holiday | Alternate annually |
| Spring Holiday | Every other year with the other parent |
| May Holiday | Alternate annually |
| Autumn Holiday | Divide every other year |
Arrangement for Public Holidays
Public holidays are often specifically agreed upon:
- Christmas: First day with one parent, second day with the other (or vice versa)
- Easter: Similar division as Christmas
- Child's Birthday: Celebration with both parents or alternate annually
- Mother's Day and Father's Day: Child with the respective parent
Agreements on Holiday Arrangement
When making a holiday arrangement in Zoetermeer:
- Establish a date for notifying holiday plans
- Determine who gets to choose first
- Arrange what to do in case of conflicting wishes
- Take into account the work obligations of both parents
- Consider rules for international travel (consent)
Travel Abroad
For holidays outside the Netherlands:
- Notify the other parent in good time
- Share the travel destination and contact information
- In case of joint custody: written consent is often required
- Carry a consent form with you (recommended)
Passport and Identity Card
In case of joint custody, both parents must agree to the application for a passport or ID card for the child. This also applies to travel outside the Netherlands from Zoetermeer.
What if we cannot reach agreement on holidays?
Try to reach a solution together first. If that does not work, mediation in Zoetermeer can help. As a last resort, the District Court of The Hague can impose an arrangement.Is consent required for a holiday abroad?
In case of joint custody, official consent is required. Within Europe, informal agreement is often sufficient, but for non-European destinations, a written declaration is advisable.Can I go on holiday longer than agreed?
This is only permitted with the consent of the other parent. A unilateral change may have legal consequences, such as an accusation of obstructing contact.Frequently Asked Questions about Holiday Arrangements in Zoetermeer
How do I divide the summer holiday fairly?
The summer holiday is often divided into two blocks of 3 weeks or a 2-2-2-weeks schedule. Specify who chooses first and take into account the work and plans of both parents.
May I travel abroad without consent?
In case of joint custody, consent is required. Within Europe, a verbal agreement is sometimes sufficient, but outside Europe, a written declaration is recommended to avoid problems.
What if my ex does not cooperate with the arrangement?
First seek a solution through consultation or mediation. If that fails, the District Court of The Hague can make a binding decision. Keep all communication well documented.
How do I arrange public holidays such as Christmas?
Public holidays are often alternated, such as first Christmas day with one parent and second with the other. For birthdays, the child can see both parents or alternate annually.
Can I unilaterally adjust the arrangement?
No, unilateral changes are not permitted without consent. This may have legal consequences. Consultation or mediation is the best first step in case of disagreement.
For legal assistance in Zoetermeer, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.