In Amsterdam, where thousands of students study at the UvA or VU, partner maintenance is a logical continuation of the parental maintenance obligation. Article 1:157 DCC regulates contributions between partners during their joint household, taking into account the high cost of living in the city.
Conditions in the Amsterdam Context
Both partners must be studying or have an income shortfall, such as with dean's guidance or side jobs in hospitality. The maintenance obligation applies until 1 year after the last study, with strict scrutiny by the Amsterdam District Court for cohabiting couples in canal houses or student flats.
Calculation with Amsterdam Costs
Based on capacity to pay and need: with equal income often 50/50 division. High Amsterdam rent (€1200+ for a two-room), study books, OV-chipkaart and living expenses in the Pijp or Jordaan are included in the needs calculation.
Difference from Child Maintenance
In contrast to the parental obligation for 18-21 year olds, partner maintenance does not end at a fixed age, but upon self-sufficiency, such as a starter job at an Amsterdam tech company. Judges in Amsterdam scrutinise more strictly for cohabitants, with a focus on local employment opportunities.
Example: A working partner in the Zuidas pays €450 to the studying housemate, adjusted for job change or inflation on housing costs. Upon separation, maintenance continues until the end of studies at the University of Amsterdam.