NS tickets and subscriptions to rise by 6.5 percent from January 1

Train tickets and most NS subscriptions will become, on average, 6.5 percent more expensive starting January 1. Previously, prices were expected to jump by about 12 percent, but NS and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (I&W) agreed to spread some of the increase over the next four years.

NS explains that the upcoming price hike reflects expected inflation for 2026, compensation for past years’ delayed inflation, and earlier postponed increases caused by the absence of financial agreements with I&W. In past years, ticket prices fell behind actual inflation, which ended up being much higher than anticipated.

According to NS, the absence of long-term agreements with the ministry has created a financial shortfall. Of the 2026 fare increase, 3.05 percent reflects earlier postponed hikes, while the remaining 3.5 percent will be phased in over the next four years.

Earlier this year, caretaker State Secretary for Public Transport, Thierry Aartsen, indicated that fares in 2026 would rise by 6 to 9 percent. NS has now confirmed the final increase.

First-class tickets will see larger price increases on weekdays compared with second-class tickets. On weekends, NS is narrowing the price gap to encourage more passengers to occupy empty first-class seats.

NS will phase out two subscriptions next year. Starting February 1, the Weekend Voordeel and Altijd Voordeel passes will no longer be available for purchase. “Our research indicates that many travelers find the current subscription options too broad and occasionally confusing,” the company said. Existing subscriptions can still be used until July 1.

The daily rental price of an OV-fiets will rise from 4.65 to 4.80 euros. Starting next year, passengers who forget to check out will be charged the full train fare of 33.30 euros, up from 20 euros currently, though they can claim a refund afterward.

Rover, the Dutch travelers’ association, has criticized the price hike. The group says passengers are bearing the cost of political decisions. Rover criticizes NS for disregarding the advice of consumer organizations to keep price increases in line with inflation.

“NS can raise fares further, but it doesn’t have to,” said director Freek Bos. “The government previously provided funding to cushion NS fare hikes, but that support has now stopped. This means NS is passing its shortfalls onto passengers instead of investing in more affordable and attractive train services.” Rover is calling on the government to halt the price increases, warning they will make train travel unaffordable for an increasing number of people.