A GUIDE FOR Moving TO THE

Netherlands

A GUIDE FOR Moving TO THE

Netherlands

A GUIDE FOR Moving TO THE

Netherlands

Sponsors

A + International

A + International

A + International

APRIL International is a world leader in international health insurance. We currently provide cover to more than 150,000 policyholders around the world in their business and personal endeavours. Our aim is to facilitate your access to healthcare throughout the world.

A Place in the Sun Currency

A Place in the Sun Currency

A Place in the Sun Currency

Our service is specifically designed for anyone making overseas payments to buy, maintain, or sell an overseas property. We understand the importance of an efficient and transparent currency service and have an experienced team in place to help make your money go further and secure your very own “place in the sun”.

Abroad Experience Recruitment

Abroad Experience Recruitment

Abroad Experience Recruitment

It is of utmost importance to us that we offer a high level of service and build strong and trusting relationships with clients and candidates. As an international agency, we are devoted to international professionals in order to help them succeed on the Dutch labor market. As part of our recruitment services we can provide you with feedback on your CV & interview preparation sessions.

GUIDE FOR

Settling in the Netherlands

Settling in the Netherlands

Planning to move to the Netherlands? We cover everything you need to know about moving to the Netherlands and settling in your new home. So, buckle up and let's get started!

  • Understand the Dutch culture and customs

  • Plan ahead by researching visa requirements

  • Locate an affordable place to live

  • Make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage

  • Obtain a bank account in the Netherlands

  • Learn basic Dutch phrases so you can communicate with locals

Plan ahead by researching visa requirements

Moving to the Netherlands is an exciting adventure, yet it also involves important steps like understanding visa regulations. It's a key part of your plan to move to the Netherlands. We will elaborate on the Visa requirements in our article where immigrating will be the central subject.

Find an affordable place to live

The Netherlands might be a small country, but we at Relocately are sure that there are some cities that you have never heard of. Still, these cities each have their own nice characteristics and are mostly cheaper than the capital of the Netherlands: Amsterdam. That’s why we made you a list of possible areas to move to.

Here are some cities in the Netherlands which you can check out:

  1. Rotterdam (South Holland):

    • Advantages: Modern architecture, Europe's largest port, a dynamic urban atmosphere, and a growing reputation for design and innovation. Rotterdam is also known for its multicultural environment and a variety of cultural events.

  2. Utrecht (Utrecht):

    • Advantages: Centrally located, with good transportation links, a historic city center, and a lively cultural scene. Utrecht is known for its beautiful canals, historic buildings, and a mix of traditional and modern elements.

  3. The Hague (South Holland):

    • Advantages: International city hosting various embassies and organizations, political and administrative center of the country, diverse cultural attractions, proximity to the beach, and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Amsterdam.

  4. Eindhoven (North Brabant):

    • Advantages: A hub for technology (ASML) and design, a strong economy, a young and innovative atmosphere, and a range of cultural events. Eindhoven is known for its high-tech industries and is often considered the "Brainport" of the Netherlands.

  5. Groningen (Groningen):

    • Advantages: Lively student population, a historic city center, affordable living costs, and a strong sense of community. Groningen offers a relaxed pace of life and is known for its cycling culture.

  6. Maastricht (Limburg):

    • Advantages: Rich historical and cultural heritage, a unique blend of Dutch and European influences, a slower pace of life, and a strong culinary scene. Maastricht is located close to the borders of Belgium and Germany.

  7. Haarlem (North Holland):

    • Advantages: Close proximity to Amsterdam, a charming historic city center, good quality of life, and a more tranquil environment. Haarlem is known for its cultural events, museums, and proximity to the beach.

When choosing a city, consider factors such as your work opportunities, lifestyle preferences, and the overall atmosphere you're seeking.

Make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage

Take the time to research and compare different health insurance plans to find the best fit for you and your family. The peace of mind that comes with knowing you are covered is priceless.

Here is a list of the most common insurance providers:

  • Zilveren Kruis

  • CZ (CZ Groep)

  • Univé

  • Aegon

  • ASR Nederland

Obtain a bank account in the Netherlands

One of the first things you will need to do is obtain a bank account. Not only will this make managing your finances easier, but it is often required for basic daily tasks such as signing a lease or setting up utilities. The process is straightforward and the Dutch culture is known for its efficiency. 

The most common banks in the Netherlands are:

Understand the Dutch culture and customs

Dutch culture is full of fun and tradition, with roots going deep into history. This culture values family ties, community spirit, and cherishing life's simple joys. Dutch are known for their hospitality but also their directness.You might find yourself cycling by scenic canals, treating yourself to 'stroopwafels' and 'bitterballen', popular Dutch snacks. These are some of the great things about moving to the Netherlands. When moving to the Netherlands, remember to follow some important local manners. 

To get used to the Dutch culture you can visit the following things:

  1. Rijksmuseum (Amsterdam): The Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands, showcasing a vast collection of Dutch art and history, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

  2. Anne Frank House (Amsterdam): The former hiding place of Anne Frank during World War II is now a museum that provides a poignant look into the life of the young Jewish girl and the impact of the Holocaust.

  3. Madurodam (The Hague): A miniature park featuring scaled-down replicas of famous Dutch landmarks, cities, and landscapes, allowing visitors to explore the entire country in a few hours.

  4. Van Gogh Museum (Amsterdam): Dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh, this museum houses the largest collection of his paintings and drawings, providing insight into the artist's life and career.

  5. Keukenhof Gardens (Lisse): Known as the "Garden of Europe," Keukenhof is one of the most extensive flower gardens in the world, particularly famous for its vibrant tulip displays during spring.

  6. Zaanse Schans (Zaandam): An open-air museum with historic windmills, traditional Dutch houses, and workshops, offering a glimpse into Dutch life in the 18th and 19th centuries.

  7. Euromast (Rotterdam): A striking observation tower offering panoramic views of Rotterdam and its surroundings, with a rotating glass elevator and an observation deck.

  8. Efteling (Kaatsheuvel): The largest theme park in the Netherlands, Efteling is known for its fairy-tale-themed attractions, roller coasters, and enchanting experiences for visitors of all ages.

  9. Heineken Experience (Amsterdam): A museum and interactive tour of the historic Heineken Brewery, providing insights into the brewing process and the history of the famous beer brand.

  10. Mauritshuis (The Hague): A museum known for its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring" and Rembrandt's "The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp."

Learn basic Dutch phrases so you can communicate with locals

Whether you're planning a trip to the Netherlands or simply interested in learning a new language, mastering basic Dutch phrases can greatly enhance your experience. While English is widely spoken in the country, locals appreciate the effort made to communicate with them in their native language. Start by practicing basic greetings, asking for directions, and ordering food in Dutch, and soon enough, you'll be able to strike up conversations with locals and immerse yourself in Dutch culture. Here are some examples of basic dutch sentences:

  • Hello, how are you? Hoi, hoe gaat het?

  • Thank you! Dankjewel/Bedankt!

  • Goodmorning. Goedemorgen.

  • Good afternoon. Goedemiddag

  • I am moving to the Netherlands! Ik ga verhuizen naar Nederland!

The Netherlands is an incredible country full of culture, customs, and friendly people. With the right preparation and research, you can make this Dutch experience enjoyable and successful. So why wait? Start taking actionable steps today in preparing for a memorable journey in the Netherlands!

Sponsors

A + International

A + International

A + International

APRIL International is a world leader in international health insurance. We currently provide cover to more than 150,000 policyholders around the world in their business and personal endeavours. Our aim is to facilitate your access to healthcare throughout the world.

A Place in the Sun Currency

A Place in the Sun Currency

A Place in the Sun Currency

Our service is specifically designed for anyone making overseas payments to buy, maintain, or sell an overseas property. We understand the importance of an efficient and transparent currency service and have an experienced team in place to help make your money go further and secure your very own “place in the sun”.

Abroad Experience Recruitment

Abroad Experience Recruitment

Abroad Experience Recruitment

It is of utmost importance to us that we offer a high level of service and build strong and trusting relationships with clients and candidates. As an international agency, we are devoted to international professionals in order to help them succeed on the Dutch labor market. As part of our recruitment services we can provide you with feedback on your CV & interview preparation sessions.

Achmea B.V.

Achmea B.V.

Achmea B.V.

Achmea stands for Sustainable Living Together. An inclusive society in which everyone participates and lives pleasantly and healthily with and alongside each other is our ideal image. In a way that can last for a long time. Good reason to deal better with our living environment and to make sustainable solutions more accessible.

For everyone.

ActiveQuote Ltd

ActiveQuote Ltd

ActiveQuote Ltd

ActiveQuote is the UK’s leading comparison website and broker of health and protection insurance products, including health insurance, income protection, life insurance and critical illness cover.

Adams Multilingual Recruitment

Adams Multilingual Recruitment

Adams Multilingual Recruitment

https://adamsrecruitment.com/

Adecco Nederland

Adecco Nederland

Adecco Nederland

Adecco makes the future work for everyone: for our people, flex workers, clients and society.

Aetna Health Insurance

Aetna Health Insurance

Aetna Health Insurance

CVS Health is building a world of health around every consumer. Our unmatched reach allows us to deliver high-quality, affordable health care when and how individuals choose. We’re on a mission to deliver superior and more connected experiences, lower the cost of care and improve the health and well-being of those we serve.

Agato Visa & Immigration

Agato Visa & Immigration

Agato Visa & Immigration

Our life is full of metaphors; sometimes we don’t even notice them. However, if you look at today’s world through such a metaphorical lens, you understand why it can be compared to the river. It is dynamic, it is fast moving, every day it gets filled with new streams of ideas, tendencies, and innovations. Then, we can consider different organizations as banks of that river. They all have their traditions, cultural colors, and shades. That’s why there must be something to connect these banks, to make them united by common desires, ideas, business, strategies, language, etc. Therefore, our company come to serve as the bridge for that; we can build a connection between people, business organizations and various establishments. This singular belief makes ourselves and our clients’ products/services and international brand distinguishable amongst all of the rest.

All Luxury Apartments

All Luxury Apartments

All Luxury Apartments

Everyone deserves a good home. No matter where you are, you'll need a place to go back to, a place to rest, and a place that you can call your own. All Luxury Apartments is all about connecting you to the best homes in this world. Wherever you end up, we strive to ensure that you will have a home. The kind that you deserve!

Load More

Start now

Sign up to get in touch with trusted local service experts!

Sign up to get in touch with trusted local service experts!

Sign up to get in touch with trusted local service experts!