Living in the Netherlands as an expat

What you need to know

Are you planning on moving to the Netherlands from the UK for work or to study? We’d love to help you on your way!
This article is full of information about the necessary paperwork, housing, renting furniture, the Dutch culture, history and of course, some fun facts you’d know! At the bottom of the page you’ll find some useful links to get you started.

Paperwork

 
Residence permit

A residence permit is required for those moving to the Netherlands from the UK. The permit is issued by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) and is valid for a maximum of five years. It allows the holder to live and work in the Netherlands, and to access social security and other benefits. The permit also allows the holder to travel in and out of the Netherlands without a visa. To apply for a residence permit, applicants must provide proof of identity, proof of financial means, and proof of a valid address in the Netherlands. The application process can take up to three months, and the permit must be renewed every five years.

Citizen Service Number (BSN)

The Citizen Service Number (BSN) is an important part of moving to the Netherlands from the UK. It is a unique personal identification number that is required for all residents of the Netherlands. The BSN is used for a variety of purposes, including registering with the municipality, opening a bank account, and obtaining a Dutch passport. It is also used to identify individuals when dealing with government agencies, such as the tax office, and for accessing public services. Obtaining a BSN is a relatively straightforward process, and can be done online or in person at a local municipality office.

Work permit

If you are a UK citizen and want to move to the Netherlands, you will need to obtain a work permit. This permit is issued by the Dutch government and is required for anyone who wants to work in the Netherlands. The permit is valid for a maximum of five years and must be renewed every year. The application process is relatively straightforward and involves submitting documents such as a valid passport, proof of employment, and a valid residence permit. Once the permit is granted, you will be able to work in the Netherlands for the duration of the permit.

Driving license

Finally, you may also need to apply for a Dutch driving license if you plan to drive in the Netherlands. This requires a valid foreign license, a valid passport, and proof of residence. The license must be exchanged within 185 days of arriving in the country.

Overall, the paperwork required for moving to the Netherlands from UK as an expat can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and research, the process can be made much easier.

Facts about the Netherlands

Dutch Culture

 

The Netherlands is a small but vibrant country located in Western Europe. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, its beautiful landscapes, and its friendly people. The Dutch culture is a mix of traditional and modern influences. The Dutch are known for their hospitality, their love of the outdoors, and their appreciation for the arts. For those moving to the Netherlands from the UK, there are many exciting things to explore and experience.

Tolerant & Open-minded

The Dutch are a very open-minded people and are welcoming to people from all backgrounds. They are also very tolerant of different cultures and lifestyles. The Dutch language is spoken by the majority of the population, but English is also widely spoken.

Art

Dutch people are also very proud of their culture and traditions. They have a strong sense of national identity and are passionate about their art, music, and festivals. The Netherlands is home to some of the world’s most famous museums, such as the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the Van Gogh Museum in The Hague.

Nightlife

The Netherlands is also known for its vibrant nightlife. Amsterdam is home to some of the best clubs and bars in Europe, and there are plenty of options for those looking for a good time.

Sports

The Dutch are also passionate about sports. Football is the most popular sport in the Netherlands, and the national team is one of the most successful in Europe. Dutchies are known for their love of cycling, and the country has an extensive network of bike paths. Dutch people also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and ice skating.

Food

Dutch people are also passionate about their food. Traditional Dutch cuisine includes dishes such as stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables), erwtensoep (pea soup), and poffertjes (mini pancakes). Dutch cuisine also includes a variety of international dishes, such as Indonesian rijsttafel (rice table). The Dutch are also known for their love of beer, and there are many local breweries throughout the country.

Punctuality

Dutch people are also very punctual. They expect others to be on time and take their commitments seriously. This is something to keep in mind when making plans with Dutch friends or colleagues.

Nature

Finally, the Dutch are known for their love of nature. The Netherlands is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe, and the country is full of parks, forests, and waterways. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and sailing.

Overall, the Netherlands is a great place to live and explore. With its friendly people, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder that the Netherlands is one of the most popular destinations for people moving from the UK.

History

When moving to the Netherlands from UK as an expat, it is important to understand the country’s history and culture. The Netherlands, or Holland as it is often referred to, has a long and fascinating history. It has been an independent nation since 1581, when it declared its independence from Spain. Since then, the Dutch have been a major player in European politics, economics, and culture.

Today, the Netherlands is a modern, prosperous nation with a strong economy and a high quality of life. It is a member of the European Union and is a major player in international affairs. The Dutch are known for their tolerance and openness to different cultures, and the country is a popular destination for immigrants from all over the world.

Systems of ruling

The Dutch system of ruling is quite different from the UK’s. The Netherlands is a parliamentary democracy, with a Prime Minister and a cabinet of ministers. The Prime Minister is the head of government and is responsible for the day-to-day running of the country. The cabinet is made up of ministers from different political parties, who are responsible for different areas of government. The Dutch also have a bicameral legislature, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate is made up of 75 members, elected by the people, and the House of Representatives is made up of 150 members, elected by the provinces. The Dutch also have a strong tradition of local government, with municipalities and provinces having a great deal of autonomy.

Trading & business

The Dutch have a long history of trade and exploration. In the 17th century, the Dutch East India Company was one of the most powerful trading companies in the world. The Dutch also colonized parts of the Caribbean, South America, and Indonesia. This period of Dutch exploration and colonization had a major impact on the culture and economy of the Netherlands.

The Netherlands is a great place for business and trading. The country is home to some of the world’s most successful companies such as Philips, Heineken, and Unilever, and the Dutch economy is one of the most competitive in Europe. The Netherlands is a great place for UK businesses to expand their operations, as the country has a strong network of international trading partners. The Netherlands is also a great place for entrepreneurs, as the country has a vibrant start-up culture and a supportive business environment. The Dutch government also offers a range of incentives and tax breaks to businesses looking to set up in the Netherlands.

4 major cities in The Netherlands

The Netherlands is a small but mighty country, with a population of just over 17 million people. It is home to four major cities: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Den Haag and Utrecht. Each of these cities has its own unique charm and character, and all of them are great places to live and work. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant city life or a more laid-back atmosphere, the Netherlands has something for everyone. Here are some things you should know when moving to the Netherlands and its four major cities.

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and is one of the most popular cities in Europe. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, full of culture and history. Amsterdam is known for its canals, its world-famous museums, and its lively nightlife. The city is also home to many international companies, making it a great place to live and work.

The city is well connected to the rest of the Netherlands and Europe, with an excellent public transport system and an international airport. Amsterdam is also a great place to explore, with plenty of parks, green spaces, and attractions to explore. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to enjoy, making it a great place to socialize and meet new people.

Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands, and is known for its modern architecture, its vibrant port, and its diverse population. It’s a city with a rich history and culture. The city has a great public transport system, making it easy to get around. There are plenty of things to do in Rotterdam, from visiting the many museums and galleries to exploring the city’s many parks and green spaces. The city is also home to some of the best nightlife in the Netherlands, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Rotterdam is also a great place to work, with a thriving business and financial sector. The city is home to many international companies, and is a great place to start a career. The city also has a great education system, with a number of universities and colleges offering a range of courses. Rotterdam is a great place to live for those moving from the UK, with a vibrant culture and plenty of opportunities.

Den Haag, also known as The Hague, is the third largest city in the Netherlands and the seat of the Dutch government. Located on the North Sea coast, Den Haag is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. The city is home to the Dutch Parliament, the International Court of Justice, and the International Criminal Court, making it an important international center for justice and diplomacy.

For expats moving to the Netherlands, Den Haag is a great place to start. The city is well-connected to the rest of the country by train, bus, and tram, making it easy to explore the rest of the Netherlands. Den Haag is also home to a large international community, so expats will find plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make friends. The city is known for its beautiful parks and also has a wide range of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and theaters.

Utrecht is a city in the Netherlands that is known for its rich history and vibrant culture. It is located in the center of the country and is the fourth largest city in the Netherlands. Utrecht is known for its beautiful canals, old buildings, and its many museums and galleries. It is also home to the University of Utrecht, one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands.

Utrecht is a great place for people moving to the Netherlands from the UK. It has a large international community, and many English-speaking services and businesses. There are also plenty of cultural activities to enjoy, such as festivals, concerts, and theatre performances. Utrecht is also a great place to explore the Dutch countryside, with its many parks and nature reserves. Finally, Utrecht is well connected to the rest of the Netherlands and the UK, with direct trains to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and London.

Housing

 
The housing market

Moving to the Netherlands from UK as an expat can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding suitable housing. The Netherlands is a small country, and the population is highly concentrated in the larger cities, making it difficult to find housing in the most desirable areas. The housing market in the Netherlands is highly competitive, and you should be prepared to act quickly when you find a place you like.

The housing market in the Netherlands is diverse, with a range of options from traditional Dutch homes to modern apartments. Prices vary depending on the location, but generally, the cost of living is lower than in the UK. The housing market in the Netherlands is highly competitive, and you should be prepared to act quickly when you find a place you like. The Dutch government also offers various incentives to encourage people to move to the Netherlands, such as tax breaks and housing subsidies.

Rental laws, rights and responsibilities

When searching for housing in the Netherlands, it is important to be aware of the rental laws. You should be aware of the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant, and should make sure to read the rental agreement carefully before signing. It is also important to be aware of the deposit and other fees associated with renting a property. Finding housing in the Netherlands can be a challenge, but with a bit of research and preparation, you can find a suitable place to call home. You should be prepared to act quickly when you find a place you like, and should be aware of the rental laws and fees associated with renting a property. With a bit of patience and perseverance, expats can find a great place to live in the Netherlands.

Renting furniture

As an expat you have so many things to arrange during the course of your move to the Netherlands. Insurances, permits, bank accounts, housing… the list is long. Of course the main and most important challenge is finding a place to live and once you have found your “new place”, you need to face the task of re-decorating the whole place and then furnishing it in order to make it feel like home.

So many things to worry about

“I have found a place and now what? Where do I go to look for my furniture? What style should I choose? What quality do I want? How, when I have found it, do I manage to have it delivered and in some cases assembled? What if I decide to leave the Netherlands again after a year to go back to my home country or am reassigned another position abroad? What do I do with my newly acquired furniture? Do I need to sell it… put it on the web, advertise in the local paper? How do I make these arrangements?”

Unburdening you is what we do!

In short… a lot of hassle for every expat and a very time-consuming process. Furniture4rent Nederland offers you a one stop turn-key solution; we deliver and assemble really high-end quality furniture packages to any given location in the “Randstad” – an area in and around the four major Dutch cities – on any given date and pre-arranged time. We’ll pick up the package from you at the end of the rental contract, leaving you free to focus on other things.

So if you are looking for furniture rental in the Netherlands… just browse our packages, request for an offer, sign and the rest will be arranged!

Our packages

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