Moving to the Netherlands

Moving to the Netherlands - Information for expats

Living in the Netherlands as an expat

What you need to know

Are you planning to (temporarily) move to the Netherlands for work or to study? We are happy 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 should know! At the bottom of this page you will also find some useful links to get you going.

Paperwork

 
Residence permit

When moving to the Netherlands as an expat, there is a certain amount of paperwork that needs to be completed in order to make the transition as smooth as possible. The most important document to obtain is a residence permit, which is required for all non-EU citizens who wish to stay in the Netherlands for more than three months. This permit can be obtained from the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) and must be applied for before arriving in the country.

Citizen Service Number (BSN)

In addition to the residence permit, expats will also need to register with the local municipality in order to obtain a Citizen Service Number (BSN). This number is required for all official paperwork, such as opening a bank account and applying for a job. To register, you must provide proof of address, such as a rental agreement or purchase contract, as well as a valid passport.

Work permit

Once the residence permit and BSN have been obtained, you will need to apply for a Dutch work permit if you plan to work in the Netherlands. This permit is issued by the IND and requires the employer to provide evidence that the job cannot be filled by a Dutch citizen. The permit is valid for a maximum of five years and must be renewed if you wishes to continue working in the Netherlands.

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 as an expat can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and research, the process can be made much easier.

Housing

 
The housing market

Moving to the Netherlands 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.

Types of accommodation

The first step in finding housing in the Netherlands is to decide what type of accommodation you are looking for. The most common types of housing for expats are apartments, houses, and student housing. Apartments are the most popular option for expats, as they are generally more affordable and easier to find. Houses are more expensive, but they offer more space and privacy. Student housing is a great option for expats who are studying in the Netherlands, as it is often cheaper than other types of housing.

Location

When looking for housing in the Netherlands, it is important to consider the location. You should look for housing in areas that are close to public transportation, shops, and other amenities. It is also important to consider the cost of living in the area, as some areas are more expensive than others.

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 packagesrequest for an offer, sign and the rest will be arranged!

Our packages

Facts about the Netherlands

Dutch Culture

 

The Netherlands is a small but vibrant country in Western Europe, known for its picturesque canals, tulips, and windmills. It is also a great place to live for expats, with its welcoming culture and excellent quality of life.

Straightforward

When moving to the Netherlands as an expat, there are a few things you should know about the Dutch culture. First, Dutch people are known for their directness and honesty. They are very straightforward in their communication and expect the same from others. This can be a bit of a shock for some expats, but it is important to remember that the Dutch are not being rude, they are simply being honest.

Tolerant & open-minded

Second, the Dutch are very tolerant and open-minded. They are accepting of different cultures and lifestyles, and are very welcoming to expats. This makes it easy for expats to integrate into Dutch society and make friends.

Punctuality

Third, Dutchies are 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.

Environmentally conscious

Finally, the Dutch are very environmentally conscious. They are passionate about sustainability and take steps to reduce their carbon footprint. As an expat, it is important to be aware of this and to do your part to help the environment. Overall, the Dutch culture is one of openness, honesty, and respect. It is a great place to live for expats, and with a bit of knowledge about the culture, you can easily integrate into Dutch society.

History

When moving to the Netherlands as an expat, it is important to understand the country’s history and culture. The Dutch have a long and fascinating history and the country has been a major trading center since the Middle Ages. The Dutch have a rich culture and a strong sense of national identity, and the country has a long history of immigration and cultural diversity.

Systems of ruling

The Netherlands was first established as a republic in 1581, and it has gone through many changes since then. Now it’s a constitutional monarchy, and the current monarch is King Willem-Alexander. The country is divided into 12 provinces, each with its own government and laws.

Trading & business

The Dutch have a long history of trading and exploration, and the country has been a major player in world affairs for centuries. Dutchies have also been a leader in science, technology, and the arts. The Netherlands is a member of the European Union, and is a major trading partner with many countries around the world. The Dutch economy is one of the most open and competitive in the world, and the country is a major hub for international business. The Netherlands is also home to some of the world’s most innovative companies, including Philips, Heineken, and Unilever.

Culture

The Dutch are known for their strong work ethic and their commitment to social justice. They are also known for their tolerance and acceptance of different cultures and beliefs. The Dutch are known for their love of the outdoors and their appreciation for the arts. They are also known for their strong sense of community and their commitment to helping those in need. The Netherlands is a great place to live and work, and the country has a lot to offer expats. The Dutch are friendly and welcoming, and the country has a strong economy and a high quality of life. The Netherlands is a great place to explore and experience the culture and history of Europe.

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 the largest city in the country. It is known for its canals, its world-famous museums, and its vibrant nightlife. Amsterdam is a great place to live if you’re looking for a city with a lot of culture and history. It is also a great place to find a job, as it is home to many international companies.

Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and is known for its modern architecture, its vibrant port, and its diverse population. Rotterdam is a great place to live if you’re looking for a city with a lot of energy and a strong job market. It is also a great place to find a job, as it is home to many international companies.

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 the fourth-largest city in the Netherlands and is known for its picturesque canals, its many universities, and its vibrant nightlife. Utrecht is a great place to live if you’re looking for a city with a lot of culture and a strong student population. It is also a great place to find a job, as it is home to many international companies.

Links