Expert tips for moving in Netherlands for Expatriates

by David Tompkins

Tips for Expats on Living in Holland

Are you all set to move to the beautiful Netherlands? While the experience of shifting to this beautiful country will not be anything less than an amazing one, you must follow certain guidelines to ensure that the transition is easy. Before you settle here as an expat, there are some procedures that you may have to go through. Tips for moving in Netherlands.The process might not go very smoothly during the initial stage; however, it is advised to maintain your patience as you gradually get accustomed to the new lifestyle and environment. Here are 9 tips and steps that you would help you in getting prepared for a blissful time in all The Netherlands locations and cities.

Permit of Permanent Residency in the Netherlands

To start with, to live in the Netherlands, you need to have a visa/entry to the country. While individuals from EEA, Swiss and European Union can freely come to the country and work, others have to get a residency permit. For this, you will need a provisional entry visa.

Accommodation in Netherlands

To acquire the permit, you have to go to the immigration service (IND), two weeks before your arrival. The officials there will collect your fingerprints and start with the processing of your residence permit card. You can visit their offices in other cities too including Den Bosch, The Hague, Zwolle, Utrecht, Eindhoven, and Rotterdam.

Accommodations for Expats in the Netherlands

The second most important thing to do is to arrange for your accommodation. Being an expat, you might not have it figured out so your best bet would be hotels or sharing space with your acquaintances. If you are running short of money, finding a decent apartment as per your budget would be good for you. There are lots of great websites for obtaining lodging in various Holland cities.

Registering at City Hall

Once you have found accommodation and you plan to stay more than 4 months in Amsterdam or a similar city in the country, you need to register with the City Hall, which is the local Municipality Authority. You have to bring along the following documents such as rental contract, a copy of your passport, a letter from the housing corporation and a copy of the permission letter of the homeowner/landlord. In certain cases, they may also ask for your notarized birth certificate.

Obtaining a BSN Number in the Netherlands

Once your documents are submitted and the officials approve, you will be given a BSN number (Burger Service Nummer), which translates to the citizen service number. Acquiring this number is crucial as it will help you in getting a job, opening a bank account and purchasing necessary healthcare.

tips for moving in Netherlands

Opening a Savings Account

In the Netherlands, some of the popular banks are Rabobank, ABN Amro, and ING. You have to submit your BSN number there along with a copy of your ID/passport, proof of employment and rental contract. In addition to opening your account, you can also apply for a credit card.

Getting an Expat Job in The Netherlands

Usually for expats, being unemployed for a long period once they have moved to Amsterdam can cause financial strains. Therefore, as soon as you are done with all the documentation and paper-work, try to get a good job that pays well. This will not only help you significantly with your finances but also help you adjust to the Dutch culture. As a professional, you will get the opportunity to meet people and even learn Dutch, if you don’t know to speak the language already.

Netherlands

Health Insurance Options for Expats in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, every citizen must get health insurance. The basic package available is of €110 per month which will cover rehabilitation’s, doctors’ visits, medical care, and emergencies. To get an insurance cover, you will need to share your BSN number and your bank account details in any Dutch bank so that they can enable the auto-debit facility for monthly payment. As an expat, you should opt for international health insurance to get the required coverage because private healthcare in Amsterdam can be very expensive.

Getting to Know Holland

Once you start living in Holland, you must move outdoors and get to know your locality and its residents. From supermarkets to public transportation and disposal of garbage, find out everything that this gorgeous city has. If you have children, you will need to find out the nearest school in your area. For moving around a bit, you can consider getting a bike.

tips for Living

Register with a Medical Professional

To avoid any kind of medical emergency, get registered with a doctor or any medical professional who can help you with basic healthcare.

Final Thoughts on Living in Holland

Following the tips mentioned above can help you in getting set for an amazing life in Holland. A little planning is all you need to do to make your stay blissful. Make sure that you have all the necessary documents with you before you move to Amsterdam. It’s time to welcome your new expat life with full gusto.

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