SURVIVAL CHECKLIST
SURVIVAL CHECKLIST
Before the fun of exploring begins, there are some essential tasks to get through when you first land in the Netherlands. Use this checklist alongside the information set out in this Expat Survival Guide to help simplify easing into the Netherlands. More information is provided on www.expatica.com. REPORT TO IMMIGRATION You must register with the GBA at your local town hall within three days of arrival. If you need a residence permit, make an appointment with the IND quickly. Get ready for lots of paperwork and make sure your documents have all the right stamps. If you’re not sure which permit you need, we provide a quick overview on page 8. EXPAT BENEFITS Find out if you are eligible for the Dutch 30 percent ruling and use the services of the various expat centres to help you cut through the red tape on page 38. OPEN A DUTCH BANK ACCOUNT Opening a Dutch bank account will make your life easier (see page 34). You’ll need your passport and/ or residence permit, burgerservicenummer (BSN), proof of address, and evidence of income, such as an employment contract or payslip. FIND A HOME Our Housing section on page 17 will help you decide whether to rent or buy, and offers tips on dealing with housing agencies and where to live in the Netherlands. HOME BASICS After finding your home, you’ll need to sort out a broadband connection and water, electricity and gas services. We list the major suppliers and several useful websites to help you get connected on page 74.
4
EDUCATION Should you send your child to a local or international school? What learning opportunities are available to expats? Get the lowdown on education (onderwijs) in the Netherlands on page 40. JOB HUNTING If you’ve got a work permit (or don’t need one), you’re ready to begin. Sign up with agencies that specialise in finding work for expats or start your search online. We offer job-hunting tips and information on Dutch labour law on page 56. HEALTH Do you know what to do in an emergency or how to find a hospital, doctor or midwife? Did you know it is compulsory for residents to take out the Dutch health insurance Basisverzekering? Our Health section guides you through the Dutch health system on page 68. GETTING AROUND Find out about Dutch driving rules and regulations, if you can exchange your driving license, and how the Dutch public transport system works on page 76. MEETING THE COMMUNITY If you’re finding everything a little overwhelming, take heart: many others have been in the same position and made it through! Get out there, get active, and read out about groups, clubs and best places to make new friends for extra support on page 80!
WWW.EXPATICA.COM | THE NETHERLANDS EXPAT SURVIVAL GUIDE 2014