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EXPAT SURVIVAL GUIDE

2025 YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS

LIVE • WORK • STUDY EDUCATION • EMPLOYMENT • RELOCATION • ENTERTAINMENT AND MUCH MORE

Personal contact with English speaking staff

Welcome Expats Arranging all your financial needs in a new country; it can be overwhelming and stressful. A new environment, a new culture and different habits. To help expats in the Netherlands with their specific financial questions and needs, Rabobank set up a specialized expatriate service: the Rabo Expat Desk. The one-stop-shop for all your financial matters; • Rabobank Bank Account • Insurances • Savings and investments • Mortgages Mail to expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl with all your questions and needs.

Growing a better world together

Welcome to the Netherlands!

Moving abroad is an exhilarating, life-changing experience. That is, once the practical aspects are settled. It first can be a daunting process while you try building a new life in an unknown language and culture. Where do you begin?

The Expat Survival Guide assists your first essential steps: finding a home and job, organising permits, setting up finances and healthcare, and enrolling in education. It offers practical information on getting started in the Netherlands and directs you to the people, companies and institutions that can help you along the way. ENJOY living, working and studying in the Netherlands! The i am not a tourist Team I Am Not A Tourist BV Kingsfordweg 151, 1043 GR Amsterdam www.expatsurvivalguide.nl Publisher: Bart van der Sommen Layout & design: Benjamin Langman Photos: stock.adobe.com, pixabay.com, freepik.com Advertising sales: info@iamnotatourist.nl Distribution: info@iamnotatourist.nl Printing office: Muller Visual

Introduction

Survival checklist

5 Employment Work permits; Employment law; Working culture; Finding a job 13 Relocation What kind of residence permit?; Relocation services providers; Popular expat locations; Amsterdam Area, Leiden Area, Rotterdam, Utrecht Region, The Northern Netherlands, The Hague, The East of the Netherlands, The South of the Netherlands

55 Education Primary, secondary and higher education; International school, Learning Dutch 72 Families Family reunification permits; Au pairs; Childcare; Child benefits and allowances; Family activities; Leisure; Maternity, Groups & Clubs 78

Special needs

81 Healthcare Health insurance, Healthcare system; Having a baby; Health services

35 Housing Renting; Buying

87 Transport Driving; Public Transport

44 Setting Up Home Furnishing your home; Utilities: gas, water, electricity; Communications: telephone, mobile, internet; TV; Post offices

Emergency numbers

Public holidays

Listings

46 Finance Bank accounts; Tax; Insurance; Financial and tax advisors, Mortgages

100 Advertisers index

With special thanks to: • • • • •

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronically or mechanically, including photocopying, recording or any information storage or retrieval system, without prior written permission from the publisher. Requests for permission should be addressed to I am not a Tourist BV, Kingsfordweg 151, 1043 GR Amsterdam, The Netherlands. I Am Not A Tourist BV makes great effort to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this guide. However, we do not take responsibility for errors or omissions or any damages, howsoever caused, which result from its use, and make no warranty of claims as to the quality or competence of businesses or professionals mentioned. Users are advised to take care when selecting professional services and to use common sense when adjusting to new life in a new country. Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

Introduction

The Netherlands consistently ranks among the top places in the world to live and work.

• Population: 18 million • Density: 541/km2 • Administration: The constitution dates mostly from 1848, and revisions undertaken in 1983. Parliament consists of an upper chamber (eerste kamer) of 75 members elected by provincial councils and a lower chamber (tweede kamer) with 150 members elected every four years by proportional representation. The cabinet is the executive body and its constituents cannot be members of the cabinet and parliament at the same time. • Monarchy: The House of Oranje-Nassau has governed the Netherlands since 1815. King Willem-Alexander, born 1967, was crowned in 2013, along with his Argentinean wife Maxima, who serves as the queen consort. • Landscape: A fifth of the Netherlands is reclaimed from the sea (polders) and about a quarter of the country is below sea level. There are 21 national parks and a few modest hills, with the country’s highest point reaching 322 metres in Limburg. • Agricultural facts: Tiny Netherlands is the world’s second largest exporter of agricultural products, including mostly cereals (wheat in particular), feed crops (such as fodder maize) and potatoes. The Dutch cow is a revered milk machine, producing 35 litres a day. • Media and culture: The Netherlands has the highest museum density in the world with nearly 1,000 institutions. The television program Big Brother and The voice of [country] are Dutch inventions. • Design: Dutch icons of style are nurtured in the revered Design Academy Eindhoven and the Rietveld Academy in Amsterdam, attracting large ratios of international students. Dutch design is admired for its minimalist, quirky and often humorous qualities.

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

INTRODUCTION

It may be a small country in size, but certainly not in impact. The Netherlands is famed for its liberal social policies, maritime trading traditions, battles to hold back the sea, robust multiculturalism and leading technological communications, making Dutch lifestyle a mosaic of cultural intrigue. Living standards consistently rank high in the OECD’s Better Life Index, and the Netherlands has the fifth best work-life balance and high levels of employment and household wealth. Dutch children, likewise, are ranked as one of the happiest in the developed world, topping two surveys conducted by UNICEF. To newcomers, Dutch society might seem open and informal, but some complex social rules are at play. Ostentatious behaviour is frowned upon, egalitarianism is valued and Dutch people “like to be as normal as possible” according to Martijn de Rooij, author of The Dutch I Presume? The Dutch saying “doe maar gewoon dan doe je al gek genoeg” (just act normal, that’s crazy enough) is an anthem against eccentricity. No Dutch city has yet reached a million inhabitants and each retains a unique character and architectural style. The capital is something else entirely, and in terms of atmosphere and attitude, Amsterdam and the Netherlands could be two different countries. International residents tread a well-worn path to the “Lowlands”. Out of a population of over 18 million people, almost four million have a foreign background (cbs.nl). This multi-ethnic characteristic of the country’s population has historic roots stretching back several hundred years, though most rapid changes in population demographics have come about in the last 40 years.

The Dutch government’s traditional reliance on a coalition of two or more parties has earned it the nickname “the land of compromise”. The Netherlands strengthened its stance on austerity with large gains achieved by pro-European parties. In the realm of royalty, the Netherlands’ biggest nation-wide party celebrates King’s Day on April 27 - in 2025 this party is on Saturday April 26 because April 27 is on a Sunday - for the current King Willem-Alexander’s birthday, the ubiquitous oranjegekte (orange madness) still takes over, where people wear orange shirts, hats, dresses and wigs to celebrate while enjoying the annual free market (vrijmarkt), as it’s the one time when people can set up shop without a trading licence. Culture and quality living combined make the Netherlands an attractive place for expats, who are an intrinsic part of the country’s knowledge-based economy. The Dutch people are generally receptive, curious, cultured, and friendly. English is widely spoken. The Dutch maintain their leading position as best non-native English Speakers for the fifth consecutive time in the EF English Proficiency Index (EPI). However, this can be a drawback for those learning Dutch. With many international companies headquartered in the Netherlands, there are plenty of employment opportunities.

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

Survival checklist Before the fun of exploring begins, there are some essential tasks to take care of when you first land in the Netherlands.

Use this checklist alongside the information set out in this Expat Survival Guide to help set up your new life in the Netherlands. REPORT TO IMMIGRATION

EDUCATION

You must register with the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP or Municipal Personal Records Database) at your local town hall within five days of arrival. If you need a residence permit, make an appointment with the “Immigration and Naturalisation Service” called IND quickly. Get ready for lots of paperwork and make sure your documents have all the right stamps.

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 in our Education section.

EXPAT BENEFITS Find out if you are eligible for the Dutch 30 percent ruling for taxes and use the services of the various expat centres to help you cut through the red tape. OPEN A DUTCH BANK ACCOUNT Opening a Dutch bank account will make your life easier. 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 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 utilities. We list the major suppliers and several useful websites to help you get connected.

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

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. HEALTH Did you know it is compulsory for residents to take out the Dutch health insurance basisverzekering? Our Health section guides you through the Dutch healthcare system, and explains what to do in an emergency and how to find a hospital, doctor or midwife. GETTING AROUND Before you drive, find out about Dutch road regulations, if you need to exchange your driving licence, and how the Dutch public transport system works. 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 about groups and clubs for meeting new people.

Employment

Expats are an essential component of the dutch workforce, and office life has its cultural quirks. • The Dutch workforce is internationally oriented, highly educated and multilingual. • Unemployment is at 3.6 percent (May 2024) • Demand for highly skilled workers remains high. • The GVVA (gecombineerde vergunning voor verblijf en arbeid) is a single permit that combines the residence and work permit into one so employers no longer need to apply for a separate work permit for labour migrants. • Under the “Modern Migration Policy Act”, if a worker needs a Dutch entry visa (MVV) and/or residence permit, their employer in the Netherlands (if an IND-recognised sponsor) can apply while they are still abroad, with fast-track applications possible (visit www.ind.nl for more information). • While it always helps to learn the language when settling in a new country – and will certainly do your job prospects no harm – you don’t necessarily need to be a fluent Dutch speaker to secure a role in the Netherlands. The RWC’s (regional werkcentrum / regional work centre) can provide you more information. WORK PERMIT CONDITIONS • If you are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national, your employer will likely need to apply for a work permit (tewerkstellingsvergunning or TWV). www.uwv.nl/nl/werkvergunning • The work permit is specific to the job and employer. • Extensions of a GVVA can be applied at the IND (www.ind.nl)

WHO DOESN’T NEED A WORK PERMIT? • EU/EEA/Swiss nationals. • Highly skilled migrants. • Self-employed workers (eligibility is assessed by the IND). • Workers on short assignment (performers, musicians, guest lecturers, journalists etc.). • Those with a residence permit or passport sticker stating “Arbeid is vrij toegestaan. TWV niet vereist” (free to work, no permit required). • Detailed information: Werkvergunning voor Nederland | UWV www.uwv.nl/nl/werkvergunning APPLYING FOR A WORK PERMIT • If you qualify for the single GVVA residence and work permit, you or your employer must apply to the IND. • All other cases, work permits are initiated by employers who apply to the UWV Werkbedrijf; Werkvergunning voor Nederland | UWV - www.uwv.nl/nl/werkvergunning • Your employer has to submit supporting evidence to show that EU/EEA/Swiss nationals cannot occupy the position: copies of advertisements, postings on the internet, or statements from agencies. • For a company to apply for a work permit, the candidate must be at least 18 years old.

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

EMPLOYMENT

• If a visa and residency permit is required, your employer can initiate your Entry and Residence Procedure (TEV) on your behalf before you arrive (with a copy of your passport and education qualifications). HIGHLY SKILLED MIGRANTS • To employ expats under the highly skilled migrant scheme, employers must sign an IND statement to become a “recognised sponsor”. However not all employers are a recognised sponsor or want to become one. • An employer applies for your residence permit, which will be issued for the same period as the work contract, this can be for a maximum of five years.

• The residence permit would be issued for two years and upon finalizing two years, it would be renewed for another five years. Your spouse and children would also be permitted to reside in the Netherlands. • You must have financial accounts verified by a qualified accountant, plus a business plan and substantial capital investment of EUR 4500. • Please be aware that the Dutch American Friendship Treaty is not suitable for US entrepreneurs who want to practice medicine (eg. dentistry) or conduct business in the sector of national security. STUDENTS

• With the highly skilled migrant residency, your employer does not need a separate work permit (TWV) to hire you.

• There are no work restrictions for students who are EU/EEA/ Swiss nationals.

• If your residency permit is not ready when you arrive, you are allowed to work in the interim period if you visit an IND desk and get a passport sticker (verblijfsaantekening).

• All other nationalities can only work part-time throughout the year for a maximum of 16 hours per week, or full-time seasonal work in June, July and August.

• Partners of highly skilled migrants can work without a work permit, though they do require a residence permit before commencing work.

• The employer or agency must obtain a work permit from the UWV Werkbedrijf which will be valid for a maximum of one year.

SELF-EMPLOYED/ENTREPRENEURS • For residency based on self-employment (for non-EU/EEA/Swiss), your business activities must “serve an essential Dutch interest” which is assessed by a point system. • Personal experience, a business plan and what you plan to offer (innovation, job creation, investment, etc.) are taken into account. • You will also need to prove you have the appropriate qualifications to carry out your business. • With the self-employment residence permit, you can still work as an employee provided the UWV Werkbedrijf has issued a work permit to your employer. • Freelancers can also apply for this permit, but proof of assignments in the Netherlands is a must. • Registration at the Chamber of Commerce; The Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK) is a public-service provider that helps business owners run their businesses successfully. The main task of the Chamber of Commerce is managing the Dutch Business Register (Handelsregister). • The startup entrepreneur must have sufficient money (income) to be able to reside, live, and set up a business in the Netherlands. Startup entrepreneurs may not rely on public funds, such as welfare benefits. • Visit the websites www.kvk.nl and www.business.gov.nl for more information.

• Students do not need a work permit for internships. WORKING HOLIDAY SCHEMES • The application procedure for a working holiday in the Netherlands depends on your nationality. Find out what the requirements are and how to apply for the residence permit on www.ind.nl

Feeling at home abroad We offer a complete range of services and support for foreign nationals coming to live and work in The Netherlands. Our services are based on flexibility, individual attention and unrivaled experience. Specialized in work permit and MVV applications.

DUTCH AMERICAN FRIENDSHIP TREATY • American citizens who wish to start a business in the Netherlands can apply under this scheme. • Register your business at the Chamber of Commerce (Kamer van Koophandel, www.kvk.nl) to qualify.

PAS BMS Immigration & Relocation services Schoutenlaan 62-2215 ME Voorhout -The Netherlands E info@pasbms.com T +31 (0)252-347876 I www.pasbms.com

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

• Those between the ages of 18 to 30 can apply to live and work in the Netherlands for one year (with proof of a return ticket or funds to buy one). • Candidates can apply in their home country or once they arrive in the Netherlands. CHANGING JOBS • Any changes in your work or partnership status must be reported to the IND within four weeks (unreported changes will be penalized). • If you change jobs you don’t necessarily need a new residence permit, but the same rules will apply as for the first permit you were granted. • If you worked as a highly skilled migrant, your new employer needs to be eligible to apply under the highly skilled migrant scheme, and will need to prove to the IND that you still meet the requirements of the highly skilled migrant scheme. • Apply for a new residence permit before the old one expires (the IND will notify you in advance) or else risk being ineligible for permanent residency. CONTRACTS AND EMPLOYMENT LAW • Employment laws in the Netherlands vary, and your personal contract will determine your pay and specific conditions. • Dutch legislation covers key areas such as trial periods, holidays, notice and dismissal, minimum wages, health and safety, and equal treatment.

• In most cases the employer needs permission from the UWV Werkbedrijf or the court to fire you, except in temporary work. • Useful information regarding working practices, employment law and the minimum wage can be found on the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment website Werk | Rijksoverheid.nl or the UWV Werkbedrijf website (www.werk.nl). • If you want to check the market rate for your salary or calculate bruto/netto rates (before/after tax and social security deductions), try www.loonwijzer.nl. • It is standard practice to get extra wages as a “holiday allowance” plus four weeks of paid leave. • If you work in the Netherlands, Dutch law is partly and often fully applicable to your employment, even if the law of another country is declared applicable in your contract. • The number of succeeding employment contracts for a fixed term is limited to three; the total duration of fixed term contracts is limited to three years. • If the duration of the contracts or the number of fixed contracts exceeds the legal limit, it will automatically become a contract for an unlimited term. • If the contract is for less than two years, the trial period cannot be longer than one month. The maximum duration of a trial period is two months. Trial periods in contracts for less than 6 months are invalid. • During the trial period, both employer and employee can terminate the contract with immediate effect. The notice period for the employee is usually one month. • Employment contracts for an unlimited term can only be terminated by the employer with consent of the employee, the public employment services (UWV Werkbedrijf) or the Court. • If an employer gives notice of termination without obtaining prior approval, the employee could nullify the termination. This rule is not applicable in the case of summary dismissal (such as fraud or theft by the employee).

Karen Gordon helps expats successfully navigate the international job market in the Netherlands and provides HR and recruitment expertise—all with a multicultural understanding. Karen’s result-driven process includes: • Identifying where to look for your ideal job and which local networks to tap into. • Highlighting your experience and strengths to make your CV, cover letter and/or job application stand out from the rest. • Refining your interviewing & communication skills with an experienced, native English speaker to gain an edge in a very competitive market. Email karen@kgtconsulting.nl to schedule a free intake & discuss which services you need. www.kgtconsulting.nl

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• Courts are very reluctant about accepting summary dismissals; it is very important to contact an employment lawyer immediately if you are fired on the spot. • The legal minimum number of holidays per year is four times the weekly working time. This means 20 holidays in the case of a fulltime employee working a five-day week. • It is common practice in the Netherlands for a fulltime employee to be entitled to approximately 25 holiday days per year in addition to Dutch public holidays. • By law, there is an expiration date of six months for taking the legal minimum number of holidays; employees must take all their holidays within six months after the year in which the holidays were accrued. Should the employee not take the holidays on time, the holidays will lapse without any compensation or payment. • The expiration date of six months is not applicable to the holidays that the employee is entitled to on top of the legal minimum number of holidays; these extra holidays will not lapse until after a period of five years.

EMPLOYMENT

COLLECTIVE LABOUR AGREEMENT (CAO) • This is a written agreement covering working conditions and benefits drawn up by employers, employers’ organisations and employee organisations (such as unions). • A CAO are often more generous than statutory requirements. • It should state in your contract whether a CAO is applicable; you don’t have to be a member of a union to benefit. • If no CAO applies – all must be registered – you will need to negotiate your own terms and conditions. SOCIAL SECURITY • The Dutch social security system is one of the most comprehensive in Europe. There are three strands: 1. National Insurance administered by the social insurance bank (www.svb.nl), which includes old age pension (AOW) and child benefit (AKW). 2. Employee Insurance administered by UWV (www.uwv.nl), including unemployment benefits, long-term disability (WIA) and sickness (ZW). 3. Social Assistance administered by municipalities (www.rechtopbijstand.nl).

• Official documents will need to be in good order. Consult the Ministry of Social Affairs and Welfare website (www.szw.nl) for more information. UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFIT (WW) • Your employment history will determine the amount and duration of payments. For the first two months you get 75 percent of your last earned salary, and thereafter 70 percent. • You must have worked 26 out of the previous 36 weeks before the first day of unemployment (or less for those not in regular employment). • You apply for benefits online at www.werk.nl or at a local office of UWV Werkbedrijf. • Everything at UWV (public employment services) is in Dutch, so try to find help when applying. VOLUNTARY WORK • A volunteer is a vrijwilliger and there are many opportunities depending on your skills. • Expat advice centre ACCESS is always on the lookout for volunteers in its offices in The Hague, Amsterdam, Utrecht or Leiden (www.access-nl.org).

• Specific conditions apply to each benefit. Check that your residence rights are not affected if you apply for benefits.

Realising cross-border ambitions

A running start The ideal one-stop-shop for increasing numbers of talented, ambitious people with global mobility challenges in the field of business taxes, legal, immigration, social security and global mobility tax. www.limes-int.com

Let’s go! 3 Always the best service

Expanding your business in the Netherlands comes with challenges.

and a customised solution; 3 Full focus on international employment services in the Netherlands; 3 Ensure compliance; 3 Powered by LIMES international.

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Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik

EMPLOYMENT

Finding a job Expats seeking a new career challenge in the Netherlands will find ample opportunities. The Dutch employment market is sophisticated and boasts an impressive array of local and international companies spread across the country. It also has a vast network of specialist and generalist recruitment firms. Many newcomers take the recruitment agency route for speed and convenience, but there are many job hunting streams that foreigners can tap into. JOB HUNTING • Recruitment agencies are big in the Netherlands, and several specialise in recruiting non-Dutch nationals. • The UWV Werkbedrijf portal (www.werk.nl) and EURES, the European job mobility portal (www.eures.europa.eu), offer a lot of vacancies. Tip: use English or another language as a keyword. • Expat community sites often have extensive employment listings for foreigners • Vacancy (vacature) advertisements are often posted on social media like LinkedIN, Facebook or Instagram and are often posted in English. • The list of companies that are eligible for applying for highly skilled migrants is a useful source and can be found on the website of IND (www.ind.nl). SKILLS IN DEMAND • Expats with French, German, Scandinavian and Chinese language skills are always in demand. • The job market is also strong for experienced professionals in IT, engineering, education, healthcare, transport and logistics. CULTURAL COMPETENCY • Many international companies have headquarters in the Netherlands. • Cross-cultural competency tests may be part of the selection procedure for international assignments. • There are standard personality analysis programmes, such as the Meyers-Briggs Type Indicators that analyse personality traits that could affect performance in a new cultural environment.

• Top firms are looking for executives who are open-minded, flexible, mature, and show respect for and interest in different cultures. WORKING WITH AGENCIES • Agencies openly advertise their services on websites geared to expats, and they are frequent advertisers on job boards and leading publications. But how do you find an agency that is both tuned into the local market and to your personal needs? • Maintain an up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV) in English that fully reflects your skills, education, work experience and personal profile, and try to keep it as short as possible. If you really want to stand out, have a version translated into Dutch, which some companies will appreciate. • Always support any application with a clear overview or motivation letter setting out your primary work requirements, personal qualities and career objectives. • Follow up any application if you hear nothing back within five days. • Always try to meet your agent in person or in a video call, and make sure that your CV does not get sent anywhere without your permission. • Be clear about your work preferences and present yourself in a positive and personable light. • Stay flexible and be ready to attend interviews as opportunities emerge, but remain patient while your agent scours the market for the right opportunity. • Keep your agent informed of any personal developments that might affect the work they are doing on your behalf. THE INTERVIEW PROCESS • Once you’ve set yourself up with your preferred agencies or employers and the enquiries begin, prepare yourself for interviews. • Avoid using jargon or colloquial expressions. Be well-presented, enthusiastic and well-informed. • Research the company in advance. Self-preparation is equally important. Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

• Always attend an interview with a list of relevant questions. • When you receive a job offer that fully matches your expectations, your agent - in case you have one - will help you to assess the various aspects of the offer (salary level, benefits, career development, etc.). • Allow yourself two or three days to consider all of the angles. • The Dutch are tuned into working with foreign nationals -- be reassured that your new co-workers will be supportive of their new “international” colleague. • Make an effort to learn some Dutch – it will pay off in the long run. • To be well prepared; look on the internet for examples of Dutch CVs and formats. CULTURALLY CORRECT CVs Concise, direct and professional communication is the style for job applications in the Netherlands. One or two pages maximum; - Personal details (address etc., sometimes a photo);

- Personal profile; - Education (courses, not results); - Work experience (the most recent first). Include job responsibilities; - In your cover letter, include more about your motivation for the job, but keep the tone professional.

Help for expat families Hey Expat! If your partner or family is looking to get a job in the Netherlands, the EURES advisers are here to help. They’ll support your family by finding jobs and with free, independent advice on employment rights, working conditions and settling in our small, beautiful country. European Employment Services (EURES) is an initiative from the European Commission to help citizens from in- and outside the European Economic Area be successful wherever they live in the EU.

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

Find out how we can help your family:

www.werk.nl/eures

Relocation

The Netherlands is a bureaucratic country and proud of it. Be prepared for paperwork, appointments, and organizing documents during your stay in the Netherlands: • Check that your passport is valid for the period of your stay (and expires later than six months from date of registration). • Ensure documents are in order before approaching the municipality and IND. • Collect your marriage and birth certificates, and they must be translated into Dutch, English, French, or German (best to ask for a multilingual one). • All documents must be “legalised”. This can often be done with the addition of an Apostille – an extra stamp on certified foreign papers – which you obtain from the competent authority in your own country. See the Apostille section of www.hcch.net. Not all countries issue apostilles, which may cause the legalization process to be a little more complex. Since February 2019, apostilles from European Union states are no longer necessary. To have clear instructions on the legalisation requirements, select the country where the document came from via this website: www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/legalisation/foreign-documents COMPULSORY REGISTRATION IN THE BRP APPLIES TO EVERYONE! • The Municipal Personal Records Database (Basis Registratie Personen in Dutch) holds details of everyone that lives in the Netherlands; registration is compulsory. • All people who intend to stay longer than 4 months in the Netherlands, must register at the BRP within five days of arrival. In some regions waiting lists apply.

• Information shared at BRP is shared with other government platforms to reduce duplicate registrations and perform public tasks like determine charges for water and refuse collection, eligibility for social housing, and so on. • Your Citizen Service number (also called social security number) – in Dutch Burger Service Nummer (BSN) - is initiated here. It is needed to open a bank account, start work, and/or claim benefits. After completing the process, you can get a printout of your details to prove your registration status, either on the spot or sent to your home address. • Documents required for registration include: passport (valid for a minimum period of the length of your stay), rental contract (in your name), employment contract (if applicable), birth and marriage certificates of all family members (see above for legal format, if applicable depending on the country of origin). • To register, you need to make an appointment, and all members of your family that are joining you in your relocation to The Netherlands (regardless of age) must be present at the first interview. • If you are already registered in the BRP on a Dutch address and move within the Netherlands, you can usually register the change of address online (by means of using a DigiD). If leaving the Netherlands, you need to deregister from the city hall were you are living. This timeline depends on the municipality where you are living.

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

IND (IMMIGRATION AND NATURALISATION DEPARTMENT)

• Appointment must be made before visiting an IND desk.

• Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst (IND) implements immigration procedures including applications for residence permits, Dutch citizenship, visas, and asylum requests.

• To collect a permit, you must attend in person.

• The website has extensive information in English, and downloadable brochures and forms (www.ind.nl/en).

• The IND sends automatic reminders via paper post or digital post that your residence permit is expiring around 3 months before the expiry date. Office locations can be found on the IND website (www.ind.nl/en) or call +31 (0)88 043 0430 (call charges apply).

Residence permits A temporary residence permit is conditional and relates to the purpose of your stay. A permanent residence permit is unconditional. WHAT KIND OF RESIDENCE PERMIT? • Eligibility and the type of residence permit (verblijfsvergunning) you need, depends on a variety of factors (age, income, country of origin, your purpose of stay and so on). Temporary residence permits are renewable and issued for a set period, for up to five years. They usually last the length of your stay (work contract, study program, etc.). • After 5 years of legal, continuous residency, you can apply for permanent residence or consider citizenship (see below). EU/EEA/SWISS NATIONALS AND RELATIVES • For EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, your passport or ID proves your right to live and work in the Netherlands. • If you are staying more than four months, you need to register at a local municipality, get a social security number (BSN), and take out Dutch health insurance. Any non-EU/EEA/Swiss family members can be eligible for residence permit and after submission of their application they can collect a special sticker that proves their lawful residence and often also their right to work in The Netherlands while this application is pending. With this sticker they can attend an appointment at the municipality to register and obtain a social security number,

• Citizens with a “long-term residence permit EU” issued by another European Union (EU) member state are also exempt. HIGHLY SKILLED MIGRANT POLICY (KENNISMIGRANTENREGELING) • Employment-based immigration policy for highly skilled migrants. Combined residence-and-work permits are applied for by the employer, who acts as “sponsor”. • Only so called “recognized sponsors” can make use of this policy. IND keeps a public record of all recognized sponsors at: www.ind.nl/en/public-register-recognised-sponsors. Highly skilled migrants must be on payroll of a recognized sponsor. • The policy all depends on salary. Highly skilled migrant salaries must meet a particular threshold which also needs to be competitive. The salary thresholds do not apply to medical specialist training, or academic positions.

• After five years of residency, all EU/EEA/Swiss nationals and family members (who have lived with them) are eligible to apply for “permanent residence for EU citizens”.

• Net salaries must be paid to the bank account of the highly skilled migrant on a monthly basis. Late or irregular payment of salary may immediately give cause for withdrawal of residence permit.

NON-EU/EEA/SWISS

• Sponsors of highly skilled migrants are under a duty of information. They have to report significant changes to the IND within 28 days after the change came into effect.

• Also called “third country” nationals need a residence permit if they plan to stay more than three months and depending on the nationalities an entry visa (MVV) to enter the Netherlands. • MVV and residence permit can be applied for with one application called the Entry and Residence Procedure (TEV). • Sponsors – employer or family members – can apply for the permit on the applicant’s behalf before arrival. MVV (MACHTIGING TOT VOORLOPIG VERBLIJF) • A visa sticker placed in a passport valid for 90 days. Travel to the Netherlands must be done within 90 days! Expats coming to the Netherlands must wait for the approval decision in their home countries. With the MVV-visa sticker they can enter the Netherlands. Moreover, this sticker sometimes serves as proof 14

of lawful employment, which will be stated on the sticker itself if that is the case. Their residence cards will be waiting for them at a designated IND desk. Nationals from EU/EEA/Switzerland (and their family members), Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, South Korea, UK, US and Vatican City do not need an MVV. For these nationals, biometrics needs to be done in the Netherlands after arrival; residence permit will be made thereafter.

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

• Employees can begin work once they receive their residence permit or “residence endorsement sticker” (verblijfsaantekening) from the IND. Highly skilled migrants who had to collect an MVV can start working on the basis of their MVV sticker if this states they are allowed to do so, but not earlier than the start date that was communicated to the IND in the application form. Due to current lenience of the IND, highly skilled migrants who are exempted from the MVV can start working if the IND’s approval decision letter states that they are allowed to start on the basis of that letter, but not earlier than the start date that was communicated to the IND in the application form. This lenient policy was introduced in 2022 and is applicable until further notice. At any moment this policy can be amended again to the general rule that highly skilled migrants

RELOCATION

who are exempted from the MVV can start working once they receive their residence permit or “residence endorsement sticker” (verblijfsaantekening) from the IND. Highly skilled migrants may perform self-employed activities on the side for a limited number of hours per week, but no side-jobs in employment. Dependent family members have full access to labour market as they do not need to have a recognized sponsor and also do not need to meet the highly skilled migrant salary thresholds. SEARCH YEAR PERMIT • Foreign students who have completed higher education can file with IND to remain in the country for a year to look for a job; full and unrestricted access to the labour market. • Permission also applies to those who obtained a degree in the last three years from a university listed in the top 200 of the most recent ranking lists of Times Higher Education World University Rankings, QS World University Rankings, or Academic Ranking of World Universities. • The residence permit is non-extendable, but if a graduate finishes a different study program after expiry of first Search Year Visa, a second Search Year Visa can be issued. START-UP PERMIT • One-year temporary residence permits enabling applicants to launch an innovative start-up in the Netherlands.

• The Start-up entrepreneur business idea must be innovative. Innovativeness is broadly defined. • The start-up entrepreneur must have significant savings or another source of income for at least a full year. • The start-up entrepreneur must have a contract with a start-up facilitator having a sound track record. Most major start-up incubators in the Netherlands are accepted. • After one year, the permit must be changed into a regular entrepreneur residence permit. This may be done with a statement of good entrepreneurship obtained from a start-up facilitator. Facilitators set their own benchmarks for this. INDEPENDENT PERMITS • A non-EU national who has a residence permit based on a relationship (a Dutch or legally resident partner or parent, for example) can apply for a permit in his or her own right after five years of holding a Dutch permit. • Dependent children can apply for an independent residence permit after one year of legal stay based on a family residence permit. • Specific, but restrictive policies facilitate continued stay of ex-partners in case of domestic violence or the threat of violence. • Continued stay in case of divorce before the five-year term is usually possible if there are children having the Dutch or an EU nationality.

Specialists in immigration and nationality law Services in Dutch, English, Arabic, and Chinese

Lange Voorhout 86, The Hague

+31(0)70-2051160

info@mynta.nl

www.mynta.nl

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

PERMANENT RESIDENCE PERMIT

IDENTIFICATION

• Permanent and unconditional residence permit. After five years of uninterrupted legal stay, this permit can be issued if the requirements are met.

• All residents over the age of 14 must carry an ID that shows their residence status (for EU/EEA nationals, a passport).

• Applicant must have the Civic Integration Diploma (Inburgeringsdiploma), even if prior residence was based on work, but depending on the situation there can be an exemption or exception applicable. • Applicant must show having sufficient and durable means of support. • Beware of “residence gaps”, meaning a “gap” between the expiry date of old residence permit and starting date of the new permit or when deregistration form the municilaity took place during the validity of the residence permit. A “residence gap” causes the loss of all accrued time; you basically have to start counting five years from zero and although there are potential exceptions to this losing all accrued time when applying for permanent residence usually the IND does not assess this themselves and thus after a rejection of the application this requires administrative appeal and court appeal. • EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can obtain permanent status after five years too. The rules here are considerably less strict. RESIDENCY COSTS (2025) • For all applications the IND charges costs. The exact figures are subject to frequent change. Please visit www.ind.nl/en/fees-costs-of-an-application for details.

TULIP EXPATS SERVICES

PAS BMS Immigration and Relocation: Schoutenlaan 62, 2215 ME Voorhout | +31 (0)25 234 7876 | info@pasbms.com | www.pasbms.com | LINKEDIN @pasbmsrelocations

HOLLAND MADE EASY

We provide professional advice with a personal touch to those who wish to work and live in the Netherlands in order to help them settle in their new environment. With over 25 years experience in relocation, banking, tax, financial and all other related services, we have an extensive knowledge of all the specific rules and regulations of the Dutch system. Our wide range of tailor-made services are specifically adapted to your own personal situation in the Netherlands.

Tulip Expats Services: Malakkastraat 88-90, 2585 SR The Hague | +31 (0)70 220 8156 | info@tulipexpatsservices.com | www.tulipexpatsservices.com | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @tulipexpatsservices | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @tulipexpatsservices | LINKEDIN @tulipexpatsservices Rabobank Amsterdam: - V an Baerlestraat 102-106, 1071 BC Amsterdam - Amstelplein 8, 1096 BC Amsterdam - B uikslotermeerplein 219-A, 1025 XB Amsterdam | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/amsterdam | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @rabobank | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @rabobank Rabobank Haarlem-IJmond: Dreef 40, 2012 HS Haarlem | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/haarlem-ijmond Rabobank Amstel & Vecht: Van Heuven Goedhartlaan 7, 1181 LE Amstelveen | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/amstel-en-vecht

For more info, check www.tulipexpatsservices.com Telephone/Email

Skype/Facebook

Malakkastraat 88/90

+ 31 (0)70 2208156

tulipexpatsservices

2585 SR Den Haag*

info@tulipexpatsservices.com

tulipexpatsservices

* We are also located in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and Eindhoven

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

IMMIGRATION LAWYERS Mynta Law: Lange Voorhout 86, 2514 EJ The Hague | +31 (0)70 205 1160 | info@mynta.nl | www.mynta.nl | LINKEDIN mynta-law

A MONTHLY GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONAL NEWCOMERS Receive helpful tips on settling in direct to your inbox • News updates affecting international residents • Must-do events in the Amsterdam Area • Invitations to free workshops and info sessions • Advice on housing, job-hunting, schools, taxes and more inamsterdam.com

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RELOCATION

Amsterdam area

Amsterdam, Amstelveen, Diemen, Almere, Lelystad, Haarlem, Haarlemmermeer, Hilversum, Alkmaar, Bergen, Hoorn, Ijmond, Zandvoort, Castricum, Zaanstreek & Waterland. FACTS & FIGURES

AMSTERDAM, AMSTELVEEN & DIEMEN

• Population of Amsterdam: 931,298 • Population of the Amsterdam region: 2.5 million • Nationalities: 175 (approximately) • Number of bikes in the city: 850,000 (estimated) • Total kilometres cycled every day: 2 million • Number of international schools in the region: 21

The city of Amsterdam has enjoyed a long and interesting history, and today it prides itself on a rich cultural life and a diverse population. This can be seen in the huge variety of the city’s districts and neighbourhoods are. Each has its own character, from the green spaces of Oost to the bustling creativity in West and the quieter, charming villages in Noord. Amstelveen and Diemen are neighbouring cities, offering yet more diversity. Here you can enjoy a bigger variety of housing options, peaceful residential areas and a vibrant international community, while all the benefits of living and working in Amsterdam’s city centre are accessible within a short bike ride.

The city of Amsterdam is a world-famous destination, home to the UNESCO-listed canal ring, renowned museums and countless tourist attractions – but there’s much more to experience and discover in the wider region. The Amsterdam Area includes a stretch of the North Sea Coast, new cities like Almere and Lelystad, the historic city of Haarlem, seaside villages and much more – all within an hour of Amsterdam’s city centre. Increasing numbers of international residents are choosing to settle in these areas, where there is a greater choice of housing, international schools with capacity for new students and easy transport connections for work.

ALMERE & LELYSTAD The Netherlands’ newest cities, Almere and Lelystad, were built on land that was reclaimed from the sea in a feat of Dutch engineering. Since the first homes were built here in the 1960s and ’70s, these cities have developed into well-planned residential areas with worldclass architecture, lakes and criss-crossing waterways, modern Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

infrastructure and excellent transport connections. Aside from being one of the most distinctive and diverse areas for residential properties in the Amsterdam Area, it also offers opportunities to design and build your own home. HAARLEM Haarlem is one of the Netherlands’ most beautiful old cities, offering a wealth of historic buildings and sights and a lively community of around 168,000 residents. Often described as a miniature version of Amsterdam, Haarlem has a similarly picturesque old-world charm, with cobbled streets, winding waterways and gabled houses. Though rich with historic architecture, it’s a lively city packed with culture, nightlife, dining hotspots and some of the best shopping streets in the country. HAARLEMMERMEER & THE FLOWER STRIP The Haarlemmermeer region offers easy connections to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol for international travel, a good selection of public and international schools, and plenty of green space for outdoor activities. Expansive parks, farmland and gardens contribute to the area’s relaxed lifestyle. The area borders the flower growing region of the Netherlands, which bursts into life in vivid colours every spring and summer, while the world’s largest flower auction is based in neighbouring city Aalsmeer. HILVERSUM, THE GOOI & VECHTSTREEK The area known as the Gooi & Vechtstreek is characterised by its lush surroundings, picturesque and historic villages, untouched natural spaces and beautiful lakes. Positioned southeast of Amsterdam, the area is made up of cities and towns which include Hilversum, Bussum, Naarden, Huizen, Laren, Blaricum and Muiden – all offering a popular blend of upmarket luxury, traditional village atmospheres and modern living. The Gooi & Vechtstreek has a good selection of schools, including various international schools for non-Dutch speakers. The small communities are safe, and the green spaces, forests, parks and playgrounds are ideal for outdoor family activities. ALKMAAR & HOORN The area at the north of the province of Noord-Holland offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with expansive polder landscapes and historic villages. Positioned between the North Sea Coast, the Wadden Sea (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the IJsselmeer lake, the area includes the cities Alkmaar, Den Helder and Hoorn. The region is renowned for its traditional feel – down-to-earth, hard-working and straight-talking – but it’s not stuck in its ways either. Its scenic polders and historic towns go hand in hand with the ever-growing digital economy.

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

IJMOND, ZANDVOORT & CASTRICUM Locations such as Zandvoort, Bloemendaal, Castricum, Bergen, Velsen, IJmuiden, Egmond, Beverwijk and Heemskerk offer a unique lifestyle that perfectly balances the atmosphere of the bustling cities nearby. Weekends can be spent taking part in wind and water sports, walking or cycling in the dunes and spotting local wildlife, or visiting the beachside bars and restaurants nearby. There’s a feeling of freedom that comes from the area’s relative remoteness, making it easy to forget that it’s just a simple journey by car or train from Amsterdam, Haarlem or Alkmaar. ZAANSTREEK & WATERLAND The cities, towns and villages of Beemster, Purmerend, Zaanstad, Waterland, Landsmeer, Wormerland, Uitgeest, Oostzaan and EdamVolendam all have an enduring cultural and industrial heritage. Today, the region’s infrastructure remains steeped in history, with shipping warehouses, windmills, cheesemaking factories and iconic Dutch fishing villages that have remained virtually untouched for centuries. • Learn more about living in the Amsterdam Area: www.iamsterdam.com/living • Find your ideal place to stay using the interactive Map It Out tool: mapitout.iamsterdam.com SETTLE INTO THE REGION WITH IN AMSTERDAM We support highly skilled migrants, scientific researchers, international entrepreneurs and international graduates, simplifying immigration processes and helping international newcomers settle into the Amsterdam Area. The IN Amsterdam one-stop-shop service includes: • Residence and work permits; • Registration with the relevant municipality; • Arrangement of a citizen service number (BSN); • Application for the 30% tax ruling; • Application to exchange a driving licence. If you’ve made the move and you’re still finding your feet, we’re here to help. Sign up to our newsletters for tips and news, take part in our informative webinars and in-person events for newcomers, turn to the helpdesks provided by our trusted partners (for housing or general advice), learn more about international schools and Dutch education and meet new people through (international) groups and clubs. MORE INFORMATION: • www.iamsterdam.com/living (regional information) • www.amsterdam.nl/en (city information) • www.iamsterdam.com/inamsterdam (for international newcomers)

RELOCATION

Leiden region Leiden, Leiderdorp, Oegstgeest, Voorschoten, Zoeterwoude.

FACTS & FIGURES • 28km of canals • 21,000 internationals • 91% of expats stay longer than 1 year • Where the first Dutch tulip was planted • Home to the largest life sciences cluster in the Netherlands

Leiden is a cosy, vibrant city which will quickly feel like home. There is plenty to explore, from hidden courtyards to independent boutiques and award-winning national museums. Then there’s the many canals that can be enjoyed by boat, or from one of the water-side bars and restaurants. Leiden University, Leiden Bio Science Park and many international businesses are based here, and there are great travel connections to other major Dutch cities and Schiphol airport. It’s therefore no surprise that the Leiden region is popular with internationals, who make up 14% of the city’s population! LEIDEN, CITY OF SCIENCE Strolling through the historic streets of Leiden, you can imagine yourself back in the 17th century. It has been home to the famous painter Rembrandt, the American Pilgrims, Dutch royalty and many great scientists (including 16 Nobel prize winners). That is why it’s known as the "City of Science". Want to escape the city life? The beach towns of Noordwijk and Katwijk, as well as the classic Dutch polder landscape of windmills and lakes, are all within biking distance. In the spring, the worldfamous flower fields are on Leiden’s doorstep. And there’s no better way to spend a summer day than renting a boat and touring the city’s canals or nearby lakes. Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

INTERNATIONAL AND CONNECTED While many internationals choose to live in Leiden, the surrounding municipalities of Leiderdorp, Oegstgeest, Voorschoten and Zoeterwoude are also very popular with expats. There are several

leiden international centre Leiden International Centre is a non-profit organisation supporting internationals living and working in the Leiden region. We help with: - BSN registration appointments - Information via our website and helpdesk - Free social and information events - Referrals to trusted, expat-friendly businesses leideninternationalcentre.nl LeidenInternationalCentre

Leiden International Centre

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

international schools nearby to cater to families, as well as many expat-friendly social groups and events. In the city itself, biking is an easy and safe way to travel. Want to go further afield? Whether for day trips or a regular commute, travelling to and from Leiden is simple. Leiden Centraal station has frequent connections to Amsterdam (35 minutes), The Hague (15 minutes) and Rotterdam (33 minutes), and Amsterdam Schiphol airport is only 15 minutes away. LEIDEN INTERNATIONAL CENTRE Leiden International Centre is here to support you through each step of your move to Leiden. You can find information about every aspect of expat life on our website. Here you can also find a list of trusted local businesses who provide services to expats, including housing, relocation, Dutch lessons and more. Follow us on facebook or sign up to our monthly newsletter to stay up to date on the latest news and events for internationals, including our free webinars on topics such as education, healthcare and the tax system. We also host Meet & Mingle events, where internationals from across the region come to meet fellow expats and make new friends. And if you have questions, you can contact our helpdesk for free advice via email or video call. LEARN MORE ABOUT LEIDEN • Leiden International Centre: www.leideninternationalcentre.nl • Tourist Information: www.VisitLeiden.nl • Discover the area with “Region of Surprises”: www.streekvanverassingen.nl

Photo credit: Iris van den Broek

RELOCATION

Rotterdam

Magnet for innovative businesses and internationals. Rotterdam, gateway to Europe. International city with a distinct character, energetic, always in motion, eyes on the future. Dynamic port city, where a vibrant mix of 170+ nationalities and many cultures and communities makes for a diverse, inclusive and open urban culture. It’s no wonder that more and more companies and internationals settle and build their future in Rotterdam. Going abroad and creating a new life in a new city can be quite challenging. You want to make sure you pick the city that fits your needs and your lifestyle. A place where you can find likeminded people and a community where you and your family can easily fit in and feel at home. We would like to warmly welcome you to Rotterdam. LIVING IN ROTTERDAM Rotterdam has a unique urban vibe. The diverse and multicultural nature of Rotterdam’s population is visible and tangible in its art, culture, night life, eating culture, business community and literally on the streets. Practically everybody here speaks English fluently. As an international you’ll find your home easily here, either in the city centre, or in one of Rotterdam’s scenic green suburbs. Some popular areas for internationals are KralingenCrooswijk, Kop van Zuid, Hillegersberg-Schiebroek, Prinsenland, the multicultural Oude Westen district and of course the city centre. The fast-evolving areas South of the river Maas are also attracting more and more internationals. With the diversity of its inhabitants and the quality of its neighbourhoods Rotterdam contributes to its growing appeal. MAGNET FOR BUSINESS AND INNOVATION Rotterdam’s strategic location literally connects Rotterdam to the world. Its port, the smartest and busiest in Europe, is the engine that powers Europe’s most innovative Maritime and Energy clusters. Rotterdam is also home to world-leading clusters in other economic sectors such as IT & Tech, Life

Sciences and Health (with Erasmus MC as the largest university medical centre in the Netherland and an international leading academic hospital), Transport & Logistics (Rotterdam is Europe’s best connected large European city, according to fDI Intelligence) and Agri & Food. The access to international markets and the presence of suppliers and partners makes Rotterdam a strategic business location and a fast-growing international business hub. Entrepreneurship, innovation and experimentation are integral elements of the city’s DNA, attracting international investors, pioneers, start-ups and global talent. Rotterdam is surrounded by water and makes good use of it. There are several innovative floating solutions which can be admired in Rotterdam, for example, the world’s largest Floating Office that houses the Global Center on Adaptation and even a fully functional, sustainable and circular Floating Farm. SAFE, OPEN, EASY TO TRAVEL Rotterdam is safe, well organised and easy to travel. It’s a very “open” city and less crowded than many other international urban hubs, with green and water nearby wherever you are in the city. Its open, spacious and well organised and layout are welcoming, even in times when being and moving in crowds is not possible. Rotterdam boasts an excellent public transport system (bus, tram, metro, water taxi) and is close to two international airports (both Schiphol International Airport and Rotterdam The Hague Airport are less than 30 minutes from Rotterdam Central Station). And of course, Rotterdammers, Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

being Dutch, love to ride their bikes, which is actually one of the fastest ways of getting around the city. All these aspects contribute to Rotterdam being an ideal city for international families to settle and build their lives. EDUCATION AND TALENT DEVELOPMENT Speaking of families, Rotterdam has several highly regarded international schools for primary and secondary education (see boxed info on this page) and world-class institutes for higher level education, including the Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus Medical Centre and the Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences where in general education is offered in English. Because of the rapid growth of Rotterdam’s international business community and innovation ecosystem, education and talent development are at the centre of the city’s attention. Municipality, businesses and research and knowledge institutes actively work together to provide special programs and hubs where people can develop and deploy their talents. International Schools in Rotterdam • Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam (NAISR): www.naisr.nl • Rotterdam International Secondary School (RISS): www.riss.wolfert.nl • Japanese School of Rotterdam: www.jsrotte.nl/ • Harbour IBSR (International and Bilingual schools of Rotterdam): www.harbourinternational.nl

Rotterdam. They know what questions you might have and what challenges you face. They will help you with the immigration procedure with the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service), they can advise you on things like taxes, housing, opening a bank account, healthcare, education and careers. Their services for expats are tailored to your specific needs and also include your spouse and children. Companies as well as individual internationals can easily connect to Rotterdam’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, relevant networks and other internationals at special events. Every year, the Rotterdam International Center hosts a special Welcome Event, welcoming internationals and their families to their new city. Please visit the Rotterdam International Center website for specific and up to date information. EXPLORE ROTTERDAM Whether you are thinking about moving to the Netherlands and looking for a new place you can call home, or if you have already started planning your career and life in Rotterdam, the people of the Rotterdam International Center would love to meet and help you. If you want to first explore our city a little more, we advise you to check out these websites: • Rotterdam International Center: www.rotterdaminternationalcenter.nl • Rotterdam Partners: www.rotterdampartners.nl • City of Rotterdam: www.rotterdam.nl (Dutch) • Rotterdam Tourist Information: www.en.rotterdam.info

ROTTERDAM INTERNATIONAL CENTER How to tap into all this potential that Rotterdam offers you and your family? That’s easy. You contact the people at the Rotterdam International Center (formerly known as Rotterdam Expat Centre). They are familiar with all requirements and procedures that come with you wanting to settle in

ROTTERDAM INTERNATIONAL CENTER HELPS YOU SETTLE IN ROTTERDAM. We can answer all your questions & provide professional services on: • Immigration & Registration • Housing • Education & Careers • Taxes & Insurance • Healthcare • Transport • Utilities • Social Events & Communities for Internationals

ROTTERDAM INTERNATIONAL CENTER ONE STOP SHOP FOR INTERNATIONALS. 24

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

T +31 (0)10 790 01 90 info@rotterdaminternationalcenter.nl www.rotterdaminternationalcenter.nl

RELOCATION

Utrecht region

Over 80,000 international residents enjoy living and working in the region due to its central location, easy-going character, and healthy urban lifestyle. So, why Utrecht Region? The region does exceptionally well when it comes to labour market opportunities, level of education, and market size. There is a place for everyone on the labour market, making it the perfect region for international talent to live, work, and study. Utrecht Region is officially the best place to live and work in all of Europe. The European Union once again named Utrecht Region as Europeʼs most competitive region in their three-yearly Regional Competitiveness Index (2022). LIFE Utrecht Region marks the center of the Netherlands and is a diverse and lively province with 1.4 million inhabitants spread over 26 municipalities. It’s a region that offers high-quality living, a pleasant and varied landscape, beautiful cities, and towns as well as worldclass cultural and recreational facilities. In the heart of the region lies the city of Utrecht, the fourth-largest city of the Netherlands. It’s a vibrant and inspiring city where history and 21st century science easily blends. The centuries old Dom Tower and the picturesque canals show its rich cultural past with roots

that go back to medieval times. Take a stroll along the lively canals in Utrecht, explore the museums and monuments, and enjoy the best cafés and restaurants. WORK Utrecht Region is the perfect destination for business. It has been consistently ranked as one of Europe’s most competitive regions since the European Commission launched its Regional Competitive Index in 2010. The region is a hub of creativity and innovation, and its open-minded business climate, global connections and skilled workforce make it an attractive sustainable environment for business. A growing number of companies relocate to the Netherlands and, along with Dutch companies, are investing in international employees to support their businesses. STUDY Utrecht Region is home to prestigious universities and knowledge institutes. They offer a wide range of English-taught degree programmes and courses for you to choose from. And you will be in good company. Utrecht Region is home to approximately 70,000 Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

students of which 3,700 international students. Studying in Utrecht Region will be a life-changing experience. You will discover a new country, make friends, absorb a different culture, and maybe even learn a new language. Find more information about living, working, and studying in Utrecht Region at www.utrechtinternationalcenter.com/why-utrecht-region UTRECHT INTERNATIONAL CENTER Starting a new life in a new country should be a pleasant experience. That is why the Utrecht International Center helps internationals living, working, and studying in the Utrecht region settle in. They help internationals arrange the official procedures upon their arrival, get familiar with life in the Netherlands and connect to the local (international) community. They are happy to help. Visit their website for more information: www.utrechtinternationalcenter.com.

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

RELOCATION

The Hague

City by the sea | city of peace and justice. FACTS & FIGURES • 10,000 – the number of people who "polar bear plunge" into the icy North Sea every New Year’s Day at the Scheveningen Beach • 1913 – the inauguration year of the Peace Palace in The Hague • 4 – the number of seasons where the weather is perfect for surfing • 1 – the number of Kings living in The Hague • Population: 566.731 • International residents: 60.000+ • International students: 10.000+ • Nationalities: 200 In The Hague, tens of thousands of people work every day to build a more peaceful and just world. People from across the globe meet here to work collectively to solve problems that affect us all. Why choose between city and beach, when The Hague offers both? The city is a blend of modern skyscrapers and rich historical architecture, complete with kilometres of beaches just a short walk away. It’s a cosmopolitan city, with a vibrant international community and a robust business climate, and a city where people enjoy a high quality of life whilst working towards a better world. Home to the Dutch royal family and the seat of the government, The Hague is where important decisions affecting the future of the country are made every day. This is why companies, students,

embassies and non-profit organisations choose to establish themselves here, because in The Hague, you can expand your network, effect change, and make a difference in the world. A CITY BY THE SEA The Hague is the only large Dutch city by the sea. Just a short walk from the historic city centre, you’ll find an 11-kilometre-long beach. Step aboard a tram and within 15-minutes you can breathe in the fresh sea air, engage in water-based sports all year round, or enjoy true beach weather in the summer months. CITY OF PEACE AND JUSTICE The Peace Palace (home of the International Court of Justice) is at the centre of a robust Peace and Justice sector, with the city being where international governing bodies such as Europol, the International Criminal Court, and the OPCW (Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons) are located. INTERNATIONAL BUSINESSES Next to the Dutch government, one of the largest employers in the city with a total of over 35,000 employees, many multinational head offices such as Total, Siemens; Huawei, Aegon and the NN Group can be found in The Hague. This close proximity facilitates connections between government agencies, commercial enterprises, knowledge

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

Welcome to The Hague!

The Hague International Centre offers free advice, events and

services to help you move and settle into The Hague region – from registration, immigration, finding a job, housing or local sport, to social and community clubs. We are part of the municipality of The Hague. All of our services are free of charge.

www.thehagueinternationalcentre.nl

Scan to learn more!

The Hague International Centre is your guide to live, work and study in The Hague region. We support international newcomers and employers to make you feel welcome in our region.

Connecting internationals to The Hague region

RELOCATION

institutions and NGOs; helping businesses to expand their network and build influence. A GREAT ENVIRONMENT FOR COMPANIES AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS ALIKE Economic sectors in The Hague include Peace and Justice, the Impact Economy, Security, Energy, Finance, Legal and Policy; and IT and Tech. This unique ecosystem provides a conducive environment for companies and organisations to conduct their business and expand their network. The Hague Tech and The Hague Humanity Hub for example, are incubation hubs that facilitate innovation through knowledgesharing and collaboration. While The Hague Business Agency and InnovationQuarter, offer tailor-made advice to companies considering to establish themselves in the region. LIVING IN THE HAGUE Home to world-class museums and attractions, and a popular venue for festivals and music events, The Hague has something to offer for every lifestyle! It is not unusual to combine a shopping spree with a visit to Vermeer’s iconic “Girl with a Pearl Earring”, a picnic in the park, or a jaunt in the hidden Palace Garden. There’s plenty of space to unwind in nature, too, with a long walk in the dunes or in one of the many parks and urban oases scattered throughout the city. HOUSING With affordable homes and good accessibility, The Hague is a great place to live. The municipality consists of 44 different neighbourhoods and eight city districts, each with its own character and charm. Geuzen-en Statenkwartier, Wassenaar; Benoordenhout and Archipelbuurt/Willemspark are popular neighbourhoods amongst international residents. The Zeeheldenkwartier and Regentessekwartier are also gaining popularity; especially amongst young professionals. These neighbourhoods have their own active international community, though many internationals also opt to live in the surrounding municipalities of Delft, Leidschendam-Voorburg and Rijswijk. EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE The Hague has the highest concentration of international schools in the Netherlands with a large number of educational institutions which provide excellent study programmes in English, German or French. There are also many types of childcare options available for preschoolers and young children. Many of the international schools and billingual schools are highly acclaimed. While you are at work, you can be sure that your child is getting the best possible education and care.

THE HAGUE DISTANCE TO: • Schiphol Amsterdam:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 km • Rotterdam-The Hague Airport:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 km • Stena Ferry to England:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 km SCHOOLS Government-funded international schools: • The European School of The Hague • The International School of The Hague • Haagsche Schoolvereeniging • International Waldorf School The Hague • International School Delft • Het Rijnlands Lyceum Oestgeest International School • Het Rijnlands Lyceum Wassenaar International School • Elckerlyc International School Independent international schools (private schools): • The American School of The Hague • The British School in the Netherlands Foreign national schools: • Deutsche Internationale Schule • Le Lycée Français Vincent van Gogh LINKS: • www.thehagueinternationalcentre.nl • www.thehague.com • www.denhaag.nl/en

Looking for expat housing? We take care of everything Fully furnished apartments on the best locations in The Hague and Rotterdam.

JOIN A COMMUNITY Many internationals have made The Hague their home. With a lively international community and a wide network of international clubs and associations, it is easy to find like-minded people. Join a community and make yourself at home in The Hague. Welcome to The Hague!

Get in touch with us today. hellohousing.nl T +31 (0)88 432 40 70 E info@hellohousing.nl

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

The South of the Netherlands Eindhoven, Tilburg, Breda, Maastricht.

EINDHOVEN

TILBURG

Population: 246,615

Population: 229,850

Philips and Eindhoven go hand-in-hand, but the city has a lot more to offer. The Brainport Eindhoven Region accounts for around half of the country’s R&D (research and development) investment and is officially known as “Brainport”. Eindhoven is a hub for start-up companies and employment opportunities, and attracts expats from around the world. Over the years Eindhoven has become well known for its architecture and its leader as a city of technology and design. The city is well connected with two railway stations and an airport that offers international flights across Europe and beyond.

Tilburg is the sixth largest city in the Netherlands. It has a population of over 220,000, representing many nationalities. In recent decades, Tilburg has welcomed people from practically every country in Europe, and many beyond. All have brought their own culture and customs. Tilburg has every possible amenity: from schools and colleges at all levels, high quality healthcare facilities, cultural institutions offering something for every taste, to open spaces for recreation. Ride a bike, since this is Tilburgs’ main means of transport!

Centre

HART VAN BRABANT (HEART OF BRABANT)

People living in the centre have plenty of facilities, including several shopping centres and scores of international restaurants. Accommodation is pricey and popular with single expats and couples. The Philips Stadium, where PSV plays, is also located here.

From the elevated sandy soils near Belgium, to the river beds of the Meuse and Walloon rivers, the Hart van Brabant (Heart of Brabant) region straddles a breath taking stretch of park-like landscapes. It is a great place of work, live and enjoy life in a setting reputed for its logistics, health care, leisure economy and aeronautical and industrial maintenance.

North The area north of the centre is divided by wide, tree-lined boulevards, and is mainly residential in nature. Housing is for all budgets. Woensel South offers less expensive accommodation and is popular among students. West The International School Eindhoven is located in Strijp. There are several new apartment buildings in Strjp-S, which is an area that is popular with singles and young couples. East Situated around the Karpendonkse Lake and Eckart Forest, the area has a range of housing including some exclusive detached properties. South High Tech Campus Eindhoven is situated at Gestel along the Prehistoric Village and the Tongelreep National Swimming Centre. Expats also gravitate towards Stratum, with its wide range of modestly priced to exclusive housing. 30

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MAASTRICHT Population: 125.285 Maastricht is located in the very south of the Netherlands, but right in the heart of Europe, bordering to Germany as well as Belgium. Aachen, Cologne, Frankfurt, Brussels, Antwerp, Paris as well as Luxemburg are around the corner. Its impressive history is reflected in the historic centre and location along the Meuse river. In the hilly countryside new technologies on chemicals and new materials, life sciences and smart services are booming. The three Brightlands campuses in the region are at the heart of global innovation. City Centre Historic buildings jostle with shops, cafes and restaurants. Encompassing the city walls, university buildings and the Stadspark, the Jekerkwartier has an artistic slant that entices creative types and students.

RELOCATION

Right bank Across the river, Wyck is an upcoming district near to the train station and has a unique atmosphere that is filled with stylish shops and restaurants. Céramique, Maastricht’s newest district, offers modern accommodation favoured by expats who like inner city living with full amenities and services. Belvedere At less than 500 metres from Vrijthof Square, Market Square and the city centre, a new Maastricht district is being created: Belvédère. A district for young people, students, entrepreneurs, expats, creative artists and culture enthusiasts that offers many opportunities for experiments and temporary functions. Sint Pieter and surroundings A green residential area along Jeker valley and St Pietersberg Hill, yet within walking distance to the centre or Belgium. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL United World College: www.uwcmaastricht.com LINKS • www.expatcentremaastrichtregion.nl • www.gemeentemaastricht.nl/en • www.welcometomaastrichtregion.com

FIND YOUR WAY AROUND IN THE MAASTRICHT REGION expatcentremaastrichtregion.nl +31 (0)43 350 5010

servicedesk@big5relo.com +31 (0) 40 235 15 05 www.big5relo.com

RELOCATING TO THE EINDHOVEN AREA? DO IT THE BIG5 WAY!

Big5 Relocations is a young and dynamic independent organisation with a wide personal and professional network in the Eindhoven region. We offer offer a personalised approach of relocation services including home&school research, pre-assignment visit of the Eindhoven region and settling-in through our experienced and professional relocation consultants.

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The East of the Netherlands Overijssel, Gelderland, Flevoland.

OVERIJSSEL - TWENTE With over 160.000 inhabitants, Enschede is the most populous city in the eastern Netherlands. Enschede, the capital city, is one of our countries’ most extensive knowledge and innovation centres thanks to the renowned University of Twente based on the city’s edge. It’s no exaggeration to say that Twente offers it all. A green place to live, the fun and culture of Enschede, and a knowledgeable, and entrepreneurial tech ecosystem. No wonder why so many talented students and expats love it here. GELDERLAND Gelderland is the largest province of the Netherlands by land area, and second by total area. The capital is Arnhem (pop. 167,632); however, Nijmegen and Apeldoorn are both larger municipalities. Today, the region has a solid knowledge-based economy. It’s no wonder that both international students and companies choose to settle in Gelderland. The province is an ideally located hub of knowledge and has thriving ecosystems in Agrifood, Health & Life Sciences, and Energy & Environmental Technology. Wageningen, located on the banks of the Rhine river in the green valley area of Gelderland, is home to the Wageningen University and Research Centre - one of the world’s leading research universities in agriculture, food, and life sciences. The University lies in the heart of

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the Foodvalley ecosystem. The regions’ leading research institutions, large corporations, SMEs, and governments collaborate here to deal with the challenges of tomorrow when it comes to food. FLEVOLAND Flevoland is the twelfth and newest province of the Netherlands, established in 1986. Its capital is Lelystad and its most populous city is Almere (pop. 226,500), which forms part of the Randstad and has grown to become the seventh largest city of the country. Outside urban areas, the land in Flevoland is predominantly used for agriculture. The whole region is approximately four metres below sea level! The land is well-protected by a network of high dikes (structures that protect the land from flooding) and smart waterworks. Holding the country’s largest expanse of tulip fields, Flevoland attracts visitors from far and wide looking to explore the tulip routes of Noordoostpolder. The province’s agrifood capabilities and reputation open up an array of jobs in engineering, ICT, logistics, and trade roles. You’ll also find a diverse maritime sector, mainly thanks to the old fishing village of Urk. Flevoland sets its ambitions high: it wants to become the leading supplier of sustainable resources in the circular economy from 2030 onwards. To achieve this, the region is welcoming the brightest minds both from home and overseas.

RELOCATION

The Northern Netherlands Groningen, Friesland, Drenthe.

Groningen works closely with Friesland and Drenthe to create an attractive and supportive ecosystem for startups and scale-ups. GRONINGEN The provincial capital and the largest city in the province is the city of Groningen (243,000 inhabitants). The land is mainly used for agriculture. There are seaports in Delfzijl and Eemshaven. The province is home to the University of Groningen and Hanze University of Applied Sciences. It is also known for having the cleanest air and the richest cultural offering in the whole of the Netherlands! Groningen is now a vibrant student city with a world top-100 university, a huge number of research institutes and a booming start-up scene. Groningen is rich with talent and facilities that support the health and life sciences sector, among other fields of science. Groningen is also praised for its clean energy sector. Wind, in particular, is a valuable resource in the region. FRIESLAND The capital and seat of the provincial government is the city of Leeuwarden. Other large municipalities in Friesland are Sneek, Heerenveen, and Smallingerland. The land is mostly made up of grassland and it has numerous lakes. The official languages of Friesland are West Frisian and Dutch.

The province is famous for its speed skaters. When winters are cold enough to allow the freshwater canals to freeze hard, the province holds its traditional Elfstedentocht (Eleven cities tour), a 200-kilometer ice skating tour. However, it has been almost two decades since the winters have been cold enough for the canals to freeze enough to have this event. The Dutch Wadden Sea Islands are the five pearls in the north of the Netherlands. The Wadden Sea is even on the Unesco World heritage list. Friesland is famous for several industries. With the many waterways in Friesland, it is not surprising that water technology is one of the industries. DRENTHE Drenthe is a province located in the northeast of the Netherlands, with more than 9.500 internationals living here. Except for the small cities of the capital Assen (pop. 69,700) and Emmen, the land in this province is mainly used for agriculture and it has a notable amount of forests and nature. Drenthe offers a slower pace of life, sociable neighbours, and a less expensive price tag than the Randstad cities. This province is a great location for families, the province is both peaceful and safe. Looking to work in agrifood, chemistry, or aerospace? These are just some of the key sectors that are thriving in Drenthe. Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

THANK YOU MVA CERTIFIED EXPAT BROKER “As an international, I had little knowledge of the Amsterdam housing market. My Certified Expat Broker from MVA (Real Estate Association of Amsterdam) not only helped me find a suitable home, but also assisted me in navigating the complex regulations. This made my transition to the beautiful city of Amsterdam smooth and hassle-free.” An MVA Certified Expat Broker is a local expert, experienced in helping internationals, is qualified, reliable and fluent in English as well as other languages. Choose from a range of quality labelled services: Buying a home Selling a home Renting a home Renting out a home Value your property

MVA is partner of IN Amsterdam, The Hague International Centre and International Welcome Centre Utrecht Region. www.mva.nl

Housing

Finding the perfect home is not easy in the densely populated Netherlands. Here’s how it works. • It’s a sellers’ market now in the Netherlands, and housing is in high demand. • Competition for housing in popular areas is fierce, so be ready to act, bid and sign quickly. FINDING A HOME • Properties to rent (te huur) and to buy (te koop) can be found on online property portals such as www.funda.nl or on the websites of real estate agencies. • There are various agencies specialising in serving expats. Be wary of those that charge a registration fee, which can steer a path through the local market. • You can contact an agent to help you out in the home finding process. They will actively search the market to find the property you are looking for. An agent that is working on your behalf will charge an agency fee. The going rate is a 1 months’ rent + 21% V.A.T.

• If you find a rental property listed on any website yourself, then that agent is working on behalf of the owner, and for that, you are free of any agency fees or contract costs. But, it is recommended that you hire an agent yourself who can help you out with the rental contract and other issues. • Using a reputable agent, or agency, can help you to avoid renting an “illegal” apartment, a scam, a sub-lease, not getting back your deposit after check out, being bound by an unreasonable contract, or just over paying for a property. You can search all available agents in the market at www.mvahousing.nl/mva-certified-expat-brokers • Buyers who want to lease out their property in the future should make sure they are permitted to. Check the terms of your mortgage provider.

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

SPECTACULAR SHORT STAY APARTMENTS

348 Suites

Welcome to an unforgettable stay in the heart of The Hague At 348 Suites, we offer expats the perfect temporary home, combining comfort and convenience in the heart of the city. Located on Buitenhof, you're just minutes away from restaurants, shops, and cultural landmarks like the Mauritshuis, Palace Noordeind and Binnenhof. With easy access to public transport, exploring the city and beyond is a breeze. Personalized service and warm hospitality What makes your stay with us truly special is our customer-focused approach. We aim to make our guests feel welcome right away with our attentive and warm service. Whether you need recommendations for the best spots in the city or have questions about your stay, our friendly team is always ready to assist. Additionally, weekly cleaning is included in the price, ensuring a hassle-free and soothing stay. For added convenience, parking spaces are also available for rent, subject to availability, offering many guests an additional benefit during their stay.

Spacious, light-filled, and fully furnished apartments The apartments are modern, spacious, and filled with natural light, featuring large windows that create a fresh and open atmosphere. The stylish interior, with a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy living area, and a comfortable bed, provides everything you need for a relaxing stay. Extra amenities such as air conditioning, underfloor heating, a washing machine, and a dryer make longer stays worry-free. Many guests describe their stay as a ‘home away from home,’ thanks to the warm ambiance and thoughtful design. Our apartments are available in various types, catering to different needs and preferences, and can be booked starting from 4 nights. Registration at the address is also possible for longer stays. 348 Suites Buitenhof 47, The Hague +31 70 415 09 16 stay@348suites.com www.348suites.com

HOUSING

Renting USING AN AGENT A good housing agent should be able to tell you all about the local market, the city, pricing, quality of housing, restrictions that apply to expats, he/she will arrange viewings for you, negotiate with landlords, and provide an English translation of the rental contract. Helping you to connect with utilities services is not a standard service. HOUSING SECTORS 1. Social Housing sector: The dominant distribution sector has rent-controlled social housing, and income status plays its part in allocation. Restrictions are applied by the local authority. Rental properties that have less than EUR 879.66 a month base rent (in 2024) will fall under social housing restrictions. 2. Middle rent: A rental home in the middle rent sector has a rental price between social rent and liberalised sector rent. This means the price is above the liberalization limit of €879.66 (in 2024). The Affordable Rent Act (Wet Betaalbare Huur) was introduced on July 1, 2024 to ensure that more affordable rental housing - housing with a rent between €880 and €1,158 per month) becomes available in the Netherlands. This Act extended the points system that already applied to social housing to mid-range rentals. The points system sets a maximum rent based on what the home offers in terms of size, facilities, and sustainability, among other things. 3. Liberalised sector: Anything over the price and point limits of middle rent is in the “liberalised” sector (assuming it has the correct points/price ratio), where rent prices are not restricted.

• Social housing is split into two sectors, depending on whether the property is privately owned, or owned by a housing corporation (woning coöperaties). • Housing corporations: A good value, but with many restrictions regarding who may live in their properties. Waiting lists of up to 10 years or more are not uncommon. Only those with a total income of less than EUR 47,699 for single households and less than EUR 52,671 for multi-person households (2024) and valid residency will be eligible. • Most expats end up renting accommodation in the Liberalised sector because there are fewer restrictions and housing is easier to rent. RULES AND REGULATIONS • Base rents (kale huur) are controlled by a “system of points”, woningwaarderingsstelsel. • The number of points of the property determines the maximum rental price. Each part of the house receives points. For example: the surface of the dwelling, sanitary, heating system, the (WOZ) value of the property. • The reality is that there are too few rental properties, which puts upwards pressure on some types of accommodation. Check what your property’s rent should be at www.huurcommissie.nl. • You’ve signed a rental contract and you pay way too much money? Contact a local huurteam or initiate a review of your lease on www.huurcommissie.nl within six months after signing the lease.

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

• Generally, income conditions apply for cheaper housing. • Be cautious of sub-lets. You need to be able to register yourself. COSTS AND CONTRACTS Besides general provisions and conditions your rental contract must at least cover: • Status: is the property furnished, semi-furnished or empty? There may be an inventory and/or photos.

• Select one, at most two, agencies. Avoid engaging with too many agents for the same objective. • Arrange viewings three weeks before you need to move in, not earlier. • Be ready to move quickly. • If the agent commission seems too much, find property on your own, but be ready to put in lots of legwork. • Most of all, you will need luck, and timing is also important.

• Duration of lease. • Notice period and stipulations about how notice should be provided. • Service charges (check “all-inclusive”. What portion is rent?). • Utilities (apportioned how?). If you agree to a monthly fee, including an advance for utilities, then make sure that utility use is metered for your property. Your landlord should show you an account (eindafrekening) of payments and real costs at least once a year. • A diplomatic clause if you have to leave because your employer has relocated you elsewhere. You need to be clear on when and how this clause can be used to allow you to escape your rental obligations. • Expect to pay one or two months of rent as deposit, depending on the property, and one month’s rent if you use an agent. TIPS • Discuss your needs explicitly with your housing agent or relocation advisor.

• Post a notice in the housing section of expat forums. • Stay clear of anyone asking for a cash payment or cash commission. • Respond quickly to adverts and take someone along with you when viewing. • Always check that you can register with the BRP (Personal Record Database) • The standard NVM (Dutch estate agent association) contract has an English version for comparison. STUDENTS • Universities try their best to help students with housing but there are serious shortage issues. • There are non-commercial agencies for students, housing corporations and antikraak (anti-squat) agencies that rent out accommodation. • Check the city housing department for more information about low-priced housing. • You can find useful internet sites for renting a room or student accommodation, like www.kamernet.nl and www.thesocialhub.co

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT MOVING TO AND LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS

• Multilingual Counsellors • Free frequently asked

• Many cities in the Netherlands have aparthotels for corporate clients, which can sometimes be less anonymous and cheaper than hotels. • Websites aimed at tourists – like AirBnB – are great for a private apartment for up to a month.

questions

• Short-stay regulations in Amsterdam make it “illegal” to rent the majority of properties for less than six months, but many properties are listed for one to six-month stays regardless.

• Professional Volunteering • Free lifestyle publication: ACCESS Magazine

• Search for agencies with short term listings.

Other questions?

LIVING ON THE WATER

Contact our Helpdesk on +31 85 400 03 38 (Mon-Fri 10-4) or email us via helpdesk@access-nl.org.

• Tempted by life on a houseboat or Dutch barge? • The houseboat market is a very close-knit community so personal references will go a long way. • There are many rules and regulations regarding permits and mooring conditions. Track down a specialist agent to steer you through the procedures.

access-nl.org ACCESS-Netherlands

SHORT-TERM HOUSING OPTIONS

access.nl

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• Useful sites include www.waterwonen.nl, www.botentekoop.nl, www.funda.nl (which includes all kinds of boats for sale).

04-09-2023 11:11

HOUSING

Buying • It is common to appoint a real estate agent, or a makelaar, to do much of the legwork.

• A makelaar also knows which property will come on the market shortly.

• You will receive listings by email from the makelaar. He will track down appropriate houses, arranging viewings, suggesting areas where there’s room for negotiation, and advising on potential pitfalls.

• The agent’s commission will be one up to two percent (excl. 21% V.A.T.) of the purchase price. • You can hunt on Funda (www.funda.nl) to get ideas of prices in particular areas.

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• When buying, proximity to work, schools and amenities all play their part. • Be aware of the costs involved in renovating older property to current building standards or the quality required for renting.

COSTS

• For leasehold properties, check out the ground rents, conditions, type of leasehold, private or Municipality

• The buyer generally pays costs (k.k. – kosten koper) but some costs are tax-deductible.

• Tax is also levied on the deemed property value (WOZ), evaluated by the local municipality each year.

• Allow for around 4 to 8% on top of the purchase price.

• See www.nvm.nl for useful information in English. ARRANGING A MORTGAGE (HYPOTHEEK) There are many different types of mortgage and the tax issues are complex. The general conditions for a mortgage up to four or five times your salary are: • You have a permanent residence permit (depending on nationality and employment contract, this may not be applicable). • You have a permanent employment contract or a continuation statement from your employer. • If self-employed or a contractor, you have certified accounts for the last three years and forecasts for the following year. • Maximum mortgage obtainable is 100 percent of the house value.

• Mortgage interest deduction to a maximum of 30 years. The loan must be paid off using either a linear or annuity construction, after 30 years.

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• Once your offer has been accepted, a written agreement is mandatory, and a 10 percent deposit should be paid. • Make sure your finances are in place first (ie. that a mortgage lender will lend the required amount). • On completion, both parties sign a transfer contract (akte van levering) and a notary must register the property at the Land Registry (www.kadaster.com). • Notary fees can range from EUR 1,500 to EUR 3,000, so it pays off to shop around. • An accredited interpreter must also be hired if one or more of the parties is not a Dutch citizen. • The whole process can take two to three months, this depends on your own input also.

HOUSING

IMPORTANT TERMS • Pre-sale agreement (koopovereenkomst): prepared by vendor’s agent or lawyer (notaris) with a 72-hour “cooling off” period. It will include details of when the 10 percent deposit should be paid, or when the bank guarantee has to be arranged. • Valuation (taxatierapport): designed for mortgage purposes; not a survey.

• Transfer or conveyancing tax (overdrachtsbelasting): 2 percent of the purchase price. • Deed of transfer: transportakte. • Mortgage deed: hypotheekakte. • Agent commission: (makelaarscourtage): generally 1–2 percent, if applicable. A full structural survey is sensible; possibly fees for translation, plus 21% V.A.T. on the total.

Notarial Expat Desk We are an independent notary office in The Hague with expertise in family law, real estate, and business law, where customization and efficiency are paramount. We can act as an impartial notary or advisor for wills, living wills, home and mortgage, cohabitation agreements, prenuptial agreements and legalization of documents. Telephone: 070 356 68 00 info@vbwnotarissen.nl Koninginnegracht 23, 2514 AB The Hague www.vbwnotarissen.nl

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

HOUSING

Rabobank Amsterdam: - Van Baerlestraat 102-106, 1071 BC Amsterdam - Amstelplein 8, 1096 BC Amsterdam - Buikslotermeerplein 219-A, 1025 XB Amsterdam | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/amsterdam | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @rabobank | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @rabobank Rabobank Regio Schiphol: Polarisavenue 150, 2132 JX Hoofddorp | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/regio-schiphol Rabobank Haarlem-IJmond: Dreef 40, 2012 HS Haarlem | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/haarlem-ijmond Rabobank Amstel & Vecht: Van Heuven Goedhartlaan 7, 1181 LE Amstelveen | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/amstel-en-vecht Rabobank Zaanstreek: Westzijde 9, 1506 EA Zaandam | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/zaanstreek Rabobank Almere: Grote Markt 2, 1315 JG Almere | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/almere RENTING / SHORT STAY / SERVICED HOUSING

Corporate Housing Living: Gustav Mahlerlaan 50b, 1082 ME Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 2807047 | hello@corporatehousingliving.com | www.corporatehousingliving.com/

MORTGAGE CONSULTANTS

www.peterbruin.nl

NOTARIES

Valeriusplein 22, Amsterdam

020 6768022

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

Setting up home

Dutch regulations make it easy for residents to choose and change suppliers. UTILITIES • If you are paying an inclusive rent, check your contract carefully for what is covered in the monthly sum. • In many cases, the utilities (gas, water and electricity) will already be connected to your home and you just need to transfer them into your name. • You can connect all your utilities online at www.mijnaansluiting.nl (in Dutch). WATER • There are two elements of water payments: a consumption charge based on actual water usage (which is estimated if you don’t have a meter) and a municipal tax for services (sewage, maintenance, etc.).

COMMUNICATIONS • There is a huge range of options from many suppliers with combination deals for telephone, internet and TV, charged under a single monthly fee. TELEPHONES • There are two main suppliers for landlines and phone connection via cable networks: KPN and Ziggo/Vodafone. • Often the easiest way to connect a landline is to visit a shop (winkel) of those suppliers with appropriate identification and they can set it up, while some cable networks allow you to sign up online.

• To see which water company covers your area, visit www.vewin.nl and enter your postcode in the box, or ask at your local gemeente.

• There are many additional services such as discounts for favorite numbers, or combination deals with internet and TV.

• Amsterdam: Waternet 0900 9394 • Den Haag/Leiden: Dunea 088 347 4747 • Rotterdam: Evides: 0900 0787 • Utrecht: Vitens 0900 0650 • North Holland: PWN Waterleidingbedrijf | 0900 405 0700

MOBILE TELEPHONES

ELECTRICITY AND GAS • The energy market is liberalised, so you are able to choose (or change) suppliers. • Energy companies now have “green” options, where energy is bought from alternative sources such as sun, wind, water and biomass. • The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (www.acm.nl) provides a list of gas and electricity suppliers on their website, or you can use their consuWijzer (www.consuwijzer.nl) to compare prices or seek advice. MAIN SUPPLIERS: • Budget Energie: www.budgetenergie.nl • Engie Energie: www.engie.nl • Eneco: www.eneco.nl • Energie Direct: www.energiedirect.nl • Essent: www.essent.nl 44

• Greenchoice: www.greenchoice.nl • Vattenfall: www.vattenfall.nl • Oxxio: www.oxxio.nl

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

• The cheapest deal for a mobile is via a contract (abonnement) with one of the main suppliers. You can compare the latest rates on www.bellen.com (in Dutch). • You’ll need proof of identity, address, income and a bank account to sign a deal. A prepaid phone is more expensive but easier to get; you can top it up with cards from supermarkets. • If your phone is unlocked, you can buy a Dutch SIM card. Every phone has a unique IMEI serial number (enter *#06# to find out yours). You’ll need this when reporting a stolen phone. • Calling 0800 numbers are toll free, whereas 0900 numbers are charged (per call or minute, depending on the business). INTERNET • Connectivity in the Netherlands is among the highest and fastest in Europe. • ADSL and cable options are available, and can be combined with telephone and TV deals. • Fiber cable (glasvezel) is available, but you may need to get your building connected; carriers generally install it for free.

• Compare prices and packages at www.utilitydirect.nl or www.internetten.nl (in Dutch). It is possible to opt for a TV option from one supplier and telephone/internet from another. TELEVISION • Cable TV is cheap and main providers include Ziggo and KPN. Included in the standard package are BBC 1, BBC 2, BBC World, and CNN alongside Dutch channels, which include the governmentowned Nederland 1, 2 and 3 and RTL 4, 5, 7, and 8. You’ll also receive Veronica and Net 5, plus National Geographic, the Discovery Channel and popular children’s channels. Local TV channels are another option. • Subtitling, rather than dubbing, is used except for children’s TV. For more films, sport or other interests, you can select different options for extra payment.

POST OFFICES • Post offices are marked with an orange sign that says postkantoor or PostNL, and are generally located inside shops, newsagents or tobacconists. • Stamps (postzegels) can be bought in all of the above places and in some of the larger supermarkets, or printed online at www.postnl.nl. • Post-boxes are orange and scattered throughout shopping areas and neighbourhoods. On the post-box there are two slots: the right (streekpost) is for “local” delivery and you’ll see a list of postcodes that indicate the areas included; the left (overige bestemmingen) is for everywhere else, including international destinations.

• You get a media box and then pay for your chosen option.

• PostNL aims to deliver locally within 24 hours, otherwise spoedservice guarantees local delivery by 10am the next day and next day delivery to Europe.

INTERNET / PHONE / TV SUPPLIERS

• See www.postnl.nl for online postal services.

• KPN: www.kpn.com • Vodafone: www.vodafone.nl • Ziggo: www.ziggo.nl • Odido: www.odido.nl • Online.nl: www.online.nl • Delta: www.delta.nl

USEFUL WEBSITES

Compare prices & packages: • www.utilitydirect.nl • www.prijsvergelijken.nl

• Advice: www.access-nl.org • Film: www.filmladder.nl • Government: www.government.nl • News, information, community: www.dutchnews.nl • Opera: www.dno.nl • Restaurants: www.thefork.nl • Royal family: www.koninklijkhuis.nl • Tourism: www.holland.com • Weather: www.weeronline.nl

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Untitled-8.indd 1

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Finance

Money matters can be complex, and the dutch tax system is anything but simple. • Before you open a Dutch bank account, you should have no problem obtaining cash from an overseas account using an ATM. • If you want to exchange cash, services can be found at a GWK exchange office. • The Netherlands is on the euro, and paper denominations are EUR 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 (good to know: 100, 200 and 500 cannot be exchanged); coins come in denominations of EUR 1, EUR 2, and 0.05, 0.10, 0.20 and 0.50 eurocents. One and two euro cents have been discontinued. • Cash is still widely used, but the most common method of payment is pinnen, using a debit card with a PIN code or by using a smart phone. OPENING A DUTCH BANK ACCOUNT The main Dutch banks are: • Rabobank: www.rabobank.nl • ABN AMRO: www.abnamro.nl • ING Bank: www.ing.nl • You can also go to smaller banks like SNS Bank, KNAB, Triodos or an online bank like Bunq. • You should generally have no problem conducting business in English at any of these banks. At most banks you will also find financial providers aimed specifically at expat clients, with extensive English-language services.

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DOCUMENTS GENERALLY REQUIRED • Valid ID, plus residence permit if applicable; • BSN burgerservicenummer, which you’ll get when you register with the Municipal Personal Records Database (BRP) or direct from the tax office; • Proof of address (bevolkingsregister extract, utility bill, rental contract etc.). - If you want to open anything other than a savings only account you may also need evidence of income, such as an employment contract or a payslip. • The credit rating of new clients may be checked with the Central Credit Registration Office (BKR). An account can be opened in your name and your partner’s (they will also need identity documents). • A private bank account is a privérekening. Various cards are on offer but the bankpas is standard. At most banks your card will be send to your home. • A four-digit PIN code (pincode) will either be posted separately or given to you on pick up. When you pay by pin, you put your debit card into the machine and punch in your four-digit number or use the contactless option via your card or smartphone. It’s the most common method of payment used in shops, supermarkets, bars and restaurants.

CREDIT CARDS • Credit cards are generally more expensive, which are encouraged to be paid off quickly. Most commercial banks use MasterCard or Visa – best for pre-existing users. • All major credit cards are accepted but not everywhere. Hotels, restaurants, large department stores and tourist attractions present no problem, but you can’t use a credit card in most supermarkets. INTERNET BANKING • Online banking is common in the Netherlands. Most banks will also offer a banking app which you can install on your phone. • Pay bills directly or set up auto payments. Steps are in English but you can get a guide from the bank. OFFSHORE BANKING • This is an account held outside of your country of residence; offers benefits for those who wish to reduce tax liability. • Foreign banks are required to share account information of U.S. citizens with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). • Non-residents in Netherlands pay tax on Dutch-Sourced income. • Employees who have the 30% ruling can be considered partial nonresident taxpayers – which brings extra offshore banking benefits.

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

• Pensions, investments and savings with fixed or variable interest rates can be arranged through a bank or licensed independent financial adviser (IFA). • Risks in depositing offshore vary and should be consulted with an adviser to ascertain your “Risk Profile”.

• TIP: Before choosing a bank, ask yourself: Which bank is my money in, who owns it, what is its credit worthiness, and which jurisdiction does it fall under and which guarantees are in place in case of bankruptcy?

Tax • The Netherlands is a socially inclined regime; high taxation system is used and modifiable depending on your personal situation. • If filing taxes in your home country and the Netherlands is required, financial specialists can help as you enter these double taxation agreements. • The Ministry of Finance publishes a guide on the Dutch Taxation System (www.rijksoverheid.nl). The tax authority is the Belastingdienst (www.belastingdienst.nl), here you can find information in English as well. • Taxes are completed online, and must be filed before May 1st if you were a resident in The Netherlands the whole tax year or before July 1st for the year of migration. • Tax returns are due May 1. • You can file a tax return for the year in which you moved to the Netherlands only by means of an M Form. For 2020 and the years thereafter, this can usually be done online. It is also possible to do this via a paper M-form. It is best to at least consult some information about your first year’s tax return. • Use a digital signature, DigiD (www.digid.nl), or tax consultant to file a return. The DigiD is a personal login used for all government agencies in the Netherlands. • Particularly in the year of arrival and the year of departure, filing a tax return may result in a substantial rebate. Tax returns can be completed retrospectively for a period of five years. • Resident taxpayers must show demonstrable ties to the Netherlands and taxed on worldwide assets. 48

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• Non-resident taxpayers are those who live abroad and receive taxable income. They can apply to be treated as residents for tax purposes, such as the 30 percent ruling. THE BOX SYSTEM Different categories of income are treated differently for tax purposes on the tax return and there are three types of taxable income: • Box 1: Income from profits, employment and home ownership. This includes wages, pensions, social benefits, company car, and WOZ value of owner-occupied property • Box 2: Income from substantial shareholding (5 percent minimum holding – 25 percent rate) • Box 3: Taxable income from savings and investments. You pay tax on income from your wealth, including savings, shares and a second home. Calculating tax: the amount of tax payable is calculated by applying the various tax rates to the various taxable incomes in the boxes. The amount calculated is then reduced by one or more tax credits. TAX CREDITS AND ALLOWANCES • All are entitled to general tax credit based on income and social security element. • Employers use this information for wage withholding taxes. • You can report other allowances when filing your return.

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• Partners usually are taxed individually. But fiscal partners may divide shared income and deductions between each other to optimize the tax position. • With one working partner, the other is entitled to tax credits as well. • Details are listed on www.belastingdienst.nl • THE 30% RULING • This is the well-known tax incentive for employees recruited from abroad. • This is usually available for people that are in possession of a “highly skilled migrant” residence permit, and who had to move to the Netherlands for their job, however not for every case.

• Income tax • Business accountancy tax • Payroll administration

• The ruling allows the employer to pay up to 30 percent of the salary as tax free allowance – for over a maximum period of 5 years - to cover the extra territorial expenses of the employee. • With the 30% ruling you may opt to be considered a non-resident tax payer for your worldwide assets. • Applications (completed by both employer and employee) should be made to the Belastingdienst Limburg Kantoor Buitenland in Heerlen.

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• At the time of writing, the 30% ruling is subject to change. It is important to visit the website of the Tax Authority (www.belastingdienst.nl) for updated information and recent changes.

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MORTGAGES AND TAX IMPLICATIONS

HOME CONTENTS INSURANCE (INBOEDELVERZEKERING)

• A mortgage can be arranged at a bank or specialist mortgage provider.

• This insurance covers you against loss, theft or damage to your personal and home possessions. The insurance covers your own possessions and those of close family members living with you.

• When arranging a mortgage, look for the following: interest, cost of life insurance, savings plan and investment accounts. • When your interest rate comes up for renewal, it is important to check that it is still competitive. • Interest payments are tax-deductible if the property is your primary residence and the loan is used for acquisition of the house. INSURANCE • Insurance can be arranged through an employer or insurance company. • If you need advice speak to your bank or financial advisor. • Medical insurance is required by everyone. • National insurance schemes that are available for all residents are explained at www.svb.nl. HOUSE AND HOME INSURANCE (WOONHUISVERZEKERING) • Standard policies cover fire, storm, flooding and theft. • Houseboat owners come under separate conditions. • If buying an apartment, the Association of Owners (VVE) takes out house insurance that is paid together equally among other apartment owners in the building.

• Higher priced items are individually valued and insured separately. CAR INSURANCE (AUTOVERZEKERING) • You must have at least third-party insurance for your car. • Insure Insurance policies includes theft, fire and damage/injury to yourself and vehicle. LIFE INSURANCE (LEVENSVERZEKERING) • Life insurance is similar to schemes in most other countries. OTHER TYPES OF INSURANCE • Third-party liability insurance (aansprakelijkheidverzekering) protects individual goods damaged on accident; it usually comes in combo packages for homeowners or tenants. • Legal insurance (rechtsbijstandverzekering) guarantees cheaper access to legal advice; protects against cost of lawsuits and personal and labour disputes. • The national association of insurers is Het Verbond Verzekeraars (www.verzekeraars.nl) • If you need advice, call the Dutch Association of Insurers on (070) 333 85 00 or speak to your bank or financial advisor. TAX AUTHORITY (BELASTINGDIENST) • The website for the tax authority (www.belastingdienst.nl) has extensive information in English and downloadable forms and brochures. There are separate offices for resident and non-resident taxpayers. Email queries are not possible. Call hours are Monday to Thursday: 8am – 8pm, Friday: 8am – 5pm. DigiD • For electronic tax filing and other official forms, you need a DigiD registration number. • You can find more information on www.digid.nl/en.

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GOVERNMENT (OVERHEID) • The Ministry of Finance provides details of the Dutch Government’s financial policies including taxation at www.rijksoverheid.nl. CUSTOMS (DOUANE) • You can find extensive information in English, regarding duties payable and procedures for individuals and businesses, at De Belastingdienst-webpage www.douane.nl. If you move to the Netherlands from outside the EU or if you wish to bring your car, you can download an application form from the website for exemptions on “removable goods”.

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Education

The Netherlands is committed to choice in education. • The OECD international rankings for school systems puts the Netherlands as one of the highest in performance, especially for Math. • The Netherlands is also among the world’s top countries for equality in educational opportunities. In the age group of 25- to 34-yearolds, 52% of men and 61% of women have a tertiary education qualification. This is significantly higher than the OECD averages of 41% for men and 54% for women. • Children of all nationalities are leerplichtig (under a learning obligation) at 5 years old for 12 years of full-time education, and one or two years part-time (until achieving a diploma). • Less than 1% of the 1.4 million primary school children attends a private (fee-paying) Dutch school. CHOOSING A SCHOOL • International education is available at both state-funded and private schools throughout the country, and fifteen primary schools have implemented bilingual education. • Almost 1.200 primary schools in the Netherlands offer English classes from group 1 (age 4), and about another further 120 teach German, French or Spanish. From group 7 (age 10) all schools are obliged to teach English as a subject. • Schools following particular religious or pedagogic principles have had equal state funding as public schools since 1917. LOCAL OR INTERNATIONAL? • Your finances, location, the age of your children, and how long you are likely to stay in the Netherlands are factors to consider when selecting a school. Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

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EDUCATION

• Many companies reimburse international school fees as part of their employees’ relocation package, and reimbursement could be exempt from income tax. • TIP: While teenagers might appreciate the educational and social continuity provided by an international school, younger children might get a greater sense of belonging by attending a local school if you plan to stay for a while. APPLYING FOR A SCHOOL • Every city/town has its own school application policy. Inquire as soon as you can with the municipality and/or school of your preference how it works in your area. In most cases, you may already apply for a school before you have a local address or BSNnumber. • By law, children can be registered at a school from age three. Some schools work with a sort of pre-registration waiting list, and you’ll need to sign up as soon as possible. Some cities, like Amsterdam, Amstelveen, Haarlem, Utrecht and The Hague, have a different policy; a school lottery with a deadline around the child’s 3rd birthday. • Openbare schools (which are run by a foundation that has originally been set up by the municipality) are technically not allowed to refuse admission, unless full. When a school is full, you’ll have to find another one. • On the schools’ websites they announce when you can visit the school (open day/info session). Most schools don’t give private appointments.

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS • Major holidays for Dutch schools are set nationally, but with staggered start/finish times between three regions. The summer vacation lasts for six weeks, and after every 6-7 weeks of school, the students have 1-2 weeks off. Per school year, at least twelve weeks are off. • Private international school holidays can be different. For school holidays per region, look at www.schoolvakanties-nederland.nl (in Dutch). TYPES OF SCHOOL State-run (openbare) schools • Openbare schools (non-denominational) provide secular education, but sometimes teach according to specific philosophic or pedagogic principles like Montessori, Dalton, Waldorf/Steiner, etc. • Openbare schools are governed by the municipal council, or a public legal entity or independent foundation originally set up by the council. Special (bijzondere) schools • Most special (bijzondere) schools are denominational (Catholic, Protestant, Islamic, Hindu, Jewish, etc.), or follow specific philosophic principles. • Special (bijzondere) schools are governed by their own school board, which often consists of parents or the foundation that set them up.

• On www.scholenopdekaart.nl (in Dutch) you can find more information about the schools, as well as their results. On https://toezichtresultaten.onderwijsinspectie.nl, you can find the school inspection reports. The visual representation of green (good), orange (weak), and red (very weak) will give some idea of performance. Note that this applies to state-funded schools and subsidised international schools only. There is no official ranking of schools. COSTS • Primary and secondary state-funded education is free, parents are asked to contribute a voluntary amount (Ouderbijdrage) that varies from school to school (usually below 100 euros per year for primary school and between 200 and 400 for secondary). • Additional payments can include school trips, lunchtime supervision (tussenschoolse opvang/TSO/overblijven) and afterschool care (naschoolse opvang/BSO), (which the school usually sub-contracts to an external childcare organisation). EDUCATION POLICY • The Ministry of Education, Culture and Science sets quality standards, attainment targets and social objectives. • Individual schools “fill in the details” of the curriculum and budget allocation. • Education policy includes bilingual opportunities, connecting education with the job market, global citizenship, and maintaining the quality of schools.

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EDUCATION

• Financially, they have the same status as openbare schools and are basically free (usually their parent contribution is slightly higher compared to the openbare schools).

Special needs schools

International schools

• The national “Appropriate Education” (Passend Onderwijs) policy is designed to enable as many children with minor learning difficulties as possible to be educated in mainstream schools.

• International schools offer education for global students of any nationality.

• Additionally, there are dedicated schools for children who have more severe or complicated learning difficulties.

• Dutch International Primary Schools (DIPS) and Dutch International Secondary Schools (DISS) also offer international education at reasonable fees thanks to government subsidies – made for non-Dutch families living temporarily in the Netherlands and Dutch families returning from, or preparing for, an overseas assignment.

• Lighthouse Special Education in The Hague caters to international special needs children providing extensive assistance in English, and a few international schools, like AICS and ISUtrecht, have recently developed a special needs program within their school. Entry is by referral.

• These schools offer the International Primary Curriculum (4 to 11 years), the IGCSE (11 to 16 years), or the International Baccalaureate programmes at primary (4 to 11 years) and middle years’ level (11 to 16 years). All DISS teach the IB-Diploma programme (16 to 19 years).

DUTCH PRIMARY EDUCATION (PRIMAIR ONDERWIJS/PO OR BASISONDERWIJS)

• A relatively new curriculum, IBCP, offers a career-related alternative to the IB-DP in the final years (www.ibo.org). Currently, this curriculum is offered by the British school and ISH in The Hague, AICS in Amsterdam, RISS in Rotterdam, and UWC in Maastricht. • Private International schools: These schools teach an international curriculum, or a specific country’s national curriculum: American, British, French, German, Japanese, Indonesian, etc. Their fees are much higher compared to the subsidised international schools, but are sometimes sponsored by the government of the country they are related to.

• Children usually start school the day after their 4th birthday, at any time of the year. • There are eight years of primary schooling: “Group 1” upon entry, moving up a group every year. • Most schools combine groups 1 and 2, where the pupils learn through play. This set-up is comparable to kindergarten. • Based on various factors including the pupil’s test scores from the past three years, intelligence, attitude towards learning, eagerness to learn, interests, and motivation, the group 8 teacher assesses what level of secondary school education would fit each pupil best (advies).

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EDUCATION

• In February of group 8, the pupils take the “Transition Test for Primary Education” (doorstroomtoets), a standardised aptitude test focusing on Dutch language (comprehensive reading, spelling, and grammar) and mathematics. • All primary schools are obliged to take part in one of the six available transition tests. • The assessment of the teacher is the decisive factor for referral to secondary education. • Since recently, all pupils need to apply for secondary school during the national application week in the end of March. DUTCH SECONDARY EDUCATION (VOORTGEZET ONDERWIJS, VO) • From 12 years of age, pupils choose between vocational, generic, or pre-university programs based on their abilities, interests, and the teacher’s recommendation in group 8. • In the first years, all pupils study the same subjects (to different academic levels), known as the basisvorming, followed by a second stage (tweede fase) in which students choose a specialist profile. • Most secondary schools combine multiple levels in the first year (gemengde brugklas). Some of them also combine multiple levels in the first two or three years. • VMBO: A four-year prep school for vocational secondary education. Those who achieve the highest level (theoretische leerweg) can enter HAVO studies in the 4th year. They must continue studying until age 18, or until they obtain a basic qualification (minimum MBO level 2).

• MBO: Secondary Vocational Education and Training (VET). MBO programmes vary from one to four years. If a student has successfully completed the Dutch VMBO, or the international middle school programmes IGCSE, or IB-MYP, but is not admitted to the IB-Diploma Programme, MBO prepares students for work as a qualified professional, or for University of Applied Sciences (HBO) if level 4 is achieved. A number of English-language programmes are offered. • HAVO (five years): Senior general secondary education. Provides entrance to University of Applied Sciences (Hogeschool/HBO), or 5VWO. • VWO (six years): Pre-university education. Prepares students for academic studies at a research university (WO). VWO schools can be athenaeum, or gymnasium, the main difference being that Ancient Greek, Latin and Classical Studies are core subjects in gymnasium programmes. BILINGUAL EDUCATION (TWEETALIG ONDERWIJS TTO) • There are over 130 schools with a TTO bilingual stream, most of them being offered at VWO or HAVO level. Only students that master the Dutch language at an appropriate level will be admitted. More information you can find on the Nuffic website. • English is a compulsory subject at all secondary schools. VMBO pupils study at least one modern language, and HAVO/VWO pupils at least two. Other core areas include Dutch, mathematics, history, humanities, sports, arts, and sciences.

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• Like primary schools, some secondary schools are based on a religion, and/or an educational philosophy. HIGHER EDUCATION • Third-level education is offered at a vocational level (HBO, a “university of applied sciences” or hogeschool), and at an academic level (WO, at a universiteit). • Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees are available at both HBO and WO institutions, but only universities offer PhD programs. Nuffic (Netherlands organisation for international cooperation in higher education; www.nuffic.nl) includes extensive information about the Dutch higher education system. • Institutions are either government-funded, or governmentapproved. • There is a small, third branch of higher education offering international education (IE), comprising advanced courses suited to international students. • Anyone aged 21 or over may take the so-called Colloquium Doctum exam to gain access to university without having the necessary secondary school diplomas.

• For more information visit www.vereniginghogescholen.nl/ WO (UNIVERSITY - UNIVERSITEIT) • There are over a dozen government-funded research universities offering international degrees and short courses via intensive, academic studies (visit www.studyin.nl). • University programmes consist of a Bachelor’s or undergraduate phase lasting three years. • A Master’s or graduate degree takes between one to two years. • Over 1,600 programmes are taught entirely in English, most of them being at Master’s level. See www.studyinnl.org/dutch-education/studies. • Many Dutch universities have partner institutions in other countries, so students can study part of their course abroad. COSTS

HBO

• Fees depend on your nationality and age.

• Nearly half a million students are enrolled at “universities of applied sciences” or hogescholen/HBO that provide four-year programs, concluded with a Bachelor’s degree. Some HBOs also offer a Master’s program.

• The fee for EU/EEA nationals is set by the Dutch government (€ 2,530 per annum).

Growing curious minds beyond the classroom! Explore our enriching curriculum at www.amityschool.nl

• Here, students prepare for particular professions in one of seven sectors: agriculture & food, natural sciences & technology, economics, business administration & law, healthcare, fine & performing arts, education/teacher training and social studies.

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

EDUCATION

• Students can apply for several types of student finance, many of which are performance-related. If the student graduates within ten years, repayment is not required. Eligibility and amounts depend on nationality/residency status, housing situation (with parents or independently), type of study program, age, and combined income of the students’ parents. • Tuition fee loans and scholarships are available for international students. • The fees at private institutions can be substantially higher. HOW TO APPLY • Over 128,000 international students study in the Netherlands, a quarter of whom come from outside of the EU. This is about 16% of the total student population, and even 40% of the 1st year university students. Information on fees, qualifications and study programmes is widely available in English. • Contact the institutions – they will specify what education qualifications are required for admission. A quota system is in place for oversubscribed courses; here students are selected based on the criteria set by the university. • You can apply online for third-level courses that are subsidised by the Dutch Ministry of Education through www.studielink.nl.

• Because of overcrowded classrooms and a serious national shortage of student housing, the government tries to curb the growth of international students in the Netherlands. Although the universities cannot refuse international students, they urge them not to come to the Netherlands without having a place to live. QUALIFICATION ACCREDITATION • Diplomas and certificates awarded abroad need to be accredited by the Dutch authorities. (Often the school where you have applied takes care of this). The IDW Internationale Diplomawaardering (www.idw.nl) also offers this service for a fee. • Non-native English speakers are required to pass an English language test at a specified level, most commonly the TOEFL, IELTS or Cambridge Test. EDUCATION LINKS Information on the Dutch education system • Ministry of Education, Culture and Science: www.government.nl/ocw Independent education consultant for international families in the Netherlands (both Dutch and international schools) • New2NL: Annebet van Mameren, www.new2nl.com

• The university application deadline is in most cases on May 1st. For the studies with a quota (numerus fixus in Dutch), the deadline is already January 15th.

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Dutch for Expats:

Learn Dutch fast in Amsterdam! o

Group courses on all levels

Daytime Courses

Evening Courses

Weekend Courses

Preparation on the State Examination NT2

Preparation on the Civic Integration (Inburgering) Exam

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Lessons per Skype

Corporate Lessons (In-Company)

Monthly free Language Pub!

www.katakura-wblc.nl Please take a look at our website for detailed information. Or contact us by email: katakurawblc@gmail.com

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Learning a new language will enrich your life

• • • • • •

Group Training In-company Civic Integration One-to-One Training Customized Solutions Online Classroom

Choose from more than 20 languages

+31 (0)40 245 28 602

EDUCATION

HELPDESK FOR INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION IN THE NETHERLANDS • Expat Special Educational Needs Group in The Netherlands: www.eseng.nl

DUTCH LANGUAGE COURSES

• Dutch immersion/newcomer classes (for non-Dutch speaking children aged 6+): www.lowan.nl

WELL-STRUCTURED EFFICIENT & FUN

• Primary schools which teach foreign languages from an early age (VVTO schools): www.earlybirdie.nl and www.nuffic.nl/onderwerpen/vroeg-vreemdetalenonderwijs/vvtoscholen-met-vvto-keurmerk. • Bilingual pilot schools at primary level (TPO): www.nuffic.nl/onderwerpen/tweetalig-primair-onderwijs/ overzicht-tpo-scholen-in-nederland (15 in total in the whole country). • Bilingual schools at secondary level (TTO): www.nuffic.nl/onderwerpen/tweetalig-onderwijs/alle-tto-scholenin-nederland.

COURSES IN UTRECHT OR ONLINE

Higher education in the Netherlands

T IC

• www.studyinnl.org | www.nuffic.nl/en Information on studying and funding • www.duo.nl/particulier/international-visitor/studying-in-thenetherlands.jsp Portals for vocational training • www.s-bb.nl/en | www.mboraad.nl/english

WWW.DUTCHFIRST.NL

+31 302919884

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Masters / PhDs • www.mastersportal.eu | www.phdportal.eu Online study program applications • www.studielink.nl Non-dutch diploma evaluation • https://idw.nl/en/ LEARNING DUTCH • Learning Dutch is a crucial step to integration in the Netherlands and part of the immigration and integration (inburgering) procedure. • EU nationals are not obliged to follow the inburgering procedure. • There is a wide choice of commercial language courses on offer to suit individual needs and budgets, with courses ranging from “Dutch for Au Pairs” to more intensive NT2 (Nederlands als Tweede Taal) classes. • Ask about the average class sizes. The smaller the class size (generally), the higher the fee. • Universities often provide beginner Dutch classes for non-students, although, as you would expect, a certain level of academic ability is required to keep up. • Homework is an essential part of the learning progress. • Some organisations fund language lessons as part of relocation, which might also include lessons for partners.

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EDUCATION

STATE EXAM DUTCH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (NT2) The State Exam Dutch as a Second Language (staatsexamen Nt2) is the national language proficiency exam intended for non-native speakers who want to study or work in the Netherlands. The diploma is officially recognized by the Dutch government and proves that you have sufficient command of the Dutch language. Exam-related questions such as how to prepare for the exams, can be asked via our support office. We are happy to help! 030 230 6062 info@staatsexamensnt2.nl www.staatsexamensnt2.nl

FOR INFORMATION REGARDING REGISTRATION, PLEASE VISIT DUO.NL

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TIPS FOR LEARNING DUTCH • Read with attention: Start with Dutch newspaper headlines and try to figure out what they mean. Later on, read articles and check out the verbs in the article. What tense is being used? What is the infinitive? Is it a regular or irregular verb? • Listen with attention: Watch TV or movies with Dutch subtitles. If you watch TV, you could use Teletekst 888 or NPO Start for Dutch subtitles. • Learn new words: Write new words on a post-its and place them strategically around your space. Note if nouns are “het” or “de” words. • Practice whenever you can: In emails, WhatsApp or spoken conversations use the Dutch you know, however little. If you have a Dutch partner, agree that you speak in Dutch only at least 10 minutes a day. Or that your partner speaks Dutch, and you answer in your mother tongue. • Use the internet: There are plenty of useful and free sites you can use to help you progress. For instance: www.taalklas.nl, www.dutchgrammar.com, www.taalbegintthuis.nl, or https://schooltv.nl. https://jeugdjournaal.nl and www.kidsweek.nl (children’s news programme and newspaper) is also a good resource for the Dutch news, explained in easier language.

CLASSES START THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

JOIN US & LEARN A LANGUAGE ARABIC DUTCH ENGLISH FARSI FRENCH GREEK HEBREW ITALIAN SPANISH TURKISH

TAALHUISAMSTERDAM.NL

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DIRECT DUTCH THE FASTEST WAY TO FLUENT DUTCH! expert instructors - small groups focus on conversation - in-house and online classes

DIRECTDUTCH.COM

EDUCATION

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Lighthouse

Three Little Ships INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL

SPECIAL EDUCATION

HSV

INTERNATIONAL PRIMARY SCHOOL Global citizenship, lifelong learning.

HSV Locations in The Hague NSL

KSS

VNS

VHS

Nassaulaan

Koningin Sophiestraat

Van Nijenrodestraat

Van Heutszstraat

www.hsvid.nl

Admissions office: E-mail: id-admissions@hsvdenhaag.nl Telephone: 070 318 4951

EDUCATION

BUSINESS EDUCATION TIAS School for Business and Society: - Tilburg location: Warandelaan 2, Tias Building, 5037 AB Tilburg - Utrecht location: Kroonstraat 50, 3511 RC Utrecht | +31 (0)13 466 86 95 | info@tias.edu | www.tias.edu/en | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @tias/ | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @tias_business_school/ | LINKEDIN @tias-school-for-business-and-society/ INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION & RESEARCH EURAXESS Netherlands: P.O. Box 29777, 2502 LT The Hague | +31 (0)70 42 60 287 | euraxess@nuffic.nl | www.euraxess.nl | LINKEDIN @EURAXESS Netherlands Nuffic: P.O. Box 29777, 2502 LT The Hague | +31 (0)70 4260 260 | www.nuffic.nl | LINKEDIN @Nuffic

- Secondary: Junoplantsoen 58, 2024 RS Haarlem | +31 (0)23 220 0001 | info@internationalschoolhaarlem.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @internationalschoolhaarlem Optimist International School: Waddenweg 87, 2134 XL Hoofddorp | +31 (0)23 3035924 | info@optimist-international-school.nl | www.optimist-international-school.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @optimist.international.school | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @optimist_international_school | LINKEDIN @Optimist International School Winford Bilingual Primary School - Amsterdam: Jan Luijkenstraat 29, 1071 CK Amsterdam | 020 751 6650 | info@winford.nl | www.winford-bilingual.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @winfordbilingualprimaryschool | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @winfordbilingual Winford Bilingual Primary School - Haarlem: Korte Verspronckweg 7-9, 2023 BS Haarlem | 023 752 30 90 | info@winford.nl | www.winford-bilingual.nl

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS

Winford Bilingual Primary School - The Hague: Bezuidenhoutseweg 91, 2594 AC The Hague | +31 (0)70 753 4441 | www.winford-bilingual.nl

American School of the Hague: Rijksstraatweg 200,2241 BX Wassenaar | +31 (0)70 512 10 60 | info@ash.nl | www.ash.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @AmericanSchoolofTheHague

LANGUAGE SCHOOLS College voor Toetsen en Examens: Muntstraat 7, 3512 ET Utrecht | +31 (0)030 284 0700 | info@staatsexamensnt2.nl | www.staatsexamensnt2.nl

Direct Dutch Institute: Laan van Nieuw Oost-Indië 275, 2593 BS Den Haag | +31 (0)70 365 4677 | info@directdutch.com | www.directdutch.com

Amstelland International School: Asserring 93, 1187 SM Amstelveen | +31 (0)20-820-9091 | info.ais@ogamstelland.nl | www.amstelland-international-school.nl | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @amstellandinternational.school

Dutch Courses Amsterdam Katakura WBLC: Havikshorst 30, 1083 TT Amsterdam | 020 - 612 2727 katakurawblc@gmail.com | www.katakura-wblc.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @DutchCoursesKatakura | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @dutchcourseskatakura/

The British School of Amsterdam: Havenstraat 6, 1075 PR Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 67 97 840 | info@britams.nl | www.britams.nl

Dutch Courses Amsterdam: Postjesweg 57, 1057 DW Amsterdam | +31 (0)6 54992219 | www.dutchcoursesamsterdam.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @DutchCoursesAmsterdam

Eerde International School (K-12; also boarding): Kasteellaan 1, 7731 PJ Ommen | +31 (0)529 451 452 | info@eerde.nl | www.eerde.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @ISEerde

Dutch First: Niasstraat 1, 3531 WR Utrecht | +31 (0)30 29 19 884 | info@dutchfirst.nl | www.dutchfirst.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @dutchfirst

Flowently; in-company and private language courses, Dutch, Business English and more languages, live and online lessons: Azartplein 79, 1019 PB Amsterdam | +31 (0)85 400 0099 | info@flowently.com | www.flowently.com | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @flowently | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @flowently

HSV International Primary School: Haagsche Schoolvereeniging: We are one school with four locations, a Pre-School and a Special Education school: ldean@hsvdenhaag.nl | www.hsvid.nl International Education - NSL: Nassaulaan 26, 2514 JT The Hague | +31 (0)70 318 4950 International Education - KSS: Koningin Sophiestraat 24A, 2595 TG The Hague | +31 (0)70 324 3453 International Education - VHS: van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 (0)70 205 1141 International Special Education - Lighthouse: van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 (0)70 205 1141 International Pre-School Education – Three Little Ships: van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 (0)70 205 1141 International Education - VNS: van Nijenrodestraat 16, 2597 RM The Hague | +31 (0)70 328 1441 International School Haarlem: - Lower Primary: Buitenrustlaan 9, 2012 BL Haarlem - Upper Primary: Schreveliusstraat 27, 2014 XP Haarlem

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

Families

Ranks high in the world for children’s well-being, the Netherlands is great for families. • The applications for both the entry visa (MVV) and residence permit are streamlined into one Entry and Residence Procedure (TEV), which can be granted before arrival. • Partners or relatives can apply for permits on behalf of family member(s) who live abroad. • Partners do not need to be married to receive residency (under certain conditions). • It is important to visit the IND website (www.ind.nl) for the most recent changes in rules and permit feed. EU/EEA/SWISS NATIONALS AND FAMILY MEMBERS • Register in the Municipal Personal Records Database (BRP) and get your social number (BSN). • Next, make sure you have all the paperwork together: passports, a marriage certificate and birth certificates with an Apostille stamp (if required from your country). Work permits are not required.

• Partners and family members generally receive the same conditions as the relative they are joining in the Netherlands. • Rates are subject to frequent change. Visit www.ind.nl for current rates and conditions. SIGNIFICANT CONDITIONS • Want to bring a family member to the Netherlands? Sponsor them: sign a declaration, meet certain obligations, and prove you can support your spouse or relative. The IND-website has a table of required income levels. • If you, along with your family, come to the Netherlands as a highly skilled worker, your contract will be sufficient to meet the requirements regardless of the length of employment. AU PAIRS

• And be sure those paperwork documents are translated into Dutch, English, French or German.

• Bringing an au pair to the Netherlands? One of the key rules is that the au pair cannot have previously worked for your family abroad.

• Any family members not an EU/EEA/Swiss national? Submit a mandatory “verification against EU law” to the IND for a certificate of lawful residency good for five years.

• Only a recognised au pair agency can submit a permit application on behalf of an au pair.

• Visit www.ind.nl for conditions. NON-EU/EEA/SWISS NATIONALS • Non-EU/EEA must have their own, separate, residence permit.

• This application fee depends on your personal situation and permit type.

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• Au pairs can stay in the Netherlands for one year as a “cultural exchange” who cannot work outside his or her agreed au pair duties. • No previous Dutch residence permit for exchange purposes can be on your record if wanting to au pair.

• An au pair must be over 18 and under 25 and cannot be a family member in the 1st, 2nd or 3rd degree. • Light, domestic duties in exchange for bed and board are the norm. Eight hour work day are the maximum (30 hours per week), with two days off weekly. • As a sponsor, have sufficient income to support family and au pair. And make a daily schedule for the au pair agreed upon in writing. • The IND-website has a list of conditions for au pairs who wish to come to the Netherlands, as well as conditions for what an au pair is allowed to do. CHILD BENEFIT • Parents living or working in the Netherlands with children under 18 are entitled to the kinderbijslag, a quarterly contribution to the cost of raising children from the Sociale Verzekerings Bank (SVB). • The amount depends on age, special needs, etc., but is not income-related. • This contribution can sometimes be paid into a foreign bank account (see www.svb.nl for a list of offices) CHILDCARE (KINDEROPVANG)

CHILDCARE OPTIONS • Kinderdagverblijf: day care for children aged six weeks to four years old. Search online for kinderdagverblijven in your area and orientate based on the websites. Always bring a visit to the kinderdagverblijf or give the customer service a call. Urban areas may have a shortage so expect long waiting lists. • Out of school care: day care centres that provide Buitenschoolse Opvang for children up to 12 years old. • Private day care: In large cities, private facilities offer flexible options up to 24-hour care, international nurseries and pre-school establishments. Note that private day care falls mostly outside the childcare law (wet Kinderopvang), so special childcare allowance is not applicable. • Pre-school/playgroups (peuteropvang): pre-school/playgroups aimed at helping to prepare children aged between 2/2,5 and 4 years old for their transition into primary school (this varies per city). Focus is on child development. A child can usually attend a peuteropvang for three hours per day, either two or four times a week. Working parents can receive the kinderopvangtoeslag, towards the cost of peuteropvang (conditions apply, see Childcare allowance).

• It is never too early to register your child for day care, for instance, when you are pregnant. Government policy can be found on www.rijksoverheid.nl (in Dutch).

Are you considering childcare? In the Netherlands, we provide a range of options tailored to your family’s needs, including day care, toddler care (early childhood education) and afterschool care.

Childcare in the Netherlands: how does it work?

Please scan the QR code for an explanation about the different types of childcare that we offer and the conditions that apply to childcare allowance.

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

The secrect is in everything... At Kindergarden, we recognize that your child’s surroundings can influence them, so we’ve carefully considered everything we do.

Absolutely everything. That’s Kindergarden’s secret. And if everything influences your child, then we want to ensure that this is a positive influence that helps your child to feel good, move freely, and develop freely.

Kindergarden stands for:

• Loving, undivided and individual attention

• Furniture and play materials that grow with your kid

• Horizontal groups tailored to suit children’s developmental stages

• Fresh, warm meals at lunchtime (as

organic and sustainable as possible)

• Spacious, challenging gardens

Kindergarden has more than 70 locations in the Netherlands. We have several locations in the large cities such as Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam and Utrecht.

Want to see for yourself? Scan this QR code to plan a tour

Or visit our website for more information

kindergarden.nl/en

CHILDCARE ALLOWANCE • Parents working (or studying) in the Netherlands are entitled to the childcare allowance (kinderopvangtoeslag) for children under 12 to help cover the cost of childcare, and can reduce costs up to 96 percent depending on income and number of children. See more info at www.svb.nl. • Childcare allowance depends on a household’s (joint) income,. • Childcare allowance for high-income households is capped at a certain percent of costs, depending on income. • Parents must be employed (or studying) to claim allowances. • The childcare centre or childminding agency must be registered in www.landelijkregisterkinderopvang.nl. In case of childminding services, the childminder must be registered as well. • In the event of sickness, holiday, parental leave, extra training or part-time unemployment benefit, the number or hours “worked” remains unchanged, as does the number of hours of childcare allowance granted. • Childcare allowance is also capped to a set of maximum hourly rates (230 hours max per month), depending on the type of care. Both can be calculated on the government site www.government.nl. • Parents cannot claim allowances if they look after each other’s children or if relatives provide care.

• You have the nationality of an EU country, Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland or Switzerland. Are you from another country? In that case, you need a valid residence permit or work permit. FUN TIPS FOR FAMILIES • Get out and about! There are many playgrounds tucked between the houses, streets and shops. • Fun for free – visit a children’s farm or kinderboerderij. These city farms often have educational and recreational activities during the week. • Cultural fun – There are over 1500 museums in the Netherlands. Dutch museums often have audio guides for kids available in several languages and have special tours for children, as for instance Rijksmuseum and Muiderslot. • Hit the beach – the Netherlands has 451 kilometres of coastline accessible by car, bike, boat and public transport. • Dutch theme parks – De Efteling is a huge park offering exciting rides for older kids and a Disney-esque experience with folkloric touches for younger ones. More theme parks can be found at www.pretparkennederland.nl. • Activities overview - Good sites for finding out more about children’s activities include “away with children” (www.wegmetdekids.nl) and “out with children” (www.uitmetkinderen.nl).

TIME FOR A CHANGE international divorce - prenuptial agreements international inheritance law - relocation

w w w. s m e e t s g i j b e l s . c o m

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FAMILIES

Back in Balance

come play cricket with us

Join the small but vibrant and passionate Dutch cricket community. Feel at home at one of more than 50 clubs and discover the Dutch cricket culture. Locate a club near you on www.kncb.nl/en/clubs

See you soon! www.cricket.nl

cricketinnl

In a world where everything seems possible, children and young people may sometimes struggle to stay grounded. As a parent, caregiver, or guardian, you likely understand that the pressure to perform at school or in sports, the dynamics of friendships, and the influence of social media can lead to a feeling of imbalance. Want to get your child back in balance? Please contact us: +31 (0) 85 0660 500 info@internationalmentalhealth.nl

Locations in Amsterdam and The Hague

Because sometimes you need a little help along the way

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

Special needs

A wide array of organisations assist people with special needs in the Netherlands. The Netherlands has legislation protecting the rights of people with a physical, mental, emotional, or sensory impairment that ensures equal access to social, economic and transport systems and encourages full participation in society. TRANSPORT • Old Dutch cities with narrow, uneven streets and bikes parked everywhere are not brilliant terrain for those in wheelchairs, but access is improving. • Help is available getting to/through Schiphol airport (www.schiphol.nl and railways (www.ns.nl), and the railway company NS has a bureau for disabled travellers (call 030 235 7822 or register online) to request journey assistance. • Your gemeente site will give local information, often in English, for the location of disabled parking places and other access issues, or look up zorg en welzijn and gehandicapten. EDUCATION • Children are encouraged to attend mainstream primary schools under the “Going to school together” policy. • The Inclusive Education Act (Wet Passend Onderwijs) requires all schools to provide equal learning opportunities for every child.

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• Parents can opt for a special school, whether a speciaal basisonderwijs (SBO) for learning and behavioural support or a speciaal onderwijs at both primary (SO) and secondary (VSO) for specific special needs. • The language of instruction is Dutch, but children from a non-Dutch background can sometimes be taught in their mother tongue to help them settle in. • You will find Special Educational Needs (SEN) teachers at international schools where the language of instruction will be English, but you may have to fund the assistant. • The school of their choice – special or mainstream – will receive funding to cater for their needs, and the school will arrange assistance as required. • For higher education, “education and disability” visit: www.zorgwijzer.nl/zorgwijzers/handicap

FUNDING

ASSISTANCE ORGANISATIONS (LINKS MOSTLY IN DUTCH)

• There is also financial support for individual families, such as additional child benefit, healthcare and carer allowances, and adaptations to home or transport.

• MEE: Support and help for living with a disability +31 (0)900 999 88 88 | www.mee.nl

• Search the government welfare site www.svb.nl to see if you qualify for a carer’s allowance (TOG) or a personal budget (PGB) to cover support costs. GOING OUT AND HOLIDAYS • A combination of wheelchair accessible activities and accommodation can be found at www.accessibletravel.nl, and restaurants from several sites (for example www.thefork.nl) • Good sources for sporty types include Stichting Resa (www.stichtingresa.nl or www.fondsgehandicaptensport.nl. • Amsterdam has a dedicated site detailing accessible buildings: www.clientenbelangamsterdam.nl • Some camp sites such as De Ruimte (www.campingderuimte.nl) cater especially for children with special needs.

• Ieder(in): Network for the chronically ill and disabled +31 (0)30 720 0000 | www.iederin.nl • Accessibility Foundation: Accessible internet for all +31 (0)30 239 82 70 | www.accessibility.nl • Valys: Regional assisted transport +31 (0)900 9630 | www.valys.nl • Handilinks: A useful portal with lots of related links www.handilinks.nl • Dutch Autism Network: www.landelijknetwerkautisme.nl • Down Syndrome Foundation (SDS): www.downsyndroom.nl • Deaf/blind support: www.kentalis.nl • Children/teenagers support: www.nsgk.nl

• Find out about accessible nature reserves and recreation areas at Staatsbosbeheer (www.staatsbosbeheer.nl) • For farther travels, organised group trips are available at www.buitengewoonreizen.nl. • Accessible Travel Netherlands (www.accessibletravel.nl) is a local tour operator specialising in holidays for anyone with special access needs.

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

A lifetime of smiles

WWW.LASSUS.NL

Healthcare

You can be assured that you will receive high quality healthcare in the Netherlands. However, some things may be arranged in a different way than you are used to. DOCTOR

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

• Huisarts is a General Practitioner (GP) or family doctor. Most speak English.

• In case of a life-threatening emergency always call 112. This will give you access to all emergency services.

• The “huisarts” is your first contact for all medical questions and complaints. GP’s are medical specialists with a 9 year training in treating the most common complaints.

• In other urgent situations call your GP. If your doctor’s office is closed and you have medical complaints that can’t wait until the next day or after the weekend, call the central doctor’s office (“Huisartsenpost”). Your GP’s website or answering machine will provide you with the phone number.

• When needed your GP will prescribe medication or refer you to a diagnostic center, hospital or other medical specialist. Dutch doctors tend to not hand out prescriptions lightly.

DENTIST

• Non-urgent medical treatment from a hospital or specialist requires a referral from your “huisarts”.

• Visit http://www.zorgkaartnederland.nl/tandarts (in Dutch) to locate a dentist (tandarts).

• It is strongly recommended to register with a GP in your area as soon as you are settled, even when not directly in need of a doctor. It will make it much easier to get in touch if you need one later on.

• A dentist can also be located via your insurance company; some policies require an annual check-up.

• If you weren’t yet able to register with a GP and are in urgent need of a doctor, call any GP in your neighbourhood and explain your situation. • Visit http://www.zorgkaartnederland.nl/huisarts (in Dutch) for doctors in your area. • Some doctors will refuse registers because their practices are already full or if you live too far from the practice. Sometimes they will place you on a waiting list.

• Dental care also requires registration; dentists are of short supply so many practices may not take on new patients. • Dental care for those under 18 is covered in basic insurance, as is dental surgery and dentures, though a deductible and own contribution apply. • Expats may find anaesthesia is less forthcoming than in their own country, although this varies between dentists. If you feel that your procedure requires it, it’s helpful to request this.

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

• Almost all dental practices in the Netherlands are private with one dentist and one assistant. Oral surgeons are usually affiliated with a hospital, and orthodontists usually have a private practice.

HOSPITALS • At the hospital, “accident and emergency” or “ER” is called “SEH” (spoedeisende hulp).

• It is possible to take out supplementary insurance that can cover up to 100 percent of costs for visits and dental care, check your policy.

• In case of a life-threatening emergency always call 112.

ORTHODONTICS

• For a hospital admission for non-emergency treatment you need a referral from your GP.

• Ortho is not covered by basic insurance. It is possible to take out supplementary insurance for this. For children under 18 one of the parents needs to take out this insurance. • If you have orthodontic gear on before arriving to the Netherlands, some research will be done to see which orthodontist can continue the care. HEALTHCARE FOR CHILDREN • All aspects of children’s growth and development from birth up to 18 years old are covered by Youth Healthcare (JGZ – “Jeugd Gezondheidszorg”), a national service. • Your GP can provide you with the details. You can also search for your local “JGZ”. • Inoculations and checks from birth to age four take place at the consultatiebureau, which is part of the JGZ service. Expect a big check-up just before starting school. • For childhood immunisations, you may wish to check with JGZ whether the Dutch immunisation scheme is the same as the one from your home country.

• In case of admission, keep your insurance company informed and check your policy. Not all policies fully cover all services at a particular hospital. PHARMACIES • Pharmacists can give advice for minor complaints. • Drogists (drugstore) supply over-the-counter remedies, while the apotheek (pharmacy) handles prescription drugs. • Once you have located a huisarts, you need to locate a pharmacy (apotheek) for prescriptions. • If this pharmacy deals with your particular insurance scheme, in most cases you won’t have to pay bills directly. Pharmacy services vary, so look for one that has the services you need. • Pharmacies in the Netherlands take your contact and insurance information and then consider you a long-term client (although it is possible to fill prescriptions elsewhere, if needed). • If you have been treated at a hospital, you can sometimes fill your prescription at an onsite pharmacy. They can also be ordered online but check that this online pharmacy is safe. HAVING A BABY • The Netherlands has a strong tradition in prenatal care and natural childbirths. • A midwife -- an independent medical practitioner with a 4 year bachelor degree -- will generally be your sole care provider during your pregnancy and delivery.

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• You should register with a midwife early in your first trimester; Your GP (huisarts) can recommend one to you or visit www.zorgkaartnederland.nl/verloskundige. • Pain medication during delivery is not standard. Should you prefer to have pain medication or a hospital birth, let your midwife know within the first few months of your pregnancy. • Expectant mothers with certain sorts of medical conditions or complications will be handled by an obstetrician (gynaecologist), which will have you automatically deliver in the hospital. • Some hospitals have birth centres or nearby birthing “hotels”, where the environment is made more “homely”.

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• If you do deliver your baby in a hospital, you can often be back at home the same day for postnatal (maternity) care. • Regular check-ups take place with the primary caregiver (midwife or obstetrician).

+31 85 016 17 10

chiropractiecentraal.com

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• The routine prenatal testing recommended in the Netherlands is different from the guidelines in some other countries.

HEALTHCARE

• There are many types of birth preparation classes. ACCESS (www.access-nl.org) can provide more info.

• Self-employed mothers are equally entitled to paid leave, but the amount depends on the hours worked in the last 12 months.

MATERNITY CARE

• Parents are also allowed to take increments of unpaid parenting leave (ouderschapsverlof) totalling six months, until a child is 8 years old. As part of this, fathers are increasingly taking one day a week for child care, known as “Daddy day” (papadag).

• Once your baby has arrived, you will be given assistance at home by a maternity nurse (kraamverzorgster); costs are usually covered by your insurance. • It is important to register for maternity care (kraamzorg) early in your pregnancy, as the nurses are sometimes in short supply. Your midwife will help you find one or check www.kraamzorg.nl (in Dutch).

• From August 2022 parents are entitled to 70% of pay (maximum applies) during the first 9 weeks of parenting leave. Parents must take this leave before the child reaches the age of 1. MENTAL HEALTHCARE

MATERNITY LEAVE AND PARENTING LEAVE

• Moving to a new country can bring about mental challenges.

• Pregnant employees are entitled to 6 weeks pregnancy leave (before the due date) and at least 10 weeks maternity leave (after childbirth). In total employees have a right to at least 16 weeks of leave. If, for instance, the baby is born before the pregnancy leave, the total of 16 weeks starts from the day after the birth.

• If you are having trouble sorting out your problems on your own, or you don’t know exactly what is wrong with you, you can go to your GP (huisarts).

• Partners can take a number of (paid) days off within 4 weeks after the child is born. The number of days is equal to the number of days per working week that the partner is employed. • Since July 1st 2020 there is the option of 5 weeks additional partner leave against 70% of pay (a maximum applies). • During maternity leave, mothers are entitled to 100 percent of their earnings paid out by their employer or the Uitvoeringsinstituut Werknemers Verzekeringen (UWV).

• Mild mental health problems can be treated by a GP, often working together with a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Your GP sometimes can also offer you online counselling (e-health). • The GP may also suggest treatment with medication such as antidepressants or refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for more specialised mental health treatment. • Treatment by your GP or mental health nurse is fully covered by your basic health insurance. Cost of more specialised treatment is also covered, but payable by you to the maximum of your annual excess.

We understand the highs and lows of living internationally At Kühler & Partners, we are experts in treating mental health issues. Our professionals understand the highs and lows of international living. We provide personlized care with a strong focus on quality of life. Our team of psychologists and psychiatrists offers treatment to adults and children from 6 years old in English, French, Greek, Spanish, Mandarin, German, Italian, Japanese, Serbian, Bulgarian, Romanian, Turkish and Farsi. Kühler & Partners look forward to welcoming and supporting you.

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Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

PREVENTIVE HEALTHCARE

TRAVEL SERVICES AND VACCINATIONS

• The Netherlands has good nation-wide preventive health programs. These programs are available at different stages in an individual’s development and most are free of charge.

• If you travel to countries in Africa, South and Central America, Asia and the former Eastern Bloc nations you can contact your GP or Public Health Services (“GGD”) for advice and preventive vaccination.

• There are screening options available for people at risk for certain diseases such as cardiovascular, pulmonary or sexually transmitted diseases. • The flu vaccination is offered free of charge to people having a higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they get flu. This is done by the GP. • There are screening programs during pregnancy and several after a child is born such as developmental check-ups and a preventative vaccination program. These are administered by Youth Healthcare (“Jeugd gezondheidszorg”) at the Baby Health Clinic (“Consultatie Bureau”). • There are also population screening programs later in life for diseases such as breast, cervical and colon cancer. You’ll be invited for these and they are executed at your GP’s office or at a Public Health facility. With the invitation you will receive information about the purpose and process of the screening. Ask your GP what screenings apply to you. • Participation is on a voluntary basis. If you do not wish to participate, you can return the invitation to the laboratory indicating you do not wish the screening.

More information about dutch healthcare: • Healthcare for Internationals: www.h4i.nl & www.h4ilimburg.nl HEALTH INSURANCE • It is mandatory for everyone living in the Netherlands to purchase a basic level of health insurance (basisverzekering) from a Dutch insurance provider (zorgverzekeraar). • You have to take out Health insurance (zorgverzekering) from a Dutch insurer within four months of arrival or start of work for a Dutch employer. You will be insured as of the day of arrival and will also have to pay premiums from that date. • Certain students, employees and work arrangements can be exempt from this requirement, but you should check carefully whether your situation qualifies. • If you don’t take out insurance while you are required to do so, you risk a fine. • Children under 18 are included in their parents’ insurance at no additional cost, unless the child begins working. For this one of the parents must register their children at his/her policy. • A Dutch insurance company cannot refuse to cover you for the basic package, regardless of your age or state of health. • The standard coverage is set by the government, although providers vary in cost and how they deliver these requirements. If your income is under a fixed minimum level, you can apply for a healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) from the tax authorities. • You can get free advice from the independent organisation www.zorgverzekeringslijn.nl. • Find a list of insurers (zorgverzekeraars) at www.zn.nl, or compare insurance policy costs at www.zorgwijzer.nl/zorgvergelijker/english BASIC INSURANCE • Cost is about EUR 155 a month. • The basic insurance covers general medical care (visits to the doctor, for example), hospital stays, ambulance services, IVF, the midwife and maternity care, dental care for children up to age 18, most prescription medicine, and various appliances.

Helping you navigate

Dutch Healthcare

Healthcare for internationals – H4i

www.h4i.nl

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• You can take out supplementary insurance (aanvullend pakket) for anything the government considers your responsibility, like adult dental care and physiotherapy. This can be from a separate insurance company, though not all insurers will accept you if you don’t take out the Basic insurance. • Check if your healthcare supplier is registered with your insurer before starting treatments. • The standard insurance package includes a mandatory excess or deductible (eigen risico - 2025: € 385) that you must pay towards your insurance claims. For some services you also have to pay a personal contribution (eigen bijdrage).

HEALTHCARE

• Insurers generally pay in full for family doctor (GP or “huisarts”) visits, obstetric and postnatal care, national screening programmes, flu vaccinations and some chronic illness treatments. • In addition to your premium your employer will also contribute a percentage of your income to cover the costs of healthcare. If you are self-employed you will have to pay this contribution directly to the tax authorities. • Coverage, premiums and excess may change every 1 January. At this date you can switch to another provider or policy. WHAT TO DO AFTER ARRIVAL • There are many things you need to arrange before or after you arrive in the Netherlands. Arranging for healthcare is just one of them, but obviously very important, especially if you are bringing small children or have a medical condition yourself. • To arrange access to the Dutch healthcare you need to take the following steps: 1. Register at the local municipality. They will issue you and your family members a BSN (Citizen Service Number, “Burger Service Nummer” -BSN). Sometimes you will need a residence permit first to obtain a BSN. If there is an “expat center” in your region, they will help you in this process.

2. You may need to undergo a screening for TBC (Tuberculosis) to get a residence permit. You will get more information about this when contacting the municipality. Many nationalities are exempted from this obligation. 3. Arrange health insurance for you and your family members. In most cases you are obliged to take out Dutch health insurance, although there are exceptions. For this you will need a BSN. 4. Register with a GP in your area, even when not directly in need of a doctor. The GP (“huisarts”) is the key to Dutch healthcare. For most of your medical needs he/she will be your first point of contact. To register with a GP you will need a valid health insurance and BSN. 5. Acquaint yourself with the Dutch healthcare system. It ranks among the best in the world, but some things, however, may be arranged in a way that is different than you are used to. • Even if you have not yet been able to complete the abovementioned steps, Dutch healthcare will, of course, be available to you and your family in case of emergencies.

Are you new to The Netherlands and in search of a dentist? We are the dental practice of Dr. Jesse and we have been serving the local and expat communities for the past twenty years.

Tandartsenpraktijk Jesse: Stadionweg 73, 1077 SE Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 676 2030 | info@tandartsenpraktijkjesse.nl | www.tandartsenpraktijkjesse.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @tandartsenpraktijkjesseamsterdam | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @tandartsenpraktijkjesse EXPAT COACHING & THERAPY Kühler & Partners International Mental Health: - Location Amsterdam: Amstelveenseweg 390, 1076 CT Amsterdam - Location The Hague: Nassaulaan 5, 2514 JS The Hague | +31 (0)85 066 05 00 | info@internationalmentalhealth.nl | www.internationalmentalhealth.nl

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Tandartsenpraktijk Jesse Stadionweg 73 1077 SE Amsterdam (Old South)

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Moving to Europe?

Don’t forget to bring your car!

You have lived outside The Netherlands for at least 12 months You have had possession of the vehicle for at least 6 months and the vehicle in use You may not lend, hire, pawn or sell the vehicle within 12 months after import If you are an expat moving to the Netherlands or another country from outside the EU, you may be exempt from paying import duties, VAT and BPM. By importing your vehicle as part of your household goods upon your relocation, you might be eligible for the ‘Exemption Permit for Removal Goods’. This can save you a considerable amount of money! Moving back? SCL Rotterdam is your expert for importing vehicles. From shipping and customs to EU-compliant modifications and registration, we handle every step to get your car road-ready with Dutch plates. Request for free quote today and let us handle the journey.

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Transport

Conditions apply to foreigners driving in the Netherlands, otherwise there’s an excellent public transport system. • To drive in the Netherlands you must have a valid licence recognised by Dutch law, and have third party insurance. • At age 16 you can take the theory exam. • You may take driving lessons for your driving license from the age of 16.5. You can take practical exams from the age of 17. Until the age of 18 you are then allowed to drive under the supervision of a coach.

LICENSES THAT CAN BE EXCHANGED: • To exchange (omwisselen) your existing national driving licence (rijbewijs) for a Dutch one, you must fit into the categories below: - You are registered in the Basis Registratie Personen (BRP) - You have a valid residence permit (unless you are a citizen of the EU, EEA or Switzerland).

EXCHANGING A DRIVING LICENCE

- You are from the EU, the EEA, Switzerland OR are from a country with a special agreement OR you have the 30% ruling

• You can use your existing driver’s licence for 185 days after becoming a resident.

- Your current driving license is valid.

• During those 185 days, you need to take the CBR theory and driving tests. • You can take both the theory and practical exam in English. • Tourists or short-term visitors are considered non-residents and do not need a Dutch driving licence. • Still, non-EU nationals should check with their Dutch embassy if an international licence is required. • Dutch licences are generally issued for 10 years. • Foreign licences from EU/EFTA countries can be used in the Netherlands for 15 years from the date of issue. • You may want to exchange it anyway: it is a valid proof of identity in many cases.

- Your current driving licence, if issued in a country outside the EU, was issued after being a resident of that country for at least 185 days. • If you do not meet the conditions you cannot exchange your licence for a Dutch one. This means you will need to take a standard theory and practical test at the Central Office for Motor Vehicle Driver Testing (CBR). • To exchange, apply at a municipal office for an “Aanvraag omwisseling voor Nederlands rijbewijs” form (or download it prior from (www.rdw.nl) after being registered in the municipality database for 185 consecutive days. • You may be asked to provide a certificate of fitness (verklaring van geschiktheid), proving you are physically and psychologically fit to drive a vehicle. This statement is needed in the following cases: - You have an EU/EEA or Switzerland driving licence with categories C, CE, C1, D etc

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- You benefit from the 30% tax ruling (go to category “Finance” for more information)

• There are many implications affecting car tax calculations: consult the website www.belastingdienst.nl for full details (in English).

- Your driving licence is from the Netherlands Antilles or Aruba

• Also note that as a Dutch resident you may not drive in a vehicle with foreign registration plates – you will be considered as evading the import duty on the vehicle and road tax, and risk heavy fines.

- Your driving licence is from one of the countries with a special agreement • If you are 75 years or over you’ll need a medical examination, which the CBR may request for non-EU/ETFA/Swiss nationals also. • If you are applying under the 30 percent ruling you will need a statement from the tax office’s international department. • Check with all departments if additional documentation is required for your certain situation, and if any document requires translation or authentication. • You will generally forfeit your original licence (unless applying under the 30 percent ruling). • You need a special licence for a bromfiets (moped), snorfiets (light moped), or brommobiel (mobility car) (unless you have a licence of the A or B category) and you must be 16 or over to get one. • For all information on driving licences and tests visit www.rdw.nl or www.rijbewijs.nl. REGISTERING AND OWNING A CAR • The hefty hindrance for bringing a car into the Netherlands is the private motor vehicle and motorcycle tax (BPM) -- levied as a percentage of the value of the car. • Exemption certificates are dealt by customs (www.belastingdienst.nl/douane)

• All cars must be registered with the RDW (Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer). If you bring your vehicle from abroad, it must first be reviewed at an RDW inspection station, after which registration plates are handled through the same office. • To register ownership of a Dutch-registered car, go to any post office or RDW–TV (Tenaamstellen Voertuigen) certified company with: identification documents, certificate of ownership, vehicle registration documents, statutory liability insurance (WA) and safety certificate (APK). • For second hand vehicles, there is a transfer certificate (overschrijvingsbewijs). A seller should ensure their previous ownership certificate has been officially invalidated. • After registering your car, you will receive a bill for road tax (motorrijtuigenbelasting) from the tax office. • The vehicle’s registration card (kentekenbewijs) and the certificate of ownership (tenaamstellingsbewijs) must be in the car at all times when on the road. TIPS: TRAFFIC AND PARKING • Unless otherwise marked, the speed limits are 50 km/hr in the city, 80 km/hr on other roads and 100 or 120/130 km/hr (in the evening) on motorways. • Traffic is an issue and so is parking, for which you generally need a permit. • Payment options for parking are a bank card or mobile phone. Go to www.easypark.com/en-nl or www.yellowbrick.nl for a parking app. • Many Dutch drivers are members of motoring organisation ANWB (www.anwb.nl), which can provide breakdown cover (wegenwacht) at home or abroad. • There are park and ride (P+R) schemes in most cities and the car-sharing scheme Green Wheels is a popular option (www.greenwheels.nl). CONTACTS • The Department of Road Transport: www.rdw.nl 088 008 7447, or +31 (0)59 839 3330 (abroad) • Information on driving licences: www.rijbewijs.nl

FREE TRIAL LESSON WITH ADVICE

• Theory and driving tests: www.cbr.nl, 088 227 7700 • “Road Traffic Signs and Regulations”: download brochure on www.government.nl

GET YOUR DRIVING LICENSE AT DRIVING SCHOOL DEKKER! WWW.RIJSCHOOLDEKKER.NL INFO@RIJSCHOOLDEKKER.NL 040 444 44 44

PUBLIC TRANSPORT Public Transport Chip Card (OV-chipkaart) • The swipecard payment system OV-chipkaart is the official public transport payment system for the metro, bus, tram and train throughout the Netherlands. LANGENDIJK 27, 5652 AX EINDHOVEN

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• There are two types of OV-chipkaarts: anonymous, which anyone can buy from the OV-chipkaart machines or station; or personal, which you can apply for online.

TRANSPORT

• Your pass can be loaded from one of the OV-chipkaart machines strategically placed at train and metro stations, or you can arrange for your personal card to “load” automatically from a bank account. You pay for the distance travelled by swiping it upon entering and leaving your transport station.

• Either buy a single ticket at a kiosk, use OVpay (www.ovpay.nl) or use your OV-chipkaart to travel on the NS. Make sure you have a minimum EUR 20 uploaded on your OV-chipkaart (EUR 10 if you have a discount pass), and that you swipe out on arrival or your travel costs could triple.

• Personal products, such as season or discount tickets, can be loaded to your personal OV-chipkaart and you are automatically eligible for discounts.

• If you forget to swipe out, you have up to six hours to go back and check out, otherwise you must claim back the added costs. Call 030 751 5155 for help with claims.

• The OV-chipkaart website (www.ov-chipkaart.nl) also has an English language section where you can find lines of action should you lose your card or forget to swipe out. Helpline: 0900 0980 or @ovgevonden on social media.

• For certain cities, you can organize the NS Zonetaxi when you buy your train ticket. This is a door-to-door taxi service at fixed prices, for up to four people (starting at € 6.00).

• Infrequent travellers can buy a single-use chipkaart ticket per trip.

• More information about the NS: www.ns.nl/en

OVPay • You check in with your contactless debit card, credit card or your payment app on your mobile phone. Of course, you also check out again with the same pass. Just like with the public transport chip card. Pre-registration or downloading an app is not necessary.

BUYING A CAR

• More information about OVpay on www.ovpay.nl

TRAIN • The Nederlandse Spoorwegen (www.ns.nl), or NS, is the national train company and offers season tickets and discounts for off-peak travel (dal voordeel abonnement), which include up to 40 percent discount off the price of your tickets and up to three people travelling with you.

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Meeting the expat community in the Netherlands

Emergency numbers The emergency number for police, fire or ambulance is 112.

• The pan-European 112 emergency operators will speak English. You will be asked for the address and city where you are calling from and the nature of the emergency. • For information on emergency situations (noodsituaties) in the Netherlands, visit the government site www.denkvooruit.nl. POLICE • The non-emergency number is 0900 8844. You will be connected to your local police station. • If your passport has been stolen, contact your embassy immediately for instructions as to what to do next. You generally need to make a statement at a police station to start any kind of official procedure (insurance, applying for a new passport etc.). • Visit www.politie.nl for information. FIRE • You can find information on Dutch fire services at www.brandweer.nl AMBULANCE • In emergency medical situations you can call an ambulance. • You can also visit A&E (SEH / Spoedeisende hulp) but if a doctor could have treated the situation, you may be charged for this or refused treatment without a referral. • For non-threatening issues, you should first contact your local doctor or find your closest out-of-hours medical clinic (huisartsenpost). GAS AND ELECTRICAL EMERGENCIES • If you suspect a gas leak (gaslucht) or have a power problem (stroomstoring) you can call the national line 0800 9009; for serious emergencies posing a public threat, call 112.

WATER EMERGENCY • Contact your local gemeente for serious (sewage) issues. • If the problem is in the length of pipe between the street and your house, this is the local water board’s responsibility; find yours at www.vewin.nl by typing your postcode in the box under Uw drinkwaterbedrijf. SIREN • Each municipality tests their siren the first Monday of every month at 12pm. • For acute danger, a siren will sound in the affected area(s) and signals for people to head indoors. Information about the disaster or emergency will be published on www.crisis.nl. HELPLINES • ACCESS Invaluable resource for all international residents. 085 4000 338 | www.access-nl.org | helpdesk@access-nl.org • Alcoholics Anonymous www.aa-netherlands.org | National: 020 625 6057 • Animal emergencies Also provides a shelter for animals seeking new homes. www.dierenambulancedenhaag.nl | National: 070 328 2828 • LHBTI+ Switchboard www.switchboard.nl | National: 020 623 6565 • Helpline for children and teenagers www.kindertelefoon.nl | 0800 0432 • SOS 24-hour helpline Staffed by Dutch volunteers but many speak English. www.sensoor.nl | 088 0767 000

• See www.gasenstroomstoringen.nl for details. Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

Public holidays

Many activities exist for the Netherlands’ thriving expat community. There are a few regional variations for Dutch public holidays, except for the orange madness of King’s day, which takes over the whole country. Carnival is also celebrated in February and March in Catholic areas. PUBLIC & BANK HOLIDAYS • New Year’s Day (Nieuwjaarsdag). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 January 2025 • Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 April 2025 • Easter Sunday/Monday (Pasen). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sunday 20 April / Monday 21 April 2025 • King’s Day (Koningsdag). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saturday 26 April 2025 • National Remembrance Day (Dodenherdenking) [Not a bank holiday] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 May 2025 • Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 May 2025 (Bank holiday every 5 years) • Ascension (Hemelvaart). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 May 2025 • Whitsun (Pinksteren). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sunday 8 June / Monday 9 June 2025 • Sinterklaas [Not an official holiday] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 December 2025 • Christmas Day (Eerste Kerstdag) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 December 2025 • Boxing Day (Tweede Kerstdag) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 December 2025 92

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SCHOOL VACATION HOLIDAYS The Netherlands school districts are divided into three regions. Some school vacation breaks are taken at the same time, others are split into regions to help spread the seasonal flow of vacationers. North (Noord): Provinces Groningen, Friesland, Drenthe, Overijssel, Flevoland (except Zeewolde), Gelderland (Hattem only), Utrecht (Eemnes and former Abcoude), and Noord-Holland. Middle (Midden): Flevoland (Zeewolde only), Utrecht (except Eemnes and former Abcoude), Zuid-Holland, and Gelderland areas of Aalten, Apeldoorn, Barneveld, Berkelland, Bronckhorst, Brummen, Buren, Culemborg, Doetinchem, Ede, Elburg, Epe, Ermelo, Geldermalsen, Harderwijk, Heerde, Lingewaal, Lochem, Montferland (except the

former municipality Didam), Neder-Betuwe (except the former municipality Dodewaard), Neerijnen, Nijkerk, Nunspeet, Oldebroek, Oost-Gelre, Oude IJsselstreek, Putten, Scherpenzeel, Tiel, Voorst, Wageningen, Winterswijk and Zutphen. South (Zuid): Limburg, Noord-Brabant (except Woudrichem and the centers Sleeuwijk, Nieuwendijk and Werkendam in the municipality of Werkendam), Zeeland, and Gelderland areas of Arnhem, Beuningen, Doesburg, Druten, Duiven, Groesbeek, Heumen, Neder-Betuwe (only the former municipality Dodewaard), Lingewaard, Maasdriel, Millingen a/d Rijn, Montferland (only the former municipality Didam), Nijmegen, Overbetuwe, Renkum, Rheden, Rozendaal, Rijnwaarden, Ubbergen, Westervoort, West Maas en Waal, Wijchen, Zaltbommel and Zevenaar.

• Spring Holiday 2025 (Voorjaarsvakantie). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 February to 2 March 2025 (Middle & South region) 15 February to 23 February 2025 (North region) • May Holiday 2025 (Meivakantie). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 April to 4 May 2025 (all regions) • Summer Break 2025 (Zomervakantie) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 July to 17 August 2025 (South region) 19 July to 31 August 2025 (Middle region) 12 July to 24 August 2025 (North region) • Autumn Break 2025 (Herfstvakantie). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 October to 19 October 2025 (South region) 18 October to 26 October 2025 (Middle and North region) • Christmas Holiday 2025-2026 (Kerstvakantie). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 December 2025 to 4 January 2026 (all regions) Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

Listings EMPLOYMENT CAREER RESOURCES

RECRUITMENT AGENCIES

Amsterdam

• Adams Multilingual Recruitment: Teleport Towers, Kingsfordweg 151, 1043 GR Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 58 00340 | amsterdam@adamsrecruitment.com • Undutchables Recruitment Agency: Westeinde 20, 1017 ZP Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 623 1300 | amsterdam@undutchables.nl | www.undutchables.nl • UWV EURES: workinthenetherlands@uwv.nl | www.werk.nl/eures | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @eures.nederland | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @eures_nederland | LINKEDIN @eures nederland Amstelveen • Undutchables Recruitment Agency: Burgemeester Haspelslaan 21, 1181 NB Amstelveen | +31 (0)20 345 5104 | amstelveen@undutchables.nl | www.undutchables.nl Eindhoven • Undutchables Recruitment Agency: Veldmaarschalk Montgomerylaan 7, 5612 BA Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 237 3395 | eindhoven@undutchables.nl | www.undutchables.nl Hengelo • The Chain Company: Langelermaatweg 50, 7553 JE Hengelo | +31 (0)74 246 9210 | info@thechaincompany.nl | www.thechaincompany.nl • WYSIWYG Nederland B.V.: Langelermaatweg 50, 7553 JE Hengelo | +31 (0)74 246 9210 | info@wysiwygnederland.nl | www.wysiwygnederland.nl Rotterdam • Adams Multilingual Recruitment: Spaces, 8th floor, Hofplein 20, 3032 AC Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 303 1010 | rotterdam@adamsrecruitment.com | www.adamsrecruitment.com | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @AdamsRecruit

• MILES: Voorschoterweg 23-G, 2235 SE Valkenburg (ZH) | +31 (0)88 089 9083 | international@letsgo-miles.com | www.letsgo-miles.com | LINKEDIN @MILES

• Trinamics: K.P. v/d Mandelelaan 90, 3062 MB Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 307 27 27 | rotterdam@trinamics.nl | www.trinamics.nl

• LIMES international: Voorschoterweg 23-G, 2235 SE Valkenburg (ZH) | +31 (0)88 089 9000 | info@limes-int.com / info@limesacademy.com | www.limes-int.com / www.limesacademy.com | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @limesinternational / @limesacademy

• Undutchables Recruitment Agency: Hofplein 20, 3032 AC Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 404 6650 | rotterdam@undutchables.nl | www.undutchables.nl The Hague

• PAYSE: Neerduist 5-C, 3751 LX Bunschoten | +31 (0)33 303 7720 | info@payse.nl | www.payse.nl | LINKEDIN @payse

• Undutchables Recruitment Agency: Noordeinde 202–1, 2514 GS The Hague | +31 (0)70 711 8300 | denhaag@undutchables.nl | www.undutchables.nl

• UWV EURES: workinthenetherlands@uwv.nl | www.werk.nl/eures | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @eures.nederland | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @eures_nederland | LINKEDIN @eures nederland

Utrecht • Undutchables Recruitment Agency: Brigittenstraat 1, 3512 KJ Utrecht | +31 (0)30 238 2228 | utrecht@undutchables.nl | www.undutchables.nl

RELOCATION EXPAT CENTRES • Expat Centre Maastricht Region: Postbus 1992, 6201 BZ Maastricht | +31 (0)43 350 5010 | expatcentre@maastricht.nl | www.expatcentremaastrichtregion.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE ExpatCentreMaastrichtRegion | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @expatcentremaastrichtregion | LINKEDIN @expat-centre-maastricht-region • Expat Center East Netherlands: Industrieplein 2, 7553 LL Hengelo | +31 (0)74 250 3325 | info@ecen.nl | www.ecen.nl • Expat Center Zeeland: M.A. de Ruijterlaan 2, 4461 GE Goes | info@expatcenterzeeland.com | www.expatcenterzeeland.com • Utrecht International Center: Stadsplateau 1, 3521 AZ Utrecht | +31 (0)30 286 0000 | info@utrechtinternationalcenter.com | www.utrechtinternationalcenter.com | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @utrecht.international.center | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @utrechtinternationalcenter | LINKEDIN @utrechtinternationalcenter • IN Amsterdam: World Trade Center Amsterdam | I Tower, ground floor | Strawinskylaan 1767, 1077 XX Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 254 7999 | welcome@amsterdam.nl | www.inamsterdam.com | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @iamsterdam | LINKEDIN @in-amsterdam • International Welcome Center North (IWCN): Gedempte Zuiderdiep 98, 9711 HL Groningen | +31 (0)50 367 7197 | info@iwcn.nl | www.iwcn.nl • Holland Expat Center South: Stadhuisplein 10, 5611 EM Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 238 6755 | info@hollandexpatcenter.com | www.hollandexpatcenter.com • Leiden International Centre: Stadskantoor Leiden, Bargelaan 190 | 2333 CW Leiden | +31 (0)71 515 6005 | helpdesk@leideninternationalcentre.nl | www.leideninternationalcentre.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @Leiden International Centre | LINKEDIN @Leiden International Centre • Nijmegen Expatdesk: Oranjesingel 13, 6511 NL NIjmegen | +31 (0)24 357 2577 | info@expatdesknijmegen.nl | www.expatdesknijmegen.nl • Rotterdam International Center: Groot Handelsgebouw, Weena 727, 3013 AM Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 790 0190 | info@rotterdaminternationalcenter.nl | www.rotterdamexpatcentre. nl | www.rotterdampartners.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @rotterdaminternationalcenter

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

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LISTINGS

• Rabobank Haarlem-IJmond: Dreef 40, 2012 HS Haarlem | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/haarlem-ijmond

• Accessibility Foundation: Accessible internet for all | +31 (0)30 239 8270 | info@accessibility.nl | www.accessibility.nl/english

• Rabobank Amstel & Vecht: Van Heuven Goedhartlaan 7, 1181 LE Amstelveen | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/amstel-en-vecht

• Children/teenagers support: www.nsgk.nl • Down Syndrome Foundation (SDS): www.downsyndroom.nl

• Rabobank Zaanstreek: Westzijde 9, 1506 EA Zaandam | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/zaanstreek

• Dutch Autism Network: www.landelijknetwerkautisme.nl

• Rabobank Almere: Grote Markt 2, 1315 JG Almere | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/almere

• IEDER(in): Network for the chronically ill and disabled | +31 (0)30 720 0000 | www.iederin.nl

HOUSING ACCOMODATION AGENCIES

RENTING / SHORT STAY / SERVICED HOUSING

• Engel & Völkers Netherlands: - Willemsparkweg 89, 1071 GT Amsterdam - Prinsengracht 28, 1015 DW Amsterdam - Zandvoortselaan 2, 2106 CN Heemstede | +31 (0)20 716 2418 | amsterdamzuid@engelvoelkers.com | www.engelvoelkers.com/nl-nl/amsterdam/ | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @engelvolkersholland | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @engelvolkersholland | LINKEDIN @engelvolkersnederland • Hello Housing: Carolina van Nassaustraat 165, 2595 SX The Hague | +31 (0)88 432 4070 | info@hellohousing.nl | www.hellohousing.nl | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @Hellohousing | LINKEDIN @hello-housing-bv • Lindy Nikken Real Estate: Hellingweg 139, 2583 DZ The Hague | +31 (0)71 562 2408 | info@lindynikkenrealestate.com | www.lindynikkenrealestate.com | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @lindynikkenrealestate | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @lindynikken.realestate | LINKEDIN @lindy-nikken-real-estate

• YOSAA – Your Serviced Apartment Agency: Gustav Mahlerlaan 50b, 1082 ME Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 723 3490 | hello@yosaa.com | www.yosaa.com | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @stay.yosaa | LINKEDIN @yosaa • Corporate Housing Living: Gustav Mahlerlaan 50b, 1082 ME Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 280 7047 | hello@corporatehousingliving.com | www.corporatehousingliving.com/ • Element by Westin Hotel Amsterdam: A.J. Ernststraat 577, 1082 LD Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 517 5300 | reservations@elementamsterdamhotel.nl | www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ amsel-element-amsterdam • Short Stay Group: Herengracht 451, 1017 BS, Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 523 1028 | yolanda@shortstaygroup.com | www.shortstayreservations.com

RELOCATION SERVICE

MORTGAGE CONSULTANTS

• A&H Finance: Amsterdamseweg 71, 1182 GP Amstelveen | +31 (0)20 465 1951 | info@ahfinance.nl | www.ahfinance.amsterdam | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @AHFinanceAmsterdam | LINKEDIN @a&h-finance • Rabobank Amsterdam: - Van Baerlestraat 102-106, 1071 BC Amsterdam - Amstelplein 8, 1096 BC Amsterdam - Buikslotermeerplein 219-A, 1025 XB Amsterdam | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/amsterdam | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @rabobank | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @rabobank • Rabobank Regio Schiphol: Polarisavenue 150, 2132 JX Hoofddorp | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/regio-schiphol • Rabobank Haarlem-IJmond: Dreef 40, 2012 HS Haarlem | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/haarlem-ijmond • Rabobank Amstel & Vecht: Van Heuven Goedhartlaan 7, 1181 LE Amstelveen | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/amstel-en-vecht • Rabobank Zaanstreek: Westzijde 9, 1506 EA Zaandam | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/zaanstreek

• PAS BMS Immigration and Relocation: Schoutenlaan 62, 2215 ME Voorhout | +31 (0)25 234 7876 | info@pasbms.com | www.pasbms.com | LINKEDIN @pasbmsrelocations

• Rabobank Almere: Grote Markt 2, 1315 JG Almere | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/almere • Expat Mortgages: - Office Amsterdam: Bijlmerplein 888A, 1102 MG Amsterdam - Office Eindhoven: Torenallee 57, 5617 BB Eindhoven | +31 (0)20 717 3908 | info@expatmortgages.nl | www.expatmortgages.nl • Mister Mortgage: Prinsengracht 679, 1017 JT Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 210 1074 | hi@mistermortgage.nl | www.mistermortgage.nl NOTARIES • Van Buttingha Wichers notarissen: Koninginnegracht 23, 2514 AB The Hague | +31 (0)70 356 6800 | info@vbwnotarissen.nl | www.vbwnotarissen.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @vanbuttingawichersnotarissen | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @vanbuttingawichersnotarissen

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

SETTING UP HOME COMMUNICATIONS

SHORT STAY & SERVICED HOUSING

• Utility Direct: Overschiestraat 182, 1062 XK Amsterdam | +31 (0)85 060 3096 | contact@utilitydirect.nl | www.utilitydirect.nl/

• KPN: www.kpn.com

• Ziggo: www.ziggo.nl ENERGY & GAS www.gaslicht.com • Utility Direct: Overschiestraat 182, 1062 XK Amsterdam | +31 (0)85 060 3096 | contact@utilitydirect.nl | www.utilitydirect.nl/ FURNITURE RENTAL • Furniture Lease: Sint Walburg 20B, 6671 AS, Zetten | +31 (0)488 45 2586 | info@furniturelease.nl | www.furniturelease.nl • Utility Direct: Overschiestraat 182, 1062 XK Amsterdam | +31 (0)85 060 3096 | contact@utilitydirect.nl | www.utilitydirect.nl/

• YOSAA – Your Serviced Apartment Agency: Gustav Mahlerlaan 50b, 1082 ME Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 723 3490 | hello@yosaa.com | www.yosaa.com | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @stay.yosaa | LINKEDIN @yosaa • Corporate Housing Living: Gustav Mahlerlaan 50b, 1082 ME Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 280 7047 | hello@corporatehousingliving.com | www.corporatehousingliving.com/ • Element by Westin Hotel Amsterdam: A.J. Ernststraat 577, 1082 LD Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 517 5300 | reservations@elementamsterdamhotel.nl | www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ amsel-element-amsterdam • Wittenberg by Cove: Nieuwe Kerkstraat 157, 1018 VL Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 808 4006 | www.thewittenberg.com UTILITY SERVICES • Utility Direct: Overschiestraat 182, 1062 XK Amsterdam | +31 (0)85 060 3096 | contact@utilitydirect.nl | www.utilitydirect.nl/

• Rabobank Amsterdam: - Van Baerlestraat 102-106, 1071 BC Amsterdam - Amstelplein 8, 1096 BC Amsterdam - Buikslotermeerplein 219-A, 1025 XB Amsterdam | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/amsterdam | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @rabobank | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @rabobank • Rabobank Regio Schiphol: Polarisavenue 150, 2132 JX Hoofddorp | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/regio-schiphol • Rabobank Haarlem-IJmond: Dreef 40, 2012 HS Haarlem | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/haarlem-ijmond • Rabobank Amstel & Vecht: Van Heuven Goedhartlaan 7, 1181 LE Amstelveen | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/amstel-en-vecht • Rabobank Zaanstreek: Westzijde 9, 1506 EA Zaandam | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/zaanstreek • Rabobank Almere: Grote Markt 2, 1315 JG Almere | expatdesk.mra@rabobank.nl | www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/almere • Expat Mortgages: - Office Amsterdam: Bijlmerplein 888A, 1102 MG Amsterdam - Office Eindhoven: Torenallee 57, 5617 BB Eindhoven | +31 (0)20 717 3908 | info@expatmortgages.nl | www.expatmortgages.nl • Mister Mortgage: Prinsengracht 679, 1017 JT Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 210 1074 | hi@mistermortgage.nl | www.mistermortgage.nl NOTARIES • Van Buttingha Wichers notarissen: Koninginnegracht 23, 2514 AB The Hague | +31 (0)70 356 6800 | info@vbwnotarissen.nl | www.vbwnotarissen.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @vanbuttingawichersnotarissen | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @vanbuttingawichersnotarissen STARTING A BUSINESS • Neve Consultancy: Heemraad 47, 1412 DN Naarden | +31 (0)35 695 2423 | www.neveconsultancy.nl | info@neveconsultancy.nl • Business.gov.nl: Blaak 40, 3011 TA Rotterdam | www.business.gov.nl

EDUCATION BUSINESS EDUCATION

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION & RESEARCH

• TIAS School for Business and Society: +31 (0)13 466 8695 | info@tias.edu | www.tias.edu/ en | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @tias | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @tias_business_school/ | LINKEDIN @tias-school-for-business-and-society/ - Tilburg location: Warandelaan 2, Tias Building, 5037 AB Tilburg - Utrecht location: Kroonstraat 50, 3511 RC Utrecht |

• EURAXESS Netherlands: P.O. Box 29777, 2502 LT The Hague | +31 (0)70 426 0287 | euraxess@nuffic.nl | www.euraxess.nl | LINKEDIN @EURAXESS Netherlands

• Amsterdam Business School - University of Amsterdam: Plantage Muidergracht 12, 1018 TV Amsterdam | MBA: +31 (0)20 525 5655 | MIF: + 31 (0)20 525 4056 | admissions-abs@uva.nl | www.abs.uva.nl • Maastricht School of Management (MSM): Tapijnkazerne 11, 6211 ME Maastricht | +31 (0)43 870808 | info@msm.nl | www.msm.nl • Maastricht University School of Business and Economics: Tapijnkazerne 11, 6211 ME Maastricht | +31 (0)43 387 0808 | info@maastrichtmba.com | www.maastrichtuniversity.nl • Nyenrode Business Universiteit: Straatweg 25, 3621 BG Breukelen | +31 (0)34 629 1211 | www.nyenrode.nl • Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University: Burgemeester Oudlaan 50, Bayle building, 3062 PA Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 408 2222 | ldimitriou@rsm.nl | www.rsm.nl/mba • Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences: Kralingse Zoom 91, 3063 ND Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 794 6229 | www.rotterdambusinessschool.nl • The Hague University of Applied Sciences: - Main campus at Johanna Westerdijkplein 75, 2521 EN The Hague - Delft campus at Rotterdamseweg 137, 2628 AL Delft - Laan van Poot campus at Laan van Poot 363, 2566 DA The Hague - Zoetermeer campus at Bleiswijkseweg 37, 2712 PB Zoetermeer | www.thehagueuniversity.com • Vlerick Business School: Reep 1, 9000 Gent, Belgium | +32 (0)210 97 11 | info@vlerick.com | www.vlerick.com | • Webster Leiden Campus: Boommarkt 1, 2311 EA, Leiden | +31 (0)70 516 8000 | admissions@webster.nl | www.webster.nl

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

• Nuffic: P.O. Box 29777, 2502 LT The Hague | +31 (0)70 426 0260 | www.nuffic.nl | LINKEDIN @Nuffic EDUCATION CONSULTANCY • New2NL: +31 (0)6 2909 3933 | annebet@new2nl.com | www.new2nl.com COMPANY TRAINING & PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT • in2motivation: Amstelveenseweg 739, 1081 JE Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 737 0312 | info@in2motivation.com | www.in2motivation.com • Koach.net: Weesperstraat 61, 1018 VN Amsterdam | www.koach.net | contact@koach.net | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @koach.net INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS • American School of the Hague: Rijksstraatweg 200,2241 BX Wassenaar | +31 (0)70 512 1060 | info@ash.nl | www.ash.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @AmericanSchoolofTheHague • Amity International School Amsterdam: Amsterdamseweg 204, 1182 HL Amstelveen | +31 (0)20 345 4481 | admissions@amityamsterdam.nl | www.amityschool.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @AmitySchoolNL | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @amityamsterdam | LINKEDIN @amity-school-amsterdam • Amstelland International School: Asserring 93, 1187 SM Amstelveen | +31 (0)20 820 9091 | info.ais@ogamstelland.nl | www.amstelland-international-school.nl | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @ amstellandinternational.school • Amsterdam International Community School: Main Campus: Prinses Irenestraat 59, 1077 WV Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 577 1240 | South East Campus: Darlingstraat 2, 1102 MX Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 723 5280 • Primary School AICS Satellite: Arent Janszoon Ernststraat 130, 1082 LP Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 723 4830 infosatellite@aics.espritscholen.nl | www.aics.espritscholen.nl • The British School of Amsterdam: Havenstraat 6, 1075 PR Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 679 7840 | info@britams.nl | www.britams.nl

• Eerde International School (K-12; also boarding): Kasteellaan 1, 7731 PJ Ommen | +31 (0)529 451 452 | info@eerde.nl | www.eerde.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @ISEerde

• Winford Bilingual Primary School - Haarlem: Korte Verspronckweg 7-9, 2023 BS Haarlem | 023 752 30 90 | info@winford.nl | www.winford-bilingual.nl

• Winford Bilingual Primary School - The Hague: Bezuidenhoutseweg 91, 2594 AC The Hague | +31 (0)70 753 4441 | www.winford-bilingual.nl

• Groningse Schoolvereniging: Sweelincklaan 4, 9722 JV Groningen | +31 (0)50 527 0818 | www.g-s-v.nl • HSV International Primary School: Haagsche Schoolvereeniging: We are one school with four locations, a Pre-School and a Special Education school: dean@hsvdenhaag.nl | www.hsvid.nl - International Education - NSL: Nassaulaan 26, 2514 JT The Hague | +31 (0)70 318 4950 - International Education - KSS: Koningin Sophiestraat 24A, 2595 TG The Hague | +31 (0)70 324 3453 - International Education - VHS: van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 (0)70 205 1141 - International Special Education - Lighthouse: van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 (0)70 205 1141 - International Pre-School Education – Three Little Ships: van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 (0)70 205 1141 - International Education - VNS: van Nijenrodestraat 16,: 2597 RM The Hague | +31 (0)70 328 1441 • International Primary School Almere: A. Roland Holststraat 58, 1321 RX Almere | +31 (0)36 5367240 | www.ipsalmere.nl • International School Breda: Mozartlaan 35, 4837 EH Breda | +31 (0)76 560 7870 | admissions@isbreda.nl | www.internationalschoolbreda.nl • International School of Amsterdam (K-12): Sportlaan 45, 1185 TB Amstelveen | +31 (0)20 347 1111 | www.isa.nl • International School Haarlem: - Lower Primary: Buitenrustlaan 9, 2012 BL Haarlem - Upper Primary: Schreveliusstraat 27, 2014 XP Haarlem - Secondary: Junoplantsoen 58, 2024 RS Haarlem | +31 (0)23 220 0001 | info@internationalschoolhaarlem.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @internationalschoolhaarlem • International School Hilversum Alberdingk Thijm: (Primary & Secondary school) | Emmastraat 56, 1213 AL Hilversum | +31 (0)35 672 9931 | www.ishilversum.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @ishilversum • International School Utrecht: Van Deventerlaan 1, 3528 AG Utrecht | +31 (0)30 870 0400 | info@isutrecht.nl | www.isutrecht.nl • International Waldorf School The Hague (IWSTH): 2e Messtraat 31, 2586 XA The Hague | +31 (0)70 7830030 | info@iwsth.org | www.internationalwaldorfschool.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @IWSTH • Optimist International School: Waddenweg 87, 2134 XL Hoofddorp | +31 (0)23 3035924 | info@optimist-international-school.nl | www.optimist-international-school.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @optimist.international.school | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @optimist_international_school | LINKEDIN @Optimist International School • Winford Bilingual Primary School - Amsterdam: Jan Luijkenstraat 29, 1071 CK Amsterdam | 020 751 6650 | info@winford.nl | www.winford-bilingual.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @winfordbilingualprimaryschool | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @winfordbilingual

FAMILIES BABYSITTING • Charly Cares: Gerard Doustraat 62, 1072 VV Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 210 2323 | info@charlycares.com | www.charlycares.com CHILDCARE • German International Kindergarten The Hague: Van Bleiswijkstraat 125, 2582 LB The Hague | +31 (0)70 354 94 54 | info@disdh.nl | www.disdh-Kindergarten.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @DISDenHaag/ | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @disdh_the_hague/ • Kindergarden: Herengracht 250, 1016 BV Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 - 423 54 22 | info@kindergarden.nl | www.kindergarden.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @Kindergarden | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @kindergardennl | LINKEDIN @Kindergarden • Partou Childcare: Sportlaan 1, 4131 NN Vianen | +31 (0)88 235 7550 | klantenservice@partou.nl | www.partou.nl | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @partouchildcare | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @partouchildcare | LINKEDIN @partouchildcare CHURCHES • Crossroads International Church: +31 (0)20 545 1444 | info@xrds.nl | www.xrds.nl MENTAL HEALTH • Kühler & Partners International Mental Health: - Location Amsterdam: Amstelveenseweg 390, 1076 CT Amsterdam - Location The Hague: Nassaulaan 5, 2514 JS The Hague | +31 (0)85 066 0500 | info@internationalmentalhealth.nl | www.internationalmentalhealth.nl ENTERTAINMENT • A Dutch Experience: Oude Enghweg 32, 1217 JD Hilversum | +31 (0)35 62 12 825 | info@adutchexperience.com | www.adutchexperience.com SPORT • Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Bond: Nieuwe Kalfjeslaan 21B, 1182 AA Amstelveen | +31 (0)6 537 13337 | cricket@kncb.nl | www.kncb.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @KNCB | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @KNCBcricket | LINKEDIN @KNCB • David Lloyd: - Overtoom 557, 1054 LK Amsterdam | +31 (0)88 020 2103 | amsterdam@davidlloyd.nl - Peter Zuidlaan 30, 5502 NH Veldhoven | +31 (0)40 253 8125 | mship.eindhoven@davidlloyd.nl | www.davidlloyd.nl • Eindhoven Sport: +31 (0)40 238 1151 | sport@eindhoven.nl | www.eindhovensport.nl • The Little Gym Amsterdam & The Hague & Haarlem: - Amsterdam: Henkenshage 4, 1083 BX Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 404 0798 - The Hague: Koningin Julianalaan 343, The Hague | +31 (0)70 300 0992 - Haarlem: Zijlweg 148A, 2015 BJ Haarlem | +31 (0)23 576 7316 | amsterdam@thelittlegym.nl | www.thelittlegym.eu/nl-en

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

HEALTHCARE CHIROPRACTICES

DENTAL EMERGENCIES

You can call one of the helplines below to find an out-of-hours dentist, or call your own dentist and a recorded message will inform you what to do. Many dentists provide their own emergency services. Find a dentist at www.tandarts.nl • Amsterdam: 0900 821 2230

• Pure Health Chiropractic: Stadionweg 288, 1076 PG Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 2332168 | info@purehealthchiropractic.nl | www.purehealthchiropractic.nl

• The Hague: 070 311 0305

INSURANCE

DENTAL PRACTICES

For more information about your specific situation, you can contact the following:

• College for Health Insurances: 020 797 8555. • Sociale Verzekeringsbank: www.svb.nl. Under contact, type your postcode and get the phone number for your area and specific situation (for questions regarding social security). INSURANCE PROVIDERS • www.independer.nl HEALTH CONTACTS • ACCESS: www.access-nl.org – ACCESS publishes several online information guides.

• Rotterdam: 010 455 2155

• Doula: www.doula.nl

• Lassus Tandartsen Tilburg: Ringbaan Oost 2-02, 5013 CA Tilburg | +31 (0)132 105009 | Tilburg@lassus.nl | www.lassus.nl

• H4i / Healthcare for internationals: Tilburgseweg-West 100, 5652 NP Eindhoven | h4i@h4i.nl | www.h4i.nl

• Apollo – Tandartsen voor orthodontie: Apollolaan 174, 1077 BH Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 210 40 06 | info@apollo-ortho.nl | www.apollo-ortho.nl

• H4i Limburg / Healthcare for internationals Limburg: Professor Gelissensingel 20, 5912 JX Venlo | www.h4ilimburg.nl | info@h4ilimburg.nl

• Homecare (thuiszorg): www.thuiszorg.startpagina.nl • The Royal Dutch Medical Association (KNMG): www.knmg.nl

• Tandartspraktijk Jan van Galen: Jan van Galenstraat 171, 1056 BS Amsterdam (West) | +31 (0)20 618 0074 | info@tandartspraktijkjanvangalen.nl | www.tandartspraktijkjanvangalen.nl

MEDICAL

EXPAT COACHING & THERAPY

• Midwives: www.knov.nl

The emergency number for fire, police and ambulance is 112. HOSPITAL A hospital is a “ziekenhuis” and a complete list of hospitals and medical centres for the Netherlands can be found at www.ziekenhuis.nl PHARMACY • To locate an apotheek, visit www.apotheek.nl DOCTOR Don’t wait for an emergency before registering with a family doctor. Find one at www.zorgkaartnederland.nl/huisarts • Expat Medical Service (Central Doctors): De Ruijterkade 24a, 1012 NA Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 427 5011 | stationdoctors@gmail.com | www.expatmedicalservice.nl EMERGENCY DOCTORS SERVICES (CENTRALE HUISARTSENPOST) • Amsterdam region (SHDA): 088 003 0600 • The Hague (SMASH): 070 346 9669

• Kühler & Partners International Mental Health: - Location Amsterdam: Amstelveenseweg 390, 1076 CT Amsterdam - Location The Hague: Nassaulaan 5, 2514 JS The Hague | +31 (0)85 066 05 00 | info@internationalmentalhealth.nl | www.internationalmentalhealth.nl • SGE International: Strijp-S Videolab 4.042, Torenallee 20, 5617 BC Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 711 6730 | international@sge.nl | www.sgeinternational.nl • U-center: Julianastraat 23 A, 6285 AH Epen | +31 (0)800 222 4446 | comcenter@u-center.nl | www.u-center.nl BIRTH • Verloskundigen 101: Johannes Verhulststraat 101, 1071 MX Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 470 0067 | Verloskundigen101@gmail.com | www.verloskundigen101.nl SPORT • Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Bond: Nieuwe Kalfjeslaan 21B, 1182 AA Amstelveen | +31 (0)6-537 13337 | cricket@kncb.nl | www.kncb.nl | FACEBOOK-SQUARE @KNCB | INSTAGRAM-SQUARE @KNCBcricket | LINKEDIN @KNCB

• Utrecht: 0900 450 1450

• David Lloyd: - Overtoom 557, 1054 LK Amsterdam: +31 (0)88 020 21 03 | amsterdam@davidlloyd.nl - Peter Zuidlaan 30, 5502 NH Veldhoven: +31 (0)40 253 8125 | mship.eindhoven@davidlloyd.nl | www.davidlloyd.nl

• Eindhoven: 0900 8861

• Eindhoven Sport: +31 (0)40 238 1151 | sport@eindhoven.nl | www.eindhovensport.nl

• Rotterdam: 010 290 9888

• National line for information on all medical services: 0900 1515 (24/7) TRANSPORT BUYING A CAR

CAR RENTAL

• Hertz Rent a Car: www.hertz.nl | +31 (0)23 567 0747 | salesnl@hertz.com

ENTERTAINMENT BOOKS

FOOD & DRINK

• Eating Amsterdam Tours: Herengracht 124-126, 1015 BT Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 894 3068 | info@eatingamsterdamtours.com | www.eatingamsterdamtours.com

• Waterstones Amsterdam: Kalverstraat 152, 1012 XE, Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 638 3821 | amsterdam@waterstones.com | www.waterstones.com |

• Hard Rock Café: Max Euweplein 57–61, 1017 MA Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 523 7611 | www.hardrock.com/cafes/amsterdam

EXPAT NEWS & PUBLICATIONS

• Heineken Experience: Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam | www.heinekenexperience.nl

• DutchNews.nl: www.dutchnews.nl • Eindhoven News: www.eindhovennews.nl • Expatica: www.expatica.nl • Howdo Magazine: www.howdo.info • The Hague Online: www.thehagueonline.com • The Holland Times: Energieplein 8, 2031 TC Haarlem | +31 (0)20 410 7880 | www.hollandtimes.nl • XPat Media: Van Boetzelaerlaan 153, 2581 AR The Hague | +31 (0)70 306 33 10 | info@xpat.nl | www.xpat.nl

• House of Bols: The cocktail and genever experience: Opposite Van Gogh Museum, Paulus Potterstraat 14, Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 570 8575 | info@houseofbols.com | www.houseofbols.com • Reypenaer Cheese Tasting Room: Singel 182, 1015 AJ Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 320 6333 | info@reypenaer.nl | www.reypenaer.nl MUSIC, THEATER, FILM & COMEDY • Amsterdam Magic Show: Paleis van de Weemoed, Oudezijds Voorburgwal 15, 1012 EH Amsterdam | hi@amsterdam-magic.com | www.amsterdam-magic.com • Boom Chicago: Rozengracht 117, 1016 LV Amsterdam | hello@boomchicago.nl | www.boomchicago.nl • Broadcast Amsterdam: info@broadcastamsterdam.nl | www.broadcastamsterdam.nl • Easylaughs: info@easylaughs.nl | www.easylaughs.nl

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

• EYE Film: IJpromenade 1, 1031 KT Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 589 1400 | info@eyefilm.nl | www.eyefilm.nl • North Sea Jazz Club: Westergasfabriek, Pazzanistraat 1, 1014 DB Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 722 0980 | info@northseajazzclub.com | www.northseajazzclub.com • Stadsschouwburg & Philharmonie Haarlem: Philharmonie Lange Begijnestraat 11, 2011 HH Haarlem | Stadsschouwburg Wilsonsplein 23, 2011 VG Haarlem | +31 (0)23 512 1212 | info@theater-haarlem.nl | www.theater-haarlem.nl • STET The English Theatre: Nassaulaan 17, 2243 HJ Wassenaar | +31 (0)6 300 500 18 | info@theenglishtheatre.nl

GROUPS AND CLUBS ADVICE AND INFORMATION

New Zealand:

• ACCESS - Lange Voorhout 12, 2514 ED The Hague - The Hague International Centre: Spui 70, 2511 BT The Hague - Utrecht International Center: Stadsplateau 1, 3521 AZ Utrecht - IN Amsterdam: I-Tower, ground floor (entrance via zuidplein), Strawinskylaan 1767, 1077 XX Amsterdam - Leiden International Centre - VVV Leiden (Tourist Information Centre): Stationsweg 26, 2312 AV Leiden | +31 (0)900 222 2377 (20ct/min) | helpdesk@access-nl.org | www.access-nl.org

• New Zealand’s Global Network: www.keanewzealand.com

• Expatriate Archive Centre: Paramaribostraat 20, 2585 GN, The Hague | +31 (0)70 427 2014 | welcome@xpatarchive.com | www.xpatarchive.com

Singapore: • Singapore Netherlands Association: FACEBOOK-SQUARE @Singapore Netherlands Association (SNA) Social Spain: • La Asociacion Hispanica de La Haya: www.asoha.nl South Africa: • The SA Club in the Netherlands: www.southafricanclub.nl

BUSINESS/PROFESSIONAL

UK:

• Amsterdam American Business Club (AABC): www.aabc.nl

• British Society of Amsterdam: www.britsoc.nl

• Amsterdam Chamber of Commerce (AmCham): www.amcham.nl

• The British Club of The Hague: www.britishclubofthehague.com

• Australian Business in Europe: www.abie-nl.nl

• St Andrew’s Society: www.standrews.nl

• Club of Amsterdam: www.clubofamsterdam.com

• Oxford and Cambridge Society of the Netherlands: www.oxbridge-nl.com

• Commerical Anglo-Dutch Society (CADS): www.cadsnewsletter.wordpress.com

POLITICS/ACTIVIST

• Connecting Women: www.connectingwomen.nl

• Amnesty International: www.amnesty.nl

• Foreign Press Association: www.bpv-fpa.nl

• Democrats Abroad: www.democratsabroad.nl

• French Chamber of Commerce Netherlands: www.cfci.nl

• War Child: www.warchild.nl

• Institute of Directors: www.iod.com

• World Wide Fund: www.wnf.nl

• Junior Chamber International (Amsterdam): www.jciai.nl

SOCIAL

• Kiwi Expat Association (KEA): www.keanewzealand.com • Netherlands British Chamber of Commerce: www.nbcc.co.uk

• Netherlands- Polish Chamber of Commerce: www.nlchamber.com.pl

• Amsterdam Expat Meetup Group: www.meetup.com/amsterdam-expat

• Rotary Club Utrecht International: www.rotary-utrecht-international.nl

• Expats Haarlem: www.expatshaarlem.nl

• Society of English-Native-Speaking Editors: www.sense-online.nl

• International Almere: www.internationalalmere.com

• Swedish Chamber of Commerce: www.swedishchamber.nl

WOMEN’S CLUBS

• Toastmasters of the Netherlands: www.toastmasters.nl CULTURE & MEDIA • Boom Chicago: Rozengracht 117, 1016 LV Amsterdam | hello@boomchicago.nl | www.boomchicago.nl • Easylaughs (Amsterdam): www.easylaughs.nl • STET –The English Theatre (The Hague): www.theenglishtheatre.nl GAY & LESBIAN • COC Amsterdam: www.cocamsterdam.nl CLUBS BY NATIONALITY

• American Women’s Club of Amsterdam: www.awca.nl • American Women’s Club of The Hague: American Women’s Club of The Hague: Johan van Oldenbarneveltlaan 43, 2582 NJ, The Hague | +31 (0)070 350 6007 | info@awcthehague.org | www.awcthehague.org • Connecting Women (The Hague): www.connectingwomen.nl • Expat Spouses Initiative: www.expatspousesinitiative.org • International Women’s Club Breda: www.iwcbreda.nl • International Women’s Club Eindhoven: www.iwce.nl • International Women’s Club South Limburg: www.iwc-sl.nl

Australia:

• International Women’s Contact Amsterdam: www.iwcamsterdam.nl

• Australian and New Zealand Club of the Netherlands: www.anzc.org

• International Women’s Contact Utrecht: www.iwcu.nl • International Women’s Contact The Hague: www.iwcthehague.nl

France:

• Mom2Mom and women’s church groups: www.trinitychurch.nl

• Alliance Francaise: www.alliance-francaise.nl

• Petroleum Wives Club of The Hague: www.pwc-thehague.com

India:

• Women’s Business Initiative: www.womensbusinessinitiative.net

• India in Nederland: www.indiawijzer.nl

CHURCHES & RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES

• Netherlands-India Association (NIA): www.netherlands-india.nu Ireland: • Irish Club: www.irishclub.nl

• Crossroads International Church: www.xrds.nl VOLUNTEER GROUPS & OTHER • ACCESS: heldesk@access-nl.org | www.access-nl.org

Latin America:

• Serve the City Amsterdam: www.stcamsterdam.nl

• CLO Stichting – El Centro Latinoamericano de Orientacion: www.cloeindhoven.nl

• Serve the city Netherlands: www.servethecity.nl • Volunteer Centre Amsterdam: www.vca.nu

Survival Guide for Internationals 2025 | The Netherlands | www.expatsurvivalguide.nl

Advertisers index 2/3

• 27 House Real Estate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 • 348 Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

• Hello Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 • HSV International Primary School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

• Rabobank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC • Rijschool Dekker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 • Rotterdam International Center / Expat Centre Rotterdam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

• A&H Finance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 • ACCESS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 • American School of the Hague. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 • Amity International School Amsterdam. . . . . . . . . 62 • Amstelland International School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

• IN Amsterdam / Expat Centre Amsterdam. . . . . 18 • International School Haarlem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

• SCL Rotterdam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 • SmeetsGijbels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 • STE Languages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

• KGT Consulting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 • Kindergarden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74, 75 • KNCB (Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Bond). . 77 • Kühler & Partners International Mental Health. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77, 83

• Big5 Relocations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 • Blue Umbrella. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 • BNC Tax & Accounting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 • Bynco.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

C • Chiropractie Centraal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 • Corporate Housing Factory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC • CvTE (College voor Toetsen en Examens). . . . . . . 67

D • Direct Dutch Institute. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 • Dutch Courses Amsterdam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 • Dutch Courses Amsterdam Katakura WBLC. . 64 • Dutch First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 • Dutch Real Estate Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 • DutchNews.nl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

E • Eerde International School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 • Engel & Völkers Netherlands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC • EURAXESS Netherlands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 • Expat Centre Maastricht Region. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 • Expats Overseas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

F • Flowently. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

L • Language Institute Regina Coeli. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 • Lassus Tandartsen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 • Leiden International Centre / Expat Centre Leiden. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 • LIMES international. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 • Lindy Nikken Real Estate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

M • MILES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 • MVA Certified Expat Broker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 • Mynta Law. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

N • NAHV Belastingadviseurs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 • Neve Consultancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

O • Optimist International School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

P • Partou Childcare. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 • PAS BMS Immigration and Relocation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 • PAYSE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 • Peter Bruin Makelaardij. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 • PIRGROUP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

• German International School The Hague. . . . . . . . 54 • GMW Lawyers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

*IFC = Inside Front Cover **IBC = Inside Back Cover ***BC = Back Cover 100

www.expatsurvivalguide.nl | The Netherlands | Survival Guide for Internationals 2025

• TaalBoost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 • Taalhuis Amsterdam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 • Tandartsenpraktijk Jesse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 • TaxSavers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 • The British School of Amsterdam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 • The Hague International Centre / Expat Centre The Hague. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 • TIAS School for Business and Society . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 • Tulip Expats Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

U • Ute’s International Lounge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 • Utrecht International Center / Expat Centre Utrecht. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 • UWV EURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

V • Van Buttingha Wichers Notaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 • Vivo Dutch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

W • Winford Bilingual Schools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Y • YOSAA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC

Expats, Welcome Home!

At Engel & Völkers, we understand that moving to a new country is more than just relocating - it's about starting a new chapter. Our dedicated team is here to help you find a home where new adventures and lasting memories begin!

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Expat Survival Guide 2025 - The Netherlands