Expat in The Netherlands: all you need to know

Excerpt: Moving to The Netherlands as an expat involves several important considerations. In this blog, Riva has compiled essential information for you, such as arranging your visa, finding housing, opening a bank account, and understanding Dutch healthcare. Read on to be well-prepared!

Welcome to The Netherlands

Moving to another country for work is an exciting adventure. As an expat, you find yourself in a different country with a new language, people, and culture. Relocating to the Netherlands involves not just adventure but also practical matters that need to be handled properly. At Riva Rentals, we have over 10 years of experience in the Rotterdam rental market, where most of our tenants have been and still are expats from all over the world. Below is an overview of the most important things you need to know before moving to The Netherlands.

Visa and Residence Permit

Depending on your nationality and the length of your stay, you might need a visa or residence permit to live and work in The Netherlands for an extended period. If you will be living and working in The Netherlands for more than three months, you will need to apply for a Combined Residence and Work Permit, in Dutch this is called a Gecombineerde Vergunning Verblijf en Arbeid (GVVA). In many cases, your employer will arrange this for you. If not, you can apply for it via this link. EU/EEA residents and Swiss citizens do not need a visa but must register with the local municipality.

Citizen Service Number (BSN)

One of the first steps after arriving in The Netherlands is obtaining a Citizen Service Number, in Dutch this is called a Burger Service Nummer (BSN). This unique number is required for various administrative tasks, such as opening a bank account, filing taxes, and accessing healthcare services. You can apply for your BSN when you register with the municipality where you will be living.

Housing

As a rental agency in Rotterdam, this is our area of expertise. The housing market in The Netherlands can be quite competitive, especially in larger cities like Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Amsterdam. Check with your employer to see if housing is arranged for you or if it’s your responsibility. If the last is the case, start your housing search in advance and ensure that your documents are in order so you can quickly provide them to a rental agency or landlord. The full list of available properties can be viewed on the Riva Rentals website. You can filter by factors such as the number of bedrooms, the neighborhood, and the price range. If you are interested in a property, you can leave your details via the ‘I’m interested’ button at the bottom of the page. You will then receive an email from us requesting certain documents, such as a copy of your ID, your employment contract, recent pay slips, and an employer’s statement.

Healthcare

The Netherlands has a high-quality healthcare system. Everyone living here is legally required to have basic health insurance, including expats. You have three months after your arrival in the Netherlands to take out health insurance. Don’t forget to bring your EHIC card if you are from an EU country, so you are covered until you have Dutch health insurance.

Banking

Opening a bank account is essential for managing your finances in The Netherlands. It is mandatory to have your salary paid into a Dutch bank account when you live and work here as an expat. To open a Dutch bank account, you need a valid ID, proof of address, and your BSN. Many banks offer special packages for expats, which can simplify the process.

Taxes

Now for the less pleasant part: taxes. The Netherlands has a strict and complex tax system, but as an expat, you might benefit from the 30% rule. This means that for the first 20 months, 30% of your salary can be tax-free, then 20% tax-free for the next 20 months, and again 20% tax-free for the final 20 months. To qualify for this ruling, you must meet certain conditions. This scheme has been revised as of January 1, 2024, and is a frequent topic of discussion, so we advise you to get thorough information on this matter. Of course, you should always make sure that you’re informed about the rules for paying taxes in your home country, even when you’re an expat. Every country has its own rules and it’s very important to keep that in mind to prevent fines.

Language

The Dutch language is one of the most difficult languages to learn. However, don't worry! Not speaking Dutch doesn't necessarily pose a problem, as almost every Dutch person speaks English. Depending on your situation, learning Dutch might not be necessary. If you work in an international company where English is the primary language, learning Dutch might not be as important as it would be in a local company.

Cultural Knowledge and Customs

We Dutch, especially Rotterdammers, are known for our directness and openness, which might take some getting used to. Nevertheless, this openness and the high level of English spoken make it easier for many expats to adapt. Additionally, Rotterdam is home to people from over 170 different nationalities, offering a great variety of cultures and languages, which can help you feel at home.

No worries

As you have read, moving to The Netherlands as an expat requires good preparation and knowledge of local rules and customs. However, after taking care of these things, you will likely feel at home in the Netherlands quickly. For many expats, housing remains the biggest concern. But with the right preparation and the right rental agency, it can make all the difference. For more information, visit our website and don’t forget to check out our blog page for more details about Rotterdam, housing, and regulations.

Contact

Do you have any questions about what you need to know as an expat, or is there something else we can help you with? Contact us by emailing info@rivarentals.com.