Websites for Expats in the Netherlands

If you’re new to the Netherlands or preparing to relocate, there’s a lot to consider and manage, from navigating Dutch bureaucracy to finding a suitable place to live. While some aspects may be familiar from your home country, others can be quite different. To support you in your expat journey, we’ve compiled a list of helpful websites to guide you through life in the Netherlands. These resources will provide valuable information and assistance as you settle into expat life.

Government

When embarking on your journey to the Netherlands, a crucial initial step is registering at the city hall. Check out the official websites of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht municipalities through the links below. If you reside elsewhere, be sure to explore the official website of your nearest city hall for the necessary information.

Amsterdam: Link to Amsterdam Municipality’s first registration page 
Rotterdam: Link to Rotterdam Municipality’s registration page 
Utrecht: Link to Utrecht Municipality’s appointment page 
The Hague: Link to The Hague Municipality’s BRP registration page

Upon successful registration, you’ll be issued a Burgerservicenummer (BSN), the Citizen Service Number. This essential identifier is mandatory for all residents in the Netherlands and streamlines interactions with government agencies, banks, and health insurance providers.Equally vital is setting up your DigiD account. Your DigiD username and password will grant you access to a range of Dutch administrative websites, including those of the Dutch tax authorities.

DigiD website for applying or activating DigiD 

In addition to city hall registration and DigiD, there are other government institutions to be aware of:

If you are a non-EU citizen, the Immigratie en Naturalisatiedienst (IND) or Immigration and Naturalization Service is a crucial stop for handling visa, work, and residence permit matters. IND website 

Create an account with UWV, the Dutch Employment Agency. You can find open vacancies, information on unemployment benefits, sick leave, and more. UWV website 

Lastly, you should contact the Dutch tax authorities. Visit the official website of the Belastingdienst for information and resources. Belastingdienst website 

Transportation

While cycling is prevalent in the Netherlands, familiarizing yourself with the public transportation system is still important. Here are some useful websites for accessing information about public transportation schedules and purchasing tickets:

9292: Provides comprehensive travel planning for all public transportation modes, including trains, buses, trams, and metros.
NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen): The official website of the Dutch national railway company, offering train schedules, ticket information, and services.
OV-chipkaart: The official website for the OV-chipkaart, the smart card used for public transportation in the Netherlands. You can find information about how to obtain, top up, and use the card on this website.

These resources will help you navigate the Dutch public transportation system effectively and ensure you have a smooth and convenient travel experience.

Education

If you or your family members are interested in studying in the Netherlands, here are some websites of recognized higher educational institutions that you can explore:

Utrecht University: One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the Netherlands, offering a broad spectrum of programs and research areas.
Erasmus University Rotterdam: One of the top universities in the Netherlands, offering a wide range of programs across various disciplines.
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam: A renowned research university located in Amsterdam, offering bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. programs.
University of Amsterdam: A leading university in the heart of Amsterdam, known for its diverse range of academic programs and research opportunities.
Nuffic: The Dutch organization for internationalization in education provides information and resources for international students and scholars.

These websites will provide you with detailed information about the universities, their programs, admission requirements, and other essential details for pursuing higher education in the Netherlands.

Housing

Navigating the housing market is a top priority for expatriates in the Netherlands, particularly in high-demand regions like the Randstad. City living can be competitive, and affordable options may be scarce. If you’re relocating without employer assistance, exploring online platforms connecting landlords and tenants can be a valuable step. Consider utilizing these platforms to ease your search for suitable accommodation, Some platforms may require users to pay a fee:

Funda.nl 
IamExpat 
Kamernet.nl
Housing Anywhere

Additionally, consider exploring rental agencies that provide personalized services to cater to your specific housing requirements. Housing agencies may impose a fee, and the amount can range from a few hundred euros to one month’s rent or more:

VGW Housing
27 House Makelaars 
Perfect Housing 
AT Home Vastgoed 
Koops Makelaardij
Lutz Real Estate 
Sonar Apartments
Amsterdam Housing