Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

What do I need to know before moving to Netherlands?

Answer this Question

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Netherlands, they said...

"FINDING an apartment is the difficult part of moving to the Netherlands. Amsterdam is probably the most difficult place to search. People are on waiting lists for years to get even a small place. The more you are willing to spend, the faster you will find a place. Knowing people helps you find a goods place both in terms of getting advice on neighborhoods and in terms of hearing of vacant places. The best places never even get advertised--a friend will offer his place to another friend first," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Rotterdam, Netherlands.

"Expats should be aware that the Netherlands is a culturally diverse nation that is home to a wide range of expats from all over the world. The Dutch language is the most common language, though English is widely spoken. Expats should also be aware of the potentially high cost of living in the Netherlands, with Amsterdam being one of the most expensive cities in Europe. Expats should prepare for regular payments such as taxes and community service fees, but also healthcare costs (which can be reimbursed if you have a Dutch health insurance). Visa regulations may also be complex and health insurance regulations should be understood. Expats should also be aware of the cultural differences they may encounter while living in the Netherlands, such as the flat structure of the society, the unconventional attitude towards children, and the proactive nature of the Dutch," commented one expat who made the move to Netherlands.

GeoBlueGeoBlue
Get Quote

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!

GeoBlueGeoBlue

GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
Get Quote

Other Questions:

What do I need to know before moving to Netherlands?

If you live in The Netherlands, newcomers to The Netherlands would love to hear your answer to this question.

If your answer relates to a specific city or town in The Netherlands, please include the name of the city/town below:


About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute to Netherlands Network Contribute
Help others in Netherlands by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Netherlands.

William Russell
William Russell

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal