If you are planning a move to the Netherlands, you will need to consider how you will handle your banking arrangements. Depending on your requirements, there are several options you can choose from.You may be considering maintaining your existing bank accounts, whether to pay bills, for direct debits, or simply so that they’re there if … Read more

The Netherlands, a country in Northwestern Europe, is perhaps best known for its flat landscape, peppered with bright tulip fields, and its quaint, picturesque towns, with their beautiful, winding canals. The capital city of Amsterdam is home to a myriad of famous museums, as well as the more seedy and illicit spectacles that garner tourism … Read more

Citizens from European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries (as well as Switzerland) who are moving to the Netherlands are automatically entitled to Dutch work permission, which is essential to secure employment in the country. If you are from any country outside of these areas, it is likely that you will only be … Read more

Standards of dental care in the USA are particularly high, and dentistry in Europe — particularly in Britain — is the butt of many a joke by American comedians. If you are planning to move to the Netherlands but you are worried about whether you will receive the level of dental care you are used … Read more

The Dutch healthcare system is run by insurers but regulated by the government. All residents in the country are required to take out a health insurance policy, and insurers are not allowed to turn anyone away based on age or medical history. Pregnancy care is free of charge in the Netherlands — all insurers are … Read more

The Netherlands requires all residents to take out a health insurance policy, and insurers are not allowed to turn anyone away for basic cover, regardless of age or medical history. This can come as a relief to expats who have had cancer, since in many countries it can be difficult to get health insurance if … Read more

The standard of healthcare in the Netherlands is generally high. Having come top in a variety of European surveys over the years, the Dutch health system has secured its place in the upper echelons of healthcare. However, there will still be some surprises for expats moving to the Netherlands, particularly when it comes to picking … Read more

At first glance, the state of healthcare in the Netherlands looks very positive. The country consistently ranked very highly in the Euro Health Consumer Index, which ran from 2005-2016. The Netherlands took the top spot for several years, ending up in second place throughout the overall history of the index.The Netherlands tends to rank highly … Read more

The healthcare system in the Netherlands is made up of mandatory health insurance, run by private companies but regulated by the government. Everyone who is living and working in the Netherlands is required by law to sign up for a health insurance policy, with very few exceptions. There are three levels of health insurance in … Read more

The Netherlands has a mandatory health insurance scheme, which is run by private insurers but regulated by the government. Anyone staying in the Netherlands for the long-term, and anyone who is employed by a Dutch company and working in the Netherlands, will need to take out health insurance. There are three types of health insurance … Read more

The basic healthcare system in the Netherlands is known as basisverzekering and is dually funded from tax contributions and fees levied by insurers. Although the health system is run through private insurers, the government manages it and imposes certain rules and regulations on the industry. For example, health insurers are not allowed to turn anyone … Read more

For music lovers and festival fans, the Netherlands is a great place to be. The country loves music and boasts an impressive list of popular DJs such as Tiesto, Martin Garrix, Afrojack and Nicky Romero. Even better, festival ticket prices are usually far cheaper than they are in the UK, where you’ll be looking at … Read more

Famed for its vast population of cyclists, Amsterdam has been at the forefront of green technology for many years. Recently, the Dutch capital’s city council decided to elevate their eco-credentials further, announcing plans to phase out petrol and diesel cars, leaving only electric vehicles in the city centre by 2030.The motivation behind the proposed ban … Read more

In recent times, employers in Amsterdam have started leaning towards offering their employees non-traditional hours, shortened work weeks and remote employment.The Netherlands is considered one of the best countries for a work/life balance and overall quality of life according to the latest surveys. It is also a great place for English-speaking expats to find employment … Read more

There’s so much to take into consideration when it comes to purchasing property, including a buy-to-let investment. You obviously want to protect your assets and see a good return on investment, with a preferable rental yield or profit that makes the purchase and hassle worth your while.The Netherlands is beautiful country to live in which … Read more

It’s no news to anyone that corporate Europe is in turmoil at present as a consequence of the UK’s decision to pull out of the European Union as well as the growing uncertainty around when Brexit will happen. But why are so many companies moving to the Netherlands? Which countries are they relocating from? And … Read more

As much as relocating to another country can be an exciting adventure, it can also be a challenge. For teenagers, whose lives are already filled with uncertainty and change, moving to another country can be incredibly overwhelming. Moving means changing school, making new friends and re-establishing an identity. However, moving to a place like Amsterdam … Read more

If you’re bringing your inheritance into the Netherlands, tax laws may have implications for your assets, so make sure that you’re fully informed. With the right information at hand, you can avoid being hit by any unexpected taxes and duties that will stop you making the most of your inheritance.We’ve put together an overview of … Read more

Building a life as an expat is always a challenge – and being transgender can make everything more complicated. Pulling up roots and migrating to a famously liberal place like the Netherlands is a dream for many trans people facing persecution and discrimination elsewhere. However, living that dream means grappling with the difficulties of the … Read more

Amsterdam may have made it into the top five cities for expats in last year’s Expat Insider survey, but the welcome they can expect may be waning.With English fast becoming a native language, rocketing house prices, and Dutch traditions such as Sinterklaas struggling for survival, some Dutch residents are feeling pushed out – and one … Read more

So you’ve made the choice to move to Amsterdam. Visa? Tick. Accommodation? Tick. Employment? Tick. Friends? Hmm… if you haven’t quite fallen into your crowd yet, do not despair! Amsterdam is a bustling international city attracting people from around the globe, and one of the most exciting parts of settling in here will be getting … Read more

Thinking of moving to the Netherlands for work, or looking to employ someone from outside the country? Here are our answers to the most common questions about work permits. EU/EEA members and Swiss nationals are entitled to the free movement of labour and do not require employment permits to work in the Netherlands.As the newest … Read more

In a former publishing house, east of Amsterdam’s city centre, the tip-tap of a table tennis game snaps back and forth through the air. There are comfy sofas, a retro photo booth, a shiny black foosball table and a curtained-off area with a TV that is never switched off. A launderette with a six-foot-high pin … Read more

In 1992, as the Royal Dutch Petroleum Company (also known as Shell) prepared to celebrate its centenary, the wives of several senior expatriate employees felt that they too deserved recognition. These wives had made this success possible, after all. They had supported their partners each step of the way, adjusting family life as best they … Read more

Get your finances sorted out early and you’ll feel as though a huge weight has been lifted from your shoulders. Daily life in a new country is so much more manageable once you have a bank card in your pocket! Fortunately, setting up a bank account in the Netherlands is straightforward, so you should be … Read more

“If I could end the need for my own job… I’d actually be a happy bunny!” says Dafna Eccles, renting consultant at !WOON’s tenant advisory services in Amsterdam South. If tenants knew the rules, and property owners stuck to them, there would be no need for !WOON, she explains, and the world would be a … Read more

Despite being the second-biggest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam has relatively few international schools to choose from. It could be that this makes your decision easier if you have children and decide to move there!All English-speaking international secondary schools offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, but not all offer the Cambridge-administered International General Certificate of … Read more

For expats who celebrate Christmas, being far away from friends and family can make the festivities feel somewhat muted, so it’s a good idea to create your own traditions in your new home. Here are ten ways to make the season special during your time in Amsterdam. Decorate A Christmas Tree What better way to … Read more

Dennis, how did you first become an expat? Having finished Boston University School of Management, I decided with a cycling friend to take a tour of Europe by bicycle for the summer of 1980. My friend cancelled at the last minute after months of planning, so I decided to go it alone. This summer trip … Read more

Starting life as an expat can get expensive: relocating your family and pets, finding a place to live, visas and flights all add up. Unlike many other countries in Europe, the Netherlands has no government-sponsored healthcare system. So if you’re moving there, you’ll have to add health insurance premiums to that expense.This isn’t just for … Read more

If you’re moving to the Netherlands, there is no need to leave your furry friends at home, since the country allows newcomers to bring their family pets with them. However, owners should be aware of the strict conditions relating to pet travel and complete the paperwork in good time. Check out our guide for answers … Read more

Fancy freaking yourself out? No need to miss out on a spook-fest while you are living in the Netherlands. Here are some creepy destinations to give you the shivers. The Prison Gate Museum, The Hague www.gevangenpoort.nl Just west of the Hofvijver, in the centre of The Hague, stands the foreboding Museum de Gevangenpoort, a thirteenth … Read more

Expat centres in the Netherlands are enjoying a radical restyle, and IN Amsterdam is leading the way. Expat Focus heads to its HQ in Amsterdam’s stylish World Trade Center to find out more about the rationale behind the new branding and the services that expatriates can expect from the centre.The friendly Anglophone office of IN … Read more

Looking to move to the Netherlands? When it comes to finding the right place for you, that little flat in the hip part of town or that beautiful 18th century-built apartment overlooking the canals may be just around the corner.It can take a while to find something suitable within your price range, so be ready … Read more

Amsterdam is an exciting city with a friendly, family vibe and plenty for children to do. Here are 10 reasons why kids are happy here.Community You might not expect the words ‘community’ and ‘capital city’ to go together but, surprisingly, Amsterdam still enjoys a charming village atmosphere despite its size and stature. Though the town … Read more

Want to party like the Dutch? Mark up your calendar with these ten fun festivals.New Year Known to the locals simply as Oud en Nieuw (Old and New), New Year’s Eve celebrations in the Netherlands are possibly the most exciting (and chaotic) in the world. The lifting of the ban on the sale of fireworks … Read more

Preschool (voorschool) is a government-subsidised schooling system for children aged 2.5 to 4. More structured than a playschool, the voorschool works in association with their local primary school (basisschool) and is designed to equip children – in a fun way – with the basic skills for school life.Attending a preschool is not compulsory, but the … Read more

Though the Netherlands may not be your homeland, it can still in time win your affections. Here are ten aspects of Dutch life which have found a warm place in the heart of many expatriates.Cycling When so many cities suffer from congested roads, and a public transport system that is caving under the strain of … Read more

With family far away, finding childcare can be an added expense for international parents new to the Netherlands. Below are six common forms of childcare here and what you can expect from each service. Au Pair An au pair is a young adult aged between 18 and 30 who offers childcare services in return for … Read more

One of the comforts for newcomers relocating to the Netherlands is Dutch people’s friendly enthusiasm for speaking English. The Dutch love the English language and they revel in any opportunity to use it. They have even been rated the best speakers of English in the world.That’s extremely handy and reassuring in your first few months … Read more

Newcomers to the Netherlands seeking culture, debate and discussion in English can find a lovingly-curated programme of events at De Balie in central Amsterdam. The former district court, with its beautiful stained glass, doubles as a wedding venue when not hosting discussions and performances. In 2016, De Balie welcomed some 99,000 visitors to enjoy its … Read more

Expats from another European Union country planning to live in the Netherlands for more than three months must register with the nearest Municipality Administration (GBA) and will need various bits of documentation to register. As with most countries, moving to the Netherlands will deliver something of a culture shock but expats will soon find ways … Read more

At Expat Focus, we like to be on the lookout for resources around the web that could help prospective expats adjust to their new countries. Today, we’re taking a look at the Netherlands and some of the social media accounts you should be following if you’re thinking of moving there.Netherlands Expats Facebook Group With over … Read more

With around 95% of the population in work, and unemployment continuing to fall, the Netherlands provides good prospects for those seeking work. The average annual salary is around 48,000 euros and workers aged 15 and above are entitled to a minimum wage.Work culture in the Netherlands The Netherlands is well known for its excellent work-life … Read more

The Netherlands practises a calm and informed approach to pregnancy, which is deemed to be a healthy and normal state and not a medical condition which requires intense scrutiny. While this can be frustrating when you are trying to get a referral for something you are seriously worried about, it is also a welcome break … Read more

With around 7000 primary schools to choose from, newcomers to the Netherlands need clear information to identify the best fit for their child. We answer the key questions on primary education options to help you begin your search.What do I need to know about primary education in the Netherlands? Most children will start school on, … Read more

Below is our guide on navigating the complex – and often competitive – process of securing a property. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and find out about the laws which are on your side. What Is The Rental Market Like Right Now? Since 2014, property prices in Amsterdam have soared, with 2016 seeing an … Read more

When you make a list of the places that are among the best for raising children, the Netherlands is one name that is bound to feature near the top. This charming European country has become one of the most desirable expat destinations in the world for several reasons, which include its high standard of living, … Read more

Dutch cuisine consists of hearty fare that is warming and wholesome, something that the locals greatly appreciate on account of the cold temperatures. Today we’re taking a look at some of the dishes you should try if you’re living in the Netherlands.Erwtensoep This thick pea soup constitutes a meal in itself. Made from dried and … Read more

The Netherlands has for a long time been one of the more desirable expat locations in the world. The fact that so many people want to live here isn’t surprising – this small European country has among the highest per capita incomes in the world and is widely acknowledged to be one of the freest, … Read more

Celebrations, especially communal ones, are a very important part of any culture, and the people of Holland enjoy an abundance of lively festivals all year round. These occasions range from being colorful to fun to quirky, and some of them may also seem a bit strange, especially to an outsider. Many of the events have … Read more

At Expat Focus, we like to be on the lookout for resources around the web that could help prospective expats adjust to their new countries. Today, we’re taking a look at the Netherlands and some of the blogs that might be useful for expats there. Invading Hollandhttp://www.invadingholland.com/ An incredibly funny and often pathos filled account … Read more

The Kingdom of the Netherlands, usually known simply as the Netherlands, is one of the most popular expat destinations around the world and particularly in Europe. This small country is among the most densely populated, but it’s also one of the most stable and well-developed. The Netherlands is famous as a liberal and progressive nation, … Read more

Birthdays, like all other celebrations, vary greatly around the world. The western tradition of a birthday cake and candles is now popular in almost every part of the world, but there are still quite a number of local traditions that survive and thrive. In a handful of cultures, birthdays aren’t really marked as important dates, … Read more

Ydo, you're the Cambridge Principal of the International School Eerde in Ommen. Tell us a bit about your role – what does your day-to-day routine look like? I share my workload with Mr Justin Hughes, the IBDP principal at our school. We start with a short team briefing to update ourselves and our staff regarding … Read more

The introduction of the Euro in 2002 raised the cost of living in the Netherlands considerably. The locals still talk about how expensive things have become in the past few years. Yet, this country ranks lower in terms of expenses compared to some other European nations. Like in any other country, larger cities in Netherlands … Read more

Jennifer Burge is an American expat who has lived in a variety of European countries. Her memoir, The Devil Wears Clogs, predominantly focuses on her time in the Netherlands as a new expat trying to fit in with a culture that was very different from what she’d been used to before.A lot of accounts written … Read more

Some of the public holidays in the Netherlands coincide with major festivals and celebrations. These are usually non-working days that commemorate some important cultural or historical event. Here is a guide to public holidays in the Netherlands. New Year’s Day (Nieuwjaarsdag)This day can be rather quiet with most businesses, post offices and banks closed. Very … Read more

Tipping can be among the more confusing aspects of living in a new country – expats everywhere often find themselves wondering, “How much should I tip? How do I leave the tip? Should I tip at all?” In countries like the USA, tipping has become an almost universal requirement, and it is not uncommon to … Read more

There are lucrative job opportunities available in the Netherlands for the right candidates. The recent years have seen jobs open up in various economic sectors such as services, trade, telecommunications and information technology. Here are some useful job-hunting tips for expats moving to the Netherlands. Working in the Netherlands Nationals of European Union (EU) countries, … Read more

Living in the Netherlands is like a dream come true for men and women of all ages from around the world. This is probably because the standard of living in the Netherlands is at par with or perhaps even a bit higher than some of the developed western countries. Moreover, the Dutch are a warm, … Read more

Expats in the Netherlands have a choice of many good international schools for their children. The Dutch Ministry of Education partly subsidizes most international schools and these schools remain within ministry rules. Due to this subsidy, the schools are able to offer more affordable fees. Students eligible for admission into these schools include those from … Read more

It is often a challenge for expats to make connections with people in a new place. The good news is that there are ways to slowly and steadily meet new people and build fulfilling friendships and business relationships. One of these ways is to join any of many expat clubs and associations, which are present … Read more

With a dense population of 16.6 million, the Netherlands is widely known as the Gateway to Europe, due to its waterway access to Belgium, France and Germany. It is rich in culture, English is widely spoken, the cost of living is cheaper than in other European countries and the climate is mild. As well as … Read more

by Tiffany Jarman Jansen On July 22, 2009 at 9:55 am I took the train to Amsterdam Sloterdijk. I waited 10 minutes outside a bus waiting for the driver to finish his pause. I took the bus to the CBR building. The whole trip, I had my eyes glued to the Driving Theory Manual I … Read more

by Martha Andrus The Dutch kitchen is pretty basic and mostly involves a lot of green vegetables, potatoes and sausages. A typical Dutch meal involves mashing potatoes and vegetables together and adding sausages. French fries can be found most anywhere and the favorite place to find the Dutch is at a French fry stand. If … Read more

by Liz Cross, Crossover Translations Approximately 20 years ago, I was sitting on the Harwich-Hoek van Holland boat with two friends and a peculiar little guide book. We were taking turns to recite “Spher-ayhkt OO ng-gels ass-too-bleeeeft?” and other natty phases to each other. After a while, we began wondering if we were doing the … Read more

by Stuart Billinghurst Fiets (bicycles) are a very common sight in Holland. They are a popular mode of transport and it is estimated that there are more than 16 million of them in the country. This number may or may not include the mangled, rusting, one-wheeled, non-roadworthy bicycles found chained to lamp posts, bridges or … Read more

by Stuart Billinghurst I’ve already written about one of Holland’s well-known vices, the drug culture. There is of course another vice which the country is very well known for. Something that brings a particular kind of tourist to certain shady areas of the country, to indulge themselves in special ways. Yes, you’ve guessed it. I’m … Read more