- Pascal Tremblay
With InterNations as my network, I have been able to make many friends learn the ins and outs about living in The Hague.
Thinking of how to move to the Netherlands? The good news is that moving your belongings there should not be too difficult. The country does not impose tax on personal belongings. However, finding where to put those belongings, i.e., accommodation can be a really difficult task. And, while the cost of living is high, the high standard of living makes up for the expense.
In general, how hard or easy it is to move to the Netherlands depends on where you are from and what you do. For example, EU/EEA and Swiss nationals face fewer bureaucratic and custom restrictions in comparison to third-country citizens. Additionally, expats that specialize in occupations that are not considered to be in-demand might find it challenging to find a job in the Netherlands, which results in difficulties obtaining a visa.
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All You Need to Know About Relocating Your Household Goods and Pets
The process of moving to the Netherlands requires you to consider how to ship your household goods here. And while the mode of transportation is completely up to you, you will need to meet the same customs regulations regardless.
The good news is that the Netherlands does not impose rigid rules on importation of personal belongings. They can enter the country without major problems or taxation. However, if you wish to bring food with you, it might get a little more complicated as the country has notable restrictions for it.
More good news is aimed at the nationals of EU/EEA member countries and Switzerland. That is because whatever regulations are applied to third-country nationals, those applied to Swiss and EU/EEA nationals are more lenient. They are allowed to import more alcohol and tobacco and have no restrictions when it comes to bringing money.
Moving to the Netherlands with pets is also easier if you are moving from another European country. For anyone moving from outside the EU/EEA or Swiss borders, getting the required vaccinations and testing done might take a few months. Free borders allow Europeans to take care of moving their pets in a matter of a few weeks.
When relocating to the Netherlands, there is a high chance you will move to an unfurnished place as they are the most common option. That is why brining your furniture along is not a bad idea. However, in that case, choosing an appropriate storing facility for your household items might be important. That way you will be ready to make your new house a home as soon as you arrive in the Netherlands.
The Guide to Visa Types and Work Permit Requirements
Before you try to figure out how to get a Netherlands visa and work permit, you should find out whether you need one or not. EU/EEA and Swiss nationals do not need anything else but their ID to live and work in the country. For third-country nationals, the Netherlands visa application process differs depending on what passport you hold.
There is another puzzle to figure out regarding permits. For example, if you are an Australian, Canadian, or a national of a few other selected countries, a visa is not necessary for you, while obtaining work and residence permits is essential. However, if you go for a highly skilled migrant status, getting a work permit is not necessary. In general, only one thing is for sure––once you are in the Netherlands, you will need to register at a local municipality.
Many entrepreneurs might want to consider moving to the Netherlands because of the country’s opportunities for self-employed people. The Dutch have a few visa types for individuals that wish to start their own business or work as freelance professionals. And while some Netherlands visas do expect their applicants to meet quite a few requirements and pay high costs, the booming market might make it worth the time and money.
When it comes to the Dutch visa cost overall, it is not too expensive. The price depends on which type of visa you need and, usually, does not exceed 300 EUR (330 USD).
Read our complete guide on visas & work permits in the Netherlands
Everything You Need to Know About Finding a New Home
When moving to the Netherlands, finding accommodation there might be the biggest challenge you will face. The housing market is very competitive and requires time, effort, and a willingness to make quick decisions. So, before you dive in and look for the perfect type of home for you, arm yourself with patience.
In addition to this required persistence, having some savings will help you feel more secure, too. Both average house prices and average rent are relatively high, while utilities in the Netherlands can cost a couple hundred euros a month. Hence, be prepared for your housing costs to take quite a big chunk of your paycheck.
When thinking of how to rent a house, know that unfurnished accommodations are the most popular in the Netherlands (sometimes referred to as ‘shell’ housing on Dutch real estate websites). In fact, furnished places are usually only available in big cities. That is one reason why short-term contracts are unpopular and you can expect your lease to last a couple years or more. Settling down takes time and not many want to move once they have everything in order.
If you are thinking even more long-term, consider finding out how foreigners can buy a house in the Netherlands. Know that being a foreigner does not impede your chances of obtaining Dutch property. However, just like in any other country, the process is neither cheap nor easy.
Health Insurance and the Healthcare System of the Netherlands Explained
The Netherlands is one of the few countries in Europe where the healthcare system is dependent on having private health insurance. In fact, taking out private health insurance is a requirement for anyone living and working in the Netherlands.
In general, the Netherlands’s healthcare system is of great quality. Medical specialists are very professional and people with critical conditions receive exceptional care. However, when it comes to family doctors, some expats express criticism towards their approach to treatment. Oftentimes patients are prescribed over-the-counter medication to treat their health issues as doctors avoid more invasive methods of care.
Why would you even start thinking about how to find a doctor here then? The truth is that family doctors are the gatekeepers to Dutch healthcare. You need their referral to go to any other medical specialist or even get emergency care.
If you are considering giving birth here, note that the Netherlands is the European capital of home births. Midwives are very popular in the country and they are often the ones taking care of the mother throughout the pregnancy. Still, in-hospital births are not unusual. They typically cost around 300 EUR (330 USD) but are free if hospital care is necessary.
Read our complete guide on insurance & healthcare in the Netherlands
Connect with like-minded expatriates
Discover our welcoming community of expats! You’ll find many ways to network, socialize, and make new friends. Attend online and in-person events that bring global minds together.
See all upcoming events for expats in Netherlands
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- Pascal Tremblay
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