Country Guide for The Netherlands
Country Facts for The Netherlands
The Netherlands, sometimes referred to as Holland (though Holland technically refers only to two of its twelve provinces), is known for its flat, low-lying landscape, extensive canal networks, and a culture that blends centuries-old tradition with a famously modern, pragmatic outlook. It borders Germany to the east and Belgium to the south, with the North Sea forming its western and northern coastline.
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Population and Demographics
The Netherlands is home to approximately 17.9 million people, making it one of the most densely populated countries in Europe, with the majority concentrated in the Randstad, the urban region encompassing Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht.
Languages
Dutch is the official language nationwide, and Frisian holds official status in the northern province of Friesland. English proficiency is exceptionally high, consistently ranking among the best in the world for a non-native speaking population, which makes daily life notably easier for new arrivals still building up their Dutch.
Geography
The Netherlands covers approximately 41,543 square kilometers, making it one of the smaller countries in Europe by land area. Roughly a quarter of the country sits below sea level, and its centuries-old system of dikes, canals, and polders is not just a historical curiosity but an actively maintained piece of national infrastructure that continues to shape where and how the country builds and expands.
How to Get to The Netherlands
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is the country’s main international gateway and one of the busiest hubs in Europe, with direct connections to most major global cities. Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) and Eindhoven Airport (EIN) offer a useful alternative for regional and some international routes, often with less congestion than Schiphol.
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Different ways of getting to the Netherlands:
Air:
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is the main international hub, with excellent connections to major cities worldwide. Consider smaller airports like Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) or Eindhoven Airport (EIN) for regional travel.
Trains:
The Dutch railway network (NS) is dense, punctual, and connects seamlessly into the wider European rail system, making it realistic to reach Brussels, Paris, or the Rhine region of Germany without flying. For expats settling anywhere in the Randstad, a car is often unnecessary given how well the rail and tram networks cover daily commuting needs.
Buses:
Long-distance coach operators such as FlixBus offer a budget-friendly alternative for regional travel, particularly useful for reaching smaller towns not well served by rail.
Financial Services in The Netherlands
Setting up your finances is one of the first practical steps after arriving in the Netherlands, and it typically needs to happen before much else can move forward, since a Dutch bank account is often required to receive a salary or sign a rental agreement.
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Banking Basics:
How to open a Dutch Bank Account
A Dutch bank account is essential for receiving salaries, paying bills, and managing everyday costs. Major banks including ING, ABN AMRO, and Rabobank offer accounts geared toward expats, often with English-language support and full online banking. It is worth comparing account fees, minimum balance requirements, and debit card terms before choosing, since these vary more between Dutch banks than many new arrivals expect.
Understanding Taxes:
The Dutch tax system has a reputation for complexity, and expats are taxed based on residency status and income bracket. Many employer-sponsored expats are also eligible for the 30% ruling, a tax facility allowing part of salary to be paid tax-free to offset relocation costs, though eligibility depends on role, salary level, and specific expertise. A Dutch tax advisor familiar with expat situations is generally worth engaging early, both to confirm eligibility for schemes like this and to stay compliant.
Housing in The Netherlands
The Dutch housing market, particularly in and around the Randstad, has grown increasingly competitive in recent years, so understanding the buying and renting process in advance makes a real difference to how smoothly your search goes.
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Buying a House
Securing a BSN (Burgerservicenummer), the Dutch citizen service number, is an early and essential step, since it is required for almost all financial transactions including a mortgage application. From there, obtaining mortgage pre-approval, working with a reputable real estate agent, and engaging a lawyer to handle contracts and title checks are all standard parts of the process. Closing costs, including property transfer tax, notary fees, and legal fees, should be factored into your budget from the outset.
Renting a house in the Netherlands
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Define your budget and desired location: Consider factors like proximity to work, amenities, and transportation.
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Browse Dutch online property listings and contact rental agencies: Utilize platforms like Funda and Pararius.
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Schedule viewings and ask detailed questions: Understand rental terms, contract duration, and included utilities.
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Negotiate rent and terms: Discuss flexibility and potential adjustments with the landlord.
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Sign a Dutch legal rental contract: Ensure it’s in English or a translated version you understand, and seek legal advice if needed.
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Secure a guarantor (if required): Some landlords might ask for someone who vouches for your rent payments.
Education in The Netherlands
Dutch public schools offer free, high-quality education from primary through secondary level, with a small but growing number of schools offering bilingual Dutch-English programs, particularly in larger cities. Because instruction is primarily in Dutch, some language adjustment period is normal for children arriving without prior exposure to the language.
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• Free to attend: Offer high-quality education from primary to secondary level.
• Dual-language option: Some schools offer bilingual Dutch-English programs, especially in larger cities.
• Language immersion: Dutch is the primary language of instruction, requiring language acquisition effort.
• Diverse curriculum: Offer English-language curriculums like IB or national programs.
• Higher fees: Costs vary depending on location, size, and program offered.
• Smoother transition: Easier adaptation for children unfamiliar with Dutch.
Visas in The Netherlands
Moving to the Netherlands generally means navigating one of a few established visa and residence permit routes, depending on your nationality, your reason for moving, and how long you plan to stay. Common paths include the Highly Skilled Migrant permit for sponsored employees, family reunification for those joining a resident family member, and the entrepreneur route, which includes a more accessible option for US and Japanese nationals under bilateral treaty arrangements. Most non-EU/EEA nationals staying longer than 90 days will need to convert a provisional long-stay visa (MVV) into a residence permit shortly after arrival.
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Short-Stay Schengen Visas
For stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, non-EU/EEA nationals may require a Schengen visa. This visa allows travel within the Schengen Area, but it’s not suitable for long-term residency or work.
Long-Stay Visas (MVV) and Residence Permits
Expats planning to stay for more than 90 days need to apply for a long-stay visa, known as an MVV (Machtiging tot Voorlopig Verblijf), which is essentially a provisional residence permit. Upon arrival, this must be converted into a residence permit for the duration of your stay.
International Health Insurance in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has mandatory health insurance for all residents, including Americans. Understanding your obligations before you arrive is essential. Until your BSN is issued and your residence permit is finalised, you are not able to enrol in the Dutch system and need cover in place from day one. ExpatInsure can help you find the right international health insurance plan for your life in the Netherlands – visit our Netherlands international health insurance page to explore your options.