Netherlands Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in the Netherlands
Important: This guide provides essential relocation information for individuals and families planning a move to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Known for its high quality of life, efficient public services, cycling culture, progressive society, and strong knowledge-based economy, the Netherlands is a popular destination for professionals, students and families. Immigration rules, residence permits and documentation requirements can change — always confirm with official Dutch authorities before finalising your plans.
Home To Home Relocations supports clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to the Netherlands, including export packing, air/ocean shipping, customs coordination and final delivery to major Dutch cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague (Den Haag), Utrecht, Eindhoven, Groningen and Maastricht.
1. Before You Move to the Netherlands
1.1 Licences, Visa Types & Residence Permits
Immigration in the Netherlands is overseen by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). Most non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals require a residence permit to live, work or study in the Netherlands for more than 90 days.
Common permit types include:
- Highly Skilled Migrant Permit (kennismigrant)
- EU Blue Card
- Work Permit + Residence Permit (GVVA)
- Startup Visa for entrepreneurs
- Graduate Orientation Year Permit (zoekjaar) for recent international graduates
- Family reunification permits
- Student residence permits
Official information is available from:
- IND – Immigration and Naturalisation Service (Official Site)
- Netherlands Worldwide – Visa Information
1.2 Working in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has a strong demand for skilled workers, especially in tech, engineering, logistics, renewable energy, healthcare, finance and research.
The country offers streamlined residence permits for highly skilled migrants and researchers, allowing professionals to onboard quickly if an employer is recognised by the IND.
1.3 Studying in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of Europe’s top destinations for international students due to its English-taught programs and strong academic institutions. International students usually need a residence permit organised in cooperation with their chosen university.
1.4 Housing & Accommodation
Finding housing in the Netherlands can be competitive, especially in Amsterdam, Utrecht and The Hague. Consider temporary accommodation while searching. Landlords often require:
- Proof of employment or sufficient income
- Identification and residence permit (or visa approval)
- One or two months’ deposit
- Rental contract insurance (optional but common)
1.5 Banking & Finances
The Netherlands uses the Euro (EUR). A Dutch bank account is typically needed for salary deposits, rent payments, insurance and subscriptions. Digital banking is widely used, with iDEAL being the standard online payment method.
1.6 Health Insurance – Mandatory for Residents
Health insurance is compulsory for anyone living or working in the Netherlands. After registering with your municipality (see “BSN” below), you must choose a basic Dutch health insurance plan (zorgverzekering) within 4 months of arrival.
1.7 Key Documentation Before Departure
- Passport (valid for duration of stay)
- Work contract or university acceptance letter
- Visa and residence permit documents
- Birth/marriage certificates (officially translated if required)
- Proof of accommodation
- Financial evidence for cost-of-living support
- Medical insurance documents
2. Your First Weeks in the Netherlands
2.1 Register With Your Local Municipality (BRP)
Anyone staying longer than 4 months must register at their local municipality. This enters you into the BRP (Basisregistratie Personen), the national personal records database.
2.2 BSN – Citizen Service Number
After registration, you receive your BSN (Burgerservicenummer), which is required for employment, healthcare, taxation, banking and education.
2.3 GP Registration & Healthcare Access
Once you have health insurance, register with a local GP (huisarts). Your GP is your first point of contact for most medical services and referrals.
2.4 Opening a Dutch Bank Account
You may need your BSN, proof of address, identification and employment contract to open a local bank account. Many banks offer digital onboarding services.
3. The Netherlands at a Glance
3.1 Geography & Regions
The Netherlands is known for its flat landscapes, canals, windmills, and modern infrastructure. Major regions include North Holland, South Holland, Utrecht, Gelderland, Brabant, Limburg and Friesland.
3.2 Politics & Economy
The Netherlands is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The economy is highly competitive, driven by technology, innovation, logistics, finance and energy transitions.
3.3 Climate & Weather
The climate is temperate maritime — mild summers, cool winters, and frequent rainfall. Biking is common year-round.
4. Why Many Canadians Choose the Netherlands
- Thriving expat-friendly environment and strong English proficiency
- Efficient public transport and excellent cycling infrastructure
- High standard of healthcare and education
- Strong job market in innovation and tech sectors
- Central location for European travel
5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life
The Dutch rental market can be tight, especially in popular cities. Be prepared with proper documents and act quickly if you find a suitable property. Additional considerations include:
- Utilities (electricity, heating, water and internet)
- Compulsory health insurance payments
- Bike maintenance (cycling is the main mode of transportation)
- Local taxes, such as municipal waste taxes
Local Dutch markets, cafés, green spaces and biking paths are central to daily life.
6. Transportation & Getting Around
6.1 Public Transport
The Netherlands has an outstanding public transport network with trains, trams, buses and ferries. The OV-chipkaart is the national smart card for travel.
6.2 National Rail Network
Operated by NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen), the train system links major cities and regional areas efficiently.
6.3 Driving in the Netherlands
Traffic drives on the right-hand side. Depending on your nationality, your foreign driver’s licence may be valid for a limited period or may need to be exchanged.
7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit
7.1 Everyday Culture
- Direct communication and punctuality are valued
- Work–life balance is a core part of Dutch culture
- Cycling is deeply integrated into lifestyle and transport
- International communities thrive in major cities
7.2 Cities & Attractions
- Amsterdam: Canals, museums, historic districts
- Rotterdam: Modern architecture, major port
- The Hague: Government centre and international courts
- Utrecht: Medieval old town and vibrant student population
- Eindhoven: Tech & design hub
- Groningen: Youthful university city