Moving to the Netherlands as an expat: your checklist
Moving to a new country is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. From paperwork to furniture, there's a lot to organise before you can truly feel at home. This checklist guides you step by step through the weeks before and after your move to the Netherlands, so you know what to do and when.
1–2 months before you move
- Check your visa or residence permit. If you need one, your employer (as a recognised sponsor) usually starts the process.
- Find housing. Use platforms like Funda and Pararius, or ask your employer or relocation agent. Check whether the home is kaal, gestoffeerd or gemeubileerd.
- Collect your documents: passport, birth certificate, and if relevant a marriage certificate and diplomas. Some countries' documents need an apostille or legalisation.
- Plan your furnishing. Order furniture and essentials from abroad so your home is ready when you arrive. Read how to furnish your apartment before you arrive.
1–2 weeks before you move
- Schedule your registration appointment with your future municipality (gemeente), or via your regional expat centre.
- Book temporary accommodation if your home isn't available yet.
- Arrange the handover of your home and of any deliveries with your landlord.
Your first week
- Register at the municipality to receive your BSN (citizen service number). You need it for work, banking and healthcare.
- Open a Dutch bank account.
- Apply for DigiD, your digital ID for government services, once you have your BSN.
- Get a phone plan with a Dutch number.
Within the first weeks
- Take out Dutch health insurance. It's mandatory once you live or work here, so arrange it soon after registering.
- Register with a GP (huisarts) near your home.
- Arrange energy, internet and contents insurance, and consider liability insurance (aansprakelijkheidsverzekering).
- Set up your home. Make it comfortable from day one. Welcome2Holland delivers, assembles and installs your furniture and household equipment, so your new space is move-in ready without the hassle.
After your first month
- Explore your neighbourhood: local shops, the weekly market, parks and community spots.
- Get around like a local. Tap in with your bank card on public transport, or get an OV-chipkaart.
- Buy a bike, and enjoy your first ride. It's the best way to experience everyday Dutch life.
- Learn a few Dutch words. Most Dutch people speak excellent English, but a "goedemorgen" goes a long way.
Bonus tip
Make your house feel like home. It's the little things that turn a place to stay into a place to belong. Read how to make a temporary house feel like home.
Ready to furnish your new home?
See how our assembly service works, or tell us about your move through our contact form.
Ordering works with a personal access code from your employer, housing provider or relocation partner. No code yet? Contact us and we'll help you get started.
