Before you arrive
Preparation makes all the difference. Complete these tasks before your move:
- Book your gemeente appointment: Many municipalities allow online booking. Do this as early as possible — popular cities have 2-4 week wait times.
- Apostille your documents: Get apostilles on your birth certificate, marriage certificate, and educational diplomas. You'll need these for registration.
- Arrange temporary housing: You need a registered address to get your BSN. An Airbnb or hotel may not be accepted — check with your gemeente.
- Get travel insurance: Your Dutch health insurance may take a few days to activate. Have travel insurance to cover the gap.
- Research the 30% ruling: Discuss with your employer before arrival. The application should be submitted within 4 months of your start date.
Week 1: Essential registration
Priority #1: Get your BSN
Your BSN (Burgerservicenummer) is the key to everything in the Netherlands. Without it, you cannot open a bank account, get health insurance, or officially start working.
- Register at the gemeente: Bring your passport, birth certificate (apostilled), rental agreement, and proof of address. You'll receive your BSN on the spot.
- Activate health insurance: Call your chosen insurer with your BSN to activate your policy. You have 4 months from registration to get insured.
- Get a Dutch SIM card: KPN, Vodafone, and T-Mobile are the main providers. Prepaid SIMs are available at electronics stores and supermarkets.
- Get an OV-chipkaart: The public transport card for all trains, buses, trams, and metros. Available at any station or online.
- Buy or rent a bicycle: This is not optional — cycling is the primary mode of transport in Dutch cities. Swapfiets (monthly rental) is popular with expats.
Week 2-3: Financial setup
- Open a bank account: With your BSN and passport, visit ING, ABN AMRO, or Rabobank. Online banks like bunq offer faster setup. You need a Dutch IBAN for salary payments and utility direct debits.
- Register with a GP (huisarts): Find a GP near your home and register. Many have waiting lists, so don't delay. Ask expat groups for English-speaking GP recommendations.
- Apply for DigiD: Your digital identity for all government services. Apply at digid.nl with your BSN. Activation takes about a week (letter sent by post).
- Start 30% ruling application: Work with your employer to submit the joint application to the Belastingdienst.
Week 3-4: Settling in
- Set up utilities: If you're renting unfurnished, arrange electricity, gas, water, and internet. Comparison sites like Independer can help find the best deals.
- Apply for zorgtoeslag: If your income qualifies, apply for the healthcare allowance at toeslagen.nl using your DigiD. This can save you €100+/month.
- Get contents insurance: Inboedelverzekering covers your belongings against theft, fire, and water damage. It's cheap (€5-15/month) and highly recommended.
- Register at Mijn Overheid: The government portal where you receive official correspondence. Activate your Berichtenbox to receive digital government letters.
Practical tips
- Learn basic Dutch: Even “alstublieft” and “dank u wel” go a long way. The Duolingo Dutch course is a good start, and many municipalities offer free integration courses.
- Join expat communities: InterNations, local expat Facebook groups, and Meetup.com are great for meeting people and getting practical advice.
- Download essential apps: 9292 (public transport), Buienradar (weather/rain), Tikkie (payment requests), Albert Heijn (grocery discounts).
- Expect directness: Dutch communication style is famously direct. It's not rudeness — it's cultural. You'll get used to it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the first thing I need to do when I arrive?
Register at your local municipality (gemeente) to get your BSN (citizen service number). This is the single most important step — you need the BSN for everything: opening a bank account, starting work, getting health insurance, and more. Book your appointment before arriving if possible.
How long does it take to get a BSN?
You receive your BSN immediately at your gemeente registration appointment. However, getting an appointment can take 1-4 weeks depending on the city. Amsterdam and Rotterdam often have the longest wait times. Book ahead if possible.
Can I open a bank account without a BSN?
Most Dutch banks require a BSN to open an account. However, some banks like bunq and N26 allow you to start the process without one. Traditional banks (ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank) strictly require a BSN. Consider using a Wise or Revolut account in the meantime.