Preparing a move to the Netherlands means starting early with the practical and legal steps: find a home, gather the right documents, arrange your registration with the municipality, and apply for a BSN. For non-EU expats, the IND procedure is also part of the process. The preparation varies by situation, but most steps run in parallel and take more time than you expect. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about moving to the Netherlands, so you know exactly what to expect.
What do you need to register in the Netherlands?
To register with the municipality in the Netherlands, you need a valid passport or identity document, proof of your residential address (such as a rental contract or a declaration from the owner), and sometimes a birth certificate or proof of your marital status. After registration, you automatically receive a BSN (Burgerservicenummer), which you need for almost everything in the Netherlands.
Registration is handled by the municipality where you will be living. In Amsterdam, Amstelveen, or Haarlem, you make an appointment at the town hall or municipal office. Without a fixed residential address, you cannot register, so make sure your rental contract is signed before you schedule the appointment. The BSN you receive after registration is needed to open a bank account, pay taxes, take out health insurance, and be employed by your employer.
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How do you find a home in the Netherlands as an expat?
Finding a home in the Netherlands as an expat is challenging due to the tight rental market, particularly in and around Amsterdam. The most effective approach is to search via specialized rental platforms, a local real estate agency with expat experience, or through your employer if they offer a relocation package. Act quickly: popular properties can be gone within hours.
The Dutch rental market works differently from many other countries. Landlords typically require proof of income (at least two to three times the monthly rent), an employer’s statement, and sometimes a reference letter. If you do not yet have a Dutch employment contract, this can complicate the search process. A local expat housing specialist can make all the difference, as they know landlords and can negotiate on your behalf.
Popular areas for expats include Amsterdam Zuid, Amsterdam Oost, IJburg, Amstelveen, and Haarlem. The choice depends on your work location, budget, and personal preference. Also consider the availability of international schools if you are bringing children.
What documents do you need for a move to the Netherlands?
Moving to the Netherlands requires a set of documents that depend on your nationality, work situation, and family situation. The basic set consists of a valid passport, an employment contract or proof of income, a rental contract, and for non-EU citizens a valid residence permit.
Below is an overview of the most commonly required documents per situation:
- For everyone: valid passport or ID card, rental contract or proof of ownership, employment contract or proof of income
- For registration with the municipality: birth certificate (sometimes legalized and translated), proof of marital status
- For non-EU expats: MVV (machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) or approved IND application, passport photos
- For families: marriage certificate and birth certificates of children (possibly legalized)
- For the bank and health insurance: BSN number, Dutch residential address
Make sure foreign documents are legalized in time and, where necessary, translated by a sworn translator. This takes time, so start early.
How does the IND procedure work for non-EU expats?
The IND procedure is the immigration process that non-EU citizens go through to obtain a residence permit for the Netherlands. In most cases, your employer applies for the permit with the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service). For highly skilled migrants or holders of an EU Blue Card, the procedure goes through the recognized sponsor, which significantly shortens the processing time.
The steps in the IND procedure typically look like this:
- Your employer (as a recognized sponsor) submits the application to the IND
- The IND assesses the application, which can take several weeks
- After approval, you apply for an MVV (machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf) at the Dutch embassy in your country
- You travel to the Netherlands and report to the IND for biometrics
- You receive your residence permit (verblijfspas)
For highly skilled migrants, an accelerated procedure of generally two weeks applies. The exact requirements, such as the minimum salary, are adjusted annually by the IND. In 2026, specific threshold amounts apply depending on age and position. Always check the current amounts via the official IND website or seek advice from an immigration specialist.
What are the costs of moving to the Netherlands?
The costs of moving to the Netherlands vary considerably, but broadly expect a combination of moving costs, security deposit, first months’ rent, and administrative costs. For most expats, total start-up costs range between three and six months’ rent, excluding furnishings and any legal assistance.
An overview of the most common cost items:
- Security deposit: usually one to two months’ rent
- First month(s) of rent: payable immediately upon signing
- Agency fees: depending on the services provided, sometimes covered by the employer
- Legalization and translation of documents: varying per document and country of origin
- Health insurance: mandatory in the Netherlands, averaging around €150 per month for a basic package
- Furnishings: Dutch properties are often rented unfurnished or semi-furnished, without flooring or kitchen appliances
Some employers offer a relocation allowance or a full relocation package. Ask your employer about this proactively before you leave, as it can make a significant difference to your start-up costs.
When should you start preparing for your move?
Start preparing for your move to the Netherlands at least three to six months in advance, especially if you need a residence permit or are looking for a home in a tight market. The earlier you start, the more room you have to resolve issues without time pressure.
A rough timeline to keep in mind:
- Six months in advance: start the IND application (for non-EU citizens), ask your employer about relocation support, begin gathering and legalizing documents
- Three to four months in advance: actively start searching for a home, explore the region and your budget
- Two months in advance: sign the rental contract, plan the move, arrange insurance
- First weeks after arrival: register with the municipality, apply for your BSN, open a bank account, take out health insurance
Those who start too late risk arriving without a residential address, which blocks registration with the municipality and consequently also the BSN, bank account, and health insurance. Good planning prevents these domino effects.
How we help with a move to the Netherlands
At Urban Homies, we guide expats and international professionals through the entire process of moving to the Netherlands, from the first question abroad to fully settling into your new home. We connect you with a dedicated local expert who helps you find a suitable home, negotiate the rental contract, and arrange your municipal registration and BSN application. For non-EU expats, we also guide the IND procedure and visa application process, together with our partners: specialized immigration lawyers and tax specialists.
Our approach is practical and personal. We work with short lines of communication, set realistic expectations, and also handle the practical matters after arrival, such as utilities and a welcome package. This allows you to focus on your new job and life, while we take care of the complex matters. Want to know how we can support you or your employees? Contact us and we will discuss together what you need.
Need a local Homie?
Share your plans with us and discover how we can help with your home, move or relocation in the Netherlands.
