You’re here! Congrats on making it to the Netherlands. Let’s tackle that ‘what now?’ feeling with a super-quick checklist to get your new Dutch life officially started.
1. Get Your Residence Permit You’ll pick up your shiny new residence permit card from an IND desk or Expatcenter. You must book this appointment online, often weeks in advance. Don’t wait!
2. Get Your BSN (The Magic Number) This is your Social Security Number (BSN), and you can’t do anything without it (bank, job, insurance). You get it by registering at your local municipality (the gemeente).
- Key fact: You must have a rental contract to register.
- Pro-tip: Book this appointment before you even arrive. In big cities, the waitlist can be over a month long.
3. Get Insured (It’s Not Optional) You must sign up for a basic Dutch health insurance plan.
- Key fact: It’s retroactive. If you register in April, you have to pay for Jan, Feb, and March. The bright side? You’re also covered for those months.
- The Deductible: The mandatory eigen risico (what you pay first) is €385 per year.
4. The TB Test (Spoiler: You Probably Don’t Need It) Many arrivals must get a quick TB check-up.
- Interesting fact: A huge list of countries is exempt. Check the official IND “Exemption from the obligation to undergo a TB test” list first. You’re probably on it.
5. Get Your DigiD (Your Digital Key) DigiD is your single login for all government sites (taxes, health, etc.).
- Key fact: After applying online (once you have your BSN), they will mail a physical letter with your activation code. Yes, in the mail. Welcome to the Netherlands!
5. Swap Your Driver License:
- Driver’s License: You can only use your foreign license for 185 days after you register. If you have the 30% ruling, you (and your partner!) can swap it for a Dutch one, no test required.
No 30% ruling? Get ready for Dutch driving lessons. Good luck!
6. Open your Bank Account.
- Bank Account: You need your BSN to open a “real” Dutch bank account. Online banks like Bunq or Revolut can often get you started faster, sometimes even without a BSN.
You’re all set. Welcome to the Netherlands! Now go buy a bicycle and eat some stroopwafels.