Expat Survival Guide 2022 - The Netherlands by I am not a Tourist

EXPAT SURVIVAL GUIDE

2022 YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS

LIVE • WORK • STUDY EDUCATION • EMPLOYMENT • RELOCATION • ENTERTAINMENT AND MUCH MORE

Forward looking, Forward thinking the very best that British international education offers. A thriving school community which nurtures, inspires and empowers everyone to be the very best they can be. The British School of Amsterdam welcomes children aged 3 to 18. We believe that children should be ambitious and reach for their dreams, and we actively encourage them to be relentlessly optimistic and to develop a love of learning. Success is not only about academic achievement, but how your child grows in other important ways, such as through life skills and other talents such as the arts, sports and through leadership activities.

The School is located in Amsterdam Oud-Zuid and is easily accessible for families commuting from different parts of the city and surrounding areas.

AMSTERDAM CENTRAL ANNE FRANK HUIS

VONDELPARK

RIJKSMUSEUM VAN GOGH MUSEUM

OLYMPISCH STADION ZUIDAS “FINANCIAL DISTRICT”

TO AIRPORT

AMSTERDAMSE BOS

JOHAN CRUIJFF ARENA

We enrol children all year round. Scan our QR code to find out more.

WELCOME TO THE NETHERLANDS!

MOVING ABROAD IS AN EXHILARATING, LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE. THAT IS, ONCE THE PRACTICAL ASPECTS ARE SETTLED. IT FIRST CAN BE A DAUNTING PROCESS WHILE YOU TRY BUILDING A NEW LIFE IN AN UNKNOWN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE. WHERE DO YOU BEGIN? The Expat Survival Guide assists your first essential steps: finding a home and job, organising permits, setting up finances and healthcare, and enrolling in education. It offers practical information on getting started in the Netherlands and directs you to the people, companies and institutions that can help you along the way. ENJOY living, working and studying in the Netherlands! The i am not a tourist Team This guide is published by i am not a tourist Fairs & Events. I Am Not A Tourist BV Kleine Oord 87, 6801 BZ Arnhem www.expatfair.nl Editorial: Aileen van der Horst Layout & design: Benjamin Langman Sales: Tom Bey Photos: Adobestock.com Publisher: Tom Bey Advertising sales: info@expatfair.nl Distribution: info@expatfair.nl Printing office: Muller Visual www.mullervisual.nl

2 INTRODUCTION 4 SURVIVAL CHECKLIST 5 EMPLOYMENT Work permits; Employment law; Working culture; Finding a job

55 EDUCATION Primary, secondary and higher education; International school, Learning Dutch 69 FAMILIES Family reunification permits; Au pairs; Childcare; Child benefits and allowances; Family activities; Leisure; Maternity, Groups & Clubs

13 RELOCATION What kind of residence permit?; Relocation services providers; Popular expat locations, Expat Centres : Amsterdam Area, Leiden Area, Rotterdam, Utrecht Region, The Northern Netherlands, The Hague, The South of the Netherlands

77 HEALTHCARE Health insurance, Healthcare system; Having a baby; Health services

35 HOUSING Renting; Buying

83 TRANSPORT Driving; Public Transport

44 SETTING UP HOME Furnishing your home; Utilities: gas, water, electricity; Communications: telephone, mobile, internet; TV; Post offices

87 EMERGENCY NUMBERS

47 FINANCE Bank accounts; Tax; Insurance; Financial and tax advisors, Mortgages

74 SPECIAL NEEDS

88 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 90 LISTINGS 100 ADVERTISERS INDEX

With special thanks to • Expatax: +31 (0)30 2468 536 | www.expatax.nl • Healthcare for Internationals: info@h4i.nl | www.h4i.nl • New2NL: +31 (0)6 2909 3933 | annebet@new2nl.com | www.new2nl.com All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronically or mechanically, including photocopying, recording or any information storage or retrieval system, without prior written permission from the publisher. Requests for permission should be addressed to I Am Not A Tourist BV, Kleine Oord 87, 6801 BZ Arnhem, the Netherlands. I Am Not A Tourist BV makes great effort to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this guide. However, we do not take responsibility for errors or omissions or any damages, howsoever caused, which result from its use, and make no warranty of claims as to the quality or competence of businesses or professionals mentioned. Users are advised to take care when selecting professional services and to use common sense when adjusting to new life in a new country. SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

INTRODUCTION

THE NETHERLANDS CONSISTENTLY RANKS AMONG THE TOP PLACES IN THE WORLD TO LIVE AND WORK.

It may be a small country in size, but certainly not in impact. The Netherlands is famed for its liberal social policies, maritime trading traditions, battles to hold back the sea, robust multiculturalism and leading technological communications, making Dutch lifestyle a mosaic of cultural intrigue.

Living standards consistently rank high in the 2019 OECD’s Better Life Index, and the Netherlands has the third best work-life balance and high levels of employment and household wealth. Dutch children, likewise, are ranked as the happiest in the developed world, topping two surveys conducted by UNICEF. To newcomers, Dutch society might seem open and informal, but some complex social rules are at play. Ostentatious behaviour is frowned upon, egalitarianism is valued and Dutch people “like to be as normal as possible” according to Martijn de Rooij, author of The Dutch I Presume? The Dutch saying “doe maar gewoon dan doe je al gek genoeg” (just act normal, that’s crazy enough) is an anthem against eccentricity.

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No Dutch city has yet reached a million inhabitants and each retains a unique character and architectural style. The capital is something else entirely, and in terms of atmosphere and attitude, Amsterdam and the Netherlands could be two different countries. International residents tread a wellworn path to the “Lowlands”. Out of a population of over 17 million people, almost four million have a foreign background (cbs.nl). This multi-ethnic characteristic of the country’s population has historic roots stretching back several hundred years, though most rapid changes in population demographics have come about in the last 40 years.

INTRODUCTION

Population: 17.5 million Density: 411/km2 (the second highest in the European Union in 2018) Administration: The constitution dates mostly from 1848, and revisions undertaken in 1983. Parliament consists of an upper chamber (eerste kamer) of 75 members elected by provincial councils and a lower chamber (tweede kamer) with 150 members elected every four years by proportional representation. The cabinet is the executive body and its constituents cannot be members of the cabinet and parliament at the same time. Monarchy: The House of Oranje-Nassau has governed the Netherlands since 1815. King Willem-Alexander, born 1967, was crowned in 2013, along with his Argentinean wife Maxima, who serves as the queen consort.

The Dutch government’s traditional reliance on a coalition of two or more parties has earned it the nickname “the land of compromise”. The Netherlands strengthened its stance on austerity with large gains achieved by pro-European parties, the central-right liberal VVD and D66, and the Christian parties CDA and ChristenUnie. With Mark Rutte continuing as prime minister, this coalition gives the current Dutch government a comfortable majority. In the realm of royalty, the Netherlands’ biggest nation-wide party celebrates King’s Day on April 27 for the current King Willem-Alexander’s birthday, the ubiquitous oranjegekte (orange madness) still takes over, where people wear orange shirts, hats, dresses and wigs to celebrate while enjoying the

annual free market (vrijmarkt), as it’s the one time when people can set up shop without a trading licence. Culture and quality living combined make the Netherlands an attractive place for expats, who are an intrinsic part of the country’s knowledge-based economy. The Dutch people are generally receptive, curious, cultured, and friendly. English is widely spoken – a survey by Education First ranked the Netherlands as first in the world for English proficiency as a second language – but this can be a drawback for those learning Dutch. With many international companies headquartered in the Netherlands, there are plenty of employment opportunities.

Landscape: A fifth of the Netherlands is reclaimed from the sea (polders) and about a quarter of the country is below sea level. There are 20 national parks and a few modest hills, with the country’s highest point reaching 322 metres in Limburg. Agricultural facts: Tiny Netherlands is the world’s second largest exporter of agricultural products, including mostly cereals (wheat in particular), feed crops (such as fodder maize) and potatoes. The Dutch cow is a revered milk machine, producing 35 litres a day. Media and culture: The Netherlands has the highest museum density in the world with nearly 1,000 institutions. The television program Big Brother and The voice of [country] are Dutch inventions. Design: Dutch icons of style are nurtured in the revered Design Academy Eindhoven and the Rietveld Academy in Amsterdam, attracting large ratios of international students. Dutch design is admired for its minimalist, quirky and often humorous qualities.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

SURVIVAL CHECKLIST

SURVIVAL CHECKLIST BEFORE THE FUN OF EXPLORING BEGINS, THERE ARE SOME ESSENTIAL TASKS TO TAKE CARE OF WHEN YOU FIRST LAND IN THE NETHERLANDS. Use this checklist alongside the information set out in this Expat Survival Guide to help set up your new life in the Netherlands. REPORT TO IMMIGRATION

EDUCATION

You must register with the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP or Municipal Personal Records Database) at your local town hall within five days of arrival. If you need a residence permit, make an appointment with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service called IND quickly. Get ready for lots of paperwork and make sure your documents have all the right stamps.

Should you send your child to a local or international school? What learning opportunities are available to expats? Get the lowdown on education (onderwijs) in the Netherlands in our Education section.

EXPAT BENEFITS Find out if you are eligible for the Dutch 30 percent ruling for taxes and use the services of the various expat centres to help you cut through the red tape. OPEN A DUTCH BANK ACCOUNT Opening a Dutch bank account will make your life easier. You’ll need your passport and/or residence permit, burgerservicenummer (BSN), proof of address, and evidence of income, such as an employment contract or payslip. FIND A HOME Our Housing section will help you decide whether to rent or buy, and offers tips on dealing with housing agencies and where to live in the Netherlands. HOME BASICS After finding your home, you’ll need to sort out a broadband connection and water, electricity and gas utilities. We list the major suppliers and several useful websites to help you get connected.

JOB HUNTING If you’ve got a work permit (or don’t need one), you’re ready to begin. Sign up with agencies that specialise in finding work for expats or start your search online. We offer job-hunting tips and information on Dutch labour law. HEALTH Did you know it is compulsory for residents to take out the Dutch health insurance basisverzekering? Our Health section guides you through the Dutch healthcare system, and explains what to do in an emergency and how to find a hospital, doctor or midwife. GETTING AROUND Before you drive, find out about Dutch road regulations, if you need to exchange your driving licence, and how the Dutch public transport system works. MEETING THE COMMUNITY If you’re finding everything a little overwhelming, take heart: many others have been in the same position and made it through. Get out there, get active, and read about groups and clubs for meeting new people.

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EMPLOYMENT EXPATS ARE AN ESSENTIAL COMPONENT OF THE DUTCH WORKFORCE, AND OFFICE LIFE HAS ITS CULTURAL QUIRKS

WORK PERMIT CONDITIONS

WHO DOESN’T NEED A WORK PERMIT?

• If you are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national, your employer will likely need to apply for a separate work permit (tewerkstellingsvergunning or TWV). • The TWV permit is specific to the job and employer, and is issued for up to three years. • TWV extensions can be applied for (www.ind.nl) • You can start work once your employer has been issued a work permit and applied for a residence permit. • You do not need to wait for the IND to approve your residence application, but you must get a “residence endorsement” passport sticker from the IND. • If the residence permit application is rejected, the work permit is no longer valid. • After three years of employment on a Dutch work permit, other employers can hire you without needing a separate work permit. • When you renew your residence document, your new labour market position will be mentioned as “Arbeid is vrij toegestaan. TWV niet vereist” (free to work, no work permit required).

• EU/EEA/Swiss nationals. • Highly skilled migrants. • Self-employed workers (eligibility is assessed by the IND). • Workers on short assignment (performers, musicians, guest lecturers, journalists etc.). • Those with a residence permit or passport sticker stating “Arbeid is vrij toegestaan. TWV niet vereist” (free to work, no permit required). PARTNERS: WHO CAN WORK? • If your spouse, partner or relative has permission to work then generally you can work without needing an additional work permit. • It is advisable to file the residency applications for you and your partner at the same time. APPLYING FOR A WORK PERMIT • If you qualify for the single GVVA residence and work permit, you or your employer must apply to the IND. • All other cases, work permits are initiated by employers who apply to the UWV WERKbedrijf (www.werk.nl).

• The Dutch workforce is internationally oriented, highly educated and multilingual. • Unemployment is at 3,3 percent (May 2021). • Demand for highly skilled workers remains high, and incentives for international employees include the 30 percent ruling tax benefit and a fast-track immigration programme for the highly skilled and entrepreneurs. • The GVVA (gecombineerde vergunning voor verblijf en arbeid) is a single permit that combines the residence and work permit into one so employers no longer need to apply for a separate work permit for labour migrants. • Under the “Modern Migration Policy Act, if a worker needs a Dutch entry visa (MVV) and/or residence permit, their employer in the Netherlands can apply while they are still abroad, with fast-track applications possible (visit www.ind.nl). • While it always helps to learn the language when settling in a new country – and will certainly do your job prospects no harm – you don’t necessarily need to be a fluent Dutch speaker to secure a role in the Netherlands.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

• Your employer has to submit supporting evidence to show that EU/EEA/Swiss nationals cannot occupy the position: copies of advertisements, postings on the internet, or statements from agencies. • For a company to apply for a work permit, the candidate must be between 18 and 45 years old. • If a visa and residency permit is required, your employer can initiate your Entry and Residence Procedure (TEV) on your behalf before you arrive (with a copy of your passport and education qualifications). HIGHLY SKILLED MIGRANTS • To employ expats under the highly skilled migrant scheme, employers must sign an IND statement to become a “recognised sponsor”. However not all employers are recognised sponsor or want to become one. • An employer applies for your residence permit, which will be issued for the same period as the

work contract, or up to a maximum five years for indefinite contracts. • With the highly skilled migrant residency, your employer does not need a separate work permit (TWV) to hire you. • If your residency permit is not ready when you arrive, you are allowed to work in the interim period if you visit an IND desk and get a passport sticker (verblijfsaantekening). • Partners of highly skilled migrants can work without a work permit, though they do require a residence permit before commencing work.

• You will also need to prove you have the appropriate qualifications to carry out your business. • With the self-employment residence permit, you can still work as an employee provided the UWV WERKbedrijf has issued a work permit to your employer. • Freelancers can also apply for this permit, but proof of assignments in the Netherlands is a must. DUTCH AMERICAN FRIENDSHIP TREATY

• American citizens who wish to start a business in the Netherlands can apply under this scheme. • For residency based on self• Register your business at the Chamber of Commerce (Kamer van employment (for non-EU/EEA/Swiss), Koophandel, www.kvk.nl) to qualify. your business activities must “serve an essential Dutch interest” which is • You must have financial accounts verified by a qualified accountant, assessed by a point system. plus a business plan and substantial • Personal experience, a business capital investment of EUR 4500. plan and what you plan to offer (innovation, job creation, investment, • Japanese citizens under the Treaty of Trade and Navigation can also apply etc.) are taken into account. to this treaty. SELF-EMPLOYED/ENTREPRENEURS

European Employment Services Hi Expat! Are you thinking about a job in the Netherlands? We can help you! The Dutch EURES advisers can provide you, if living within the European Economic Area, with independent advice on the living and working conditions in this beautiful small country, which may have great opportunities for you. Curious for more information? www.werk.nl/eures www.eures.europa.eu Follow us one the socials:

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EMPLOYMENT

STUDENTS

CHANGING JOBS

• There are no work restrictions for students who are EU/EEA/ Swiss nationals. • All other nationalities can only work part-time throughout the year for a maximum of 16 hours per week, or full-time seasonal work in June, July and August. • The employer or agency must obtain a work permit from the UWV WERKbedrijf which will be valid for the same period as the university registration. • Students do not need a work permit for internships.

• Any changes in your work or partnership status must be reported to the IND within four weeks (unreported changes will be penalized). • If you change jobs you don’t necessarily need a new residence permit, but the same rules will apply as for the first permit you were granted. • If you worked as a highly skilled migrant, your new employer needs to be eligible to apply under the highly skilled migrant scheme, and will need to prove to the IND that you still meet the requirements of WORKING HOLIDAY SCHEMES the highly skilled migrant scheme. • If applying to extend a residence or work permit, your circumstances • Those between the ages of 18 to 30 will be assessed again according to from Australia, Canada, and New the original application; the main Zealand can apply to live and work exception is that after three years in the Netherlands for one year (with proof of a return ticket or funds to working on any given residence buy one). permit that allowed you to work, you no longer need a separate • Candidates can apply in their home work permit. country or once they arrive in the Netherlands.

• Highly skilled migrants can also change their purpose of stay into “labour” after three years, which allows them to work without a work permit. • Apply for a new residence permit before the old one expires (the IND will notify you in advance) or else risk being ineligible for permanent residency. CONTRACTS AND EMPLOYMENT LAW • Employment laws in the Netherlands vary, and your personal contract will determine your pay and specific conditions. • Dutch legislation covers key areas such as trial periods, holidays, notice and dismissal, minimum wages, health and safety, and equal treatment. • In most cases the employer needs permission from the UWV WERKbedrijf or the court to fire you, except in temporary work. • Useful information regarding working practices, employment law and the minimum wage can be found on the Ministry of Social

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Affairs and Employment website (www.szw.nl) or the UWV WERKbedrijf website (www.werk.nl). • If you want to check the market rate for your salary or calculate bruto/netto rates (before/after tax and social security deductions), try www.loonwijzer.nl. • It is standard practice to get extra wages as a “holiday allowance” plus four weeks of paid leave. • If you work in the Netherlands, Dutch law is partly and often fully applicable to your employment, even if the law of another country is declared applicable in your contract. • The number of succeeding employment contracts for a fixed term is limited to three; the total duration of fixed term contracts is limited to three years. • If the duration of the contracts or the number of fixed contracts exceeds the legal limit, it will automatically become a contract for an unlimited term. • If the contract is for less than two years, the trial period cannot be longer than one month. The maximum duration of a trial period is two months. Trial periods in contracts for less than 6 months are invalid. • During the trial period, both employer and employee can terminate the contract with immediate effect. The notice period for the employee is usually one month. • Employment contracts for an unlimited term can only be terminated by the employer with consent of the employee, the labour office (UWV WERKbedrijf) or the Court.

• If an employer gives notice of termination without obtaining prior approval, the employee could nullify the termination. This rule is not applicable in the case of summary dismissal (such as fraud or theft by the employee). • Courts are very reluctant about accepting summary dismissals; it is very important to contact an employment lawyer immediately if you are fired on the spot. • The legal minimum number of holidays per year is four times the weekly working time. This means 20 holidays in the case of a fulltime employee working a five-day week. • It is common practice in the Netherlands for a fulltime employee to be entitled to approximately 25 holiday days per year in addition to Dutch public holidays. • By law, there is an expiration date of six months for taking the legal minimum number of holidays; employees must take all their holidays within six months after the year in which the holidays were accrued. Should the employee not take the holidays on time, the holidays will lapse without any compensation or payment. • The expiration date of six months is not applicable to the holidays that the employee is entitled to on top of the legal minimum number of holidays; these extra holidays will not lapse until after a period of five years.

Legal advice for expats Karen Gordon helps expats successfully navigate the international job market in the Netherlands and provides HR and recruitment expertise—all with a multicultural understanding. Karen’s result-driven process includes: • Identifying where to look for your ideal job and which local networks to tap into. • Highlighting your experience and strengths to make your CV, cover letter and/or job application stand out from the rest. • Refining your interviewing & communication skills with an experienced, native English speaker to gain an edge in a very competitive market. Email karen@kgtconsulting.nl to schedule a free intake & discuss which services you need. www.kgtconsulting.nl

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• • • • •

employment family housing personal injury and more

Nassauplein 36, The Hague Contact Irene Lansen E: lansen@scheer.nl T: +31 (0)70 - 3659933

www.scheersanders.nl/expats

EMPLOYMENT

COLLECTIVE LABOUR AGREEMENT (CAO) • This is a written agreement covering working conditions and benefits drawn up by employers, employers’ organisations and employee organisations (such as unions). • A CAO are often more generous than statutory requirements. • It should state in your contract whether a CAO is applicable; you don’t have to be a member of a union to benefit. • If no CAO applies – all must be registered – you will need to negotiate your own terms and conditions. SOCIAL SECURITY • The Dutch social security system is one of the most comprehensive in Europe. There are three strands: 1. National Insurance administered by the social insurance bank (www.svb.nl), which includes old age pension (AOW) and child benefit (AKW).

• Specific conditions apply to each benefit. Check that your residence rights are not affected if you apply for benefits. • Official documents will need to be in good order. Consult the Ministry of Social Affairs and Welfare website (www.szw.nl) for more information. UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFIT (WW) • Your employment history will determine the amount and duration of payments. For the first two months you get 75 percent of your last earned salary, and thereafter 70 percent. • You must have worked 26 out of the previous 36 weeks before the first day of unemployment (or less for those not in regular employment). • You apply for benefit online at www.werk.nl or at a local office of UWV WERKbedrijf. • Everything at UWV is in Dutch, so try to find help when applying. VOLUNTARY WORK

• A volunteer is a vrijwilliger and there are many 2. Employee Insurance administered by UWV (www.uwv.nl), opportunities depending on your skills. including unemployment benefits, long-term disability • Expat advice centre ACCESS is always on the lookout for (WIA) and sickness (ZW). volunteers in its offices in Den Haag, Amsterdam, Utrecht or Leiden (www.access-nl.org). 3. Social Assistance administered by municipalities (www.rechtopbijstand.nl).

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

Expats seeking a new career challenge in the Netherlands will find ample opportunities. The Dutch employment market is sophisticated and boasts an impressive array of local and international companies spread across the country. It also has a vast network of specialist and generalist recruitment firms. Many newcomers take the recruitment agency route for speed and convenience, but there are many job hunting streams that foreigners can tap into. JOB HUNTING • Recruitment agencies are big in the Netherlands, and several specialise in recruiting non-Dutch nationals. Explore engines like www.intermediair.nl, www.toplanguagejobs.nl, www.undutchables.nl or www.monsterboard.nl, or even sector-specific sites (architecture, biotechnology, finance etc.). • The UWV WERKbedrijf portal (www.werk.nl) also has a useful list, as does EURES, the European job mobility portal (www.eures.info). • Expat community sites, such as Expatica, have extensive employment listings for foreigners (www.expatica.com/nl/jobs). • Vacancy (vacature) advertisements are often placed on social media via LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and are often placed in English. • The list of companies that are eligible for applying for highly skilled migrants is a useful source and can be found on the IND site (www.ind.nl).

FINDING A JOB SKILLS IN DEMAND • Expats with French, German, Flemish, and Scandinavian language skills are always in demand, according to expat job agency Undutchables. • The job market is also strong for experienced professionals in IT, engineers, healthcare professionals, transport, building, logistics. CULTURALLY CORRECT CVS • Concise, direct and professional communication is the style for job applications in the Netherlands. One or two pages maximum in this order: - Personal details (address etc., sometimes a photo); - Education (courses, not results); - Work experience (the most recent first). Include job responsibilities. - In your cover letter, include more about your motivation for the job, but keep the tone professional.

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EMPLOYMENT

• Always try to meet your agent in person, and make sure that your CV does not get sent anywhere without your permission. • Be clear about your work preferences and present yourself in a positive and personable light. • Stay flexible and be ready to attend interviews as opportunities emerge, but remain patient while your agent scours the market for the right opportunity. • Keep your agent informed of any personal developments that might affect the work they are doing on your behalf. THE INTERVIEW PROCESS

CULTURAL COMPETENCY • Many international companies have headquarters in the Netherlands. • Cross-cultural competency tests may be part of the selection procedure for international assignments. • There are standard personality analysis programmes, such as the Meyers Briggs Type Indicators that analyse personality traits that could affect performance in a new cultural environment. • Top firms are looking for executives who are openminded, flexible, mature, and show respect for, and interest in different cultures.

• Once you’ve set yourself up with your preferred agencies and the enquiries begin, prepare yourself for interviews. • Avoid using jargon or colloquial expressions. Be wellpresented, enthusiastic and well-informed. • Research the company in advance. Self-preparation is equally important. • Always attend an interview with a list of relevant questions. • When you receive a job offer that fully matches your expectations, your agent will help you to assess the various aspects of the offer (salary level, benefits, career development, etc.). • Allow yourself two or three days to consider all of the angles. • The Dutch are tuned into working with foreign nationals -- be reassured that your new co-workers will be supportive of their new “international” colleague. • Make an effort to learn some Dutch – it will pay off in the long run. WORKING CULTURE • Work life and home life are kept separate. • Office hours are strictly observed. • Newcomers are often surprised by the informal working relationships, horizontal management and frequent meetings. • Colleagues often lunch together at the canteen. • Flexible working is common, particularly for families with children.

WORKING WITH AGENCIES • Agencies openly advertise their services on websites geared to expats, and they are frequent advertisers on job boards and leading publications. But how do you find an agency that is both tuned into the local market and to your personal needs? • Maintain an up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV) in English that fully reflects your skills, education, work experience and personal profile, and try to keep it as short as possible. If you really want to stand out, have a version translated into Dutch, which some companies will appreciate. • Always support any application with a clear overview or motivation letter setting out your primary work requirements, personal qualities and career objectives. • Follow up any application if you hear nothing back within five days.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

CAREER RESOURCES

RECRUITMENT AGENCIES

KGT Consulting +31 (0)6 30180433 | Karen@kgtconsulting.nl | www.kgtconsulting.nl | facebook-f @KGTNetherlands

UWV / EURES workinthenetherlands@uwv.nl | www.werk.nl/eures

YER Hogehilweg 16, 1101 CD Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 697 5011 | www.yer.nl | facebook-f @YERrecruitment

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RELOCATION THE NETHERLANDS IS A BUREAUCRATIC COUNTRY AND PROUD OF IT.

Be prepared for paperwork, appointments, and organizing documents during your stay in the Netherlands:

COMPULSORY REGISTRATION IN THE BRP APPLIES TO EVERYONE!

(see above for legal format, if applicable depending on the country of origin). • To register, you need to make an • The Municipal Personal Records appointment, and all members of Database (Basis Registratie Personen • Ensure documents are in order your family (regardless of age) must in Dutch) holds details of everyone before approaching the BRP and IND. be present at the first interview. that lives in the Netherlands; • BRP: the office where to register your • If you move within the Netherlands, registration is compulsory. details into Dutch system. you can usually register the change • All people who intend to stay longer • IND: the office that implements of address online (by means of using than 4 months in the Netherlands, immigration policy and makes a DigiD). If leaving the Netherlands, must register at the BRP within five decisions on (combined) work/ you need to deregister from the city days of arrival. In some regions residence permits. hall were you are living (not earlier waiting lists apply. • Check that your passport is valid for • Information shared at BRP is shared than 5 days before departure date). the period of your stay (and expires with other government platforms later than six months from date IND (IMMIGRATION AND to reduce duplicate registrations of registration). NATURALISATION DEPARTMENT). and perform public tasks like • Collect your marriage and birth determine charges for water and certificates, and they must be refuse collection, eligibility for social • Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst translated into Dutch, English, (IND) implements immigration housing, and so on. French, or German (best to ask for a • Your Citizen Service number (also procedures including applications for multi-lingual one). residence permits, Dutch citizenship, called social security number) – in • All documents must be “legalised”. visas, and asylum requests. Dutch Burger Service Nummer Generally, with the addition of (BSN) - is initiated here. It is needed • The website has extensive an Apostille – an extra stamp on to open a bank account, start information in English, and certified foreign papers – which you work, and/or claim benefits. After downloadable brochures and obtain from the competent authority forms (www.ind.nl/en). completing the process, you can in your own country. See the • Appointment must be made before get a printout of your details to Apostille section of www.hcch.net. prove your residence and rights, visiting an IND desk. Not all countries issue apostilles, • To collect a permit, you must attend either on the spot or sent to your which may cause the legalization in person. home address. process to be a little more complex. • Documents required for registration • Renewal forms are automatically sent to you. Office locations can be Since February 2019, apostilles include: passport (valid for a found on the IND website from European Union states are no minimum period of the length of longer necessary. (www.ind.nl/en) or call +31 (0)88 043 your stay), rental contract (in your 0430 (call charges apply). name), employment contract (if applicable), birth and marriage certificates of all family members SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

We specialize in immigration and nationality law.

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RELOCATION

RESIDENCE PERMITS A TEMPORARY RESIDENCE PERMIT IS CONDITIONAL AND RELATES TO THE PURPOSE OF YOUR STAY. A PERMANENT RESIDENCE PERMIT IS UNCONDITIONAL.

WHAT KIND OF RESIDENCE PERMIT? • Eligibility and the type of residence permit (verblijfsvergunning) you need, depends on a variety of factors (age, income, country of origin, and so on). Temporary residence permits are renewable and issued for a set period, for up to five years. They usually last the length of your stay (work contract, study program, etc.). • After 5 years of legal, continuous residency, you can apply for permanent residence or consider citizenship (see below). EU/EEA/SWISS NATIONALS AND RELATIVES

• MVV and residence permit can be applied for with one application called the Entry and Residence Procedure (TEV). • Sponsors – employer or family members – can apply for the permit on national’s behalf before arrival. MVV (MACHTIGING TOT VOORLOPIG VERBLIJF) • A visa sticker placed in a passport valid for 90 days. Travel to the Netherlands must be done within 90 days! Expats coming to the Netherlands must wait for the approval decision in their home countries. With the MVV-visa sticker they can enter the Netherlands. Their residence cards will be waiting for them at a designated IND desk. Nationals from EU/EEA/Switzerland (and their family members), Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, South Korea, US and Vatican City do not need an MVV. For these nationals, biometrics needs to be done in the Netherlands after arrival; residence permit will be made thereafter. • Citizens with a “long-term residence permit EU” issued by another European Union (EU) member state are also exempt.

• For EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, your passport or ID proves your right to live and work in the Netherlands. • If you are staying more than four months, you need to register at a local municipality, get a social number (BSN), and take out Dutch health insurance. Any non-EU/EEA/ Swiss family members must apply for a certificate of lawful residence and show proof of their relationship to the national. • After five years of residency, all EU/EEA/Swiss nationals and family members (who have lived with them) are eligible to apply for “permanent residence for EU citizens”. CIVIC INTEGRATION ACT NON-EU/EEA/SWISS • Also called “third country” nationals need a residence permit to stay over three months and possibly temporary permit (MVV) to enter the Netherlands.

Civic Integration Exam (Inburgeringsexamen) must be passed within three years from arrival. The exam tests knowledge of Dutch language, culture and society. If passed, the candidate receives the Civic Integration Diploma (Inburgeringsdiploma), which is required for any permanent residence permit.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

• The Civic Integration Exam is different from the Civic Integration Examination Abroad, which is an examination taken before arrival in the Netherlands. The Civic Integration Examination Abroad forms part of the MVV-procedure, but does not apply to those coming for work, study or other temporary purposes. EU/EEA/ Swiss citizens and their families are exempt from all compulsory integration requirements. Non-EU/EEA/ Swiss citizens staying for work, study or exchange, and their family members, are also exempt as long as they stay on the basis of these (temporary) residence permits, Persons under 18 years old, and pension aged persons are exempt as well. • As of 1 January 2013, the Education Executive Agency (DUO) ensures the implementation and enforcement of the Civic Integration Act. For information, check en.inburgeren.nl. HIGHLY SKILLED MIGRANT POLICY (KENNISMIGRANTENREGELING) • Employment-based immigration policy for highly skilled migrants. Combined residence-and-work permits are applied for by the employer, who acts as “sponsor”. • Only so called “recognized sponsors” can make use of this policy. IND keeps a public record of all recognized sponsors at: www.ind.nl/en/Pages/public-registerrecognised-sponsors.aspx. Highly skilled migrants must be on payroll of recognized sponsor.

• The policy all depends on salary. Highly skilled migrant salaries must meet a particular threshold, while also being competitive. The salary thresholds do not apply to medical specialist training, or academic positions. • Net salaries must be paid by bank on a monthly basis. Late or irregular payment of salary may immediately give cause for withdrawal of residence permit. • Sponsors of highly skilled migrants are under a duty of information. They have to report significant changes to the IND within 28 days. • Employees can begin work once they receive their residence permit or “residence endorsement sticker” (verblijfsaantekening) from the IND. Highly skilled migrants may perform self-employed activities on the side, but no side-jobs in employment. Dependent family members have full access to labour market. SEARCH YEAR VISA • Foreign students who have completed higher education can file with IND to remain in the country for a year to look for a job; full and unrestricted access to the labour market. • Permission also applies to those who obtained a degree in the last three years from a university listed in the top 200 of the most recent Times Higher Education World University Rankings, QS World University Rankings, or Academic Ranking of World Universities. • Visa is non-extendable, but if graduate finishes a different study program after expiry of first Search Year Visa, a second Search Year Visa can be issued. START-UP VISA • One-year temporary residence permits enabling applicant to launch an innovative start-up in the Netherlands. • Start-up entrepreneur business idea must be innovative. Innovativeness is broadly defined. • The start-up entrepreneur must have significant savings or another source of income for at least a full year. • The start-up entrepreneur must have a contract with a start-up facilitator having a sound track record. Most major start-up incubators in the Netherlands are accepted. • After one year, permit must be changed into a regular entrepreneur residence permit. This may be done with a statement of good entrepreneurship obtained from start-up facilitator. Facilitators set their own benchmarks for this.

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INDEPENDENT PERMITS • A non-EU national who has a residence permit based on a relationship (a Dutch or legally resident partner or parent, for example) can apply for a permit in his or her own right after five years of holding a Dutch permit. • Dependent children can apply for an independent residence permit after one year of legal stay based on a family residence permit. • Specific, but restrictive policies facilitate continued stay of ex-partners in case of domestic violence or the threat of violence.

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• Continued stay in case of divorce before the five-year term is usually possible if there are children having the Dutch or an EU nationality. PERMANENT RESIDENCE PERMIT ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT MOVING TO

• Permanent and unconditional residence permit. After five years of uninterrupted legal stay, this permit can be issued. • Applicant must have the Civic Integration Diploma (Inburgeringsdiploma), even if prior residence was based on work. • Applicant must show having sufficient and durable means of support. • Beware of “residence gaps”, meaning a “gap” between the expiry date of old residence permit and starting date of the new permit. A “residence gap” causes the loss of all accrued time; you basically have to start counting five years from zero. • EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can obtain permanent status after five years too. The rules here are considerably less strict.

AND LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS

• Multilingual Counsellors • Free frequently asked questions

• Professional Volunteering • Free lifestyle publication: ACCESS Magazine Other questions? Contact our Helpdesk on +31 85 400 03 38 (Mon-Fri 10-4) or email us via helpdesk@access-nl.org.

RESIDENCY COSTS (2020) For all applications the IND charges costs. The exact figures are subject to frequent change. Please refer to www.ind.nl/ en/pages/costs.aspx for details.

access-nl.org

IDENTIFICATION

ACCESS-Netherlands

access.nl

All residents over the age of 14 must carry an ID that shows their residence status (for EU/EEA nationals, a passport).

EXPAT CENTRES

ADVICE AND INFORMATION

EXPAT CENTRE LEIDEN Stadskantoor Leiden, Bargelaan 190 | 2333 CW Leiden | info@expatcentreleiden.nl |www.expatcentreleiden.nl | facebook-f @ExpatCentreLeiden

EXPAT CENTRE MAASTRICHT REGION Postbus 1992, 6201 BZ Maastricht | +31 (0)43 350 5010 | www.expatcentremaastrichtregion.nl | facebook-f ExpatCentreMaastrichtRegion | Instagram @expatcentremaastrichtregion Linkedin-in @expat-centre-maastricht-region IN AMSTERDAM World Trade Center Amsterdam | I Tower, ground floor Strawinskylaan 1767, 1077 XX Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 254 7999 | welcome@amsterdam.nl | www.inamsterdam.com INTERNATIONAL WELCOME CENTRE UTRECHT REGION Stadsplateau 1, 3521 AZ Utrecht | +31 (0)30 286 00 00 | iwc@utrecht.com | facebook-f @IWCUR | Linkedin-in @International Welcome Centre UR | Instagram @iwcutrechtregion ROTTERDAM PARTNERS Korte Hoogstraat 31, 3011 GK Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 790 0190 | info@rotterdampartners.nl |www.rotterdamexpatcentre.nl | www.rotterdampartners.nl | facebook-f @rotterdamexpatcentre/ THE HAGUE INTERNATIONAL CENTRE City Hall (Atrium) Spui 70, 2511 BT Den Haag | +31 (0)70 3535043 | internationalcentre@denhaag.nl | www.thehagueinternationalcentre.nl | facebook-f @TheHagueInternationalCentre Linkedin-in www.linkedin.com/company/the-hague-international-centre/ Twitter twitter.com/hague_intcentre HOLLAND EXPAT CENTER SOUTH Vestdijk 27a, 5611 CA Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 238 6777 | info@hollandexpatcenter.com | www.hollandexpatcenter.com | facebook-f @Holland-Expat-Center 18

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RELOCATION

AMSTERDAM AREA AMSTERDAM, AMSTELVEEN, DIEMEN, ALMERE, LELYSTAD, HAARLEM, HAARLEMMERMEER, HILVERSUM, ALKMAAR, BERGEN, HOORN, IJMOND, ZANDVOORT, CASTRICUM, ZAANSTREEK & WATERLAND

Population of Amsterdam: 873,200 Population of the region: 2.5 million Nationalities: 168 (approximately) Number of bikes in the city: 847,000 (estimated) Total kilometres cycled every day: 2 million Number of international schools in the region: 17 and still increasing LINKS www.iamsterdam.com/living (regional information) www.amsterdam.nl/en (city information) www.iamsterdam.com/inamsterdam (for international newcomers)

The city of Amsterdam is a world-famous destination, home to the UNESCO-listed Canal Ring, renowned museums and countless tourist attractions, but there’s much more to experience and discover in the region. The Amsterdam Area includes a stretch of the North Sea Coast, newly formed cities like Almere and Lelystad, the historic city of Haarlem, harbourside villages and much more – all within an hour of Amsterdam’s city centre. More international residents are choosing to settle in these areas, where there is a greater choice of housing, international schools with capacity for new students and easy transport connections for work. AMSTERDAM, AMSTELVEEN & DIEMEN The city of Amsterdam has enjoyed a long and interesting history, and today it prides itself on a rich cultural life and a diverse population. This is illustrated by the fact that the city’s districts and neighbourhoods are hugely varied – each has its own character, from the green spaces in Oost, the bustling creativity in West, to the quieter, charming villages in Noord. Amstelveen and Diemen are neighbouring cities, offering yet more diversity. Here you can enjoy a bigger variety of housing options, peaceful residential areas and a vibrant international community, while all the benefits of living and working in

Amsterdam’s city centre are within a short bike ride. ALMERE & LELYSTAD The Netherlands’ newest cities, Almere and Lelystad, were built on land that was reclaimed from the sea in a feat of Dutch engineering. Since the first homes were built here in the 1960s and ’70s, these cities have developed into well-planned residential areas with world-class architecture, lakes and criss-crossing waterways, modern infrastructure and excellent transport connections. Aside from being one of the most distinctive and diverse areas to buy housing in the Amsterdam Area, there are also opportunities to design and build your own home. HAARLEM Haarlem is one of the Netherlands’ most beautiful old cities, offering a wealth of historic buildings and sights and a lively community of 150,000 residents. Often likened to a miniature version of Amsterdam, Haarlem has a similarly picturesque old-world charm, with cobbled streets, winding waterways and gabled houses. Though rich with historic architecture, it’s a lively city packed with culture, nightlife, dining hotspots and some of the best shopping streets in the country.

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HAARLEMMERMEER & THE FLOWER STRIP

IJMOND, ZANDVOORT & CASTRICUM

The Haarlemmermeer region offers easy connections to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol for international travel, a good selection of public and international schools, and plenty of green space for outdoor activities. Expansive parks, farmland and gardens contribute to the area’s relaxed lifestyle. The area borders the flower growing region of the Netherlands, which bursts to life in vivid colours every spring and summer, while the world’s largest flower auction is based in neighbouring city Aalsmeer. Even in a bigger city like Hoofddorp, you’re never far from open green spaces, such as the 1000-hectare Park 21 and the Toolenburgplas lake.

Locations like Zandvoort, Bloemendaal, Castricum, Bergen, Velsen, IJmuiden, Egmond, Beverwijk and Heemskerk offer a unique lifestyle that perfectly balances the bustling cities nearby. Weekends can be spent taking part in wind and water sports, walking or cycling in the dunes and spotting local wildlife, or visiting the beachside bars and restaurants nearby. There’s a feeling of freedom that comes from the area’s relative remoteness, making it easy to forget that it’s just a simple journey by car or train from Amsterdam, Haarlem or Alkmaar.

HILVERSUM, THE GOOI & VECHTSTREEK

The cities, towns and villages of Beemster, Purmerend, Zaanstad, Waterland, Landsmeer, Wormerland, Uitgeest, Oostzaan and Edam-Volendam all have an enduring cultural and industrial heritage. Today, its infrastructure remains steeped in history, with shipping warehouses, windmills, cheesemaking factories and iconic Dutch fishing villages that have remained virtually untouched for centuries. The area is simultaneously looking towards the future, blending the old with the new and finding innovative ways to repurpose and showcase its industrial character.

The area known as the Gooi & Vechtstreek is characterised by its lush surroundings, picturesque and historic villages, untouched natural spaces and beautiful lakes. Positioned southeast of Amsterdam city centre, the area is made up of cities and towns which include Hilversum, Bussum, Naarden, Huizen, Laren, Blaricum and Muiden – all offering a popular blend of upmarket luxury, traditional village atmospheres and modern living. The Gooi & Vechtstreek has a good selection of schools, including various international schools for non-Dutch speakers. The small village-like communities are safe, and the green spaces, forests, parks and playgrounds are ideal for outdoor family activities.

ZAANSTREEK & WATERLAND

Learn more about living in the Amsterdam Area at: www.iamsterdam.com/living Or find your ideal place to stay using the interactive Map It Out tool mapitout.iamsterdam.com SETTLE INTO THE REGION WITH IN AMSTERDAM We support highly skilled migrant employees, scientific researchers, international entrepreneurs and international graduates, simplifying immigration processes and helping international newcomers settle into the Amsterdam Area. The IN Amsterdam procedure includes immigration elements such as:

ALKMAAR, BERGEN & HOORN The area at the north of the province of Noord-Holland offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with expansive polder landscapes and historical Dutch villages. Positioned between the North Sea Coast, the Wadden Sea (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the IJsselmeer lake, the area includes the cities Alkmaar, Den Helder and Hoorn. This region north of Amsterdam is renowned for its traditional feel – down to earth, hardworking and straight talking – but it’s not stuck in its ways either. As such, scenic polders and historical towns go hand in hand with the ever-developing digital economy.

• residence and work permits; • registration with the relevant municipality; • arrangement of a citizen service number (BSN); • application for the 30% tax ruling; • application to exchange a driving licence. If you’ve made the move and you’re still finding your feet, we’re here to help. Sign up to our newsletters for tips and news, take part in our informative seminars for newcomers, turn to the helpdesks provided by our trusted partners (for housing or general advice), learn more about international schools and Dutch education, or meet new people through (international) groups and clubs.

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RELOCATION

LEIDEN REGION LEIDEN, LEIDERDORP, OEGSTGEEST, VOORSCHOTEN, ZOETERWOUDE

LEIDEN’S LOCATION Facts & Figures: • Leiden has: • the largest life sciences knowledge cluster in the Netherlands • 13 museums • 28 km of canals • 3,000 monuments • 20,000+ internationals

to the Green Heart of the Netherlands. Leiden is also a great starting point for many activities, with water sports at the Kagerplassen recreational area, the Duinrell water amusement park in Wassenaar, the famed Keukenhof gardens in Lisse, Space Expo in Noordwijk and Madurodam in The Hague in the area. CULTURE Leiden has an abundant and rich cultural heritage and a beautiful vibrant city centre: labyrinth of streets, alleys, courtyards and over 3.000 monumental buildings. Furthermore, Leiden has 28 kilometres of historic canals running through the city, which allows you to enjoy the city from the water. Leiden’s cosiness is a warm harbour to create your home-awayfrom-home.

Leiden is ideally located. Within a short travelling distance you’ll reach major cities such as The Hague and Amsterdam. International visitors will also have no difficulty reaching Leiden, with Schiphol (Amsterdam Airport) just 20 minutes away and Rotterdam’s smaller airport at 25 minutes distance. Want to explore Dutch landscapes? Leiden lies within ten kilometres of Holland’s North Sea coast, and is close

• 15 minutes from the beach • 15 minutes from Den Haag • 20 minutes from Schiphol • 35 minutes from Amsterdam

are part of the knowledge culture, from the University to the Hogeschool. A region with the largest biodiversity in the Netherlands, Naturalis. Also don’t forget the region’s culture. With more than 13 museums, which mostly arose from scientists who taught at the University (think of Lorentz, Einstein, Scaliger, Boerhaave) and three thousand monuments, culture and science go hand in hand. Leiden is still a breeding ground for up-and-coming talent. In Leiden, the discoveries of tomorrow are made today! The Leiden Region is the hotspot for talented people and has been for decades. With the oldest Dutch university, and businesses having high percentages of foreign employees (up to 80%), the international economy and community is shooting through the roof. A WARM AND PRACTICAL WELCOME

The Expat Center Leiden (ECL) is the first place newcomers visit. You can visit the Expat Center to register with the municipalities and to Leiden is a city where talent is given the opportunity to develop. It is a apply for a citizen service number (BSN). In addition, you can receive region engulfed in science with the extensive information from education University, the Leiden University to housing, and the tax system Medical Center and the Leiden Bio Science Park. A city where the students to healthcare. CAREER, SCIENCE, BALANCE

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“We offer services in the Leiden region for all stages of international life: coming to, settling in, living in and leaving. Depending on your country of origin, you may need a visa, a work permit, or a residence permit. You will also need to register with the Municipal Personal Records Database to obtain a BSN. The Expat Centre helps you arrange this smoothly so you can start your settling in fresh”, explains Corine van der Ceelen, manager of Expat Centre Leiden.

On top of helping internationals themselves, the Expat Centre Leiden also consults with international companies and HR departments for tailor made solutions, necessary procedures, legal aspects, registration forms, and a number of other subjects. INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY Having a community is an important part of feeling at home in a place. That’s why the ECL organises events where you can meet others, creating your new home-away-fromhome. “We recognize that meeting other people can be difficult, which is why we organise Meet & Mingles, informal gatherings for internationals in the Leiden region.”

The Expat Centre Leiden (ECL) offers government services and provides a network for internationals living or working in the Leiden region. ECL carries out registrations for people

Meet & Mingles take place on the first Thursday of every month from 18:00 to 20:00. The main focus is on creating connections over a drink, games, or quiz in a casual setting. The Meet & Mingle has a new theme and location every month. This way, you get to know parts of Leiden and the region you might not have been before. Additionally, ECL playfully insert facts, figures, customs and events of the region into the Meet & Mingle in varying ways. “We aim to create a community in the Leiden region, where everyone is welcome and which brings internationals one step closer to creating a new home”.

living or working in Leiden, Katwijk, Leiderdorp, Oegstgeest, Voorschoten and Zoeterwoude. expatcentreleiden.nl

ExpatCentreLeiden

@ExpatLeiden

Expat Centre Leiden

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RELOCATION

ROTTERDAM INTERNATIONAL, DYNAMIC, INCLUSIVE

Rotterdam, the gateway to Europe. International city with a distinct character, energetic, always in motion, its eyes on the future. Dynamic port city, where a vibrant mix of 170+ nationalities and many cultures, subcultures and communities makes for a diverse, inclusive and open urban culture. It’s no wonder that more and more international companies and expats settle and build their future in Rotterdam.

clusters in other economic sectors such as life sciences and health, cleantech, logistics and agri-food. The proximity to customers and suppliers makes Rotterdam a strategic business location and a fast growing international business hub. Entrepreneurship, innovation and experimentation are integral elements of the city’s DNA, attracting international investors, pioneers, start-ups and global talent. Rotterdam is surrounded by waters and makes a good use of it. There are several innovative floating solutions which can be admired Going abroad and creating a new life in a new city can be in Rotterdam, for example, the world’s largest Floating Office quite the challenge. You want to make sure you pick the city that houses the Global Center on Adaptation and even a that fits your needs and your lifestyle. A place where you can Floating Farm with cows on it! find likeminded people and a community where you and your family can easily fit in and feel at home. We would like Continuous innovation is how Rotterdam builds and keeps a to warmly welcome you to Rotterdam. leading position and is crucial to accelerate its digital, energy and circular transitions. The Netherlands in general and LIVING IN ROTTERDAM Rotterdam in particular are internationally recognised as Rotterdam has a unique urban vibe. The diverse and leading country and city when it comes to entrepreneurship multicultural nature of Rotterdam’s population is visible and innovation. This publication of fDi Intelligence and and tangible in its art, culture, night life, eating culture, also the Global innovation Index are just two of several business community and literally on the streets. Practically recent accolades. everybody here speaks English fluently. As expat you’ll find SAFE, OPEN, EASY TO TRAVEL your home easily here, either in the city centre, or in one of Rotterdam’s scenic green suburbs. Popular areas for expats Rotterdam is safe, well organised and easy to travel. It’s quite are Kralingen-Crooswijk, Hillegersberg-Schiebroek, Rotterdam open and less crowded than many other international urban Noord (North) and the city centre, but also the fast evolving hubs, with green and water nearby wherever you are in the areas South of the river Maas are attracting more and city. Its open, spacious and well organised and layout are more expats. With the diversity of its inhabitants and the welcoming, even in times when being and moving in crowds quality of its neighbourhoods Rotterdam contributes to its is not possible. growing appeal. Rotterdam boasts an excellent public transport system (bus, “Compared to other countries, children are doing well in tram, metro, Watertaxi) and is close to two international the Netherlands where there is a high quality of living. airports (both Schiphol International Airport and Rotterdam According to the survey, 90 percent of Dutch children are The Hague Airport are less than 30 minutes from Rotterdam satisfied with their lives in general. They appear to have Central Station). And of course Rotterdammers, being Dutch, good social and academic skills.” love to ride their bikes, which is actually one of the fastest ways of getting around the city. All these aspects contribute - Invest in Holland website; article “International Survey: Children in the Netherlands 1st in Overall Well-being” to Rotterdam being an ideal city for international families to settle and build their lives. MAGNET FOR BUSINESS AND INNOVATION EDUCATION AND TALENT DEVELOPMENT Rotterdam’s strategic location literally connects Rotterdam to the world. Its port, the smartest and busiest in Europe, is Speaking of families, Rotterdam has several highly regarded the engine powering Europe’s most innovative maritime and international schools for primary and secondary education offshore cluster. Rotterdam is also home to world-leading (see boxed info on this page) and world class institutes for SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

higher level education, including the Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus Medical Centre and the Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences where in general education is offered in English. Because of the rapid growth of Rotterdam’s international business community and innovation ecosystem, education and talent development are in the centre of the city’s attention. Municipality, businesses and research and knowledge institutes actively work together to provide special programs and hubs where people can develop and deploy their talents. INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN ROTTERDAM • Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam (NAISR): www.naisr.nl • Rotterdam International Secondary School (RISS): www.riss.wolfert.nl • Japanese School of Rotterdam: http://www.jsrotte.nl/ • Harbour IBSR (International and Bilingual schools of Rotterdam): www.harbourinternational.nl/ ROTTERDAM EXPAT CENTRE How to tap into all this potential that Rotterdam offers you and your family? That’s easy. You contact the people at the Rotterdam Expat Centre. They are familiar with all requirements and procedures that come with you wanting to settle in Rotterdam. They know what questions you might have and what challenges you face. They will help you with the immigration procedure with the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service), they can advise you on things like taxes, housing, opening a bank account, healthcare, education and careers. Their services for expats are free,

tailored to your specific needs and also include your spouse and children. Especially for new expats coming to Rotterdam the Rotterdam Expat Centre organizes several virtual and hybrid events throughout the year. Like our annual Rotterdam Expat Welcome Event, when we warmly welcome all recently arrived expats to our city, help them with introductions to each other and to local communities. Additionally, every month a special Expat Café is organized together with Venture Café, where participants can make valuable connections with the network and learn more about their new home Rotterdam. Also during every edition there is an expert speaker who hosts a workshop on topics such as taxes, schooling and wellbeing. These events will hopefully help expats and their family to settle down in their new home in Rotterdam. EXPLORE ROTTERDAM Whether you are thinking about moving to the Netherlands and looking for a new place you can call home, or if you have already started planning your career and life in Rotterdam, the people of Rotterdam Expat Centre would love to meet and help you. If you want to first explore our city a little more, we advise you to check out these websites: • Rotterdam Expat Centre: www.rotterdamexpatcentre.nl • Rotterdam Partners: www.rotterdampartners.nl/en • City of Rotterdam: www.rotterdam.nl (Dutch) • Rotterdam Tourist Information: www.en.rotterdam.info • Virtual Tour of Rotterdam: https://en.rotterdampartners.nl/rotterdam-virtual-tour/

Photo: Iris van den Broek

ROTTERDAM EXPAT CENTRE ONE STOP SHOP FOR EXPATS Rotterdam Expat Centre helps you settle in Rotterdam. We can answer all your questions and provide professional services, free of charge. •Immigration & Registration•Housing•Education & Careers•Taxes & Insurance•Healthcare•Social Events & Expat Communities +31 (0)10 790 01 90, info@rotterdamexpatcentre.nl www.rotterdamexpatcentre.nl @RdamExpatCentre , rotterdamexpatcentre

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UTRECHT REGION

LIFE Welcome to Utrecht Region! Utrecht Region marks the exact centre of the Netherlands and with its 26 municipalities and over 1.3 million inhabitants, of which 45,000 internationals, it is one of the smallest, liveliest, and most densely populated provinces in the country. It is a region that offers high-quality living and employment, a pleasant and varied landscape, beautiful cities, and towns as well as world-class cultural and recreational facilities. The central location, easy-going character and healthy urban lifestyle make it a popular region to settle in. In the heart of the region lies the city of Utrecht. With roots that go back to medieval times, Utrecht has a long and rich cultural past. It is a city where history and 21st century science easily blend. It provides a vibrant, creative, young, inspiring and international environment for realising leading innovations that help people live greener, smarter and healthier lives. Take a stroll along the lively canals in Utrecht or one of the other endearing cities and explore the countless monuments and world heritage sites the Utrecht region has to offer. And don’t forget to meet the lovely

cosmopolitan people to get to know the area through their eyes. WORK Utrecht Region is a globally competitive destination for business and has been consistently ranked as one of Europe’s most competitive regions since the European Commission launched its Regional Competitive Index in 2010. With an open-minded business climate, a skilled workforce and global connections, the region is a hub of creativity and innovation. The region offers an attractive, sustainable environment for business and for you to live and work. More and more international firms are relocating to the Netherlands and, along with Dutch companies, are investing in global talent like you to support their business.

3,700 are from abroad. Studying in Utrecht Region, even if it is just for a semester, will be a life-changing experience. You will discover a new city and country, make friends, absorb a different culture and maybe even learn a new language. INTERNATIONAL WELCOME CENTRE UTRECHT REGION Are you relocating to Utrecht Region? Start your journey at the International Welcome Centre Utrecht Region!

STUDY

We believe that starting a new life abroad should be easy and fun; therefore, we offer several free services to help you settle in. We can help you arrange the official procedures upon your arrival, get current and accurate information to make you familiar with life in Utrecht Region, and provide access to the local (international) community via fun and informative events.

Utrecht Region is also home to some of the Netherlands’ most prestigious universities and knowledge institutes, which offer a wide range of Englishtaught degree programmes and courses for you to choose from. As an international student, you will be in good company. Utrecht Region hosts more than 70,000 students, of which

Feel free to stop by at our office and get the information and guidance you need. Visit our website for more information: welcome.utrechtregion.com and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram to keep track of upcoming events and stay up-to-date on the latest news.

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Wtrecht Region

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THE HAGUE CITY BY THE SEA • CITY OF PEACE AND JUSTICE

10,000 – the number of people who "polar bear plunge" into the icy North Sea every New Year’s Day at the Scheveningen Beach

A CITY BY THE SEA

1913 – the inauguration year of the Peace Palace in The Hague

The Hague is the only large Dutch city by the sea. Just a short walk from the historic city centre, you’ll find an 11-kilometre-long beach. Step aboard a tram and within 15-minutes you can breathe in the fresh sea air, engage in water-based sports all year round, or enjoy true beach weather in the summer months.

480 – the number of international organisations in The Hague and region 4 – the number of seasons where the weather is perfect for surfing 1 – the number of Kings living in The Hague The Hague distance to: Schiphol Amsterdam: 44 km • Rotterdam-The Hague Airport: 18 km • Stena Ferry to England: 20 km Population: 550.000 • International residents: 60.000 • International students: 10.000+ • Nationalities: 180

CITY OF PEACE AND JUSTICE

In The Hague, tens of thousands of people work every day to build a more peaceful and just world. People from across the globe meet here to work collectively to solve problems that affect us all.

The Peace Palace (home of the International Court of Justice) is at the centre of a robust Peace and Justice sector, with the city being where international governing bodies such as Europol, the International Criminal Court, and the OPCW (Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons) are located.

Why choose between city and beach, when The Hague offers both? The city is a blend of modern skyscrapers and rich historical architecture, complete with kilometres of beaches just a short walk away. It’s a cosmopolitan city, with a vibrant international community and a robust business climate, and a city where people enjoy a high quality of life whilst working towards a better world.

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESSES

Home to the Dutch royal family and the seat of the government, The Hague is where important decisions affecting the future of the country are made every day. This is why companies, students, embassies and nonprofit organisations choose to establish themselves here, because in The Hague, you can expand your network, effect change, and make a difference in the world.

Next to the Dutch government, one of the largest employers in the city with a total of over 35,000 employees, many multinational head offices such as Shell, Total, Siemens; Huawei, Aegon and the NN Group can be found in The Hague. This close proximity facilitates connections between government agencies, commercial enterprises, knowledge institutions and NGOs; helping businesses to expand their network and build influence.

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A GREAT ENVIRONMENT FOR COMPANIES AND INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS ALIKE

HOUSING

With affordable homes and good accessibility, The Hague is a great place to live. The municipality consists of 44 different neighbourhoods and eight city districts, each with its own character and charm. Geuzen-en Statenkwartier, Wassenaar; Benoordenhout and Archipelbuurt/Willemspark are popular neighbourhoods amongst international residents. The Zeeheldenkwartier and Regentessekwartier The Hague Tech and The Hague Humanity Hub for example, are also gaining popularity; especially amongst young professionals. These neighbourhoods have their own active are incubation hubs that facilitate innovation through international community, though many internationals knowledge-sharing and collaboration. While The Hague Business Agency and Innovation Quarter, offer tailor-made also opt to live in the surrounding municipalities of Delft, Leidschendam-Voorburg and Rijswijk. advice to companies considering to establish themselves in the region. EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE LIVING IN THE HAGUE The Hague has the highest concentration of international schools in the Netherlands with a large number of Home to world-class museums and attractions, and a educational institutions which provide excellent study popular venue for festivals and music events, The Hague programmes in English, German or French. There are also has something to offer for every lifestyle! It is not unusual many types of childcare options available for pre-schoolers to combine a shopping spree with a visit to Vermeer’s and young children. Many of the international schools and iconic “Girl with a Pearl Earring”, a picnic in the park, or a billingual schools are highly acclaimed. While you are at jaunt in the hidden Palace Garden. There’s plenty of space work, you can be sure that your child is getting the best to unwind in nature, too, with a long walk in the dunes or in one of the many parks and urban oases scattered possible education and care. throughout the city. Economic sectors in The Hague include Peace and Justice, the Impact Economy, Security, Energy, Finance, Legal and Policy; and IT and Tech. This unique ecosystem provides a conducive environment for companies and organisations to conduct their business and expand their network.

Connecting internationals to The Hague region

The Hague International Centre is the one-stop-shop for internationals in The Hague region. We provide information and support for every aspect of your relocation. www.thehagueinternationalcentre.nl

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JOIN A COMMUNITY

LINKS:

Many internationals have made The Hague their home. With a lively international community and a wide network of international clubs and associations, it is easy to find like-minded people. Join a community and make yourself at home in The Hague. Welcome to The Hague!

• www.thehagueinternationalcentre.nl • www.thehague.com • www.denhaag.nl/en • denhaag.com/en

SCHOOLS Government-funded international schools: • The European School of The Hague • The International School of The Hague • Haagsche Schoolvereeniging • International Waldorf School The Hague • International School Delft • Het Rijnlands Lyceum Oestgeest International School • Het Rijnlands Lyceum Wassenaar International School • Elckerlyc International School Independent international schools (private schools): • The American School of The Hague • The British School in the Netherlands Foreign national schools: • Deutsche Internationale Schule • Le Lycée Français Vincent van Gogh • Sekolah Indonesia

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THE SOUTH OF THE NETHERLANDS EINDHOVEN, MAASTRICHT, TILBURG

EINDHOVEN Population: 234,401 Philips and Eindhoven go hand-in-hand but the city has a lot more to offer. The region accounts for around half of the country’s R&D (research and development) investment and is officially known as “Brainport”. Aimed to be among the top 10 regions by 2020 in terms of technology and economy, Eindhoven is a hub for start-up companies and employment opportunities. Because of 19th-century urban planning decisions, there are no canals, and pre-1940 architecture was destroyed by wartime bombing. But over the years things have changed immensely and for the better. The city is well connected with the railway station close to the centre and the airport offers cheap international access from airlines like Transavia, RyanAir and WizzAir. Centre People living in the centre have plenty of facilities, including a shopping mall and scores of international restaurants. Accommodation is pricey and popular with single expats and couples. The Philips Stadium, where PSV plays, is also located here.

Nuenen was home to Vincent van Gogh (1883–1885) and the older centre stretches around a leafy village green. There’s some detached housing; outer areas are newer and midpriced. Veldhoven is virtually a southwest suburb (the other side of the A2 from Eindhoven). Housing is modern and in a range of price bands. Best is a contemporary, well-planned village with good access, while more rural retreats can be found in Waalre, which is surrounded by large areas of forest. The twin towns of Son and Breugel are usually mentioned in a single breath, and popular with expats. Son has a pleasant old centre but the majority of housing is located in newer, greener (and more expensive) districts. Veldhoven offers various types of housing and lots of green spaces. www.hollandexpatcentersouth.com MAASTRICHT Population: 121,623 Maastricht is located in the very south of the Netherlands, but right in the heart of Europe, bordering to Germany as well as Belgium. Aachen, Cologne, Frankfurt, Brussels, Antwerp, Paris as well as Luxemburg are around the corner. Its impressive history is reflected in the historic centre and location along the Meuse river. In the hilly countryside new technologies on chemicals and new materials, life sciences and smart services are booming. The three Brightlands campuses in the region are at the heart of global innovation.

North (Woensel) The area north of the centre is divided by wide, tree-lined boulevards, and is mainly residential in nature. Housing is mostly newbuild, with apartments and terraced houses for all budgets. Woensel South is cheaper and there’s a great market City Centre for ethnic shopping. Historic buildings jostle with shops, cafes and restaurants. Encompassing the city walls, university buildings and the West Stadspark, the Jekerkwartier has an artistic slant that entices The International School Eindhoven is located in Strijp. creative types and students. East Right Bank Situated around the Karpendonkse Lake and Eckart Forest, Across the river, Wyck is an upcoming district near to the the area has a range of housing including some exclusive train station and has a unique atmosphere that is filled with detached properties. stylish shops and restaurants. Céramique, Maastricht’s newest South district, offers modern accommodation favoured by expats High Tech Campus Eindhoven is situated at Gestel along the who like inner city living with full amenities and services. preHistoric Village and the Tongelreep National Swimming Belvedere Centre. Expats also gravitate towards Stratum, with its wide At less than 500 metres from Vrijthof Square, Market Square range of modestly priced to exclusive housing. and the city centre, a new Maastricht district is being Villages created: Belvédère. A district for young people, students, The villages closely surrounding Eindhoven’s centre are entrepreneurs, expats, creative artists and culture enthusiasts popular with expat families. The International School is still that offers many opportunities for experiments and within cycling distance, and the sense of community is greater. temporary functions. 32

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Sint Pieter and Surroundings A green residential area along Jeker valley and St Petersberg Hill, yet within walking distance to the centre or Belgium.

great place of work, live and enjoy life in a setting reputed for its logistics, health care, leisure economy and aeronautical and industrial maintenance.

International School • United World College: www.uwcmaastricht.com

It is no coincidence, that those sectors are the focal points of Midpoint Brabant, an alliance in which administrators of the Hart van Brabant have joined forces with businesses and knowledge institutes. Entrepreneurs, educators and government are working together on Social Innovation – an approach to regional development unrivalled in Europe and attracting international attention.

Links • www.expatcentremaastrichtregion.nl • www.gemeentemaastricht.nl TILBURG Population: 219,798 Tilburg is the sixth largest city in the Netherlands. It has a population of over 200,000, representing many nationalities. In recent decades, Tilburg has welcomed people from practically every country in Europe, and many beyond. All have brought their own culture and customs. The city authority considers it extremely important that everyone can feel at home in Tilburg. Tilburg is a particularly nice city in which to live and work. Tilburg has every possible amenity: from schools and colleges at all levels, high quality healthcare facilities, cultural institutions offering something for every taste, to open spaces for recreation. Ride a bike, since this is Tilburgs’main means of transport! HART VAN BRABANT (HEART OF BRABANT) From the elevated sandy soils near Belgium, to the river beds of the Meuse and Walloon rivers, the Hart van Brabant (Heart of Brabant) region straddles a breath taking stretch of park-like landscapes. It is a region marked by the Burgundian lifestyle of the nine municipalities surrounding Tilburg, along the Leisure Boulevard from Hilvarenbeek to Heusden. It is a

OPEN TO THE WORLD The Heart of Brabant has a dedicated work force made up of people who like to face the world with an open attitude. Most of them speak good English and know what international collaboration means: they operate worldwide, from China and Japan, to Florida and California. As a matter of fact, making connections is vital to the kind of Social Innovation that runs through the veins of Mid-Brabant. That’s how the region’s current high-tech aeronautical and industrial maintenance service sectors evolved out of its former textile industry. It is also how the Heart of Brabant became home to the internationally acclaimed faculties of Tilburg University – such as economics, law and social studies. All of this is characteristic for a community that views living and working together as vital, and that takes pleasure in linking knowledge to production, people to technology, and gamma concepts to beta facts. www.hollandexpatcentersouth.com

THE EXPAT’S GUIDE TO BRABANT

BREDA • EINDHOVEN • TILBURG

FORMALITIES

HOUSING

EDUCATION & CAREERS

TAXATION, FINANCE & INSURANCE

PERSONAL & SOCIAL NEEDS

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CULTURE & LEISURE

r +31 (0)40 238 67 75

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THE AMERICAN NETHERLANDER NEW

Greg Shapiro

Your personal guide for working and living in the Maastricht Region. expatcentremaastrichtregion.nl +31 43 350 5010

Formalities

Housing

Taxation, Healthcare & Insurance

Education & Careers

Personal & Social

25 Years of Expat Tales

Culture & Leisure

Illustrated paperback – 216 full color pages ISBN 978 94 6319 226 2 – Price € 19.99 Available at the major book store and on Amazon

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RELOCATING TO THE EINDHOVEN AREA? DO IT THE BIG5 WAY!

Big5 Relocations is a young and dynamic independent organisation with a wide personal and professional network in the Eindhoven region. We offer a personalised approach of relocation services including home&school research, pre-assignment visit of the Eindhoven region and settling-in through our experienced and professional relocation consultants.

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HOUSING

FINDING THE PERFECT HOME IS NOT EASY IN THE DENSELY POPULATED NETHERLANDS. HERE’S HOW IT WORKS FINDING A HOME It’s a sellers’ market now in the Netherlands, and housing is in high demand. Competition for housing in popular areas is fierce, so be ready to act, bid and sign quickly. Expats are advised to buy only if they will be in the Netherlands for five years’ minimum. If you stay in The Netherlands for just a couple of years, renting a property is a better option.

RENT OR BUY? • If you will live here for more than five years and paying EUR 2000 exclusive of utilities per month on your lease, you could be better off buying a property in the Netherlands. • Buyers who want to lease out their property in the future should make sure they are permitted to. Check the terms of your mortgage provider. • Only interest payments for full-repayment mortgages over 30 years are tax deductible, and the maximum tax rate for deductibility will be reduced by 0.5 percent per annum until 2040.

• Properties to rent (te huur) and to buy (te koop) can be found on online property portals and agency websites such as www.funda.nl and www.pararius.com, www.expatica.com, www.expatrentals.eu. • There are many agencies specialising in serving expats (be wary of those that charge a registration fee), which can steer a path through the local market. • You can contact an agent to help you out in the home finding process. They will actively search the market to find the property you are looking for. An agent that is working on your behalf will charge an agency fee. The going rate is a 1 months’ rent + 21% V.A.T. • If you find a rental property listed on any website yourself, then that agent is working on behalf of the owner, and for that, you are free of any agency fees or contract costs. But, it is recommended that you hire an agent yourself who can help you out with the rental contract and other issues. • Using a reputable agent, or agency, can help you to avoid renting an “illegal” apartment, a scam, a sub-lease, not getting back your deposit after check out, being bound by an unreasonable contract, or just over paying for a property. You can search all available agents in the market at www.housingagent.com. • Rental properties that have less than EUR 737.14 base rent (in 2020) will fall under social housing restrictions, and most will not qualify for these properties as they either earn too much or have no required link to the area.

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HOUSING

RENTING USING AN AGENT

RULES AND REGULATIONS

• A good housing agent should be able to tell you all about the local market, the city, pricing, quality of housing, restrictions that apply to expats, he/she will arrange viewings for you, negotiate with landlords, and provide an English translation of the rental contract. Helping you to connect with utilities services is also a standard service.

• Base rents (kale huur) are controlled by a “system of points”, woningwaarderingsstelsel,

HOUSING SECTORS

The number of points of the property determines the maximum rental price. Each part of the house receives points. For example: the surface of the dwelling, sanitary, heating system, the (WOZ) value of the property.

• The reality is that there are too few rental properties, which puts upwards pressure on some types of 1. Social Housing sector: The dominant distribution sector has rent-controlled social housing, and income status accommodation. Check what your property’s rent should plays its part in allocation. Restrictions are applied by the be at www.huurcommissie.nl. local authority. Rental properties that have less than EUR • You’ve signed a rental contract and you pay way too much money? Contact a local huurteam or initiate a 720.42 a month (in 2019) base rent will fall under social review of your lease on www.huurcommissie.nl within six housing restrictions. months after signing the lease. 2. Liberalised sector: The government regulates base• Generally, income conditions apply for cheaper housing. rents up to EUR 737.14 a month (2020) and anything over • Be cautious of sub-lets. You need to be able to this price is in the “liberalised” sector (assuming it has register yourself. the correct points/price ratio), where rent prices are not restricted. COSTS AND CONTRACTS • Social housing is split into two sectors, depending on whether the property is privately owned, or owned by a housing corporation (woning coöperaties). • Housing corporations: A good value, but with many restrictions regarding who may live in their properties. Waiting lists of up to 10 years or more are not uncommon. Only those with a total income of less than EUR 39,055 (2020) and valid residency will be eligible. • Most expats end up renting accommodation in the Liberalised sector because there are fewer restrictions and housing is easier to rent.

Your rental contract should cover: • Status: is the property furnished, semi-furnished or empty? There may be an inventory and/or photos. • Duration of lease. • Notice period and stipulations about how notice should be provided. • Service charges (check “all-inclusive”. What portion is rent?). • Utilities (apportioned how?). If you agree to a monthly fee, including an advance for utilities, then make sure that utility use is metered for your property. Your landlord should show you an account (eindafrekening) of payments and real costs at least once a year. • A diplomatic clause if you have to leave because your employer has relocated you elsewhere. You need to be clear on when and how this clause can be used to allow you to escape your rental obligations.

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FIND YOUR PERFECT HOME IN THE NETHERLANDS The MVA Certified Expat Broker is the number one quality label for brokers who are specialised in helping internationals finding their new home in the Netherlands. Our certified brokers are local experts, qualified and fluent in English, as well as other languages. Our services: Buying a home Selling a home Renting a home Renting out a home Valuing your property

We are partner of IN Amsterdam, the Hague International Centre and International Welcome Centre Utrecht Region. www.mvahousing.nl

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HOUSING

• Expect to pay one or two months of rent as deposit – one • There are non-commercial agencies for students, housing month’s rent in advance to the landlord, and one month’s corporations and antikraak (anti-squat) agencies that rent if you use an agent. rent out accommodation. • Check the city housing department for more information TIPS about low-priced housing. • You can find useful internet sites for renting a room or • Discuss your needs explicitly with your housing agent or student accommodation, like www.kamernet.nl. relocation advisor. • Select one, at most two, agencies. Avoid engaging with SHORT-TERM HOUSING OPTIONS too many agents for the same objective. • Arrange viewings three weeks before you need to move • Many cities in the Netherlands have aparthotels in, not earlier. for corporate clients, which can sometimes be less • Be ready to move quickly. anonymous and cheaper than hotels. • If the agent commission seems too much, find property • Websites aimed at tourists – like AirBnB – are great for a on your own, but be ready to put in lots of legwork. private apartment for a couple of months. • Most of all, you will need luck, and timing is • Short-stay regulations in Amsterdam make it “illegal” to also important. rent the majority of properties for less than six months, • Post a notice in the housing section of expat forums. but many properties are listed for less than six-month • Stay clear of anyone asking for a cash payment or stays regardless. cash commission. • Respond quickly to adverts and take someone along with LIVING ON THE WATER you when viewing. • Always check that you can register with the BRP. • Tempted by life on a houseboat or Dutch barge? • The standard NVM (Dutch estate agent association) • The houseboat market is a very close-knit community so contract has an English version for comparison. personal references will go a long way. • There are many rules and regulations regarding permits STUDENTS and mooring conditions. Track down a specialist agent to steer you through the procedures. • Universities try their best to help students with housing • Useful sites include www.waterwonen.nl and but there are serious shortage issues. www.botentekoop.nl (which includes all kinds of boats for sale).

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Untitled-8.indd 1

07-09-17 11:32

HOUSING

BUYING • It is common to appoint a real estate agent, or a makelaar, to do much of the legwork. • A makelaar will track down appropriate houses, arranging viewings, suggesting areas where there’s room for negotiation, and advising on potential pitfalls. • A makelaar also knows which property will come on the market shortly. • The agent’s commission will be one up to two percent excl. 21 % V.A.T. of the purchase price. • You can hunt on Funda (www.funda.nl) to get ideas of prices in particular areas. • When buying, proximity to work, schools and amenities all play their part. • Be aware of the costs involved in renovating older property to current building standards or the quality required for renting. • For leasehold properties, check out the ground rents. • Tax is also levied on the deemed property value (WOZ), evaluated by the local municipality each year. • See www.nvm.nl for useful information in English.

IMPORTANT TERMS • Pre-sale agreement (koopovereenkomst): prepared by vendor’s agent or lawyer (notaris) with a 72-hour “cooling off” period. It will include details of when the 10 percent deposit should be paid, or when the bank guarantee has to be arranged. • Valuation (taxatierapport): designed for mortgage purposes; not a survey. • Transfer or conveyancing tax (overdrachtsbelasting): 2 percent of the purchase price. • Deed of transfer: transportakte. • Mortgage deed: hypotheekakte. • Agent commission: (makelaarscourtage): generally 1–2 percent, if applicable. A full structural survey is sensible; possibly fees for translation, plus 21% V.A.T. on the total. • Parental gift tax: In 2020 homebuyers can still receive up to roughly EUR 103,643 euros as a tax free gift to buy a property.

ARRANGING A MORTGAGE (HYPOTHEEK) There are many different types of mortgage and the tax issues are complex. The general conditions for a mortgage up to four or five times your salary are: • You have a permanent residence permit (depending on nationality and employment contract, this may not be applicable). • You have a permanent employment contract or a continuation statement from your employer. • If self-employed or a contractor, you have certified accounts for the last three years and forecasts for the following year. • Maximum mortgage obtainable is 100 percent of the house value.

Rotsvast 2020-HDEF.pdf

5/11/20

21:55

Rostvast welcomes you to

the Netherlands

COSTS • The buyer generally pays costs (k.k. – kosten koper) but some costs are tax-deductible. • Allow for around 4 to 6 % on top of the purchase price. • Once your offer has been accepted, a written agreement is mandatory, and a 10 percent deposit should be paid. • Make sure your finances are in place first (ie. that a mortgage lender will lend the required amount). • On completion, both parties sign a transfer contract (akte van levering) and a notary must register the property at the Land Registry (www.kadaster.com). • Notary fees can range from EUR 1,000 to EUR 3,000, so it pays off to shop around. • An accredited interpreter must also be hired if one or more of the parties is not a Dutch citizen. • The whole process can take two to three months.

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Dutch Real Estate Company is a full service, one-stop-shop real estate agent with many years of experience Expat-friendly real estate in the Dutch housing market. We aim to make buying, brokers selling, renting property, investing in real estate and renovating a property as enjoyable and rewarding as possible, whilst challenging consumer expectations and setting the highest standards. It's possible to be successful and have fun in the process; a happy balance of competitiveness and great team spirit. Get in touch with us if you are looking to: Sell: We use our expert negotiation skills to secure the right buyer for you at the best possible price and on the most favorable terms. Buy: We will make the whole process of financing, negotiations, checking documents, surveying, hassle-free and find you your dream house in no time. su Rent: Whether you're already here or still abroad we can help you relocate and guide you every step of the way. Buy-to-let: To make a profitable investment you need accurate information. We are here for you from property selection to property management. Renovate: Our team of in-house expert contractors offer a full range of services to make your house in to a home!

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HOUSING

ROTSVAST VERHUUR & VASTGOEDBEHEER Multiple branches in 25 cities such as Johannes Verhulstraat 30bg, 1071 ND Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 662 7662 | amsterdam@rotsvast.nl Anna Paulownastraat 73, 2518 BC The Hague | +31 (0)70 346 4840 | denhaag@rotsvast.nl Burg. Reigerstraat 84, 3581 KW Utrecht | +31 (0)30 214 4346 | utrecht@rotsvast.nl www.rotsvast.nl VON POLL REAL ESTATE Keizersgracht 321, 1016 EE Amsterdam Claude Debussylaan 124, 1082 MD Amsterdam +31 (0) 20 215 9988 | info@von-poll.nl | www.von-poll.nl SERVICED HOUSING SERVICEDAPARTMENTS.NL Gustav Mahlerlaan 50b, 1082 MC Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 723 3490 | info@servicedapartments.nl | www.servicedapartments.nl | facebook-f @servicedapartmentsinthenetherlands THE WITTENBERG Nieuwe Keizersgracht 760, 1018VG Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 808 4006 | www.thewittenberg.com | lisa.bouma@thewittenberg.com

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SETTING UP HOME DUTCH REGULATIONS MAKE IT EASY FOR RESIDENTS TO CHOOSE AND CHANGE SUPPLIERS

UTILITIES

• The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (www.acm.nl) provides a list of gas and electricity suppliers on their website, or you can use their consuWijzer (www.consuwijzer.nl) to compare prices or seek advice. • On www.energievergelijken.nl, you can compare prices in English and connect your services online.

• If you are paying an inclusive rent, check your contract carefully for what is covered in the monthly sum. • In many cases, the utilities (gas, water and electricity) will already be connected to your home and you just need to transfer them into your name. MAIN SUPPLIERS: • You can connect all your utilities online at www.mijnaansluiting.nl (in Dutch), or www.utility-provider.nl • Budget Energie: www.budgetenergie.nl offers a free service to connect expats with the best deal • Engie Energie: www.engie-energie.nl (in English). • Eneco: www.eneco.nl • Energie Direct: www.energiedirect.nl WATER • Essent: www.essent.nl • There are two elements of water payments: a consumption • Greenchoice: www.greenchoice.nl charge based on actual water usage (which is estimated if • Nederlandse Energie Maatschappij: www.nle.nl you don’t have a meter) and a municipal tax for services • Vattenfall: www.vattenfall.nl (sewage, maintenance, etc.). • Oxxio: www.oxxio.nl • To see which water company covers your area, visit www.vewin.nl and enter your postcode in the box, or ask at COMMUNICATIONS your local gemeente. • There is a huge range of options from many suppliers with • Amsterdam: Waternet 0900 9394 combination deals for telephone (bellen), internet (surfen) • Den Haag/Leiden: Dunea 088 347 4747 and TV, charged under a single monthly fee. • Rotterdam: Evides: 0900 0787 TELEPHONES • Utrecht: Vitens 0900 0650 • North Holland: PWN Waterleidingbedrijf 0900 405 0700 • There are two main suppliers for landlines and phone ELECTRICITY AND GAS connection via cable networks: KPN and Ziggo/Vodafone. • Often the easiest way to connect a landline is to visit • The energy market is liberalised, so you are able to choose a shop (winkel) of those suppliers with appropriate (or change) suppliers. identification and they can set it up, while some cable • Energy companies now have “green” options, where energy networks allow you to sign up online. is bought from alternative sources such as sun, wind, water • There are many additional services such as discounts and biomass. for favorite numbers, or combination deals with internet and TV.

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+31 20 772 3915 info@gotothisguy.com www.gotothisguy.com SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

MOBILE TELEPHONES

POST OFFICES

• The cheapest deal for a mobile is via a contract (abonnementen) with one of the main suppliers. You can compare the latest rates on www.bellen.com (in Dutch). • You’ll need proof of identity, address, income and a bank account to sign a deal. A prepaid phone is more expensive but easier to get; you can top it up with cards from supermarkets. • If your phone is unlocked, you can buy a Dutch SIM card. Every phone has a unique IMEI serial number (enter *#06# to find out yours). You’ll need this when reporting a stolen phone. • Calling 0800 numbers are toll free, whereas 0900 numbers are charged (per call or minute, depending on the business).

• Post offices are marked with an orange sign that says postkantoor or PostNL, and are generally located inside shops, newsagents or tobacconists (postagentschap). • Stamps (postzegels) can be bought in all of the above places and in some of the larger supermarkets, or printed online at www.postnl.nl. • Post-boxes are orange and scattered throughout shopping areas and neighbourhoods. On the post-box there are two slots: the right (streekpost) is for “local” delivery and you’ll see a list of postcodes that indicate the areas included; the left (overige bestemmingen) is for everywhere else, including international destinations. • PostNL aims to deliver locally within 24 hours, otherwise spoedservice guarantees local delivery by 10am the next day and next day delivery to Europe. • See www.postnl.nl for online postal services, or call 0900 0990 (45ct) for customer service.

INTERNET

• Connectivity in the Netherlands is among the highest and fastest in Europe. FURNISHING YOUR HOME • ADSL and cable options are available, and can be combined with telephone and TV deals. • The company Furniture Lease: Meubelverhuur can help • Fiber cable (glasvezel) is available, but you may need to get you make your new house feel like home, with their your building connected; carriers generally install it free. furniture rental services. Hema (www.hema.nl) is a Dutch • Compare prices and packages at www.internetten.nl (in institution for all household matters. Blokker is cheap Dutch). It is possible to opt for a TV option from one (www.blokker.nl) and Ikea (www.ikea.nl) has many branches supplier and telephone/internet from another. across the country. TELEVISION

USEFUL WEBSITES

• Cable TV is cheap and main providers include Ziggo/ Vodafone and KPN. Included in the standard package are BBC 1, BBC 2, BBC World, and CNN alongside Dutch channels, which include the government-owned Nederland 1, 2 and 3 and RTL 4, 5, 7, and 8. You’ll also receive Veronica and Net 5 (quality films and drama including popular US serials), plus National Geographic, the Discovery Channel and popular children’s channels. Local TV channels are another option. • Subtitling, rather than dubbing, is used except for children’s TV. For more films, sport or other interests, you can select different options for extra payment. • You get a media box and then pay for your chosen option.

• Advice: www.access-nl.org • Film: www.filmladder.nl • Government: www.government.nl • News, information, community: www.Expatica.com • Opera: www.dno.nl • Restaurants: www.thefork.nl • Royal family: www.koninklijkhuis.nl • Telephone directory/Yellow pages: www.detelefoongids.nl • Tourism: www.holland.com • Weather: www.weeronline.nl • Website links (by category): www.startpagina.nl

INTERNET / PHONE / TV SUPPLIERS • KPN: www.kpn.com • Online.nl www.online.nl • Tele2: www.tele2.nl • T-mobile: www.t-mobile.nl • Vodafone: www.vodafone.nl • Ziggo: www.ziggo.nl • Prijsvergelijken: www.prijsvergelijken.nl/compare-broadband/

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

FINANCE

MONEY MATTERS CAN BE COMPLEX, AND THE DUTCH TAX SYSTEM IS ANYTHING BUT SIMPLE.

• Before you open a Dutch bank account, you should have no problem obtaining cash from an overseas account using an ATM. • If you want to exchange cash, services can be found at a GWK exchange office. • The Netherlands is on the euro, and paper denominations are EUR 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 (good to know: 100, 200 and 500 cannot be exchanged); coins come in denominations of EUR 1, EUR 2, and 0.05, 0.10, 0.20 and 0.50 eurocents. One and two euro cents have been discontinued. • Cash is still widely used, but the most common method of payment is pinnen, using a debit card with a PIN code.

OPENING A DUTCH BANK ACCOUNT The main Dutch banks are: • ABN AMRO: www.abnamro.nl/en • ING Bank: www.ing.nl • Rabobank: www.rabobank.nl

• A private bank account is a privérekening. Various cards are on offer but the bankpas is standard. At most banks your card will be sent to your home. • A four-digit PIN code (pincode) will either be posted separately or given to you on pick up. When you pay by pin, you swipe your card through the machine and punch in your four-digit number. Or you can pay contactless, usually for payments up to € 50. It’s the most common method of payment used in shops, supermarkets, bars and restaurants. But you can also use your phone for contactless payments. • If you want to borrow money or want an overdraft limit the bank will perform a check with the Credit Registration Office (BKR). CREDIT CARDS

• Most major credit cards are accepted but not everywhere. Hotels, restaurants, large department stores and tourist But you can also go to smaller banks like SNS bank, ASN attractions may present no problem, but you can’t use a bank, KNAB or Triodos. credit card in the supermarket. Credit cards may be used ABN AMRO has the most information in English online and a for online payments. special International Clients Desk, but you should generally • Most commercial banks use MasterCard or Visa. have no problem conducting business in English at any of • Credit cards are generally more expensive and have them. At most banks you will also find financial providers higher interest rates. So you are encouraged to pay off a aimed specifically at expat clients, with extensive Englishdebt quickly. Credit cards are registered with the Credit language services. Registration Office (BKR). You can also use an online bank like INTERNET BANKING • Bunq • Online banking is common in the Netherlands. Most • N26 banks will also offer a banking app which you can install Documents generally required: on your phone. • You can pay bills directly or set up auto payments. You • Valid ID, plus residence permit if applicable; should be able to get a guide from the bank (in English). • BSN burgerservicenummer, which you’ll get when you register with the municipality (bevolkingsregister/BRP) or OFFSHORE BANKING direct from the tax office; • This is an account held outside of your country of • Proof of address (bevolkingsregister extract, utility bill, residence; often used to prevent taxation. rental contract etc.). • The Netherlands signed agreements with a lot of If you are a U.S. citizen or green card holder, you may countries to exchange information about bank accounts experience difficulties to open a bank account since banks or to collect tax at source on the income from these have to deal with certain U.S. regulations. accounts. • An account can be opened in your name and your partner’s (they will also need identity documents). SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

• Foreign banks are required to share account information of U.S. citizens with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This also applies to Dutch banks, which is the reason why they may be hesitant to open an account for U.S. citizens or green card holders. • Employees who have the 30% ruling can be considered partial non-resident taxpayers. They don’t have to declare their (offshore) bank accounts to the Dutch tax authorities.

• Pensions, investments and savings with fixed or variable interest rates can be arranged through a bank or licensed independent financial adviser (IFA). • Risks in depositing offshore vary and should be consulted with an adviser to ascertain your “Risk Profile”. • TIP: Before choosing a bank, ask yourself: Which bank is my money in, who owns it, what is its credit worthiness, and which jurisdiction does it fall under and which guarantees are in place in case of bankruptcy?

• The Netherlands is a socially inclined regime; a high taxation system is used but depending on your personal situation tax deductions and tax credits can be claimed. • If filing taxes in your home country and the Netherlands is required, financial specialists can help as you enter these double taxation agreements. • Taxes are completed online and must be filed before May 1 if you were resident in the Netherlands the whole tax year or before July 1 for the year of migration. • A time extension can be requested for filing a tax return.

• Use a DigiD (www.digid.nl) or tax consultant to file a return. The DigiD is a personal digital signature used for all government agencies. • Particularly in the year of arrival and the year of departure, filing a tax return may result in a substantial rebate. Tax returns can be completed retrospectively for a period of five years. • Resident taxpayers must show demonstrable ties to the Netherlands and are taxed on worldwide assets. • Non-resident taxpayers are those who live abroad and receive Dutch-sourced taxable income.

TAX

THE BOX SYSTEM Different categories of income are treated differently for tax purposes on the tax return and there are three types of taxable income: • Box 1: Income from profits, employment and home ownership. This includes wages, pensions, social benefits, company car, and WOZ value of owner-occupied property

minus deductible mortgage expenses (maximum 49.5 percent rate) • Box 2: Income from substantial shareholding. This includes dividend and capital gains received from a limited company of which a minimum of 5% of the shares is held (26.9 percent rate)

the specialist in international taxation Serving both businesses and individuals: • Tax advice • Full compliance service including administration • Expat services • Payroll services Find us at www.taxci.nl or meet us at World Trade Center 3rd floor Strawinskylaan 335 Amsterdam The Netherlands

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

Groot Handelsgebouw Suite b7.029 Stationsplein 45 Rotterdam The Netherlands

FINANCE

• Box 3: Taxable income from savings and investments. Income from property for instance, owned but not lived in as a main residence, is taxed here: not the actual income but the value of the asset multiplied by a fictitious Part

Your (part of the) basis savings and investments

return profit and taxed at 31 percent. If you (or your fiscal partner) has the 30% ruling you can opt to not declare your bank accounts and shares. Box 3 is divided in several parts:

Percentage -0,01%

Percentage 5,53%

Percentage average Return on investment

Up to € 50,650 (tax free amount)

From € 50,651 to 101,300

67%

33%

0.56%

From € 101,301 to € 1,012,350

21%

79%

1.35%

From € 1,012,351

100%

1.71%

(Figures based on available information November 2021)

CALCULATING TAX • The amount of tax payable is calculated by applying the various tax rates to the various taxable incomes in the boxes taking some personal deductions into consideration. The amount calculated is then reduced by one or more tax credits.

• Tax is levied on the deemed rental value of the house (WOZ) determined by the local authority. INSURANCE

• Insurance can be arranged with an insurance company like Nationale Nederlanden, FBTO, Centraal Beheer, Aegon or others. • If you need advice speak to your bank or financial advisor. TAX CREDITS AND ALLOWANCES • Medical insurance is required by everyone. • General tax credit based on income and social security • National insurance schemes that are available for all element. residents are explained on www.svb.nl. • Labor tax credit based on income from work and business HOME INSURANCE (WOONHUISVERZEKERING) • Child related tax credits • Old-age tax credits • Standard policies cover fire, lightning, storm, flooding, • Other allowances like childcare allowance or health care vandalism and theft. allowance may be claimed separately. • Houseboat owners come under separate conditions. PARTNERS

• Partners usually are taxed individually. But fiscal partners may divide shared income and deductions between each other to optimize the tax position. • With one working partner, the other can be entitled to the general tax credit as well. 30 PERCENT RULING • This is a well-known tax incentive for employees recruited from abroad. • The ruling allows the employer to pay up to 30 percent of the salary as tax free allowance to cover the extraterritorial expenses of the employee. • An application (completed by both employer and employee) should be made to the Belastingdienst Limburg Kantoor Buitenland in Heerlen. MORTGAGES AND TAX IMPLICATIONS

• If you buy an apartment, the Association of Owners (VVE) takes out home insurance that is paid together equally among other apartment owners in the building. HOME CONTENTS INSURANCE

• This insurance is known as inboedelverzekering and covers you against loss, theft or damage to your personal and home possessions. The insurance covers your own possessions and those of close family members living with you. • Higher priced items are individually valued and insured separately. CAR INSURANCE (AUTOVERZEKERING) • You must have at least third-party insurance for your car. • All-risk insurance policies can include theft, fire and damage/injury to yourself and vehicle. LIFE INSURANCE

• A mortgage can be arranged with a bank or insurance company. • When arranging a mortgage, look for the following: interest, cost of life insurance, savings plan and investment accounts. • When your interest rate comes up for renewal, it is important to check that it is still competitive.

• Life insurance is known as levensverzekering, and it is similar to schemes in most other countries. OTHER TYPES OF INSURANCE

TAX IMPLICATIONS INCLUDE: • Interest payments and expenses related to arranging the mortgage are tax-deductible if the property is your primary residence and the loan is used for acquisition of the house. • There is no capital gains tax in the Netherlands but increases in the value may impact your mortgage relief if and when you use the profits to buy another house in the Netherlands.

• Third-party liability insurance (aansprakelijkheidverzekering) protects individual goods damaged on accident; it usually comes in combo packages for homeowners or tenants. • Legal insurance (rechtsbijstandverzekering) guarantees cheaper access to legal advice; protects against cost of lawsuits and personal and labour disputes. BELASTINGDIENST • The website for the tax authority (www.belastingdienst.nl) has extensive information in English and downloadable forms and brochures. There are separate offices for resident and non-resident taxpayers. Their phone number is 0800-0543. The call hours are Monday to Thursday: 8am

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

– 8pm, Friday: 8am – 5pm. It can however happen that the tax representative won’t speak in English to you on the phone based on official internal guidelines. DigiD • For electronic tax filing and other official forms, you need a DigiD registration number. • You can find more info on www.digid.nl/en.

CUSTOMS • The tax authorities provides information in English regarding duties payable and procedures for individuals and businesses on www.douane.nl. If you move to the Netherlands from outside the EU or if you wish to bring your car, you can download an application form from the website for exemptions on “removable goods”.

GOVERNMENT • The Dutch government provides a lot of information about various topics, including taxation, on www.government.nl. FINANCIAL AND TAX ADVISORS ABN AMRO INTERNATIONAL CLIENTS +31 (0)20 343 4002 | international.clients@nl.abnamro.com | www.abnamro.nl/expats BLUE UMBRELLA Keizersgracht 756, 1017 EZ Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 4687 560 | info@blueumbrella.nl | www.blueumbrella.nl | facebook-f @blue.umbrella.services EXPATAX Keizerstraat 3, 3512 EA Utrecht Stationsplein 91 & 105, 5211 BM ’s-Hertogenbosch +31 (0)30 246 8536 | info@expatax.nl | www.expatax.nl | facebook-f @expatax NAHV BELASTINGADVISEURS B.V. Oostenburgervoorstraat 80, 1511 GJ Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 6225509 | mja@nahv.nl | www.nahv.nl/en | facebook-f @NAHVBelastingadviseurs

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MORTGAGE CONSULTANTS ABN AMRO INTERNATIONAL CLIENTS +31 (0)20 343 4002| international.clients@nl.abnamro.com | www.abnamro.nl/expats A&H FINANCE Muiderstraatweg 15 B, 1111 PS, Diemen | +31 (0)20 4651 951 | info@ahfinance.nl BURO PHILIP VAN DEN HURK Mr. E.N. van Kleffensstraat 4, 6842 CV Arnhem | +31 (0)26 205 1028 | Parklaan 58, 5613 BH Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 246 3265 www.burophilipvandenhurk.nl LAWYERS MYNTA LAW Laan Copes van Cattenburch 88, 2585 GE The Hague | +31 (0) 70 2051 160 | info@mynta.nl | https://www.mynta.nl/en

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50 WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 0020_ADV_Expat-survival-guide_60x90mm.indd 1 16-09-2020 08:53

Childcare allowance

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Expatax BV | De Bouw 107 | 3991 SZ Houten | +31 (0)30 - 246 85 36

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Mortgage advise & financial planning especially for you For all financial matters in The Netherlands, you will find that rules often are different from what you are used to. We are around in the Netherlands for over 25 years and we are very clear in serving the middle and higher income market, with outstanding financial advice and tailor -made services. Specialised in international high potentials, expats and entrepreneurs we simply take the hassle out of Dutch rules, taxes and mortgages. Curious what your possibilities are? Feel free to reach out . Tom van de Laar

Eindhoven, Capelle a/d IJssel, Arnhem, Maastricht Postbus 1438, 5602 BK Eindhoven Office (040) 246 3265 Mobile 06 11 439342 tom.van.de.laar@burophilipvandenhurk.nl www.burophilipvandenhurk.nl www.expatinholland.com

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

Welcome to ABN AMRO.

Opening a Dutch bank account at ABN AMRO is really easy. It will give you everything you need to do your banking professionally and efficiently wherever you are. We’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you have, in English of course. Our experts offer you full service and support by phone, on our website, via our Mobile Banking App and even via Video Banking. Want to know more about banking in the Netherlands? Go to abnamro.nl/bankaccount to find out more or contact us anytime. We’re here for you 24/7. SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

INTERNATIONAL TOP-LEVEL EDUCATION

Supreme College Nederland offers excellent and international education close to Amsterdam for a new generation of students. Motivated students aged 14-18 of Dutch as well as international origin. A global wide-ranging affordable education within Dutch society:

Two high standard diplomas: MYP + VWO Challenging educational programme Innovative approach to learning Mix of cultures Affordable school fees

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200737 Advertentie Supreme College Nederland_v4.indd 1

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WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

21-08-2020 12:17

EDUCATION

THE NETHERLANDS IS COMMITTED TO CHOICE IN EDUCATION

• The OECD international rankings for school systems puts the Netherlands as one of the highest in performance, especially for Math. • The Dutch rank highly in many fields of education. Over 48% of Dutch 25-34 year olds hold a degree in higher education, which is significantly higher than the OECD average of 44%. • The Netherlands is among the world’s top countries for equity in education opportunities. • Children of all nationalities are leerplichtig (under a learning obligation) at 5 years old for 12 years of full-time education, and one or two years part-time (until achieving a diploma). • Less than 1% of the 1.4 million primary school children attends a private (fee-paying) Dutch school

CHOOSING A SCHOOL

APPLYING FOR A SCHOOL

• International education is available at both state-funded and private schools throughout the country, and seventeen primary schools have implemented bilingual education. • More than 1.150 primary schools in the Netherlands offer English classes from group 1 (age 4), and about another further 125 teach German, French or Spanish. From group 7 (age 10) all schools are obliged to teach English as a subject. • Schools following particular religious or pedagogic principles have had equal state funding as public schools since 1917.

• Every city/town has its own school application policy. Inquire as soon as you can with the municipality and/or school of your preference how it works in your area. In most cases, you may already apply for a school before you have a local address or BSN-number. • In most cities, the schools work with a waiting list and you’ll need to sign up as soon as possible. Some cities, like Amsterdam, Haarlem, Utrecht and The Hague, have a different policy; a school lottery. • Openbare schools (which are run by a foundation that has originally been set up by the municipality) are technically not allowed to refuse admission, LOCAL OR INTERNATIONAL? unless full. • On the schools’ websites they • Your finances, location, the age of your announce when you can visit the school children, and how long you are likely to (open day/info session). Most schools stay in the Netherlands are factors to don’t give private appointments. consider when selecting a school. • On www.scholenopdekaart.nl (in Dutch) • Many companies reimburse you can find more information about international school fees as part of your the schools, as well as their results. relocation package, and Here you can also find a link to the • reimbursement could be exempt from school inspection reports. The visual income tax. representation of green (good), orange • TIP: While teenagers might appreciate (weak), and red (very weak) will give the educational and social continuity some idea of performance. Note that provided by an international school, this applies to state-funded schools younger children might get a greater and subsidised international schools sense of belonging by attending a local only. There is no official ranking school if you plan to stay for a while. of schools. SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

GET YOUR DRIVERS LICENSE W ITH THE HELP OF G AYAL

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LE A RNIN G T HRO U G H D I V ERSI T Y

PROFESSIONAL LANGUAGE CONSULTANCY FOR INTERNATIONAL FAMILIES We help you

find the right family language strategies maintain your home languages

The International School Hilversum is a long standing, highly experienced International Baccalaureate World School. We offer the Primary Years, the Middle Years and the Diploma Programmes, catering for all ages from 4 to 19 years. Within our learning community, we have over 50 different nationalities and a wide diversity of teaching staff. We are a school that celebrates learning through diversity; striving to develop academically skilled, resilient and reflective individuals.

make sure your children reply in the expected language(s) prepare your children for school in another language support your childrens' pluriliteracy become internationally fluent info@UtesInternationalLounge.com www.UtesInternationalLounge.com fb Ute's International Lounge

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WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

+31 (0)35 672 99 31 info@ishilversum.nl

EDUCATION

COSTS

International schools

• Primary and secondary state-funded education is free, • International schools offer education for global students parents are asked to contribute a voluntary amount of any nationality. (Ouderbijdrage) that varies from school to school (usually • Dutch International Primary Schools (DIPS) and Dutch below 100 euros per year). International Secondary Schools (DISS) also offer • Additional payments can include school trips, lunchtime international education at reasonable fees thanks to supervision (tussenschoolse opvang) and after-school government subsidies – made for non-Dutch families care (naschoolse opvang/BSO), (which the school usually living temporarily in the Netherlands and Dutch families sub-contracts to an external day care organisation). returning from, or preparing for, an overseas assignment. • These schools offer the International Primary Curriculum EDUCATION POLICY (4 to 11 years), the IGCSE (11 to 16 years), or the International Baccalaureate programmes at primary (4 to • The Ministry of Education, Culture and Science 11 years) and middle years’ level (11 to 16 years). All DISS teach the IB-Diploma programme (16 to 19 years). sets quality standards, attainment targets and social objectives. • A new curriculum, IBCP, offers a career-related alternative • Individual schools “fill in the details” of the curriculum to the IB-DP in the final years (www.ibo.org). Currently, and budget allocation. this curriculum is offered by the British school and ISH in The Hague, and AICS in Amsterdam. • Education policy includes bilingual opportunities, connecting education with the job market, global • Private International schools: These schools teach an international curriculum, or a specific country’s national citizenship, and maintaining the quality of schools. curriculum: American, British, French, German, Japanese, SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Indonesian, etc. Their fees are much higher compared to the subsidised international schools. • Major holidays for Dutch schools are set nationally, but with staggered start/finish times between three regions. The summer vacation lasts for six weeks, and after every 6-7 weeks of school, the students have 1-2 weeks off. • Private international school holidays can be different. For school holidays per region, look at www.schoolvakanties-nederland.nl (in Dutch). TYPES OF SCHOOL State-run (openbare) schools • Openbare schools (non-denominational) provide secular education, but sometimes teach according to specific philosophic or pedagogic principles like Montessori, Dalton, Waldorf/Steiner, etc. • Openbare schools are governed by the municipal council or a public legal entity or independent foundation originally set up by the council. Special (bijzondere) schools • Most special (bijzondere) schools are denominational (Catholic, Protestant, Islamic, Hindu, Jewish, etc.), or follow specific philosophic principles. • Special (bijzondere) schools are governed by their own school board, which often consists of parents or the foundation that set them up. • Financially, they have the same status as openbare schools and are basically free (usually their parent contribution is slightly higher compared to the openbare schools).

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

HSV INTERNATIONAL PRIMARY SCHOOL Global citizenship, lifelong learning

Website: hsvid.nl Admissions email: id-admissions@hsvdenhaag.nl; telephone: 070 318 4951 LIGHTHOUSE SPECIAL EDUCATION lighthousese.nl

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EDUCATION

SPECIAL NEEDS SCHOOLS

• All primary schools are obliged to take part in one the five available end tests. • The national “Appropriate Education” (Passend Onderwijs) • The assessment of the teacher is the decisive factor for policy is designed to enable as many children with referral to secondary education. minor learning difficulties as possible to be educated in mainstream schools. DUTCH SECONDARY EDUCATION • Additionally, there are dedicated schools for children who (VOORTGEZET ONDERWIJS, VO) have more severe or complicated learning difficulties. • Lighthouse Special Education in The Hague caters to • From 12 years of age, pupils choose between vocational international special needs children providing extensive or pre-university programs based on their abilities, assistance in English. Entry is by referral. interests, and the teacher’s recommendation in group 8. • In the first years all pupils study the same subjects (to DUTCH PRIMARY EDUCATION different academic levels), known as the basisvorming, (PRIMAIR ONDERWIJS/PO OR BASISONDERWIJS) followed by a second stage (tweede fase) in which students choose a specialist profile. • Children usually start school the day after their 4th • Most secondary schools combine multiple levels in the birthday, at any time of the year. first year (brugklas). • There are eight years of primary schooling: “Group 1” • VMBO: A four-year prep school for vocational secondary upon entry, moving up a group every year. education. Those who achieve the highest level • Based on various factors including the pupil’s test scores (theoretische leerweg) can enter HAVO studies in the 4th from the past three years, intelligence, attitude towards year. They must continue studying until age 18, or until learning, eagerness to learn, interests, and motivation, they obtain a basic qualification (minimum MBO level 2). the group 8 teacher assesses what level of secondary • MBO: Secondary vocational education. MBO programmes school education would fit each pupil best. vary from one to four years. If a student has successfully • Later in the year, the pupils take the “End Test for Primary completed the Dutch VMBO, or the international middle Education”, a standardised aptitude test consisting of school programmes IGCSE, or IB-MYP, but is not admitted questions testing Dutch language and comprehension to the IB-Diploma Programme, the MBO can prepare skills, mathematics, study skills, and (optionally) world pupils for work or University of Applied Sciences (HBO) orientation; a combination of history, geography, biology if level 4 is achieved. A number of English-language and world religions. programmes are offered.

Dutch for Expats:

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PASSIONATE ABOUT LEARNING The International School Haarlem offers a positive learning environment where students (4-18 years) are encouraged to realise their full potential.

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www.katakura-wblc.nl Please take a look at our website for detailed information. Or contact us by email: katakurawblc@gmail.com

Through internationally respected and recognised programmes we involve our students in meaningful learning. International School Haarlem info@internationalschoolhaarlem.nl www.internationalschoolhaarlem.nl

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We believe in developing minds, character and communities. www.isa.nl | admissions@isa.nl

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ISA is a global leader in international education, serving almost 1400 students from over 60 countries. Deeply embedded in our culture is a passion for inspiring students to reflect on their own world-view and a commitment to helping others.

EDUCATION

HIGHER EDUCATION

• HAVO (five years): Senior general secondary education. Provides entrance to University of Applied Sciences (Hogeschool/HBO), or 5VWO. • VWO (six years): Pre-university education. Prepares students for academic studies at a research university (WO). VWO schools can be athenaeum, or gymnasium, the main difference being that Ancient Greek, Latin and Classical Studies are core subjects in gymnasium programmes. BILINGUAL EDUCATION (TWEETALIG ONDERWIJS TTO) • There are over 130 schools with a TTO bilingual stream, most of them being offered at VWO or HAVO level. Only students that master the Dutch language at an appropriate level will be admitted. More information you can find on the Nuffic website. • English is a compulsory subject at all secondary schools. VMBO pupils study one modern language, and HAVO/ VWO pupils at least two. Other core areas include Dutch, mathematics, history, humanities, sports, arts and sciences. • Like primary schools, some secondary schools are based on a religion, or an educational philosophy.

• Third-level education is offered at a vocational level (HBO, a “university of applied sciences” or hogeschool) and at an academic level (WO, at a universiteit). • Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees are available at both HBO and WO institutions, but only universities offer PhD programs. Nuffic (Netherlands organisation for international cooperation in higher education; www.nuffic.nl) includes extensive information about the Dutch higher education system. • There is a small, third branch of higher education offering international education (IE), comprising advanced courses suited to international students. • Institutions are either government-funded, or government-approved. HBO • Nearly half a million students are enrolled at “universities of applied sciences” or hogescholen/HBO that provide practical-based four-year programs. • Here, students prepare for particular professions in one of seven sectors: agriculture & food, natural sciences & technology, economics, business administration & law, healthcare, fine & performing arts, education/teacher training and social studies. • For more information visit www.hbo-raad.nl.

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BE EFFECTIVE IN ANOTHER LANGUAGE

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More information | Please send an email to hello@reginacoeli.nl or call us at +31 (0)73 684 87 90 | www.reginacoeli.com

180002986 - Advertentie Survival Guide_v02.indd 1

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Mission Amstelland International School is dedicated to establishing a learning community which empowers student voice, invests in nurturing relationships, fosters compassion for humanity and inspires a shared responsibility of our planet.

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Vision International education which inspires creative thinking, provoking children to become curious and take ownership of their learning.

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WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

EDUCATION

WO (UNIVERSITY - UNIVERSITEIT)

EDUCATION LINKS

• There are over a dozen government-funded research universities offering international degrees and short courses via intensive, academic studies (visit www.studyin.nl). • University programmes consist of a Bachelor’s or undergraduate phase lasting three years. • A master’s or graduate degree takes between one to two years. • Around 1,400 programmes are taught entirely in English, see www.studyinholland.nl/dutch-education/find-studyprogrammes. • Many Dutch universities have partner institutions in other countries, so students can study part of their course abroad. COSTS • Fees depend on your nationality and age. • The fee for EU/EEA nationals is set by the Dutch government (€ 2,168 per annum). Most students get a 50% discount on the fees for their first year of study, and students at the teacher training school also pay half of the fees for their 2nd year. • Because of the corona pandemic, for school year 2021/22, all students get to pay half of the regular fees, which means half of a half (€ 542) for all 1st year students and 2nd year students at the teacher training colleges. • Tuition fee loans and scholarships are available. • The fees at private institutions can be substantially higher.

Information on the Dutch education system • Ministry of Education, Culture and Science | www.government.nl/ocw Independent education consultant for international families in the Netherlands (both Dutch and international schools) • New2nl, Annebet van Mameren, www.new2nl.com • Helpdesk for International Education in the Netherlands • Educaide, Willemijn van Oppen Stuyt, www.educaide.nl • Stichting Internationaal Onderwijs, Foundation for International Education in the Netherlands | www.sio.nl • Expat Special Educational Needs Group in The Netherlands | www.eseng.nl • Dutch immersion/newcomer classes (for non-Dutch speaking children aged 6+) | www.lowan.nl • Primary schools which teach foreign languages from an early age (VVTO schools): www.earlybirdie.nl and www. nuffic.nl/onderwerpen/vroeg-vreemdetalenonderwijs/ vvto-scholen-met-vvto-keurmerk • Bilingual pilot schools at primary level (TPO): www.nuffic. nl/onderwerpen/tweetalig-primair-onderwijs/tweetaligebasisscholen (17 in total in the whole country) • Bilingual schools at secondary level (TTO): www.nuffic.nl/ onderwerpen/tweetalig-onderwijs/tweetalig-onderwijsinformatie-voor-leerlingen-en-ouders Higher education in the Netherlands • www.studyinholland.nl | www.nuffic.nl/en Information on studying and funding

HOW TO APPLY • Over 90,000 international students study in the Netherlands, a quarter of whom come from outside of the EU. This is about 12% of the total student population. Information on fees, qualifications and study programmes is widely available in English. • Contact the institutions – they will specify what education qualifications are required for admission. A quota system is in place for oversubscribed courses; here students are selected based on the criteria set by the university. • You can apply online for third-level courses that are subsidised by the Dutch Ministry of Education through www.studielink.nl.

• www.duo.nl/particulier/international-visitor/index.jsp Portals for vocational training • www.s-bb.nl/en | www.mboraad.nl/english Masters / PhDs • www.mastersportal.eu | www.phdportal.eu Online applications • www.studielink.nl Non-Dutch diploma evaluation • www.idw.nl

QUALIFICATION ACCREDITATION • Diplomas and certificates awarded abroad need to be accredited by the Dutch authorities. (Often the school where you have applied takes care of this). The IDW Internationale Diplomawaardering (www.idw.nl) also offers this service for a fee. • Non-native English speakers are required to pass an English language test at a specified level, most commonly the TOEFL, IELTS or Cambridge Test.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR EXPAT EXPERIENCE WITH A VLERICK EXECUTIVE MBA Our programmes are designed with expats in mind. When you study with us, you become part of our community, build a new professional network – and get the skills, knowledge and mindset that will take you wherever you want to go.

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www.schoolsearchamsterdam.com Choosing the right primary school for your child can be a complicated process in Amsterdam. Complex local rules, lack of references and few schools with an English-language website. Recent research however, shows that 45% of all international parents in Amsterdam prefer a regular Dutch school over an international school.* That's why Openbaar Onderwijs aan de Amstel initiated the School Search Amsterdam website. With 22 schoolprofiles in English informing you about educational concepts, school fees, timetables, learning results, newcomer classes and with parent reviews. *source: Metropolitan Region Amsterdam

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

EDUCATION

LEARNING DUTCH

TIPS FOR LEARNING DUTCH

• Learning Dutch is a crucial step to integration in the Netherlands and part of the immigration and integration (inburgering) procedure. • EU nationals are not obliged to follow the inburgering procedure. • There is a wide choice of commercial language courses on offer to suit individual needs and budgets, with courses ranging from “Dutch for Au Pairs” to more intensive NT2 (Nederlands als Tweede Taal) classes. • Ask about the average class sizes. The smaller the class size (generally), the higher the fee. • Universities often provide beginner Dutch classes for non-students, although, as you would expect, a certain level of academic ability is required to keep up. • Homework is an essential part of the learning progress. • Some organisations fund language lessons as part of relocation, which might also include lessons for partners.

• Read with attention: Start with Dutch newspaper headlines and try to figure out what they mean. Later on, read articles and check out the verbs in the article. What tense is being used? What is the infinitive? Is it a regular or irregular verb? • Listen with attention: Watch TV or movies with Dutch subtitles. If you watch TV, you could use Teletekst 888 or NPO Start for Dutch subtitles. • Learn new words: Write new words on a post-its and place them strategically around your space. Note if nouns are “het” or “de” words. • Practice whenever you can: In emails, WhatsApp or spoken conversations use the Dutch you know, however little. If you have a Dutch partner, agree that you speak in Dutch only at least 10 minutes a day. Or that your partner speaks Dutch and you answer in your mother tongue. • Use the internet: There are plenty of useful and free sites you can use to help you progress. For instance: www.taalklas.nl, www.dutchgrammar.com or www.schooltv. nl/beeldbank. https://jeugdjournaal.nl (children’s news) is also a good resource for the Dutch news, explained in easier language.

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AVA IN ALLILGARBOILUITY PS Bringing out your child’s inner magic through excellent international primary education in small classes close to Amsterdam/Schiphol/ Haarlem... come and see us!

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0243-OIS20 Advertentie Expat survival guide (60x90mm) V2_defv1.indd 03-09-20 1 11:51

UvA Talen

Language Centre Bringing language to life UvA Talen is the independent academic language centre of the University of Amsterdam, serving countless expats from around the globe.

• Language courses • Translations • Language services

A community learning for world citizenship International School Utrecht is an IB World School, offering a complete and connected International Baccalaureate programme for students from 4-18 from diverse international backgrounds.

www.isutrecht.nl

We are a close-knit and welcoming community of students, staff and parents. We all approach life from a different culture and background and with the languages we know. We find each other in our common goal: to create a stimulating learning environment in which everyone feels at home.

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

EDUCATION

VLERICK BUSINESS SCHOOL Brussels campus at Bolwerklaan 21, 1210 Brussels, Belgium Ghent campus at Reep 1, 9000 Ghent, Belgium Leuven campus at Vlamingenstraat 83, 3000 Leuven, Belgium info@vlerick.com | www.vlerick.com

HAAGSCHE SCHOOLVEREENIGING We are one school with four locations, a Pre-School and a Special Education school. International Education - NSL Nassaulaan 26, 2514 JT The Hague | +31 70 318 4950 International Education - KSS Koningin Sophiestraat 24A, 2595 TG The Hague | +31 70 324 3453 International Education - VHS van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141 International Special Education - Lighthouse van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141 International Pre-School Education – Three Little Ships van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141 International Education - VNS van Nijenrodestraat 16, 2597 RM The Hague | +31 70 328 1441 ldean@hsvdenhaag.nl | www.hsvdenhaag.nl/

EERDE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (K-12; ALSO BOARDING) Kasteellaan 1, 7731 PJ Ommen | +31 (0)529 451 452 | info@eerde.nl | www.eerde.nl | facebook-f @ISEerde INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HAARLEM Primary dept. : Schreveliusstraat 27, 2014 XP Haarlem Primary Department- Upper primary: Oorkondelaan 65, 2033 MN Haarlem Secondary Department: Oorkondelaan 65, 2033 MN Haarlem +31 (0)23 220 0001 | info@internationalschoolhaarlem.nl | facebook-f @internationalschoolhaarlem INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILVERSUM ALBERDINGK THIJM (Primary & Secondary school) Emmastraat 56, 1213 AL Hilversum | +31 (0)35 672 9931 | www.ishilversum.nl | facebook-f @ishilversum INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL UTRECHT Van Bijnkershoeklaan 8, 3527 XL Utrecht | +31 (0)30 870 0400 | info@isutrecht.nl | www.isutrecht.nl | Instagram @isutrecht | Linkedin-in @isutrecht | Twitter @isutrecht | youtube International School Utrecht

INTERNATIONAL WALDORF SCHOOL THE HAGUE (IWSTH) 2e Messtraat 31, 2586 XA Den Haag | +31 (0)70 7830030 | info@iwsth.org | www.internationalwaldorfschool.nl | facebook-f @IWSTH | Instagram @international_ waldorf_school | Linkedin-in @international-waldorf-school-the-hague OPENBAAR ONDERWIJS AAN DE AMSTEL Ruysdaelkade 215, 1072 AW Amsterdam |+31 (0) 20 5776040 | www.ooada.nl OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Waddenweg 87, 2134 XL Hoofddorp |+31 (0)23 3035924 | info@optimist-international-school.nl | www.optimist-international-school.nl | facebook-f @optimist.international.school | Instagram @optimist_international_school | Linkedin-in @Optimist International School SUPREME COLLEGE NEDERLAND Koning Willemstraat 1, 1901 CA Castricum |+31 (0)251 652571 | info@supremecollege.nl | www.supremecollege.nl| facebook-f @supremecollegenederland

THE BRITISH SCHOOL OF AMSTERDAM (K-12) Early Years & School Office: Anthonie van Dijckstraat 1, 1077 ME Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 679 7840 Infant School: Jan van Eijckstraat 21, 1077 LG Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 679 3060 Junior & Senior School: Fred. Roeskestraat 94a, 1076 ED Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 679 0183 info@britams.nl | www.britams.nl | facebook-f @BritishSchoolofAmsterdam

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

EERDE INTERNATIONAL BOARDING SCHOOL NETHERLANDS

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ofﬁcial partner of

FAMILIES RANKED TOP IN THE WORLD FOR CHILDREN’S WELL-BEING BY UNICEF, THE NETHERLANDS IS GREAT FOR FAMILIES.

• Au pairs can stay in the Netherlands NON-EU/EEA/SWISS NATIONALS for one year as a “cultural exchange” • Non-EU/EEA must have their own, who cannot work outside his or her separate, residence permit. agreed au pair duties. • This application fee depends on your • No previous Dutch residence permit personal situation and permit type. for exchange purposes can be on • TIP: Partners and family members your record if wanting to au pair. generally receive the same • An au pair must be over 18 and conditions as the relative they are under 31 and cannot be a family joining in the Netherlands. member in the 1st, 2nd or 3rd degree. • Rates are subject to frequent change, • Light, domestic duties in exchange so it is best to refer to www.ind.nl. for bed and board are the norm. EU/EEA/SWISS NATIONALS AND Eight hour work day are the SIGNIFICANT CONDITIONS FAMILY MEMBERS maximum (30 hours per week), with • Want to bring a family member to two days off weekly. • Register in the Municipal Personal the Netherlands? Sponsor them: • As a sponsor, have sufficient income Records Database (BRP) and get your sign a declaration, meet certain to support family and au pair. And social number (BSN). obligations, and prove you can make a daily schedule for the au pair • Next, make sure you have all the support your spouse or relative agreed upon in writing. paperwork together: passports, (www.ind.nl has a table of required • ind.nl/en/exchange/Pages/Au-pair. a marriage certificate and birth income levels). aspx has a list of conditions for certificates with an Apostille stamp • If you, along with your family, come au pairs who wish to come to the (if required from your country). Work to the Netherlands as a highly Netherlands, as well as conditions permits are not required. skilled worker, your contract will be for what an au pair is allowed to do. • And be sure those paperwork sufficient to meet the requirements documents are translated into Dutch, CHILD BENEFIT regardless of the length of English, French or German. employment. • Parents living or working in the • Any family members not an EU/EEA/ Netherlands with children under 18 AU PAIRS Swiss national? Submit a mandatory are entitled to the kinderbijslag, a “verification against EU law” to • Bringing an au pair to the quarterly contribution to the cost the IND for a certificate of lawful Netherlands? One of the key rules of raising children from the Sociale residency good for five years. is that the au pair cannot have Verzekerings Bank (SVB). • Visit www.ind.nl for conditions. previously worked for your family • The amount depends on age, special abroad. needs, etc., but is not income• Only a recognised au pair agency related. can submit a permit application on behalf of an au pair. • The applications for both the entry visa (MVV) and residence permit are streamlined into one Entry and Residence Procedure (TEV), which can be granted before arrival. • Family immigration policies have been reformed, making it easier and less costly. • Partners or relatives can apply for permits on behalf of family member(s) who live abroad. • Partners do not need to be married to receive residency (under certain conditions) • It is important to visit the IND website (www.ind.nl) for the most recent changes in rules and permit feed.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

Looking for help organizing your kid’s afternoons?

We would love to have your child at our after school care. From building huts outside to playing an exciting game: while you are working or having some me-time, your child is having fun with friends.

Find a Partou location near you and register your child www.partou.nl/childcare

FAMILIES

• This contribution can sometimes be paid into a foreign bank account (see www.svb.nl for a list of offices)

towards the cost of peuteropvang (conditions apply, see Childcare allowance).

CHILDCARE (KINDEROPVANG)

CHILDCARE ALLOWANCE

• Parents working (or studying) in the Netherlands are entitled to the childcare allowance (kinderopvangtoeslag) for children under 12 to help cover the cost of childcare, and can reduce costs up to 93 percent depending on CHILDCARE OPTIONS income and number of children. See more info at • Kinderdagverblijf day care for children aged six weeks to www.svb.nl. • Childcare allowance depends on a household’s (joint) four years old. Search online for kinderdagverblijven in income. your area and orientate based on the websites. Always bring a visit to the kinderdagverblijf or give the customer • Childcare allowance for high-income households is capped at a certain percent of costs, depending on service a call. Urban areas have a shortage so expect long income. waiting lists. • Parents must be employed (or studying) to claim • Out of school care: day care centres that provide allowances. Buitenschoolse Opvang for children up to 12 years old. • The childcare centre or childminding agency must be • Private day care: In large cities, private facilities offer registered in www.landelijkregisterkinderopvang.nl. In flexible options up to 24-hour care, international case of childminding services, the childminder must be nurseries and pre-school establishments. Note that registered as well. private day care falls mostly outside the childcare law (wet Kinderopvang), so special childcare allowance is not • In the event of sickness, holiday, parental leave, extra training or part-time unemployment benefit, the number applicable. or hours “worked” remains unchanged, as does the • Pre-school/playgroups (peuteropvang): pre-school/ number of hours of childcare allowance granted. playgroups aimed at helping to prepare children aged • Childcare allowance is also capped to a set of maximum between 2/2,5 and 4 years old for their transition into hourly rates (230 hours max per month), depending primary school (this varies per city). Focus is on child on the type of care. Both can be calculated on the development. A child can usually attend a peuteropvang government site www.government.nl. for three hours per day, either two or four times a week. • Parents cannot claim allowances if they look after each Working parents can receive the kinderopvangtoeslag, other’s children or if relatives provide care.

ash.nl

• It is never too early to register your child for day care, for instance, when you are pregnant. Government policy can be found on www.rijksoverheid.nl (in Dutch).

More than a School. An Experience. SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

TIME FOR A CHANGE international divorce - prenuptial agreements international inheritance law - relocation

w w w. s m e e t s g i j b e l s . c o m

R DS

family friendly • english-speaking • 20+ nationalities

e welcom y l m We war etherlands he N ! you to T munity m o c r u and o – Crossroads International Church

xrds.nl

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Printing is more than ink on paper It is a way of communication

Jan Rebelstraat 16A - 1069 CC Amsterdam T: 20 410 61 61 - info@mullerps.nl - mullerps.nl - Volg ons op:

FAMILIES

• You have the nationality of an EU country, Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland or Switzerland. Are you from another country? In that case, you need a valid residence permit or work permit. FUN TIPS FOR FAMILIES • Get out and about! There are many playgrounds tucked between the houses, streets and shops. • Fun for free – visit a children’s farm or kinderboerderij. These city farms often have educational and recreational activities during the week. • Cultural fun – There are over 1500 museums in the Netherlands. Dutch museums often have audio guides for kids available in several languages and have special tours for children, as for instance Rijksmuseum and Muiderslot. CHURCH CROSSROADS INTERNATIONAL CHURCH +31 (0)20 545 14444 | info@xrds.nl | www.xrds.nl | facebook-f @Crossroads International Church | Instagram @XRDS Church | Linkedin-in @Crossroads International Church FAMILY CONSULTANCY UTE’S INTERNATIONAL LOUNGE Aagje Dekenkade 2, 2251 ZV Voorschoten | +31 06 50601984 | info@UtesInternationalLounge.com | www.utesinternationallounge.com | facebook-f @UtesInternationalLounge | Instagram @utesintlounge | Linkedin-in @Dr. Ute Limacher-Riebold CHILDCARE PARTOU KINDEROPVANG

• Hit the beach – the Netherlands has 451 kilometres of coastline accessible by car, bike, boat and public transport. • Dutch theme parks – De Efteling is a huge park offering exciting rides for older kids and a Disney-esque experience with folkloric touches for younger ones. More theme parks can be found at www.pretparkennederland.nl. • Activities overview - Good sites for finding out more about children’s activities include “away with children” (www.wegmetdekids.nl) and “out with children” (www.uitmetkinderen.nl).

At Kühler & Partners International Mental Health we provide psychological healthcare for Kids & Teens. We have a specialist team of child psychologists and a child psychiatrist, offering high quality care to children age 6-18 and their families. After initial assessment, we offer individual therapy, parent- and family counselling. Our treatments are tailormade, short if possible and longer if needed. We are a multidisciplinary team of professionals with an international background. If necessary or desirable, we advise or work together with schools.

Because sometimes you need a little guidance to find your way.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

SPECIAL NEEDS

A WIDE ARRAY OF ORGANISATIONS ASSIST PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS IN THE NETHERLANDS.

The Netherlands has legislation protecting the rights of people with a physical, mental, emotional, or sensory impairment that ensures equal access to social, economic and transport systems and encourages full participation in society. TRANSPORT • Old Dutch cities with narrow, uneven streets and bikes parked everywhere are not brilliant terrain for those in wheelchairs, but access is improving. • Help is available getting to/through Schiphol airport (www.schiphol.nl) and railways (www.ns.nl), and the railway company NS has a bureau for disabled travellers (call 030 235 7822 or register online) to request journey assistance. • Your gemeente site will give local information, often in English, for the location of disabled parking places and other access issues, or look up zorg en welzijn and gehandicapten.

EDUCATION • Children are encouraged to attend mainstream primary schools under the “Going to school together” policy. • The Inclusive Education Act (Wet Passend Onderwijs) requires all schools to provide equal learning opportunities for every child. • Parents can opt for a special school, whether a speciaal basisonderwijs (SBO) for learning and behavioural support or a speciaal onderwijs at both primary (SO) and secondary (VSO) for specific special needs. • The language of instruction is Dutch, but children from a non-Dutch background can sometimes be taught in their mother tongue to help them settle in. • You will find Special Educational Needs (SEN) teachers at international schools where the language of instruction will be English, but you may have to fund the assistant. • The school of their choice – special or mainstream – will receive funding to cater for their needs, and the school will arrange assistance as required. • For higher education, “education and disability” visit (www.onderwijsenhandicap.nl).

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

• Find out about accessible nature reserves and recreation areas at Staatsbosbeheer (www.staatsbosbeheer.nl). • For farther travels, organised group trips are available at www.buitengewoonreizen.nl. • Accessible Travel Netherlands (www.accessibletravelnl.com) is a local tour operator specialising in holidays for anyone with special access needs. ASSISTANCE ORGANISATIONS (LINKS MOSTLY IN DUTCH) • ANGO: General Dutch Disability Organisation +31 (0)33 465 4343 | www.ango.nl • MEE: Support and help for living with a disability +31 (0)900 999 88 88 | www.mee.nl • Ieder(in): Network for the chronically ill and disabled +31 (0)30 720 0000 | www.iederin.nl • Accessibility Foundation: Accessible internet for all +31 (0)30 239 82 70 | www.accessibility.nl • Valys: Regional assisted transport +31 (0)900 9630 | www.valys.nl • Handilinks: A useful portal with lots of related links www.handilinks.nl • Dutch Autism Network: www.landelijknetwerkautisme.nl • Down Syndrome Foundation (SDS): www.downsyndroom.nl • Deaf/blind support: www.doofblind.nl • Children/teenagers support: www.nsgk.nl IANAT. SG adv. 60x90 mm.pdf

4/11/20

FUNDING • There is also financial support for individual families, such as additional child benefit, healthcare and carer allowances, and adaptations to home or transport. • Search the government welfare site www.svb.nl to see if you qualify for a carer’s allowance (TOG) or a personal budget (PGB) to cover support costs. GOING OUT AND HOLIDAYS • A combination of wheelchair accessible activities and accommodation can be found at www.accessibletravelnl.com, and restaurants from several sites (for example, www.thefork.nl). • Good sources for sporty types include Stichting Resa (www.stichtingresa.nl) or www.fondsgehandicaptensport.nl. • Amsterdam has a dedicated site detailing accessible buildings: www.clientenbelangamsterdam.nl • Some campsites such as De Ruimte (www.campingderuimte.nl) cater especially for children with special needs.

‘Meeting the expat community in the Netherlands’

www.expatfair.nl

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13:

Your dentist in Amsterdam WWW.LASSUS.NL

HEALTHCARE YOU CAN BE ASSURED THAT YOU WILL RECEIVE HIGH QUALITY HEALTHCARE IN THE NETHERLANDS. HOWEVER, SOME THINGS MAY BE ARRANGED IN A DIFFERENT WAY THAN YOU ARE USED TO.

CORONA

• Some doctors will refuse registers because their practices are already full or if you live too far from the practice. • Healthcare providers have special Covid-19 protocols, that Sometimes they will place you on a waiting list. you need to follow. • You will be generally required to call first for an MEDICAL EMERGENCIES appointment. In some cases you will be directed to a special location if you have specific symptoms. • In case of a life-threatening emergency always call 112. • You will find up to date official information at This will give you access to all emergency services. www.government.nl/topics/coronavirus-covid-19 • In other urgent situations call your GP. If your doctor’s office is closed and you have medical complaints that and www.rivm.nl/en/novel-coronavirus-covid-19 • Here you will also find information about how to get can’t wait until the next day or after the weekend, call a a Coronavirus test or a vaccination. So far tests and the central doctor’s office (“Huisartsenpost”). Your GP’s vaccinations are free of charge, but you’ll need to have an website or answering machine will provide you with the phone number. ID showing your BSN. DOCTOR

DENTIST

• Huisarts is a General Practitioner (GP) or family doctor. Most speak English. • The “huisarts” is your first contact for all medical questions and complaints. GP’s are medical specialists with a 9 year training in treating the most common complaints. • When needed your GP will prescribe medication or refer you to a diagnostic center, hospital or other medical specialist. Dutch doctors tend to not hand out prescriptions lightly. • Non-urgent medical treatment from a hospital or specialist requires a referral from your “huisarts”. • It is strongly recommended to register with a GP in your area as soon as you are settled, even when not directly in need of a doctor. It will make it much easier to get in touch if you need one later on. • If you weren’t yet able to register with a GP and are in urgent need of a doctor, call any GP in your neighbourhood and explain your situation. • Visit http://www.zorgkaartnederland.nl/huisarts (in Dutch) for doctors in your area.

• Visit www.zorgkaartnederland.nl/tandarts (in Dutch) to locate a dentist (tandarts). • A dentist can also be located via your insurance company; some policies require an annual check-up. • Dental care also requires registration; dentists are of short supply so many practices may not take on new patients. • Dental care for those under 18 is covered in basic insurance, as is dental surgery and dentures, though a deductible and own contribution apply. • Expats may find anaesthesia is less forthcoming than in their own country, although this varies between dentists. If you feel that your procedure requires it, it’s helpful to request this. • Almost all dental practices in the Netherlands are private with one dentist and one assistant. Oral surgeons are usually affiliated with a hospital, and orthodontists usually have a private practice. • It is possible to take out supplementary insurance that can cover up to 75 percent of costs for visits and dental care.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

ORTHODONTICS • Ortho is not covered by basic insurance. It possible to take out supplementary insurance for this. For children under 18 one of the parents needs to take out this insurance. • If you have orthodontic gear on before arriving to the Netherlands, some research will be done to see which orthodontist can continue the care.

• In case of admission, keep your insurance company informed and check your policy. Not all policies fully cover all services at a particular hospital. PHARMACIES

• Pharmacists can give advice for minor complaints. • Drogists supply over-the-counter remedies, while the apotheek (pharmacy) handles prescription drugs. • Once you have located a huisarts, you need to locate a HEALTHCARE FOR CHILDREN pharmacy (apotheek) for prescriptions. • If this pharmacy deals with your particular insurance scheme, you won’t have to pay bills directly. Pharmacy • All aspects of children’s growth and development from services vary, so look for one that has the services birth up to 18 years old are covered by Youth Healthcare you need. (JGZ – “Jeugd Gezondheidszorg”), a national service. • Pharmacies in the Netherlands take your contact and • Your GP can provide you with the details. You can also search for your local “JGZ”. insurance information and then consider you a long• Inoculations and checks from birth to age four take place term client (although it is possible to fill prescriptions elsewhere, if needed). at the consultatiebureau, which is part of the JGZ service. • If you have been treated at a hospital, you can Expect a big check-up just before starting school. sometimes fill your prescription at an onsite pharmacy. • For childhood immunisations, you may wish to check with They can also be ordered online but check that this JGZ whether the Dutch immunisation scheme is the same as the one from your home country. online pharmacy is safe. HOSPITALS

HAVING A BABY

• At the hospital, “accident and emergency” or “ER” is called “SEH” (spoedeisende hulp). • In case of a life-threatening emergency always call 112. • For a hospital admission for non-emergency treatment you need a referral from your GP.

• The Netherlands has a strong tradition in prenatal care and natural childbirths. • A midwife -- an independent medical practitioner with a 4 year bachelor degree -- will generally be your sole care provider during your pregnancy and delivery.

Are you new to The Netherlands and in search of a dentist?

Finding your way

Independent information about Dutch healthcare www.h4i.nl Healthcare for internationals – H4i

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

We are the dental practice of Dr. Jesse and we have been serving the local and expat communities for the past twenty years.

info@tandartsenpraktijkjesse.nl 020-6762030 www.tandartsenpraktijkjesse.nl

Tandartsenpraktijk Jesse Stadionweg 73 1077 SE Amsterdam (Old South)

HEALTHCARE

• You should register with a midwife early in your first trimester; Your huisarts can recommend one to you or visit www.zorgkaartnederland.nl/verloskundigePain medication during delivery is not standard. Should you prefer to have pain medication or a hospital birth, let your midwife know within the first few months of your pregnancy. • Expectant mothers with certain sorts of medical conditions or complications will be handled by an obstetrician (gynaecologist), which will have you automatically deliver in the hospital. • Some hospitals have birth centres or nearby birthing “hotels”, where the environment is made more “homely”. • If you do deliver your baby in a hospital, you can often be back at home the same day for postnatal (maternity) care. • Regular check-ups take place with the primary caregiver (midwife or obstetrician). • The routine prenatal testing recommended in the Netherlands is different from the guidelines in some other countries. • There are many types of birth preparation classes,. ACCESS (www.access-nl.org) can provide more info.

MENTAL HEALTHCARE • Moving to a new country can bring about mental challenges. • If you are having trouble sorting out your problems on your own, or you don’t know exactly what is wrong with you, you can go to your GP (huisarts). • Mild mental health problems can be treated by a GP, often working together with a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Your GP sometimes can also offer you online counselling (e-health). • The GP may also suggest treatment with medication such as anti-depressants or refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for more specialised mental health treatment. • Treatment by your GP or mental health nurse is fully covered by your basic health insurance. Cost of more specialised treatment is also covered, but payable by you to the maximum of your annual excess. PREVENTIVE HEALTHCARE

• The Netherlands has good nation-wide preventive health programs. These programs are available at different MATERNITY CARE stages in an individual’s development and most are free of charge. • Once your baby has arrived, you will be given assistance • There are screening options available for people at risk at home by a maternity nurse (kraamverzorgster); costs for certain diseases such as cardiovascular, pulmonary or are usually covered by your insurance. sexually transmitted diseases. • It is important to register for maternity care (kraamzorg) • The flu vaccination is offered free of charge to people early in your pregnancy, as the nurses are sometimes in having a higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they get short supply. Your midwife will help you find one or check flu. This is done by the GP. www.kraamzorg.nl (in Dutch). • There are screening programs during pregnancy and several after a child is born such as developmental MATERNITY LEAVE AND PARENTING LEAVE check-ups and a preventative vaccination program. These are administered by Youth Healthcare • New mothers are entitled to 16-weeks minimum paid (“Jeugd gezondheidszorg”) at the Baby Health Clinic maternity leave in the Netherlands that must start within (“Consultatie Bureau”). 4-6 weeks before their due date. • There are also population screening programs later in • Partners can take a number of (paid) days off within life for diseases such as breast, cervical and colon cancer. 4 weeks after the child is born. The number of days is You’ll be invited for these and they are executed at your equal to the number of days per working week that the GP’s office or at a Public Health facility. With the invitation partner is employed. you will receive information about the purpose and • Since July 1st 2020 there is the option of 5 weeks process of the screening. Ask your GP what screenings additional partner leave against 70% of pay ( a apply to you. maximum applies). • Participation is on a voluntary basis. If you do not wish to • During maternity leave, mothers are entitled to participate, you can return the invitation to the laboratory 100 percent of their earnings paid out by their indicating you do not wish the screening. employer or the Uitvoeringsinstituut Werknemers • Travel services and vaccinations Verzekeringen (UWV). • If you travel to countries in Africa, South and Central • Self-employed mothers are equally entitled to paid leave, America, Asia and the former Eastern Bloc nations you but the amount depends on the hours worked in the last can contact your GP or Public Health Services (“GGD”) for 12 months. advice and preventive vaccination. • Parents are also allowed to take increments of unpaid • More information about Dutch healthcare: parenting leave (ouderschapsverlof) totalling six months, www.h4i.nl/healthcare until a child is 8 years old. As part of this, fathers are increasingly taking one day a week for child care, known as “Daddy day”(papadag). • From August 2022 parents are entitled to 50% of pay (maximum applies) during the first 9 weeks of parenting leave. Parents must take this leave before the child reaches the age of 1.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

HEALTH INSURANCE • It is mandatory for everyone living in the Netherlands to purchase a basic level of health insurance (basisverzekering) from a Dutch insurance provider (zorgverzekeraar). • You have to take out Health insurance (zorgverzekering) from a Dutch insurer within four months of arrival or start of work for a Dutch employer. You will be insured as of the day of arrival and will also have to pay premiums from that date. • Certain students, employees and work arrangements can be exempt from this requirement, but you should check carefully whether your situation qualifies. • If you don’t take out insurance while you are required to do so, you risk a fine. • Children under 18 are included in their parents’ insurance at no additional cost, unless the child begins working. For this one of the parents must register their children at his/her policy. • A Dutch insurance company cannot refuse to cover you for the basic package, regardless of your age or state of health. • The standard coverage is set by the government, although providers vary in cost and how they deliver these requirements. If your income is under a fixed minimum level, you can apply for a healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) from the tax authorities. • You can get free advice from the independent organisation www.zorgverzekeringslijn.nl. • Find a list of insurers (zorgverzekeraars) at www.zn.nl, or compare insurance policy costs at www.zorgwijzer.nl/zorgvergelijker/english BASIC INSURANCE • Cost is about EUR 125 a month. • The basic insurance covers general medical care (visits to the doctor, for example), hospital stays, ambulance services, IVF, the midwife and maternity care, dental care for children up to age 18, most prescription medicine, and various appliances. • You can take out supplementary insurance (aanvullend pakket) for anything the government considers your responsibility, like adult dental care and physiotherapy. This can be from a separate insurance company, though not all insurers will accept you if you don’t take out the Basic insurance. • Check if your healthcare supplier is registered with your insurer before starting treatments. • If you work at a company, it is worth checking whether there is a collective scheme that provides health insurance at a discount. Maximum allowable discount is 5 %. • The standard insurance package includes a mandatory excess or deductible (eigen risico - 2022: € 385) that you must pay towards your insurance claims. For some services you also have to pay a personal contribution (eigen bijdrage).

• Insurers generally pay in full for family doctor (GP or “huisarts”) visits, obstetric and postnatal care, national screening programmes, flu vaccinations and some chronic illness treatments. • In addition to your premium your employer will also contribute a percentage of your income to cover the costs of healthcare. If you are self-employed you will have to pay this contribution directly to the tax authorities. • Coverage, premiums and excess may change every 1 January. At this date you can switch to another provider or policy. • More information about Health insurance: www.h4i.nl/insurance WHAT TO DO AFTER ARRIVAL • There are many things you need to arrange before or after you arrive in the Netherlands. Arranging for healthcare is just one of them, but obviously very important, especially if you are bringing small children or have a medical condition yourself. • To arrange access to the Dutch healthcare you need to take the following steps: 1. Register at the local municipality. They will issue you and your family members a BSN (Citizen Service Number, “Burger Service Nummer” -BSN). Sometimes you will need a residence permit first to obtain a BSN. If there is an “expat center” in your region, they will help you in this process. 2. You may need to undergo a screening for TBC (Tuberculosis) to get a residence permit. You will get more information about this when contacting the municipality. Many nationalities are exempted from this obligation. 3. Arrange health insurance for you and your family members. In most cases you are obliged to take out Dutch health insurance, although there are exceptions. For this you will need a BSN. 4. Register with a GP in your area, even when not directly in need of a doctor. The GP (“huisarts”) is the key to Dutch healthcare. For most of your medical needs he/she will be your first point of contact. To register with a GP you will need a valid health insurance and BSN. 5. Acquaint yourself with the Dutch healthcare system. It ranks among the best in the world, but some things, however, may be arranged in a way that is different than you are used to. Even if you have not yet been able to complete the abovementioned steps, Dutch healthcare will, of course, be available to you and your family in case of emergencies.

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

HEALTHCARE

ADVICE H4I / HEALTH FOR INTERNATIONALS Gebouw Strijp-Z | Tilburgseweg-west 100, 5652 NP Eindhoven info@h4i.nl | www.h4i.nl DENTAL PRACTICES LASSUS TANDARTSEN Lassusstraat 9, 1075 GV Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 471 3137 Keizersgracht 132, 1015 CW Amsterdam | +31(0)20 422 1912 Stadionplein 125, 1076 CK Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 210 4007 info@lassustandartsen.nl | www.lassustandartsen.nl | facebook-f @lassustandartsen Lassus Tandartsen Oisterwijk Moergestelseweg 32L,5062 JW Oisterwijk | +31(0)13 - 521 0660 | Oisterwijk@lassus.nl | www.lassustandartsenoisterwijk.nl

Lassus Tandartsen Lelystad Middendreef 273, 8233 GT Lelystad | +31 (0)32 0331 660 | Lelystad@lassus.nl | www.lassustandartsenlelystad.nl LASSUS ORTHODONTIE Apollolaan 174, 1077 BH Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 210 40 06 | ortho@lassus.nl | www.orthodontiemuseumplein.nl TANDARTSENPRAKTIJK JESSE Stadionweg 73, 1077 SE Amsterdam | +31 (20) 676 2030 | info@tandartsenpraktijkjesse.nl | www.tandartsenpraktijkjesse.nl | facebook-f @tandartsenpraktijkjesseamsterdam EXPAT COACHING & THERAPY KÜHLER & PARTNERS INTERNATIONAL MENTAL HEALTH Location Amsterdam: Koningslaan 35, 1075 AB Amsterdam Location The Hague: Nassaulaan 5, 2514 JS The Hague +31 (0)85 066 05 00 | info@internationalmentalhealth.nl | www.internationalmentalhealth.nl

We understand the highs and lows of living internationally At Kühler & Partners, we are experts in treating mental health issues. Our professionals understand the highs and lows of international living. We provide personlized care with a strong focus on quality of life. Our team of psychologists and psychiatrists offers treatment to adults and children from 6 years old in English, French, Greek, Spanish, Mandarin, Japanese, Dutch and German. Kühler & Partners look forward to welcoming and supporting you.

We are here to support you

Because sometimes you need a little guidance to find your way.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

Relocating or returning to The Netherlands? Take your vehicle(s) with you!

Being an expat, importing your car into The Netherlands as a removal good often comes with financial benefits: • •

Tax and import duties exemption; Easier and cheaper to have your vehicle registered than regular import.

Get in touch for a free consultation, and find out how importing your vehicle(s) benefits you. We’re happy to help!

Dennis Holwerda Team Lead Import Services info@vdsautoimport.nl +31(0) - 79 59 39 445 vdsautoimport.nl

Expat Survival Guide.indd 1

7-10-2021 13:34:20

BUYING A DUTCH CAR MADE EASY FOR EXPATS No language barrier We take care of official registration at RDW Free delivery within 48 hrs Ordering with foreign driving license possible 14 day trial period

BYNCO.COM NO. 1 CAR-WEBSITE FOR EXPATS

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TRANSPORT

CONDITIONS APPLY TO FOREIGNERS DRIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS, OTHERWISE THERE’S AN EXCELLENT PUBLIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM . LICENSES THAT CAN BE EXCHANGED:

• To drive in the Netherlands you must have a valid licence recognised by Dutch law, and have third party insurance. • At age 16 you can do the theory exam. • You may take driving lessons for your driving license from the age of 16.5. You can take practical exams from the age of 17. Until the age of 18 you are then allowed to drive under the supervision of a coach.

EXCHANGING A DRIVING LICENCE • You can use your existing driver’s licence for 185 days after becoming a resident. • During those 185 days, you need to take the CBR theory and driving tests. • You can take both the theory and practical exam in English. • Tourists or short-term visitors are considered nonresidents and do not need a Dutch driving licence. • Still, non-EU nationals should check with their Dutch embassy if an international licence is required. • Dutch licences are generally issued for 10 years. • Foreign licences from EU/EFTA countries can be used in the Netherlands for 10 years from the date of issue. • You may want to exchange it anyway: it is a valid proof of identity in many cases.

• To exchange (omwisselen) your existing national driving licence (rijbewijs) for a Dutch one, you must fit into the categories below: - You are registered in the Basic Registration Persons (BRP). - You have a valid residence permit (unless you are a citizen of the EU, EEA or Switzerland). - You are from the EU, the EEA, Switzerland OR are from a country with a special agreement OR you have the 30% ruling - Your current driving license is valid. - Your current driving licence, if issued in a country outside the EU, was issued after being a resident of that country for at least 185 days. • If you do not meet the conditions you cannot exchange your licence for a Dutch one. This means you will need to take a standard theory and practical test at the Central Office for Motor Vehicle Driver Testing (CBR). • To exchange, apply at a municipal office for an “Aanvraag omwisseling voor Nederlands rijbewijs” form (or download it prior from www.rdw.nl) after being registered in the municipality database for 185 consecutive days.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

• You may be asked to provide a certificate of fitness (verklaring van geschiktheid), proving you are physically and psychologically fit to drive a vehicle. This statement is needed in the following cases: - You have an EU/EEA or Switzerland driving licence with categories C, CE, C1, D etc - You benefit from the 30% tax ruling - Your driving licence is from the Netherlands Antilles or Aruba - Your driving licence is from one of the countries with a special agreement • If you are 75 years or over you’ll need a medical examination, which the CBR may request for non-EU/ ETFA/Swiss nationals also. • If you are applying under the 30 percent ruling you will need a statement from the tax office’s international department. • Check with all departments if additional documentation is required for your certain situation, and if any document requires translation or authentication. • You will generally forfeit your original licence (unless applying under the 30 percent ruling). • You need a special licence for a bromfiets (moped), snorfiets (light moped), or brommobiel (mobility car) (unless you have a licence of the A or B category) and you must be 16 or over to get one. • For all information on driving licences and tests visit www.rdw.nl or www.rijbewijs.nl.

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By Peter de Lange • 160 pages • 17 x 23 cm Paperback • € 17.50 • ISBN 978 94 6319 227 9

REGISTERING AND OWNING A CAR • The hefty hindrance for bringing a car into the Netherlands is the private motor vehicle and motorcycle tax (BPM) -- levied as a percentage of the value of the car. • Exemption certificates are dealt by customs (www.belastingdienst.nl/douane) • There are many implications affecting car tax calculations: consult the website www.belastingdienst.nl for full details (in English). • Also note that as a Dutch resident you may not drive in a vehicle with foreign registration plates – you will be considered as evading the import duty on the vehicle and road tax, and risk heavy fines. • All cars must be registered with the RDW (Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer). If you bring your vehicle from abroad, it must first be reviewed at an RDW inspection station, after which registration plates are handled through the same office. • To register ownership of a Dutch-registered car, go to any post office or RDW–TV (Tenaamstellen Voertuigen) certified company with: identification documents, certificate of ownership, vehicle registration documents, statutory liability insurance (WA) and safety certificate (APK). • For second hand vehicles, there is a transfer certificate (overschrijvingsbewijs). A seller should ensure their previous ownership certificate has been officially invalidated. • After registering your car, you will receive a bill for road tax (motorrijtuigenbelasting) from the tax office. • The vehicle’s registration card (kentekencard, or bewijs) and the certificate of ownership (tenaamstellingsbewijs) must be in the car at all times when on the road. TIPS: TRAFFIC AND PARKING • Unless otherwise marked, the speed limits are 50 km/hr in the city, 80 km/hr on other roads and 100, 120, or 130 km/hr on motorways. • Traffic is an issue (www.trafficnet.nl) and so is parking, for which you generally need a permit. • Options for paying for parking are cash, chip or via your mobile phone. See www.parkmobiel.nl, www.park-line.nl or www.yellowbrick.nl. • Many Dutch drivers are members of motoring organisation ANWB (www.anwb.nl), which can provide breakdown cover (wegenwacht) at home or abroad. • There are park and ride (P+R) schemes in most cities and the car-sharing scheme Green Wheels is a popular option (www.greenwheels.nl). CONTACTS • The Department of Road Transport: www.rdw.nl, 088 008 7447, or +31 (0)59 839 3330 (abroad) • Information on driving licences: www.rijbewijs.nl • Theory and driving tests: www.cbr.nl, 088 227 7700 • “Road Traffic Signs and Regulations” brochure: do a search on www.government.nl to download • Common traffic offences: www.politie.nl/themas/verkeershandhaving.html

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

• Either buy a single ticket at a kiosk, or use your OV-chipkaart to travel on the NS. Make sure you have a minimum EUR 20 uploaded on your OV-chipkaart (EUR 10 if you have a discount pass), and that you swipe out on arrival or your travel costs could triple. • If you forget to swipe out, you have up to six hours to go back and check out, otherwise you must claim back the added costs. Call 030 751 5155 for help with claims. • For certain cities, you can organize the NS Zonetaxi when you buy your train ticket. This is a door-to-door taxi service at fixed prices, for up to four people (starting at EUR 8,50).

• The swipecard payment system OV-chipkaart is the official public transport payment system for the metro, bus, tram and train throughout the Netherlands. • There are two types of OV-chipkaarts: anonymous, which anyone can buy from the OV-chipkaart machines or station; or personal, which you can apply for online. • Your pass can be loaded from one of the OV-chipkaart machines strategically placed at train and metro stations, or you can arrange for your personal card to “load” automatically from a bank account. You pay for the distance travelled by swiping it upon entering and leaving your transport station. https://www.ns.nl/en/travel-information for all information. • Personal products, such as season or discount tickets, can be loaded to your personal OV-chipkaart and you are automatically eligible for discounts. BUYING A CAR • The OV-chipkaart website (www.ov-chipkaart.nl) also has BYNCO.COM an English language section where you can find lines of Office at Stadsplateau 11, 3521 AZ Utrecht action should you lose your card or forget to swipe out. +31 (0)30 2074 220 | info@bynco.com | www.bynco.com | facebook-f @byncoNL | Helpline: 0900 0980 (EUR 0.50/min) or @ovgevonden on Instagram @Bynco_NL | Linkedin-in @Bynco_NL social media. ZEEUW & ZEEUW • Infrequent travellers can buy a single-use chipkaart ticket ‘s-Gravenlandseweg 396a, 3125 BK Schiedam | +31 (0)88 0553 910 | per trip. www.zeeuwenzeeuw.nl TRAIN • The Nederlandse Spoorwegen (www.ns.nl), or NS, is the national train company and offers season tickets and discounts for off-peak travel (dal voordeel abonnement), which include up to 40 percent discount off the price of your tickets and up to three people travelling with you.

IMPORTING YOUR CAR VDS AUTOMOTIVE Heerewegh 28, 2731 BM Benthuizen | +31 (0)79 39 445 | import@vdsautomotive.com | www.vdsautomotive.nl

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

EMERGENCY NUMBERS THE EMERGENCY NUMBER FOR POLICE, FIRE OR AMBULANCE IS 112.

• The pan-European 112 emergency operators will speak English. You will be asked for the address and city where you are calling from and the nature of the emergency. • For information on emergency situations (noodsituaties) in the Netherlands, visit the government site www.denkvooruit.nl. • Residents can also subscribe to the government mobile alert service (www.nl-alert.nl), which will send a text message regarding any emergencies in your area. POLICE • The non-emergency number is 0900 8844. You will be connected to your local police station. • If your passport has been stolen, contact your embassy immediately for instructions as to what to do next. You generally need to make a statement at a police station to start any kind of official procedure (insurance, applying for a new passport etc.). • Visit www.politie.nl for information.

SIREN • Each municipality tests their siren the first Monday of every month at 12pm. • For acute danger, a siren will sound in the affected area(s) and signals for people to head indoors. Information about the disaster or emergency will be published on www.crisis.nl. HELPLINES ACCESS • Invaluable resource for all international residents. 0900 222 2377 (20ct/min) | www.access-nl.org | helpdesk@access-nl.org Alcoholics Anonymous • www.aa-netherlands.org | National: 020 625 6057

FIRE

Animal emergencies • Also provides a shelter for animals seeking new homes. www.dierenambulancedenhaag.nl | National: 070 328 2828

• You can find information on Dutch fire services at www.brandweer.nl.

Gay & Lesbian Switchboard • www.switchboard.nl | National: 020 623 6565

AMBULANCE

Helpline for children and teenagers • www.kindertelefoon.nl | 0800 0432

• In emergency medical situations you can call an ambulance. • You can also visit A&E but if a doctor could have treated the situation, you may be charged for this or refused treatment without a referral. • For non-threatening issues, you should first contact your local doctor or find your closest out-of-hours medical clinic (huisartsenpost).

SOS 24-hour helpline • Staffed by Dutch volunteers but many speak English. www.sensoor.nl | 0900 0767 (5ct/min)

GAS AND ELECTRICAL EMERGENCIES • If you suspect a gas leak (gaslucht) or have a power problem (stroomstoring) you can call the national line 0800 9009; for serious emergencies posing a public threat, call 112. • See www.gasenstroomstoringen.nl for details. WATER EMERGENCY • Contact your local gemeente for serious (sewage) issues. • If the problem is in the length of pipe between the street and your house, this is the local water board’s responsibility; find yours at www.vewin.nl by typing your postcode in the box under Uw drinkwaterbedrijf.

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS MANY ACTIVITIES EXIST FOR THE NETHERLANDS’ THRIVING EXPAT COMMUNITY

There are a few regional variations for Dutch public holidays, except for the orange madness of King’s day, which takes over the whole country. Carnival is also celebrated in February and March in Catholic areas. PUBLIC & BANK HOLIDAYS New Year’s Day (Nieuwjaarsdag). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 January 2022 Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 April 2022 Easter Sunday/Monday (Pasen). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sunday 17/Monday 18 April 2022 King’s Day (Koningsdag). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 April 2022 National Remembrance Day (Dodenherdenking) [Not a bank holiday]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 May 2022 Liberation Day (Bevrijdingsdag). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 May 2022 (Bank holiday every 5 years) Ascension (Hemelvaart). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 May 2022 Whitsun (Pinksteren). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sunday 5 June/Monday 6 June 2022 Sinterklaas (Not an official holiday) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 December 2022 Christmas Day (Eerste Kerstdag) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 December 2022 Boxing Day (Tweede Kerstdag). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 December 2022

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

SCHOOL VACATION HOLIDAYS The Netherlands school districts are divided into three regions. Some school vacation breaks are taken at the same time, others are split into regions to help spread the seasonal flow of vacationers. North (Noord): Provinces Groningen, Friesland, Drenthe, Overijssel, Flevoland (except Zeewolde), Gelderland (Hattem only), Utrecht (Eemnes and former Abcoude), and Noord-Holland. Middle (Midden): Flevoland (Zeewolde only), Utrecht (except Eemnes and former Abcoude), Zuid-Holland, and Gelderland areas of Aalten, Apeldoorn, Barneveld, Berkelland, Bronckhorst, Brummen, Buren, Culemborg, Doetinchem, Ede, Elburg, Epe, Ermelo, Geldermalsen, Harderwijk, Heerde, Lingewaal, Lochem, Montferland

(except the former municipality Didam), Neder-Betuwe (except the former municipality Dodewaard), Neerijnen, Nijkerk, Nunspeet, Oldebroek, Oost-Gelre, Oude IJsselstreek, Putten, Scherpenzeel, Tiel, Voorst, Wageningen, Winterswijk and Zutphen. South (Zuid): Limburg, Noord-Brabant (except Woudrichem and the centers Sleeuwijk, Nieuwendijk and Werkendam in the municipality of Werkendam), Zeeland, and Gelderland areas of Arnhem, Beuningen, Doesburg, Druten, Duiven, Groesbeek, Heumen, Neder-Betuwe (only the former municipality Dodewaard), Lingewaard, Maasdriel, Millingen a/d Rijn, Montferland (only the former municipality Didam), Nijmegen, Overbetuwe, Renkum, Rheden, Rozendaal, Rijnwaarden, Ubbergen, Westervoort, West Maas en Waal, Wijchen, Zaltbommel and Zevenaar..

Christmas Holiday 2021-2022 (Kerstvakantie). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 December to 9 January (all regions) Spring Holiday 2022 (Voorjaarsvakantie) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 February to 27 February 2022 (North region) 26 February to 6 March 2022 (Middle and South region) May Holiday 2022 (Meivakantie). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 April to 8 May 2022 (all regions) Summer Break 2022 (Zomervakantie) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 July to 28 August 2022 (North region) 9 July to 21 August 2022 (Middle region) 23 July to 4 September 2022 (South region) Autumn Break 2022 (Herfstvakantie). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 October 2022 to 23 October 2022 (North region) 22 October to 30 October 2022 (Middle and South region)

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

LISTINGS GROUPS AND CLUBS ADVICE AND INFORMATION ACCESS - Laan van Meerdervoort 70 – 1st floor, 2517 AN Den Haag - The Hague International Centre: Spui 70, 2511 BT Den Haag - ECU - Expat Centre Utrecht: Stadsplateau 1, 3521 AZ Utrecht - IN Amsterdam: I-Tower, ground floor (entrance via zuidplein), Strawinskylaan 1767, 1077 XX Amsterdam - Expat Centre Leiden - VVV Leiden (Tourist Information Centre): Stationsweg 26, 2312 AV Leiden | +31 (0)900 222 2377 (20ct/min) | helpdesk@access-nl.org | www.access-nl.org | Facebook-f @ACCESSNL Expatriate Archive Centre Paramaribostraat 20, 2585 GN, Den Haag | +31 (0)70 427 2014 | welcome@xpatarchive.com | www.xpatarchive.com BUSINESS/PROFESSIONAL Amsterdam American Business Club (AABC): www.aabc.nl Amsterdam Chamber of Commerce (AmCham): www.amcham.nl Australian Business in Europe: www.abie-nl.nl Club of Amsterdam: www.clubofamsterdam.com Commerical Anglo-Dutch Society (CADS): www.cadsnewsletter.wordpress.com Connecting Women: www.connectingwomen.nl Dutch Carribean Business Club: www.dutchcaribbeanbusinessclub.com European Professional Women’s Network Amsterdam: www.pwnamsterdam.net Foreign Press Association: www.bpv-fpa.nl French Chamber of Commerce Netherlands: www.cfci.nl Institute of Directors: www.iod.com

LATIN AMERICA: CLO Stichting – El Centro Latinoamericano de Orientacion: www.cloeindhoven.nl NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand’s Global Network: www.keanewzealand.com SINGAPORE: Singapore Netherlands Association: Facebook-f @Singapore Netherlands Association (SNA) Social SPAIN: La Asociacion Hispanica de La Haya: www.asoha.nl SOUTH AFRICA: The SA Club in the Netherlands: www.southafricanclub.nl UK: British Society of Amsterdam: www.britsoc.nl www.facebook.com/britscoc.nl www.meetup.com/en-AU/Amsterdam-Expat-Meetup/ The British Club of The Hague: www.britishclubofthehague.com St Andrew’s Society: www.standrews.nl GNE (Genootschap Nederland-Engeland): www.nederlandengeland.nl Oxford and Cambridge Society of the Netherlands: www.oxbridge-nl.com POLITICS/ACTIVIST Amnesty International: www.amnesty.nl Democrats Abroad: www.democratsabroad.nl Republicans Abroad: www.republicansabroad.nl War Child: www.warchild.nl

Junior Chamber International (Amsterdam): www.jciai.nl

World Wide Fund: www.wnf.nl

Kiwi Expat Association (KEA): www.keanewzealand.com

SOCIAL

Netherlands British Chamber of Commerce: www.nbcc.co.uk

Amsterdam Expat Meetup Group: www.meetup.com/amsterdam-expat

Netherlands- Polish Chamber of Commerce: www.nlchamber.com.pl

Expatica Date: www.netherlandsdating.expatica.com

Rotary Club Utrecht International: www.rotary-utrecht-international.nl

ExpatsHaarlem: www.expatshaarlem.nl

Society of English-Native-Speaking Editors: www.sense-online.nl

Expats in Amsterdam: www.expats-in-amsterdam.com

Spanish Association of Professionals in the Netherlands: www.profesionalesholanda.org

International Almere: www.internationalalmere.com

Swedish Chamber of Commerce: www.swedishchamber.nl

WOMEN’S CLUBS

Toastmasters of the Netherlands: www.toastmasters.nl WBII Women Business Initiative International Nassauplein 20, 2585 EC Den Haag | +31 (0)6 2499 7022 | info@womensbusinessinitiative.net | www.womensbusinessinitiative.net CULTURE & MEDIA Boom Chicago | Rozengracht 117, 1016 LV Amsterdam | hello@boomchicago.nl | www.boomchicago.nl Easylaughs (Amsterdam) | www.easylaughs.nl STET –The English Theatre (Den Haag) | www.theenglishtheatre.nl LGBTQ+ COC Amsterdam | www.cocamsterdam.nl CLUBS BY NATIONALITY AUSTRALIA: Australians abroad in Holland: www.australiansabroad.com/hollandsite Australian and New Zealand Club of the Netherlands: www.anzc.org FRANCE: Alliance Francaise: www.alliance-francaise.nl Avenir Emploi: www.aveniremploi.nl INDIA: India in Nederland: www.indiawijzer.nl Netherlands-India Association (NIA): www.netherlands-india.nu IRELAND: Irish Club: www.irishclub.nl GERMANY: Deutscher Klub in den Niederlanden: www.deutscherklub.nl GREECE: Greek community in Amsterdam: www.ellines.nl

American Women’s Club of Amsterdam: www.awca.nl American Women’s Club of The Hague: American Women’s Club of The Hague Johan van Oldenbarneveltlaan 43, 2582 NJ, Den Haag | +31 070 350 6007 | info@awcthehague.org | www.awcthehague.org | facebook-f @AWCTheHague American Netherlands Club of Rotterdam: www.ancorotterdam.com Connecting Women (The Hague): www.connectingwomen.nl Expat Spouses Initiative: www.expatspousesinitiative.org International Women’s Club Breda: www.iwcbreda.nl International Women’s Club Eindhoven: www.iwce.nl International Women’s Club South Limburg: www.iwc-sl.nl International Women’s Contact Amsterdam: www.iwcamsterdam.nl International Women’s Contact Utrecht: www.iwcu.nl International Women’s Contact The Hague: www.iwcthehague.nl Mom2Mom and women’s church groups: www.trinitychurch.nl North American Women’s Club of Eindhoven: www.nawceindhoven.com Petroleum Wives Club of The Hague: www.pwc-thehague.com Women’s Business Initiative: www.womensbusinessinitiative.net CHURCHES & RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES Crossroads International Church: www.xrds.nl VOLUNTEER GROUPS & OTHER ACCESS Laan van Meerdervoort 70, 2517 AN Den Haag The Hague International Centre: Spui 70, 2511 BT Den Haag Expat Centre Utrecht: Stadsplateau 1, 3521 AZ Utrecht Expatcenter Amsterdam: Strawinskylaan 39, 1077 XW Amsterdam | +31 (0)900 222 2377 (20ct/min) | heldesk@access-nl.org | www.access-nl.org Serve the City Amsterdam: www.stcamsterdam.nl Serve the city Netherlands: www.servethecity.nl Volunteer Centre Amsterdam: www.vca.nu Vrijwilligerspunt: www.vrijwilligerspunteindhoven.nl

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

JOB INTERVIEW TRAINING

EMPLOYMENT

Flowently Azartplein 79, 1019 PB Amsterdam | +31 (0)85 8883 012 | info@flowently.com | www. flowently.com | facebook-f @indutch

CAREER RESOURCES AIESEC in the Netherlands - Hogehilweg 15, 1101 CB Amsterdam | +31(0)20-3542520 | mc@aiesec.nl - Warandelaan 2, 5037 AB Tilburg | +31(0)13-4662573 | tilburg@aiesec.nl www.aiesec.nl/companies/

PAYROLL & CONTRACTING SERVICES

EXPAT EMPLOYERS

AMSTELVEEN

Applied Medical Europe B.V. Wiekenweg 21, 3815 KL Amersfoort | +31 (0)337548713 | Recruitment-EU@appliedmedical.com | www.appliedmedical.com

Undutchables Recruitment Agency Burgemeester Haspelslaan 21, 1181 NB Amstelveen | +31 (0)20 345 5104 | amstelveen@undutchables.nl | www.undutchables.nl

ASML De Run 6501, 5504 DR Veldhoven | +31 (0)6 15 388 338 | sabrina.taskin@asml.com | www.workingatasml.com

BREDA Trinamics Westbroek 28, 4822 ZW Breda | +31 (0)76 548 7373 | breda@trinamics.nl | www.trinamics.nl

Booking.com Herengracht 597, 1017 CE Amsterdam | jobs@booking.com | www.booking.com/jobs

EINDHOVEN Brainbox Consulting B.V. Torenallee 20, 5617 BC Eindhoven | +31 06 38660689 | admin@brainbox.consulting | www.brainbox.consulting

Murata Electronics Europe B.V. Wegalaan 2, 2132 JC Hoofddorp | +31 (0)23 5698410 | jweijers@murata.com | www.murata.eu

ROTTERDAM

Oracle The Warehouse, Nieuwevaart 5-9, 1101 CT, Amsterdam | +441189247334 | gabriela.x.vasile@oracle.com | www.oracle.com/experience

Adams Multilingual Recruitment Spaces, 8th floor, Hofplein 20, 3032 AC Rotterdam | +31(0)103031010 | rotterdam@adamsrecruitment.com | www.adamsrecruitment.com | facebook-f @AdamsRecruit

Tax Consultants International BV World Trade Center, B-Tower, 3rd Floor, Strawinskylaan 335, 1077 XX Amsterdam | +31(0)20 5709440 Groothandelsgebouw, Suite B7.029, Stationsplein 45, 3013 AK Rotterdam | +31(0)10 2010466 | info@taxci.nl | www.taxci.nl

Trinamics K.P. v/d Mandelelaan 90, 3062 MB Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 307 27 27 | rotterdam@trinamics.nl | www.trinamics.nl

The Hague International Centre City Hall (Atrium) Spui 70, 2511 BT Den Haag | +31 (0)70 3535043 | internationalcentre@denhaag.nl | www.thehagueinternationalcentre.nl | facebook-f @thehagueinternationalcentre

UWV / EURES | workinthenetherlands@uwv.nl | www.werk.nl/eures

Blue Umbrella Keizersgracht 756, 1017 EZ Amsterdam | +31(0)20 4687560 | info@blueumbrella.nl | www.blueumbrella.nl | facebook-f @blue.umbrella.services

RECRUITMENT AGENCIES AMSTERDAM

COACHING

FINANCIAL AND TAX ADVISORS

Dutch Umbrella Company Donauweg 10, 1043 AJ Amsterdam | +31 (0) 20 820 15 60 | info@dutchumbrellacompany.com | www.dutchumbrellacompany.com

Undutchables Recruitment Agency Hofplein 20, 3032 AC Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 404 6650 | rotterdam@undutchables.nl www.undutchables.nl THE HAGUE Undutchables Recruitment Agency Noordeinde 202–1, 2514 GS Den Haag | +31 (0)70 711 8300 | denhaag@undutchables.nl | www.undutchables.nl UTRECHT Undutchables Recruitment Agency Brigittenstraat 1, 3512 KJ Utrecht | +31 (0)30 238 2228 | utrecht@undutchables.nl | www.undutchables.nl

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

RELOCATION

EXPAT CENTRES

Expat Housing Network Tweede Helmerstraat 21, 1054 CJ Amsterdam Raiffeisenstraat 11, 5611 CH Eindhoven +31 (0)20 2617434 | info@expathousingnetwork.nl | www.expathousingnetwork.nl | facebook-f @expathousingnetwork

Expat Centre Leiden Stadskantoor Leiden, Bargelaan 190 | 2333 CW Leiden | info@expatcentreleiden.nl | www.expatcentreleiden.nl | facebook-f @ExpatCentreLeiden Expat Centre Maastricht Region Postbus 1992, 6201 BZ Maastricht | +31 (0)43 350 5010 | www.expatcentremaastrichtregion.nl | facebook-f ExpatCentreMaastrichtRegion | Instagram @expatcentremaastrichtregion | Linkedin-in @expat-centre-maastricht-region Expat Center Twente Industrieplein 2, 7553 LL Hengelo | +31 (0)74 250 3325 | info@expatcentertwente.com | www.expatcentertwente.com | facebook-f @ExpatCenterTwente-EastNetherlands International Welcome Centre Utrecht Region Stadsplateau 1, 3521 AZ Utrecht | +31 (0)30 286 00 00 | iwc@utrecht.com | facebook-f @IWCUR | Linkedin-in @International Welcome Centre UR | Instagram @iwcutrechtregion IN Amsterdam World Trade Center Amsterdam | I Tower, ground floor | Strawinskylaan 1767, 1077 XX Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 254 7999 | welcome@amsterdam.nl | www.inamsterdam.com International Welcome Center North (IWCN) Gedempte Zuiderdiep 98, 9711 HL Groningen | +31 (0)50 367 7197 | info@iwcn.nl | www.iwcn.nl Holland Expat Center South Vestdijk 27a, 5611 CA Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 238 6777 | info@hollandexpatcenter.com | www.hollandexpatcenter.com | facebook-f @Holland-Expat-Center Nijmegen Expatdesk Stadswinkel | Marienburg 75, 6511 PS Nijmegen | +31 (0)24 329 2408 | expat@nijmegen.nl | www.nijmegen.nl/expats Rotterdam Partners / Rotterdam Expat Centre Korte Hoogstraat 31, 3011 GK Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 790 0190 | info@rotterdampartners.nl | www.rotterdamexpatcentre.nl | www.rotterdampartners.nl | facebook-f @rotterdamexpatcentre/ The Hague International Centre City Hall (Atrium) Spui 70, 2511 BT Den Haag | +31 (0)70 3535043 | internationalcentre@denhaag.nl | www.thehagueinternationalcentre.nl | facebook-f @TheHagueInternationalCentre | Linkedin-in www. linkedin.com/company/the-hague-international-centre | Twitter @hague_intcentre IN-COMPANY LANGUAGE TRAINING AND CULTURE TRAINING Flowently; private and in-company Dutch courses, live and online lessons Azartplein 79, 1019 PB Amsterdam | +31 (0)6 4133 9323 | info@flowently.com | www.flowently.com | facebook-f @flowently INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL International School Eerde (K-12; also boarding) Kasteellaan 1, 7731 PJ Ommen | +31 (0)529 451 452 | info@eerde.nl | www.eerde.nl | facebook-f @ISEerde International Waldorf School The Hague (IWSTH) 2e Messtraat 31, 2586 XA Den Haag | +31 (0)70 7830030 | info@iwsth.org | www.internationalwaldorfschool.nl | facebook-f @IWSTH | Instagram @international_waldorf_school | Linkedin-in @international-waldorf-school-the-hague Optimist International School Waddenweg 87, 2134 XL Hoofddorp | +31 (0)23 3035924 | info@optimist-international-school.nl | www.optimist-international-school.nl | facebook-f @optimist.international.school | instagram @optimist_international_school | Linkedin-in @Optimist International School IMMIGRATION LAYWERS Migrantic, tax & immigration lawyers Prinses Beatrixlaan 582, 2595 BM Den Haag | +31 (0)6 27043309 (Immigration) | +31 (0)6 25097409 (Tax) | info@migrantic.com | www.migrantic.com | facebook-f @migrantic | Linkedin-in @migrantic-tax-&-immigration-layers

Prakken d’Oliveira Linnaeusstraat 2A, 1092 CK Amsterdam | +31(0)20 344 62 00 | info@prakkendoliveira.nl | www.prakkendoliveira.nl

INFORMATION CENTRES

ASSISTENCE ORGANISATIONS (links mostly in Dutch)

Accessibility Foundation: Accessible internet for all +31 (0)30 239 8270 | info@accessibility.nl | www.accessibility.nl/english Children/teenagers support: www.nsgk.nl Deaf/blind support www.doofblind.nl Down Syndrome Foundation (SDS) www.downsyndroom.nl Dutch Autism Network www.landelijknetwerkautisme.nl Handilinks: A useful portal with lots of related links www.handilinks.nl IEDER(in): Network for the chronically ill and disabled +31 (0)30 720 0000 | www.iederin.nl MEE: Support and help for living with a disability +31 (0)900 999 8888 | www.mee.nl Valys: Regional assisted transport | +31 (0)900 9630 | www.valys.nl

CS HOUSING

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

LISTINGS FURNITURE RENTAL

HOUSING

Furniture Lease Sint Walburg 20B, 6671 AS, Zetten | + 31 (0) 488 45 25 86 | info@furniturelease.nl | www.furniturelease.nl | Facebook-f @furnitureleasemeubelverhuurexpatservice

ACCOMODATION AGENCIES 27 House Real Estate Nieuwe Leliestraat 27 HS, 1015 SJ Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 428 0721 | info@27huis.nl | www.27huis.nl | Facebook-f @27house

LOCATIONS Greenzone of Eindhoven Emma Goldmanweg 8i, 5032 MN Tilburg | +31 (0)13 744 00 98 | info@greenzoneofeindhoven.com | www.greenzoneofeindhoven.com

CS HOUSING Ravellaan 157, 3533 JL Utrecht | +31 (0)30 888 0226 Keizersgracht 62, 1015 CS Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 570 7977 info@cshousing.nl | www.cshousing.nl

De Groote Heide Cranendonck 10, 6027 RK Soerendonk | info@degrooteheide.eu | www.degrooteheide.com

Dutch Real Estate Company Maasstraat 188, 1079 BL Amsterdam | +31 (0) 20 772 3460 | info@dutchrealestatecompany.com | www.dutchrealestatecompany.com

MORTGAGE CONSULTANTS De Hypotheekshop Veldhoven Dorpstraat 57, 5504 HB Veldhoven | +31 (0)40 223 0900 | veldhoven1410@hypotheekshop.nl | www.hypotheekshop.nl

Easymortgage.nl IJsselstraat 19, 3401 DJ IJsselstein | +31 (0)30 2374499 | www.easymortgage.nl Expat Mortgages - Barbara Strozzilaan 101, 1083 HN Amsterdam - Flight Forum 40, 5657 DB Eindhoven +31 20-7173908 | info@expatmortgages.nl | www.expatmortgages.nl

Von Poll Real Estate Keizersgracht 321, 1016 EE Amsterdam Claude Debussylaan 134, 1082 MD Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 2159988 | info@von-poll.nl | www.von-poll.nl

NAHV Belastingadviseurs B.V. Oostenburgervoorstraat 80, 1511 GJ Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 6225509 | mja@nahv.nl | www.nahv.nl/en/ | facebook-f @NAHVBelastingadviseurs

Mr MJ Meijer Notarissen Keizersgracht 695–699, 1017 DW Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 531 7070 | info@meijernotarissen.nl | www.meijernotarissen.nl | Facebook-f @meijernotarissen RELOCATION SERVICE PAS BMS Immigration and Relocation serv. Schoutenlaan 62, 2215ME Voorhout | +31 (0)25 234 7876 | info@pasbms.com | www.pasbms.com | Linkedin-in @pasbms SERVICED HOUSING BizStay BV Koninginnegracht 60 2514 AE Den Haag | +31 (0)70 260 1269 | info@bizstaythehague.com | www.bizstaythehague.com | facebook-f @bizstaythehague | Instagram @bizstaythehague Corporate Housing Factory Claude Debussylaan 235, 1082 MC, Amsterdam | +31 (0)88 11 69 500 | info@corporatehousingfactory.com | www.corporatehousingfactory.com | Twitter @CGFapartments Hilversum City Apartments Office: Maliebaan 80A, 3581 CW Utrecht Location: - Oude Amersfoortseweg 121-131, 1212 AA Hilversum | +31 (0)35 3035900 | +31 (0)6 82525750 | Welcome@HilversumCityApartments.com | www.hilversumcityapartments.com | facebook-f @HilversumCityApartments ServicedApartments.nl Gustav Mahlerlaan 50b, 1082 MC Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 723 3490 | info@servicedapartments.nl | www.servicedapartments.nl | facebook-f @servicedapartmentsinthenetherlands Utrecht City Apartments Office: Maliebaan 80A, 3581 CW Utrecht Locations: - Weerdsingel Oostzijde 10, 3514 AA Utrecht - Huizingalaan 121, 3572 LL Utrecht - Oudegracht 152, 3511 AZ Utrecht +31 (0)30 2317100 | +31 (0)6 25090191 | Welcome@UtrechtCityApartments.com | www.utrechtcityapartments.com | facebook-f @UtrechtCityApartments Element Amsterdam Hotel A.J. Ernststraat 577, 1082 LD, Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 5175311 | Dominique.dekwant@ elementamsterdamhotel.com | www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-reviews/ amsel-element-amsterdam/ | Facebook-f @elementamsterdam

Van Santvoort Makelaars Boutenslaan 195A, 5654 AN Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 269 25 30 | www.vansantvoort.nl

FINANCIAL AND TAX ADVISORS

Mister Mortgage Prinsengracht 679, 1017 JT Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 210 1074 | hi@mistermortgage.nl | www.mistermortgage.nl

SHORT STAY ACCOMODATIONS

Van Kempen Project Management Jan Luykenstraat 28-2, 1071 CP Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 672 4136 | info@vankempenprojects.nl | www.vankempenprojects.nl

Frés Interiors +31 (0) 628446773 | fresinteriors@gmail.com | www.fresinteriors.nl

Independent Expat Finance Dreef 48 2012, HS Haarlem | Prinses Beatrixlaan 582, 2595 BM Den Haag

NOTARIES

INTERIOR & STYLING ADVICE

Freek Hypotheek Aalsterweg 179, 5644 RA Eindhoven | +31 (0)40-2114054 Vestdijk 188, 5611 CZ Eindhoven | +31(0)40-2922222 eindhoven@freekhypotheek.nl | www.freekhypotheek.nl/mortgage-eindhoven/

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

SETTING UP HOME COMMUNICATIONS KPN: www.kpn.com Ziggo: www.ziggo.nl ENERGY & GAS www.gaslicht.com FURNITURE RENTAL Furniture Lease Sint Walburg 20B, 6671 AS, Zetten | + 31 (0) 488 45 25 86 | info@furniturelease.nl | www.furniturelease.nl | Facebook-f @furnitureleasemeubelverhuurexpatservice Furniture4Rent P. Hans Frankfurthersingel, 1060 TR Amsterdam | +31 (0)6 1079 8735 | info@furniture4rent.nl | www.furniturerent.nl INTERIOR & STYLING ADVICE Frés Interiors +31 (0) 628446773 | fresinteriors@gmail.com | www.fresinteriors.nl INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS Haagsche Schoolvereeniging We are one school with four locations, a Pre-School and a Special Education school. International Education - NSL Nassaulaan 26, 2514 JT The Hague | +31 70 318 4950 International Education - KSS Koningin Sophiestraat 24A, 2595 TG The Hague | +31 70 324 3453 International Education - VHS van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141 International Special Education - Lighthouse van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141

RENOVATION, REFURBISHMENT, INTERIOR Koppig Design Willy den Oudenstraat 4, 3056 AD Rotterdam | www.koppigdesign.com MORTGAGE CONSULTANTS Mortgage Holland by Hypotheek Visie De Waal 20, 5684 PH Best | +31 (0)499 336770 | mortgageholland@hypotheekvisie.nl | www.mortgageholland.nl SERVICED HOUSING CS HOUSING Ravellaan 157, 3533 JL Utrecht | +31 (0)30 888 0226 Keizersgracht 62, 1015 CS Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 570 7977 info@cshousing.nl | www.cshousing.nl ServicedApartments.nl Gustav Mahlerlaan 50b, 1082 MC Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 723 3490 | info@servicedapartments.nl | www.servicedapartments.nl | facebook-f @servicedapartmentsinthenetherlands Short Stay Citizens Westerstraat 46, 3016 DH Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 76 705 74 | info@shortstaycitizens.com | www.shortstaycitizens.com | Facebook-f @shortstaycitizens | Instagram @shortstaycitizens | Linkedin-in @ Short_Stay_Citizens The Wittenberg Nieuwe Keizersgracht 760, 1018VG Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 808 4006 | www.thewittenberg. com | lisa.bouma@thewittenberg.com UTILITY SERVICE UButler Prinsengracht 436, 1017 KE Amsterdam info@ubutler.nl | www.ubutler.nl

International Pre-School Education – Three Little Ships van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141

Utility Provider Rivium 4e Straat 3, 2909 LJ Capelle aan den IJssel +31 (0)10 870 1598 | info@utility-provider.nl | www.utility-provider.nl

FINANCIAL AND TAX ADVISORS

LAWYERS

International Education - VNS van Nijenrodestraat 16,: 2597 RM The Hague | +31 70 328 1441 | ldean@hsvdenhaag.nl | www.hsvdenhaag.nl/

Mynta Law Laan Copes van Cattenburch 88, 2585 GE Den Haag | +31(0)70 205 1160 | info@mynta.nl | www.mynta.nl | facebook-f @myntalaw | Linkedin-in @mynta-law Smeets & Gijbels Amsterdam Jacob Obrechtstraat 70, 1071 KP Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 574 77 22 | info@smeetsgijbels.com | www.smeetsgijbels.com MORTGAGE CONSULTANTS Buro Philip van den Hurk Mr. E.N. van Kleffensstraat 4, 6842 CV Arnhem | +31 (0)26 205 1028 Parklaan 58, 5613 BH Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 246 3265 | www.burophilipvandenhurk.nl Easymortgage.nl IJsselstraat 19, 3401 DJ IJsselstein | +31 (0)30 2374499 | www.easymortgage.nl Expat Morgages Office Amsterdam: Barbara Strozzilaan 101, 1083 HN Amsterdam Office Eindhoven: Flight Forum 40, 5657 DB Eindhoven +31 (0)20 7173908 | info@expatmortgages.nl | www.expatmortgages.nl Freek Mortgage Eindhoven Vestdijk 188, 5611 CZ Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 2114054 | Aalsterweg 179, 5644 RA Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 2922222 | Eindhoven@freekhypotheek.nl | www.freekhypotheek.nl/eindhoven Hypotheekrente.nl IJsselstraat 19, 3401 DJ IJsselstein | +31 (0)30 237 44 99 | info@hypotheekrente.nl | www.hypotheekrente.nl Mortgage Holland by Hypotheek Visie De Waal 20, 5684 PH Best | +31 (0)499 336770 | mortgageholland@hypotheekvisie.nl | www.mortgageholland.nl Mister Mortgage Brouwersgracht 246H, 1013 HE Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 210 1074 | hi@mistermortgage.nl | www.mistermortgage.nl FINANCIAL EDUCATION Beacon Global Group Europe Ltd/ Beacon Financial Keizersgracht 804E, 1017 ED Amsterdam | +31 (0)858 880 270 | info@beaconfinancialeducation.org | www.beaconfinancialeducation.org | Facebook-f @beaconfinancialeducation INSURANCES Elliot Lloyd World Trade Center, Prinses Margrietplantsoen 33, 2595 AM Den Haag | +31(0)70 205 4850 | info@elliotlloyd.com | www.elliotlloyd.com | Facebook-f @ElliotLloydInt IAK Insurances & Financial Services Beukenlaan 70, 5651 CD Eindhoven | High Tech Campus 1, (The Strip), Building Code C, 5656 AE Eindhoven | www.iak.nl NOTARIES

Tax Direct Nachtwachtlaan 20, 1058 EA Amsterdam | +31(0)20 820 8340 | taxteam@taxdirect.nl | www.taxdirect.nl

Mr MJ Meijer Notarissen Keizersgracht 695–699, 1017 DW Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 531 7070 | info@meijernotarissen.nl | www.meijernotarissen.nl | Facebook-f @meijernotarissen

Business.gov.nl Blaak 40, 3011 TA Rotterdam | +31 (0)6 15327524 | hadiss.yousefi@kvk.nl | www.business.gov.nl

STARTING A BUSINESS

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

LISTINGS

EDUCATION

International Special Education - Lighthouse van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141

BUSINESS EDUCATION

International Pre-School Education – Three Little Ships van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141

Amsterdam Business School - University of Amsterdam Plantage Muidergracht 12, 1018 TV Amsterdam | MBA: +31 (0)20 525 5655 | Mobile +31 (0)20 525 4056 | admissions-abs@uva.nl | www.abs.uva.nl

International Education - VNS van Nijenrodestraat 16,: 2597 RM The Hague | +31 70 328 1441 | ldean@hsvdenhaag.nl | www.hsvdenhaag.nl/

Maastricht School of Management (MSM) | Endepolsdomein 150, 6229 EP Maastricht +31 (0)43 870808 | info@msm.nl | www.msm.nl Maastricht University School of Business and Economics Tongersestraat 53, 6211 LM Maastricht | + 31 (0)43 387 0808 | info@maastrichtmba.com | www.maastrichtuniversity.nl Nyenrode Business Universiteit Straatweg 25, 3621 BG Breukelen | +31 (0)34 629 1211 | www.nyenrode.nl

International School Eerde (K-12; also boarding) Kasteellaan 1, 7731 PJ Ommen | +31 (0)529 451 452 | info@eerde.nl | www.eerde.nl | Facebook-f @ISEerde

Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences Kralingse Zoom 91, 3063 ND Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 794 6229 | +31 (0)6 2150 2419 m.s.elenbaas@hr.nl | www.rotterdambusinessschool.nl

International School Haarlem Primary dept. : Schreveliusstraat 27, 2014 XP Haarlem Primary Department- Upper primary: Oorkondelaan 65, 2033 MN Haarlem Secondary Department: Oorkondelaan 65, 2033 MN Haarlem +31 (0)23 220 0001 | info@internationalschoolhaarlem.nl | Facebook-f @internationalschoolhaarlem

TIAS School for Business and Society Warandelaan 2, 5037 AB Tilburg | +31 13 466 86 00 Horsten 1, 5612 AX Eindhoven Kromme Nieuwegracht 39, 3512 HD Utrecht | +31 13 466 8600 | www.tias.edu The Hague University of Applied Sciences Main campus at Johanna Westerdijkplein 75, 2521 EN The Hague Delft campus at Rotterdamseweg 137, 2628 AL Delft Laan van Poot campus at Laan van Poot 363, 2566 DA The Hague Zoetermeer campus at Bleiswijkseweg 37, 2712 PB Zoetermeer www.thehagueuniversity.com

Vlerick Business School Brussels campus at Bolwerklaan 21, 1210 Brussels, Belgium Ghent campus at Reep 1, 9000 Ghent, Belgium Leuven campus at Vlamingenstraat 83, 3000 Leuven, Belgium info@vlerick.com | www.vlerick.com

Webster Leiden Campus Boommarkt 1, 2311 EA, Leiden | +31(0) 70 5168000 | admissions@webster.nl | www.webster.nl CREATIVE HIGHER EDUCATION SAE Institute Amsterdam Johan van Hasseltweg 31, 1021 KN Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 435 0655 | amsterdam@sae.edu | www.sae.edu MMS Worldwide Institute Keizersgracht 64, 1015 CS Amsterdam | +31(0)6 4254 0007 | office@themms.com | www.themmsinstitute.com in2motivation Amstelveenseweg 739, 1081 JE Amsterdam | +31 (0) 20 737 0312 | info@in2motivation.com | www.in2motivation.com Koach.net Weesperstraat 61, 1018 VN Amsterdam | www.koach.net | contact@koach.net | Facebook-f @ koach.net DRIVING LESSONS Rijschool Dekker Hertogstraat 38, 5611 PB Eindhoven +31 (0)40 444 44 44 | info@rijschooldekker.nl | www.rijschooldekker.nl | facebook-f @ rijschooldekker | i @rijschooldekkereindhoven American School of the Hague Main campus at Rijksstraatweg 200, 241 BX Wassenaar Early childhood center at Deijlerweg 153, 2241 AE Wassenaar +31 (0)70 512 1060 | info@ash.nl | www.ash.nl

Supreme College Nederland Koning Willemstraat 1, 1901 CA Castricum | +31 (0)251 652571 | info@supremecollege.nl | www.supremecollege.nl | facebook-f @supremecollegenederland The British School of Amsterdam (K-12) Early Years & School Office: Anthonie van Dijckstraat 1, 1077 ME Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 679 7840 Infant School Jan van Eijckstraat 21, 1077 LG Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 679 3060 Junior & Senior School Fred. Roeskestraat 94a, 1076 ED Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 679 0183 info@britams.nl | www.britams.nl | facebook-f @BritishSchoolofAmsterdam

Direct Dutch Institute Laan van Nieuw Oost-Indië 275, 2593 BS Den Haag | +31 (0)70 365 4677 | info@directdutch.com | www.directdutch.com

Amity International School Amsterdam Amsterdamseweg 204, 1182 HL Amstelveen | +31 (0)20 345 44 81 | enquiries@amity. amsterdam | www.amityschool.nl | facebook-f @AmitySchoolNL Amstelland International School Asserring 93, 1187 SM Amstelveen | +31 (0)20 820 9091 | www.amstelland-international-school.nl Amsterdam International Community School Main Campus: Prinses Irenestraat 59, 1077 WV Amsterdam | +31 (0) 20 577 1240 South East Campus: Darlingstraat 2, 1102 MX Amsterdam | +31 (0) 20 723 5280 Primary School AICS Satellite: Arent Janszoon Ernststraat 130, 1082 LP Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 723 4830 infosatellite@aics.espritscholen.nl | www.aics.espritscholen.nl

International Education - VHS van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS

International Education - KSS Koningin Sophiestraat 24A, 2595 TG The Hague | +31 70 324 3453

Interteach Elementary Bosscheweg 76, Boxtel, Postbus 286, 5060 AG Oisterwijk | +31 (0)30-7440647 | info@interteachelementary.com | www.interteachexpat.com

COMPANY TRAINING & PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Haagsche Schoolvereeniging We are one school with four locations, a Pre-School and a Special Education school. International Education - NSL | Nassaulaan 26, 2514 JT The Hague | +31 70 318 4950

International Primary School Almere A. Roland Holststraat 58, 1321 RX Almere | + 31 (0) 36 5367240 | www.ipsalmere.nl International School of Amsterdam (K-12) Sportlaan 45, 1185 TB Amstelveen | +31 (0)20 347 1111 | www.isa.nl

Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University Burgemeester Oudlaan 50, Bayle building, 3062 PA Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 4082222 | ldimitriou@rsm.nl | www.rsm.nl/mba

Groningse Schoolvereniging Sweelincklaan 4, 9722 JV Groningen | +31 (0)50 5270818 | www.g-s-v.nl

Dutch Courses Amsterdam Katakura WBLC Havikshorst 30, 1083 TT Amsterdam | Egelantiersstraat 126, 1015 PR Amsterdam +31 (0)6 21530814 | katakurawblc@gmail.com | www.katakura-wblc.nl | facebook-f @DutchCoursesKatakura Dutch Courses Amsterdam Postjesweg 57, 1057 DW Amsterdam | +31 (0)6 54992219 | www.dutchcoursesamsterdam. nl | facebook-f @DutchCoursesAmsterdam Dutch First Niasstraat 1, 3531 WR Utrecht +31 (0)30 29 19 884 | info@dutchfirst.nl | www.dutchfirst.nl | facebook-f @dutchfirst Dutch Ready – private Dutch Lessons at home | www.DutchReady.com easyNL Roelofspad 10, 5645 JG Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 211 3101 | info@easyNL.nl | www.easynl.nl Flowently; private and in-company Dutch courses, live and online lessons Azartplein 79, 1019 PB Amsterdam | +31 (0)6 4133 9323 | info@flowently.com | www.flowently.com | facebook-f @flowently iplus1 Tjalklaan 43, Rotterdam +31 6 43 95 63 55 | info@iplus1.nl | www.iplus1.nl | Facebook-f @iplus.nl Helpdesk State Exams Dutch as a Second Language Valckenierstraat 65, 1018 XE Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 525 38 44 | marianne.vanderlinden@ itta.uva.nl | www.staatsexamensnt2.nl Kickstart School B.V. Koninginnegracht 62, 2514 AG Den Haag | +31 (0)70 360 7860 | info@kickstartschool.nl | www.kickstartschool.nl | facebook-f @kslanguages

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

(CORPORATE) TRAINING Outspoken Communication +31 (0)88 111 9333 | info@outspokencommunication.com | www.outspokencommunication.com Ute’s International Lounge Aagje Dekenkade 2, 2251 ZV Voorschoten | +31 (0)650601984 | info@UtesInternationalLounge.com | www.UtesInternationalLounge.com | Facebook-f @UtesInternationalLounge RELOCATION HELP PAS BMS Immigration and Relocation serv. Schoutenlaan 62, 2215ME Voorhout | +31 (0)25 234 7876 | info@pasbms.com | www.pasbms.com | Linkedin-in @pasbms The Hague International Centre City Hall (Atrium) Spui 70, 2511 BT Den Haag | +31 (0)70 3535043 | internationalcentre@ denhaag.nl | www.thehagueinternationalcentre.nl | facebook-f @thehagueinternationalcentre Young Expat Services Krommepad 5j, 1251 HP Laren | +31(0)6 14366627 | info@youngexpatservices.nl | www.youngexpatservices.nl STUDY COACHING SERVICES Studie Nanny at Home Soestdijkseweg Zuid 244, 3721 AJ Bilthoven | +31 (0)30 2740 430 | info@studienannyathome.nl | www.studienannyathome.nl | facebook-f @studienannyathome EXPAT INFORMATION DutchNews.nl | www.dutchnews.nl | Facebook-f @dutchnews XPat Media / The XPat Journal Van Boetzelaerlaan 153, 2581 AR Den Haag | +31(0)70 306 33 10 | +31(0)650234125 | www.xpat.nl | Magazine: magazine.xpat.nl | Facebook-f @xpatmedia FINANCIAL TRAINING Blue Umbrella Keizersgracht 756, 1017 EZ Amsterdam | +31(0)20 4687560 | info@blueumbrella.nl | www.blueumbrella.nl | facebook-f @blue.umbrella.services WRITING WORKSHOP Amsterdam Writing Workshops Damrak 367, 1012 ZJ Amsterdam | +31 (0) 62 502 0817 | info@amsterdamwriting.com | www.amsterdamwriting.com

Dutch I presume +31 (0)10 798 6018 | info@dutchipresume.com | www.dutchipresume.com

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

LISTINGS

Studie Nanny at Home Soestdijkseweg Zuid 244, 3721 AJ Bilthoven | +31 (0)30 2740 430 | info@studienannyathome.nl | www.studienannyathome.nl | facebook-f @studienannyathome

FAMILY BABYSITTING

SUBSIDISED EDUCATION

Charly Cares ’s-Gravenhekje 1A – 2nd floor, 1011 TG Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 210 2323 | info@charlycares.com | www.charlycares.com CHILDCARE Hestia Early Learning Centre Uiterwaardenstraat 542, 1079 DE Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 6618710 | planning.plaatsing@ hestiakinderopvang.nl | https://hestiakinderopvang.nl/en/locations/ Korein Kinderplein Kanaaldijk-Zuid 5a, 5613 LE Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 294 8940 | klantadvies@korein.nl | www.koreinkinderplein.nl

The British School of Amsterdam (K-12) Early Years & School Office: Anthonie van Dijckstraat 1, 1077 ME Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 679 7840 Infant School: Jan van Eijckstraat 21, 1077 LG Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 679 3060 Junior & Senior School: Fred. Roeskestraat 94a, 1076 ED Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 679 0183 info@britams.nl | www.britams.nl | Facebook-f @BritishSchoolofAmsterdam SPORT David Lloyd - Overtoom 557, 1054 LK Amsterdam | +31 (0)88 020 21 03 | amsterdam@davidlloyd.nl - Peter Zuidlaan 30, 5502 NH Veldhoven | +31 (0)40 253 8125 | mship.eindhoven@ davidlloyd.nl | www.davidlloyd.nl | Facebook-f @DavidLloydClubs(Amsterdam)

Eindhoven Sport +31 (0)40 238 1151 | sport@eindhoven.nl | www.eindhovensport.nl

KNCB - Royal Netherlands Cricket Board info@cricket.nl | www.cricket.nl | Facebook-f @KNCB

Villa Bloom Loosduinse Hoofdstraat 536, 2562 BE Den Haag Beeklaan 535a, 2562 BE Den Haag Utenbroekestraat 4, 2597 PH Den Haag Thomsonlaan 17c, 2565 KX Den Haag Buurtweg 16, 2244 AD Wassenaar +31 (0)70 820 0542 | info@villabloom.nl | www.villabloom.nl | facebook-f @villa.bloom

The Little Gym Amsterdam & Den Haag & Haarlem Amsterdam: Henkenshage 4, 1083 BX Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 404 0798 Den Haag: Koningin Julianalaan 343, Den Haag | +31 (0)70 300 0992 Haarlem: Zijlweg 148A, 2015 BJ Haarlem | +31 (0)23 576 7316 amsterdam@thelittlegym.nl | www.thelittlegym.eu/nl-en

Your Personal Swim Coach Amsterdam, Den Haag, Diemen, Eindhoven, Leiden, Rotterdam, Voorschoten, Zoeterwoude | +31 (0)6 1946 8131 | info@your-personal-swim-coach.nl | www.your-personal-swim-coach.nl | Facebook-f @Your.Personal.Swim.Coach

ENTERTAINMENT

ONLINE FOOD DELIVERY HelloFresh Nederland | www.hellofresh.nl | Spaklerweg 50-52, 1099 BC Amsterdam +31 (0)20 760 2014 | Facebook-f @HelloFreshNL

A Dutch Experience Oude Enghweg 32, 1217 JD, Hilversum | +31 (0)35 62 12 825 | info@adutchexperience.com | www. adutchexperience.com | Facebook-f @adutchexperience

NUTRITION CONSULTING EatLiveLoveFood | +31 (0)6 3055 4729 | info@eatlivelovefood.com | www.eatlivelovefood.com

GROUPS AND CLUBS

MEDIA & PHOTOGRAPHY

American Women’s Club of The Hague Johan van Oldenbarneveltlaan 43, 2582 NJ, Den Haag | +31 070 350 6007 | info@awcthehague.org | www.awcthehague.org | facebook-f @AWCTheHague

HOUSING CS HOUSING Ravellaan 157, 3533 JL Utrecht | +31 (0)30 888 0226 Keizersgracht 62, 1015 CS Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 570 7977 info@cshousing.nl | www.cshousing.nl

Profile Studio Willem van Hillegaersbergstraat 50, 3051 Rotterdam | +31 (0)6 2529 9091 | info@profilestudio.nl | www.profilestudio.nl

ExpatRentals Panamalaan 5-F, 1019 AS Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 470 0749 | info@expatrentals.com | www.expatrentals.com | facebook-f @expatrentalsamsterdam

Typical Dutch Art Freesiaberg 29, 4708 CE Roosendaal | +31 (0)6 2120 7895 | www.typicaldutchart.nl

The Wittenberg Nieuwe Keizersgracht 760, 1018VG Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 808 4006 | www.thewittenberg.com | lisa.bouma@thewittenberg.com INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Mr MJ Meijer Notarissen Keizersgracht 695–699, 1017 DW Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 531 7070 | info@meijernotarissen.nl | www.meijernotarissen.nl | Facebook-f @meijernotarissen

Haagsche Schoolvereeniging We are one school with four locations, a Pre-School and a Special Education school. International Education - NSL Nassaulaan 26, 2514 JT The Hague | +31 70 318 4950

Mynta Law Benoordenhoutseweg 43, 2596 BC Den Haag | +31 (0)70 205 1162 | info@mynta.nl | www.mynta.nl

International Education - KSS Koningin Sophiestraat 24A, 2595 TG The Hague | +31 70 324 3453

International Education - VHS van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141 International Special Education - Lighthouse van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141

Smeets & Gijbels Amsterdam Jacob Obrechtstraat 70, 1071 KP Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 574 77 22 | info@smeetsgijbels.com | www.smeetsgijbels.com

International Pre-School Education – Three Little Ships van Heutszstraat 12, 2593 PJ The Hague | +31 70 205 1141 International Education - VNS van Nijenrodestraat 16,: 2597 RM The Hague | +31 70 328 1441 | ldean@hsvdenhaag.nl | www.hsvdenhaag.nl/ International School Eerde (K-12; also boarding) Kasteellaan 1, 7731 PJ Ommen | +31 (0)529 451 452 | info@eerde.nl | www.eerde.nl | Facebook-f @ISEerde International Waldorf School The Hague (IWSTH) 2e Messtraat 31, 2586 XA Den Haag | +31 (0)70 7830030 | info@iwsth.org | www.internationalwaldorfschool.nl | facebook-f @IWSTH | Instagram @international_waldorf_school | Linkedin-in @international-waldorf-school-the-hague Flowently; private and in-company Dutch courses, live and online lessons Azartplein 79, 1019 PB Amsterdam | +31 (0)6 4133 9323 | info@flowently.com | www.flowently.com | facebook-f @flowently Interteach Elementary Bosscheweg 76, Boxtel, Postbus 286, 5060 AG Oisterwijk | +31 (0)30-7440647 | info@interteachelementary.com | www.interteachexpat.com

Amity International School Amsterdam Amsterdamseweg 204, 1182 HL Amstelveen | +31 (0)20 345 44 81 | enquiries@amity. amsterdam | www.amityschool.nl | facebook-f @AmitySchoolNL

PRIVATE EDUCATION

LEGAL ADVISORS & NOTARIES

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

HEALTHCARE CHIROPRACTICES Chiropractisch Centrum voor Rug & Nek (Back & Bone) Stratumsedijk 18, 5611 ND Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 211 3600 | info@rugcentrum.nl | www.chiropractie-vanbeest.nl De Ruggesteun Chiropractic - Klaroenstraat 2, 2287 CK Rijswijk | +31(0) 70 – 394 56 14 - Kiekendiefstraat 17, 2496 RP Ypenburg - Den Haag | +31(0) 70 – 394 56 14 | www.deruggesteun.nl/en/ | info@deruggesteun.nl | Facebook-f @www.deruggesteun.nl Embody Health Chiropractie Euromarkt 6, 2408 BM Alphen a/d Rijn Jan van Galenstraat 301B, 1056 CB Amsterdam Snijdersbergweg 97, 1105 AN Amsterdam | +31 (0)6 4070 8905 | info@embodyhealth.nl | www.embodyhealth.nl | Facebook-f @embodyhealth.nl

Dental Factory Jan van Galenstraat 171, 1056 BS Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 618 0074 info@dentalfactory.nl | www.dentalfactory.nl | Facebook-f @dentalfactoryamsterdam Lassus Tandartsen Lassusstraat 9, 1075 GV Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 471 3137 Keizersgracht 132, 1015 CW Amsterdam | +31(0)20 422 1912 Stadionplein 125, 1076 CK Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 210 4007 info@lassustandartsen.nl | www.lassustandartsen.nl | Facebook-f @lassustandartsen Lassus Tandartsen Oisterwijk Moergestelseweg 32L,5062 JW Oisterwijk | +31(0)13 - 521 0660 | Oisterwijk@lassus.nl | www.lassustandartsenoisterwijk.nl Lassus Tandartsen Lelystad Middendreef 273, 8233 GT Lelystad | +31(0)320331 660 | Lelystad@lassus.nl | www.lassustandartsenlelystad.nl

Pure Health Chiropractic Stadionweg 288, 1076 PG Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 2332168 | info@purehealthchiropractic.nl | www.purehealthchiropractic.nl

Mondzorg De Kleine Wetering Kastelenstraat 111, 1082 EB Amsterdam | +31(0)20 – 644 04 48 | mondzorg@ dekleinewetering.nl | www.dekleinewetering.nl | Facebook-f @mondzorgdekleinewetering

INSURANCE For more information about your specific situation, you can contact the following:

Mondzorg Praktijk Zuidas Strawinskylaan 227, 1077 XX Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 676 7606 | www.mondzorgpraktijkzuidas.nl | Facebook-f @mondzorgpraktijkzuidas

• College for Health Insurances: 020 797 8555. • Sociale Verzekeringsbank: www.svb.nl Under contact, type your postcode and get the phone number for your area and specific situation (for questions regarding social security).

Orthodontie Museumplein Teniersstraat 2 hs, 1071 DX Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 723 55 222 | info@orthodontiemuseumplein.nl | www.orthodontiemuseumplein.nl

INSURANCE PROVIDERS www.independer.nl

Tandartsenpraktijk Jesse Stadionweg 73, 1077 SE Amsterdam | +31 (20) 676 2030 | info@tandartsenpraktijkjesse.nl | www.tandartsenpraktijkjesse.nl | facebook-f @tandartsenpraktijkjesseamsterdam

HEALTH CONTACTS

EXPAT COACHING & THERAPY

• ACCESS: www.access-nl.org – ACCESS publishes several online information guides. • Doula: www.doula.nl • H4i/ Healthcare for internationals Tilburgseweg-West 100, 5652 NP Eindhoven | info@h4i.nl | www.h4i.nl | facebook-f @H4internationals • Homecare (thuiszorg): www.thuiszorg.startpagina.nl • Midwives: www.knov.nl • The Royal Dutch Medical Association (KNMG): www.knmg.nl

ExpatPsy Westerkade 1, 3016 CL Rotterdam | +31 (0)10 436 1768 | info@expatpsy.eu | www.expatpsy.eu in2motivation Amstelveenseweg 739, 1081 JE Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 7370312 | www.in2motivation.com Kühler & Partner International Mental Health Nassaulaan 5, 2514 JS Den Haag Koningslaan 35, 1075 Amsterdam +31(0)85 066 0500 | info@internationalmentalhealth.nl | www.internationalmentalhealth.nl | Facebook-f @KuhlerandPartners

The emergency number for fire, police and ambulance is 112.

Pierdominici Psychology Eerste Keucheniusstraat 6HS, 1051 HR Amsterdam | proteapsychology@gmail.com | www.proteatherapy.org

HOSPITAL A hospital is a “ziekenhuis” and a complete list of hospitals and medical centres for the Netherlands can be found at www.ziekenhuis.nl

PsyQ International Mental Health Jan van Nassaustraat 125, 2596 BS Den Haag | +31 (0)88 357 34 78 | imhs@psyq.nl | www.expatriates.psyq.nl | Facebook-f @PsyQInternational

PHARMACY To locate an apotheek, visit www.apotheek.nl

SGE International Strijp-S Videolab 4.042, Torenallee 20, 5617 BC Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 711 6730 | international@sge.nl | www.sgeinternational.nl

MEDICAL

DOCTOR Don’t wait for an emergency before registering with a family doctor. Find one at www. zorgkaartnederland.nl/huisarts Expat Medical Service (Central Doctors) De Ruijterkade 24a, 1012 NA Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 427 5011 | stationdoctors@gmail.com | www.expatmedicalservice.nl Quin Doctors Amsterdam • Westermarkt 2, 1016 DK Amsterdam • Bilderdijkstraat 142 – 148, 1053 KZ Amsterdam • Maasstraat 71, 1078 HE Amsterdam • Stadionplein 25, 1076 CG Amsterdam • Oosterpark 62, 1092 AR Amsterdam • Spaarndammerdijk 15A, 1013 ZM Amsterdam +31 (0)20 450 9919 | info@hapk.nl | www.hapk.nl Markant, centrum voor Mantelzorgondersteuning Zwanenburgwal 206, 1011 JH Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 8868800 | www.markant.org EMERGENCY DOCTORS SERVICES (Centrale Huisartsenpost) • Amsterdam region (SHDA): 088 003 0600

• Rotterdam: 010 290 9888

Verloskundigen 101 Johannes Verhulststraat 101, 1071 MX Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 470 0067 | Verloskundigen101@gmail.com | www.verloskundigen101.nl

• Utrecht: 0900 450 1450

SPORT

• The Hague (SMASH): 070 346 9669

• Eindhoven: 0900 8861 National line for information on all medical services: 0900 1515 (24/7) DENTAL EMERGENCIES You can call one of the helplines below to find an out-of-hours dentist, or call your own dentist and a recorded message will inform you what to do. Many dentists provide their own emergency services. Find a dentist at www.tandarts.nl • Amsterdam: 0900 821 2230 • The Hague: 070 311 0305 • Rotterdam: 010 455 2155

DENTAL PRACTICES

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

LISTINGS DRIVING LESSONS

TRANSPORT

Rijschool Dekker BV Hertogstraat 38, 5611 PB Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 444 44 44 | info@rijschooldekker.nl | www.rijschooldekker.nl | Facebook-f @rijschooldekker

(INTERNATIONAL) MOVERS Brabantse Verhuis Centrale Broekakkerseweg 22, 5641 PC Eindhoven | +31(0)40 248 32 50 | www.verhuiscentrale.nl

Zeeuw & Zeeuw | ’s-Gravenlandseweg 396a, 3125 BK Schiedam | +31 (0) 88-0553910 | www.zeeuwenzeeuw.nl

KHZ International Movers A. van Leeuwenhoekweg 50, 2408 AN Alphen aan den Rijn | +31 (0) 172 449976 | info@khz.nl | www.khz-movers.com | Facebook-f @KHZMovers

CAR RENTAL Hertz Rent a Car | www.hertz.nl | +31 (0)23 567 0747 | salesnl@hertz.com

Maxi Movers Paganelstraat 2, 7821 AA Emmen | +31 (0)591 648 810 | info@maxibox.nl | www.maxibox.nl

Van Den Udenhout Wekkerstraat 43 – 53, 5652 AN Eindhoven | +31 (0)40 - 2197700 Balkweg 6, 5232 BV ’s-Hertogenbosch | info@udenhout.nl | www.udenhout.nl

Passies International Movers Broekermeerstraat 136, 2131 AT Hoofddorp +31 (0)23-561 5955 | info@passies.nl | www.passies.nl/en/ | Facebook-f @PassiesVerhuizers

ENTERTAINMENT

Boom Chicago Rozengracht 117, 1016 LV Amsterdam | hello@boomchicago.nl | www.boomchicago.nl

BOOKS

Broadcast Amsterdam info@broadcastamsterdam.nl | www.broadcastamsterdam.nl

Easylaughs info@easylaughs.nl | www.easylaughs.nl

Waterstones Amsterdam Kalverstraat 152, 1012 XE, Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 638 3821 | amsterdam@waterstones.com | www.waterstones.com | facebook-f @WatAdam

EYE Film IJpromenade 1, 1031 KT Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 589 1400 | info@eyefilm.nl | www.eyefilm.nl

EXPAT NEWS & PUBLICATIONS

North Sea Jazz Club Westergasfabriek, Pazzanistraat 1, 1014 DB Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 722 0980 | info@northseajazzclub.com | www.northseajazzclub.com

DutchNews.nl | www.dutchnews.nl | facebook-f @dutchnews Eindhoven News | www.eindhovennews.nl

Stadsschouwburg & Philharmonie Haarlem Philharmonie Lange Begijnestraat 11, 2011 HH Haarlem Stadsschouwburg Wilsonsplein 23, 2011 VG Haarlem +31 (0)23 512 1212 | info@theater-haarlem.nl | www.theater-haarlem.nl

Expatica | www.expatica.nl Howdo Magazine | www.howdo.info The Hague Online | www.thehagueonline.com

STET The English Theatre Nassaulaan 17, 2243 HJ Wassenaar | +31 (0)6 300 500 18 | info@theenglishtheatre.nl

The Holland Times | Energieplein 8, 2031 TC Haarlem | +31 (0)20 410 7880 | www.hollandtimes.nl

TOURISM & ACTIVITIES

A Dutch Experience Oude Enghweg 32, 1217 JD, Hilversum | +31 (0)35 62 12 825 | info@adutchexperience.com | www. adutchexperience.com

House of Bols: The cocktail and genever experience Opposite Van Gogh Museum, Paulus Potterstraat 14, Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 570 8575 | info@houseofbols.com | www.houseofbols.com

MUSIC, THEATER, FILM & COMEDY Amsterdam Magic Show Paleis van de Weemoed, Oudezijds Voorburgwal 15, 1012 EH Amsterdam | hi@amsterdam-magic.com | www.amsterdam-magic.com

Heineken Experience Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam www.heinekenexperience.nl

Reypenaer Cheese Tasting Room Singel 182, 1015 AJ Amsterdam | +31 (0)20 320 6333 | info@reypenaer.nl | www.reypenaer.nl

SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022 • THE NETHERLANDS • WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL

ADVERTISERS INDEX 2

27House Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 IN Amsterdam/ Expat Centre Amsterdam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . International School Haarlem . . . . . . . . ABN AMRO Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 International School Hilversum. . . . . . . ACCESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 International School of Amsterdam. . A & H Finance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC International School Utrecht. . . . . . . . . . American School of the Hague. . . . . . . . . 71 International Waldorf School Amstelland International School . . . . . 62 The Hague . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Big5 Relocations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blue Umbrella. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Buro Philip van den Hurk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bynco. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

34 50 52 82

ScheerSanders Advocaten. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 20 ServicedApartments.nl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC 59 SmeetsGijbels Advocaten . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 56 Supreme College Nederland . . . . . . . . . . 54 60 66 Taalhuis Amsterdam. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 60 Tandartsenpraktijk Jesse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Tax Consultants International. . . . . . . . . 48 The British School of Amsterdam. . . . . . IC KGT Consulting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The Hague International Centre/ Kühler & Partners International Expat Centre Den Haag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Mental Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73, 81 The Mobile Life. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 The Tax Savers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

K L

Language Institute Regina Coeli . . . . . . 62 Crossroads International Church . . . . . . 72 Lassus Tandartsen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Ute’s International Lounge. . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Lindy Nikken Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Utrecht Welcome Center/ Expat Centre Utrecht. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 De Raad Makelaars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 UvA Talen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Direct Dutch Institute. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Muller Visual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 UWV/Eures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 MVA Certified Expat Broker . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Dutch Courses Amsterdam. . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Mynta Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Dutch Courses Amsterdam Katakura WBLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 VDS Automotive Services b.v.. . . . . . . . . . 82 Dutch First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Vlerick Business School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 NAHV Belastingadviseurs B.V. . . . . . . . . . 52 Dutch Real Estate Company. . . . . . . . . . . 42 Von Poll Real Estate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 DutchNews.nl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

M N

Openbaar onderwijs aan de Amstel. . 64 Webster University. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Eerde International Boarding School. . . 68 Optimist International School . . . . . . . . 65 Wittenberg Apart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Expat Centre Leiden Region (ECL). . . . . 24 Orange Tax Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Expat Centre Maastricht Region. . . . . . . 34 XpatMedia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34, 84 Expat Management Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Partou Kinderopvang . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Expatax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 PAS BMS Immigration and Relocation. . 14 PIRGroup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 YER IT & Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Flowently. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Furniture4Rent Nederland. . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Rijschool Dekker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Zeeuw & Zeeuw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Rotsvast Verhuur en Vastgoedbeheer. . . 41 GoToThisGuy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Rotterdam Expat Centre/ Rotterdam Partners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 RSH Relocation H4i. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 and Immigration Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 HSV/Haagse Schoolvereeniging . . . . . . 58 Holland Expat Center South. . . . . . . . . . . 33 Holland Handbook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

*IC = Inside Cover **IBC = Inside Back Cover ***BC = Back Cover 100

WWW.EXPATFAIR.NL • THE NETHERLANDS • SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONALS 2022

Income tax return | VAT return | M-form

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Expat Survival Guide 2022 - The Netherlands

Articles inside

LISTINGS

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

TRANSPORT

SPECIAL NEEDS

SETTING UP HOME

INTRODUCTION

HEALTHCARE

FAMILIES

HOUSING

SURVIVAL CHECKLIST