The first things to arrange when you arrive in the Netherlands

When you move to a new country, there are always a few essential tasks you need to complete before you can really start to enjoy your new surroundings. ING explains what things you need to sort out immediately.

Just as you're ready to finally throw away that huge "moving house" checklist, a new list drops into your lap! You might be excited to get exploring and meet your new neighbours, but taking just a little time to sort out these obligations will mean you are well-prepared to start making the most of your time in the Netherlands.

From registering with the municipality to understanding the Dutch banking system, here’s what you need to know to get settled quickly.

1. Registering with the municipality and getting your BSN

One of the first things you’ll need to do upon arrival is register with your local municipality (gemeente). This is a requirement for anyone staying in the Netherlands for more than four months.

After registering, you will receive a Burgerservicenummer (BSN). This is your personal identification number and it is essential for all official matters, including opening a bank account, signing a work contract and dealing with tax authorities. Boring but important!

2. Opening a Dutch bank account

You are going to need a local bank account to manage your daily expenses, receive your salary and set up automatic payments (direct debits) for rent, utilities, and the more fun things like cinema subscriptions.

To open a bank account, you will need:

• A BSN number (this can sometimes be supplied later)
• A valid passport or residence permit
• Proof of address in the Netherlands

Most banks allow you to open an account online or via an app, making the process quick and easy.

3. Debit versus credit cards: Understanding the Dutch system

In the Netherlands, debit cards (pinpas) are the preferred payment method, and they operate via Maestro or V Pay. When making payments, you’ll often be asked if you want to pay by "pin" (debit card).

Credit cards (Visa or Mastercard) are not as commonly accepted as in other countries, especially in supermarkets and smaller stores. 

Moreover, what are called debit cards in some countries are often considered credit cards in the Netherlands, especially if they are Visa debit cards. This can make it quite tricky to get even your basic essentials in if you haven't opened a local account yet (see Step 2). Applying for a Dutch credit card can also be tricky, as you may need to have a recurring income for a couple of months before you can apply for one.

Many Dutch residents also use contactless and mobile payment options such as Apple Pay or Google Pay. It’s a good idea to always carry a debit card to avoid issues when paying at local shops.

4. Health insurance: A legal requirement

Health insurance is mandatory in the Netherlands. Even if you have an international health insurance plan, you may still be required to sign up for a Dutch basic health insurance plan (basisverzekering) within four months of arrival.

Expats working in the Netherlands must contribute to the healthcare system through insurance premiums and income-based contributions.

5. Public transport and the OV-chipkaart

The Dutch public transport system is efficient and widely used. To travel on trains, buses, trams, and metros, you can get an OV-chipkaart. This is a rechargeable card that you use to check in and out of public transport, and you can either top it up for pay-as-you-go, load it with a travel pass, or have it deduct from your bank account at the end of each month.

Nowadays, you can also use your bank card or phone to tap in and out, with the payments coming directly from your bank account.

6. Registering with the tax office (Belastingdienst)

If you’re employed in the Netherlands, your employer will automatically withhold income tax, so you do not need to advise the tax office regarding your employment specifically.

However, expats may be eligible for the 30% ruling, whereby highly-skilled workers who move to the Netherlands for a specific job can receive the first 30% of their salary tax-free.

To determine if you qualify for the 30% ruling, it’s best to check with a tax advisor or your employer’s HR department.

7. Relax and enjoy yourself

Have you done all of that? Great! Now you can really start to build your new life in the Netherlands. There are plenty of social events to attend where you can meet new people, and Dutch classes are a great way of improving your language skills while making friends with people in the same situation as you.

With an easy online application process, English-language support and a user-friendly mobile app, ING ensures that expats can open a bank account in minutes and start managing their finances right away - and you can start the process for a bank account before you get your BSN!