The ultimate guide for international students in the Netherlands

Moving to the Netherlands as an international student is such a fun and enjoyable thing to do. You'll make new friends, try new foods and speak new languages! But there's plenty that needs figuring out before the real fun can begin, from finding a place to live to setting up a bank account.

This guide from bunq walks you through the essentials to help you settle in smoothly.

Getting started: The most important things to arrange

However much you just want to dive in, there are a handful of things you definitely need to set up first. 

1. Find housing early

Student housing in the Netherlands can be tough to secure, especially in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht. Start your search as soon as possible using:

• Kamernet: A popular rental platform for both expats and locals.
• HousingAnywhere: A trusted rental platform that comes with tenant protection.
• University housing: Many universities offer reserved housing for international students.

2. Register with the municipality and get a BSN

If you're staying in the Netherlands for more than four months, you’ll need to register with the local municipality to get a BSN (Burgerservicenummer). This number is required for work, taxes and setting up a Dutch bank account.

Get your bunq bank account now

The process can take a while, but you don’t have to wait for your BSN to open a bank account. With bunq, you can sign up in just five minutes, even before receiving your BSN - which makes it easy to manage rent, daily expenses and incoming payments from day one.

3. Get a bike

Cycling is more than just a way to get around in the Netherlands - it's a way of life! Embrace your two-wheeled adventure with these tips:

• Score a bargain: Hunt for affordable second-hand bikes on Marktplaats or join local Facebook groups.
• Go rental: Try Swapfiets, a bike rental service that takes care of repairs for you.
• Know the rules: Stick to bike lanes, follow traffic signals and always lock your bike securely.
• Lock it down: Invest in a robust lock because bike theft is all too common.

4. Essential Dutch words to know

Most Dutch people speak English, but knowing a few key phrases helps:

• Hoi!: Hello
• Dank je wel: Thank you
• Alsjeblieft: Please / Here you go
• Fiets: Bicycle (a must-have)
• Bitterballen: A classic Dutch snack
• Gezellig: A word that means cosy, fun, or good vibes, depending on the context

Essential apps for students in the Netherlands

The Dutch love to have the right app for the right job. Having a few commonly-used apps can make daily life much easier. Here are some must-haves:

• 9292 and NS: Plan your train, tram and bus routes.
• bunq: A digital bank where you can open an account instantly, even without a BSN.
• Tricount: Split bills with friends effortlessly.
• Buienradar: Check the weather before heading out (rain showers come fast).
• Google Maps: Navigate bike paths and public transport schedules.
• Marktplaats: Buy second-hand furniture and bikes.
• Duolingo: Pick up some Dutch basics.

A little prep goes a long way

Moving to the Netherlands as a student comes with challenges, but with the right preparation, you'll settle in quickly. Finding housing, registering for your BSN and setting up essential tools early will make a big difference. Whether you're figuring out public transport, getting your first bike, or opening a bank account with bunq, you'll feel at home in no time.