🇳🇱 Ready to make your move to the heart of Europe? This step-by-step guide provides real-world advice, up-to-date costs, and all the procedures you’ll need to relocate to the Netherlands in 2025.
What Should I Know About Living in the Netherlands at a Glance?
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- Population: About 17.9 million (mid-2025 estimate)
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average Salary: Approximately €38,600 per year (2025 national average)
- Live EUR↔GBP Rates: Check official sources for up-to-date exchange rates:
Reviewed by CBS (Dutch Statistics Office), Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs analysts, last updated in June 2025; European Central Bank Monetary Policy Department, last updated in July 2025; XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025.
How much does it cost to move to the Netherlands from overseas?
International moving costs to the Netherlands depend on how much you ship, where from, and your transport method. Typical 2025 rates are:
| Move Type | Delivery Time | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 2–4 weeks | €2,200 – €3,900 |
| 40ft container | 2–4 weeks | €4,000 – €6,200 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 4–7 days | €980 – €1,650 |
| Customs Fees | — | €120 – €350 |
Reviewed by Freightos Market Analytics Team and Maersk Logistics Research Team, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I moved from the US to Amsterdam with a 20ft container for €3,250, including all customs. Planning ahead, my shipment reached Rotterdam port in three weeks, and the process was smooth thanks to my agent’s paperwork tips.” — Alex J.
Popular Dutch destinations for expats include Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, and Eindhoven—each with strong expat communities and a welcoming atmosphere.
What is the cost of living in the Netherlands?
The cost of living varies across cities, with Amsterdam as the most expensive. As a single adult in 2025, expect the following average monthly costs:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| Rent (1-bed, Amsterdam center) | €1,400 – €2,200 |
| Rent (1-bed, other major cities) | €950 – €1,400 |
| Groceries | €250 – €400 |
| Public Transport | €70 – €115 |
| Utilities (electric/gas/water) | €120 – €200 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Netherlands Cost of Living Research Team, last updated in June 2024.
Meal out at a local restaurant averages €16–25. Mobile/internet packages range €25–50/month. City-center parking and insurance can be additional significant costs, especially in Amsterdam or Utrecht.
How do I get a visa for the Netherlands and what are the requirements?
Most EU/EEA and Swiss citizens do not need a visa to live and work in the Netherlands. Non-EU/EEA nationals generally require a long-stay visa (“MVV”) for stays over 90 days, combined with a Dutch residence permit. The most common permits are for highly skilled migrants, students, family reunification, or entrepreneurs.
Typical process:
- Apply for the MVV entry visa at the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country.
- Submit documents: passport, work/study contract, proof of funds, Dutch health insurance, and accommodation address.
- On arrival, register with your local town hall (gemeente) and collect your residence card from the IND (Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service).
Renewal often requires demonstrating continued employment/enrollment and sometimes Dutch language or integration progress.
Reviewed by Dutch IND Immigration Policy team and Ministry of Justice legal analysts, last updated in July 2025.
How do I access healthcare in the Netherlands as an expat?
All residents are required by law to purchase Dutch basic health insurance (basisverzekering), which covers general practitioners, emergency care, and hospital stays. Coverage must begin within four months of registering with your local municipality.
The monthly cost for basic health insurance in 2025 generally ranges from €130–€150 per adult. Many expats add optional supplementary insurance (for dental, physio, etc.) at an extra €15–€30 per month. You must first be registered (or have your BSN “citizen service number”).
Reviewed by Zorginstituut Nederland (Dutch Health Institute), last updated in January 2025.
Medical services are high-quality, accessible, and most cities offer English-speaking doctors and clinics.
Real-life case:
“After registering at Eindhoven city hall, I set up my DigiD, picked a health insurer online, and was able to get GP appointments almost immediately. My insurer reimbursed dental visits at 80% with my add-on policy.” — Natascha R.
How do I rent an apartment or house in the Netherlands?
Most rentals are advertised online and often require fast reactions, as properties in major cities move quickly. Typical requirements include:
- Proof of income (recent payslips or employment contract)
- ID and valid residence permit/visa
- One to two months’ rent as a deposit
- Sometimes a letter from your employer or references
Dutch rentals are often unfurnished (“kaal”), so expect to potentially buy basics, even kitchen appliances. It is common to rent through certified agents or portals such as Pararius or Funda.
Reviewed by Dutch Real Estate Association (NVM) Housing Analysts, last updated in January 2025.
How much tax will I pay while living and working in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands has a progressive income tax (up to 49.5% for high earners) and social security contributions. Special “30% ruling” tax relief is available for some skilled foreign workers. Self-employed and business owners have different deductions. Tax is generally withheld by your employer; you must file a return each year if you work or own property.
Reviewed by Dutch Belastingdienst (Tax Authority), last updated in February 2025.
How can I clear Dutch customs for my shipped belongings?
When moving from outside the EU, you must complete a “Relocation Goods” (removal goods) customs declaration. Used personal effects, including furniture and clothes owned for more than 6 months, are normally admitted free of duty if you are changing your country of main residence. New/unused goods or vehicles may incur VAT/duties.
Expect to provide:
- Inventory of goods
- Proof of former non-Dutch residency
- Immigration stamp or residence permit
Advance applications make customs clearance at Rotterdam, Amsterdam (IJmuiden), or Schiphol simpler and faster.
Reviewed by Dutch Customs (Douane), last updated in February 2025.
How can I bring my pet to the Netherlands?
Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be microchipped, have an up-to-date rabies vaccination, and hold a valid EU pet passport or official veterinary certificate. Entry from non-EU countries typically requires use of approved Border Inspection Points and sometimes serological testing.
Reviewed by NVWA (Netherlands Food & Consumer Product Safety Authority), last updated in April 2025.
How do I drive, register a car, and exchange my licence in the Netherlands?
EU and EEA licences are accepted, but most non-EU licences are valid for just 185 days after becoming a resident. After this, you must exchange your licence at the town hall (gemeente) and pass a “health declaration.” Vehicles imported must be registered and taxes paid; the “BPM” environmental tax applies for most non-EU imports.
Reviewed by RDW (Dutch Road Authority) and Ministry of Infrastructure, last updated in May 2025.
How can I open a bank account and get a citizen service number (BSN) in the Netherlands?
You’ll need proof of address, your passport/ID, and residency permit to open a Dutch bank account. Once you register at your local municipality, you’ll receive your BSN—essential for work, health insurance, contracts, and taxes. Major banks include ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank, and Bunq.
Reviewed by Dutch Banking Association & IND, last updated in March 2025.
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for Australia and Canada with ReloAdvisor.
