🇳🇱 Considering a move to The Hague? Whether you’re drawn by international organizations, beaches, or Dutch city living, this guide provides essential steps, current costs, and the latest practical insights for settling in The Hague in 2025.
What Should I Know About Living in The Hague at a Glance?
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- Population: Around 557,000 (city proper, mid-2025), with 1.1 million in the wider area
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Average Salary: Approximately €42,000 per year (The Hague, 2025)
- Live EUR↔GBP Rates: Find the latest rates at:
- Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), last updated in June 2025: cbs.nl
- European Central Bank, last updated in July 2025: ecb.europa.eu
- XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025: xe.com
Reviewed by CBS (Dutch Statistics Office), Amsterdam urban economic 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 Hague from abroad?
Costs for moving your belongings to The Hague depend on origin, shipment size, and mode of transport. The city is well-served by Rotterdam’s port and Schiphol airport. Estimated 2025 costs are:
| Move Type | Delivery Time | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 2–4 weeks | €2,200 – €4,000 |
| 40ft container | 2–4 weeks | €4,100 – €6,300 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 4–7 days | €970 – €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:
“My move from Sydney to The Hague used a 20ft container, costing €3,200 door-to-door. My agent arranged customs clearance at Rotterdam port, and delivery to my Scheveningen flat took less than a week after arrival.” — Rachel D.
The Hague is home to many expat-friendly neighborhoods and international organizations such as the International Court of Justice, making it the Netherlands’ ‘international city of peace and justice’.
Amsterdam is the top relocation city in the Netherlands, followed by Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Eindhoven—all popular with expats for their dynamic cultures, jobs, and English-friendly environments.
What is the cost of living in The Hague for expats?
The Hague offers a slightly lower cost of living than Amsterdam but with similar big-city amenities and coastal charm. Expected costs in 2025 for a single adult:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| Rent (1-bed, city center) | €1,200 – €1,800 |
| Rent (1-bed, suburbs) | €950 – €1,400 |
| Groceries | €240 – €400 |
| Public Transport (HTM pass) | €85 – €115 |
| Utilities (electric/gas/water) | €120 – €190 |
Reviewed by Numbeo The Hague Cost of Living Research Team, last updated in June 2024.
Dining out averages €17–30 per person; gyms run €25–50/month; and high-speed internet/mobile plans cost €30–50 per month. Living near the sea in Scheveningen or Statenkwartier has a price premium, while Bezuidenhout and Laakkwartier are more affordable but well-connected.
How do I get a Dutch residence permit or visa to live in The Hague?
For EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, a residence permit is not required; simply register with The Hague’s city hall (Gemeente Den Haag) upon arrival. For non-EU/EEA nationals, you will likely need a “MVV” visa and Dutch residence permit. Options include highly skilled migrant, student, family reunification, or self-employment/entrepreneur.
Process summary:
- Apply for the MVV at your local Dutch embassy or consulate.
- Submit all required documents: passport, work or enrollment contract, proof of funds, local address, Dutch health insurance.
- Once approved, travel to The Hague, register at the Gemeente for your BSN (citizen service number).
- Collect your residence permit from the IND service point.
- Renew with up-to-date contract/status as applicable. Processing can take 2–3 months, so plan accordingly.
Reviewed by Dutch IND Immigration Policy Team and The Hague Gemeente, last updated in July 2025.
How do I access healthcare and health insurance in The Hague?
Basic health insurance is required for everyone living in the Netherlands. Once you have your BSN, register for health insurance (“basisverzekering”)—monthly premiums in 2025 are typically €132–€154 per adult, with a standard deductible of €385/year. Many residents add optional coverage for dental, physio, or vision. Children are covered for free under a parent’s plan.
The Hague is known for its accessible, high-quality healthcare, with many English-speaking GPs and specialists, particularly in expat-heavy districts.
Reviewed by Zorginstituut Nederland, last updated in January 2025.
Real-life case:
“My first week I registered at the municipality, enrolled with a health insurer online, and quickly found an international GP in Archipelbuurt—no delays and everything handled in English.” — Michael T.
How can I find an apartment or house to rent in The Hague?
The rental market is dynamic, so start your search early. Most expats use Pararius, Funda, or local agencies. Requirements typically include:
- Proof of income (employment contract or payslips)
- ID card and valid residence permit/visa
- One or two months’ deposit
- First month’s rent in advance
- Personal or employer reference
Many Hague rentals are semi-furnished or furnished. International schools and embassies cluster around Statenkwartier, Archipelbuurt and Benoordenhout. Areas like Laakkwartier, Bezuidenhout and Segbroek are more budget-friendly and increasingly international.
Reviewed by The Hague Real Estate Association (NVM), last updated in January 2025.
How much tax will I pay if I live and work in The Hague?
Dutch income tax is steep—up to 49.5%—but services are excellent. Most expats have income tax and social security contributions (for pension, healthcare, unemployment insurance) withheld by their employer. Self-employed need to file tax returns annually. The “30% ruling” offers up to five years of tax relief for highly skilled migrants. The Hague also applies local taxes for waste, water boards, and property.
Reviewed by Dutch Belastingdienst (Tax Authority), last updated in February 2025.
What is the process to clear Dutch customs for my belongings in The Hague?
If you’re moving from outside the EU, prepare a detailed declaration and inventory of used belongings (“relocation goods”) for customs prior to shipping. Household goods owned for more than 6 months and brought due to a permanent move are generally exempt from duty. New or high-value goods may incur tax and need receipts. Customs clearance takes place at Rotterdam’s port, then goods are delivered to your address.
Reviewed by Dutch Customs (Douane), last updated in February 2025.
Real-life case:
“My container from Chicago arrived at Rotterdam, customs paperwork preapproved, and my entire move arrived in The Hague three days later. No extra charges for my used furniture or personal items.” — Sarah R.
Can I bring my pet to The Hague and what do I need?
Yes—pets (dogs, cats, ferrets) need a microchip, up-to-date rabies vaccination, and a current EU Pet Passport or veterinary certificate. Arrivals from non-EU countries must enter by an approved Border Inspection Point and may require serology tests or extra health checks.
Reviewed by NVWA (Dutch Food & Consumer Safety Authority), last updated in April 2025.
How do I drive, register a car, or exchange my driving licence in The Hague?
EU/EEA licences are valid, but most non-EU licences must be exchanged within 185 days at Gemeente Den Haag. For car imports, vehicles need RDW inspection, BPM environmental tax payment, and Dutch insurance. Parking permits in the center are limited and costly, but The Hague’s cycling infrastructure and trams make car ownership optional for many expats.
Reviewed by RDW and The Hague Municipality Mobility Desk, last updated in May 2025.
How do I open a Dutch bank account and get a BSN in The Hague?
Open an account at any major Dutch bank (e.g., ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank, Bunq) with passport, Hague address proof, and residence permit. Registration at City Hall provides your BSN, needed for all contracts, work, and insurance coverage.
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 France and Austria with ReloAdvisor.
