Relocating to The Netherlands

Considering a move to The Netherlands? We're here to help!

Relocating to a new country is an exciting step - and whether it’s your first or tenth time, it always comes with many questions. At FMO, we understand that starting a new chapter abroad takes more than just a job contract. That’s why we’re here to support your transition, together with our relocation partner RelocAid.

From settling into Dutch life to arranging housing, schooling, or healthcare, you’re not alone. The resources below have been carefully selected to help make your arrival in the Netherlands smooth and informed.

Living in The Netherlands

Life in the Netherlands may feel different from what you’re used to – but you’ll quickly discover its charm. Start your journey with these helpful platforms:

  1. ACCESS: Expert support for internationals, with practical information on relocating, dual careers, healthcare, housing, education, and family life in the Netherlands.
  2. IamExpat: A trusted English-language platform offering news, guides, housing info, and lifestyle tips.
  3. The Hague International Centre: Offers city-specific guidance on registration and living in the Netherlands. Other cities have similar expat centers.
  4. Expat Arrivals: In-depth guides written by expats, covering life, work, and housing in The Netherlands.
  5. Buienradar: Dutch people love to talk about the weather. This app gives highly localized, real-time weather forecasts. It’s in Dutch, but easy to navigate – colleagues will be happy to help you figure it out.

Rental Market Overview

The Dutch rental market remains tight and competitive, with limited availability and rising rental prices, particularly in major cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, Utrecht and Rotterdam.

Tips for Relocating Tenants

  1. Start early: Begin your housing search well in advance. You will receive support from FMO’s broker via RelocAid, our external partner who supports you with relocation, to find an appropriate rental apartment/house.
  2. Use trusted platforms: sites like Pararius, Funda, and Expatica are reliable.
  3. Understand your rights: Familiarize yourself with Dutch rental laws and tenant protections.
     

Visa and Residence

  1. Ministry of Justice and Security: Learn about the Highly Skilled Migrant visa program, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. RelocAid handles your application, but this is good background info.
  2. IamExpat: go to Visa Overview for clear explanations of visa types for work and residence in the Netherlands.
     

Getting Around

  1. Public Transport (Openbaar Vervoer) - OV-chipkaart is the standard public transport card in the Netherlands and can be used on trains, trams, buses, and the metro. At FMO, employees receive an NS Business Card—an OV-chipkaart specifically for business use—which can be used for commuting, business travel within the Netherlands, and also for personal travel on public transport. 
  2. 9292 – Plan your journey across all public transport modes in the Netherlands (bus, train, metro, ferry).
  3. NS (Dutch Railways) – For national train schedules, tickets, travel updates and discounts.
  4. Cycling in the Netherlands – With flat terrain and dedicated bike lanes, cycling is the most popular way to get around. Google Maps provides easy routing, but make sure to brush up on Dutch cycling rules.

Legal, Tax & Finance

  1. De Belastingdienst: 30% Tax Ruling tax – A tax advantage for highly skilled migrants. Find out if you’re eligible.
  2. HSBC Expat: Dutch tax information and support for expats, including payroll and personal income tax advice.

International Schooling

  1. Expatica – Schools: Listings and descriptions of international schools across the country.
  2. IamExpat: go to the Education section – Overview of Dutch and international schooling options for expat families.
  3. ACCESS: go to the Education section – Guidance on primary, secondary, and special needs education, as well as after-school activities.

Cost of Living

  1. Expat Arrivals: Compare costs across Dutch cities.
  2. IamExpat: go to Salaries & Pay slips – Learn how Dutch salaries and pay slips work.

Health Insurance in The Netherlands

IamExpat: go to Health Insurance & ACCESS: go to Healthcare – Health insurance is mandatory for all Dutch residents. FMO offers two recommended providers, but you’re free to choose your own.

Things to Do & Explore

The Netherlands has so much to offer – from charming towns and world-class museums to national parks and festivals. Get inspired via:

We're always excited to have new colleagues join us, and do our utmost best to support them in their new chapters, both professionally and personally. Relocating is a big step, so we’re here to help make your transition as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

In case of questions, please send an email to talent.acquisition@fmo.nl