What do I need to arrange if I’m moving to the Netherlands?

Registering with the municipality

If you are going to stay in the Netherlands for more than 4 months you need to register with the municipality where you are going to live. You must do this within 5 days of arriving in the Netherlands. Make an appointment at the municipality to do this. When you register, the municipality will arrange:

• a citizen service number (BSN) that you must use in all your dealings with the government and to get healthcare
• your registration in the Personal Records Database (BRP), in which all residents of the Netherlands are listed.

BRP registration if staying in the Netherlands for less than 4 months

If you are moving to the Netherlands for no more than 4 months, you can’t register with the municipality but you can be registered as a non-resident in the Personal Records Database (BRP).

Employer sometimes arranges accommodation

Your employer may arrange accommodation for you. In certain cases, your employer is even obliged to do this. Contact your employer for more details.

Taking out health insurance

Everyone who lives in the Netherlands must have health insurance with a Dutch insurer. The standard package covers a wide range of healthcare, including family doctor and hospital care. For more information, contact the health insurance information line (Zorgverzekeringslijn). 

Finding a family doctor (general practitioner)

You are not required to register with a family doctor, but it is a good idea to do this. That way, you will be able to access care if you need it. For more information, contact your municipality or insurer.

Paying taxes

Everyone who lives in the Netherlands must pay tax. You will automatically receive a letter from the Tax and Customs Administration asking you to submit a tax return.

Receiving benefits from the Tax and Customs Administration

You may be entitled to benefits from the Tax and Customs Administration. They are intended to help you cover the costs of rental housing, health insurance or childcare. What benefits you receive, if any, depends on your income, which is often measured by household. The benefits in question are:

• childcare benefit (if you have children who attend daycare or out-of-school care)
• housing benefit (if you live in rented accommodation)
• healthcare benefit (if you have Dutch health insurance)
• child budget (if you have children under 18).

Applying for a DigiD

In the Netherlands the DigiD (digital identity) system is used by citizens in dealings with Dutch government bodies like the Tax and Customs Administration. You can apply for a DigiD on digid.nl.