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Moving to the Netherlands offers a clean and safe country, with friendly and welcoming people. With a population of approximately 17 million, the Netherlands has a long history of immigration. This history may make moving to the nation far less intimating, and many people find they settle very quickly. Removals to the Netherlands are usually a very straightforward affair and this little guide should show you the main points to consider.
Whether you’re hoping to retire in the Netherlands, or find work, you’ll see a country that is tolerant, structured and picturesque. However, like any country, there are bound to be some differences when you start living abroad.
With a reputation for being liberal and open-minded, the Netherlands attracts many visitors every year. It offers a beautiful landscape and scenic vistas. Yet it is the most densely populated nation in Europe.
The Netherlands is a very flat country with more than a quarter of its landmass below sea level. This geography makes getting around much more relaxed than elsewhere, with fewer hills to get in the way of a comfortable stroll.
As well as the famous waterways, windmills, and fields, you’ll find the Netherlands has a buzzing festival season. If ever there’s a reason to celebrate, the Dutch will find it! The social scene in the Netherlands is unique. You will see lots of events popping up in green spaces and parks on regular occasions.
The economy of the Netherlands is stable and secure and has a robust tertiary sector which provides substantial employment. Horticulture and agriculture are significant export industries too.
You may have heard people referring to the Netherlands as Holland been wondering which is the correct term to use? If you’ve been saying “The Netherlands,” congratulations, this is correct! Technically, Holland is the term which refers to just two provinces within the country: Zuid-Holland and Noord-Holland. The Netherlands is the term which includes the whole of the country.
Historically, Holland were the areas which made the most substantial contribution. It, therefore, became a habit to refer to the whole country by the same name. This has continued to the modern day, but if you want to be correct, The Netherlands is the name you should use.
A large part of the population, 40%, live in the area known as the Randstad; this is the collective name for The Hague, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Amsterdam. Each of these areas has their unique appeal and atmosphere.
Amsterdam is the capital city and has a population of more than 800,000. English is spoken widely, and there’s a vast range of attractions such as cafes and bars which creates a healthy social scene. The city is also a base for many of the large companies which operate from the Netherlands, so it’s a favourite place for workers to move to.
Utrecht is the 4th biggest city in the country but offers arguably the most vibrant scene for the under 30s. Most accommodation consists of apartments due to the pressure on space, but many people opt to live just outside the city centre and commute in.
Rotterdam is another location which is very popular with expats because of its incredible combination of modern architecture and traditional shipping industry. With much of it rebuilt after World War II, it has a very contemporary vibe and is home to some of the major economic forces in the country.
Much like many countries in Europe, The Netherlands accepts visitors from the EU/EEA, plus their immediate family, without the need for a visa or entry documentation. However, individuals must register to receive citizen registration numbers if they expect their visit to be longer than four months. If you are moving to the Netherlands from further afield, you will need a visa to enter plus a residence permit if you wish to stay for longer than three months.
As you might expect, the official language of the country is Dutch, and this is spoken widely. There are a few regional variations such as Limburgs and West Low German, plus the only other officially recognised language, Frisian. Across the country, many people will speak both German and English quite fluently. You will find Dutch folks are very willing to use your language to help. However, if you want to integrate well into the community, it’s highly advisable to study Dutch. There are many language schools around the country which can help you learn from scratch.
Most people accept that The Netherlands has the best health system in Europe. The scheme is generous and covers a wide range of benefits including paternity, maternity, unemployment and long-term care, along with sickness and disability.
For Europeans moving to the Netherlands, it’s possible to use an EHIC card for the first year. After this, they will need to change to the Dutch health insurance system. Others moving to the Netherlands from outside the EU will need to obtain their insurance within four months after they receive their residence permit.
As it’s such a comprehensive system, it’s not surprising to hear that public Dutch health insurance isn’t cheap. However, you will receive a high level of care in return for your contributions. Everyone is expected to make social security contributions for healthcare, immaterial of working status but a few exceptions do exist.
Moving to The Netherlands is a reasonably straightforward affair, especially if you’re relocating from elsewhere in Europe. European removals do not need to be declared through customs unless there’s anything on the exemptions list. This allows fast movement for European moving companies, allowing your items to reach the destination much more quickly.
Road freight is the most popular methods for removals to the Netherlands, helping to keep costs down without causing long delays. European Moving can help you with your relocation.
Whether you choose our Load & Go or our EasyMoves solution, European Moving can help you with your removal. We shall be able to help you with the full list of restrictions that apply to removals to the Netherlands and also provide advice on a whole range of removal issues you may not have encountered before.