10 Essential Things to Do During Your First Week in the Netherlands

Registering with your local municipality within five days, obtaining health insurance within four months, and opening a Dutch bank account are the three most critical administrative tasks for new arrivals in the Netherlands. This small country in northern Europe definitely packs a lot into its borders. From majestic canal towns and bustling port cities to verdant countryside, the Netherlands really has it all. And the best part is, you can now call this fantastic country home.

However, the first few days in a new country can be challenging. Being faced with a system you do not know in a language you do not understand is not easy. But it gets better. To help you handle the start of your new Dutch life, here are 10 things you need to do during your first week.

1. Find Somewhere to Live

Unless you have been placed in accommodation by your new employer, chances are you will need to find somewhere to live in the Netherlands. For many expats, this means finding temporary accommodation while you settle in. This could be at a local hotel, through longer-term rental via an online accommodation portal, or in a serviced apartment.

Websites where you can find temporary listings include Airbnb, HousingAnywhere, and Spotahome. For something more permanent, Funda.nl is a great way to get a feel for what is available. You may need a realtor (makelaar) for the best chance to buy or for specific rental needs. If you are looking for a room in a houseshare, your best bets are local room rental Facebook groups or Kamernet.

2. Get a Bike

One of the first things you will need to buy in the Netherlands is a bike. The Dutch love zipping around on two wheels, and you will soon realize why. With excellent cycling infrastructure, two wheels are often the easiest and most efficient way to get around.

You can pick one up at your local bike store or online. As you start cycling, you will gain confidence and get a feel for your new neighborhood. You will spot local shops and cozy brown cafés to explore. If you prefer four wheels or live in a rural area, you can buy a car instead. Some expat-friendly platforms let you buy second-hand vehicles online, while car-sharing options are available in many cities.

3. Register With Your Local Municipality

One of the most important things you will do in your first week is register as a resident with the Personal Records Database. New arrivals from all countries must register if planning to stay longer than four months. This must be done in person at your local municipality office within five days of arrival.

Once registered, you will receive a Citizen Service Number (Burgerservicenummer or BSN). The process is fairly straightforward, and appointments should be scheduled within a week or two depending on capacity. You will need to provide an address. Once you have registered and received your BSN, you will find out just how essential it is for many aspects of Dutch life, such as registering with a doctor and filing tax returns.

4. Sign Up for Health Insurance

The Dutch healthcare system is consistently ranked as one of the best in Europe. Care is typically of high standard with relatively short waiting times. Health insurance is mandatory if you are living and working in the Netherlands, and you must sign up within four months of arriving.

The system is implemented by private insurers but regulated by public policy, which requires Dutch insurers to charge standard costs for basic packages and accept all residents regardless of health conditions. International insurers are also available. Leading health insurance providers include ONVZ, Zilveren Kruis, Allianz Care, and Cigna Global.

5. Open a Dutch Bank Account

Opening a Dutch bank account is one of those moments when you start to feel really settled in your new home. Getting a bank card will firmly plant you in your new life and be extremely useful for setting up bills and payments.

The biggest Dutch banks are ING, ABN AMRO, and Rabobank. However, many expats are opting for mobile bank accounts instead, taking advantage of greater flexibility and faster set-up. Mobile banking options include bunq and N26. You will typically need to provide valid ID, proof of address, and your BSN to open an account. If you need to transfer money from old accounts, money transfer platforms such as CurrencyFair can help. For more expat resources and services, explore our comprehensive guides.

6. Sort Out Employment

Some expats arriving in the Netherlands already have employment sorted before stepping foot on Dutch soil. However, for many others, this is not the case. Unless you are from an EU/EEA country, you will probably need a work permit to legally work in the Netherlands. You will also need to provide any new employer with your BSN.

If you are looking for work, get the ball rolling during your first week. This can include refreshing your resume for the Dutch job market, contacting local job agencies, and looking through job portals. Job portals operating in the Netherlands include &Work, Expatica Jobs, Good Company, and Jouw ICT Vacature. The Dutch job market is fairly strong, so stay positive if it takes a little longer to find your new role.

7. Sign Up for a Dutch Mobile Number

Want to stay connected with family and new friends in the Netherlands? Signing up for a Dutch mobile number can really help. Depending on where you are arriving from, you might be able to use your existing phone and number for the first few weeks. However, if you are staying longer-term, a Dutch mobile number is a good idea.

The Dutch mobile market has plenty of options, which can be confusing. The sign-up processes are generally straightforward and the amount of choice means you can often save money. Leading mobile operators include KPN, Lebara, and T-Mobile. Comparison websites such as United Consumers can help if you are not sure which operator is right for you.

8. Get Your New Home Connected

Once you have found your new home, you might need to get it connected to all the Dutch utilities and telecommunications you need. Serviced accommodation and some rental properties will include these as part of your monthly payments. However, many rental properties do not come with these connected, meaning you need to sort them out yourself.

These sign-up procedures are fairly straightforward. Just bear in mind that you may need a BSN and Dutch bank account for some services. Electricity and gas providers include Frank Energie, Innova Energie, Pure Energie, and Vattenfall. Water is operated at local level, so you will need to register with your municipality's supplier. Internet and TV are typically packaged together with home phone through providers like KPN and Youfone.

9. Sort Out Your Family's Education Needs

If you have moved with children, signing them up for local schools is one of the most important things you need to do. The Dutch education system probably differs from your home country. In the Netherlands, children start school on their fourth birthday, although structured learning typically does not start until they turn six.

Research local school options during your first week. You may want to send your kids to the local Dutch school to help them integrate and make friends. However, many expats prefer international schools, which are often cheaper than expected due to government subsidies. Main Dutch international schools include The British School of Amsterdam and Rotterdam International Secondary School.

10. Explore Your New Home

You only have one first week in the Netherlands, so make the most of it! While this list might seem daunting, do not let yourself get too bogged down with life admin. The Netherlands is full of great things to see and do, whatever the weather.

Wherever you are in the Netherlands, you will be able to enjoy a slice of Dutch life quickly and easily. Explore your new neighborhood, wander around your local park or town center, and enjoy the local restaurants and cafés. These lovely spots will soon become part of your everyday life.