Discover the Netherlands

Housing in the Netherlands is generally good and a range of accommodation is on offer. Specific expat-oriented accommodation, such as serviced apartments, are usually fully furnished, while houses in the Netherlands are generally unfurnished.

To rent accommodation in the Netherlands, you'll need to provide your citizen service number known as a BSN (burgerservicenummer). Expats working in the Netherlands may need to provide their employment contract, while students need to provide a bank statement as a guarantee of credit.

There are two types of rental agreements in the Netherlands – fixed-period tenancy and indefinite rental contracts.

Deposits typically vary from one to three months’ rent. Utilities aren't always covered by the landlord and are usually an additional expense for the tenant. However, landlords will be responsible for general maintenance and insurance.

Buying a place in the Netherlands can seem quite attractive to expats who want to relocate for the long term. Agents have the best information, know the local areas, what’s available and price rates. While some banks might be willing to grant a loan to foreigners, some only offer mortgages to European Union citizens or those who have been a Dutch resident for at least three years.

While cities such as The Hague and Rotterdam are cheaper than Amsterdam, all major Dutch cities are expensive when compared to more rural towns and outlying suburbs. That said, no matter where you live, accommodation is likely to be a big expense.

Transport is relatively cheap, which could help with commuting costs if you chose to live outside of a city. Cycling is also a key focus, so you may want to look at how much it would cost to buy a bike.

If you’re wanting to enrol your children in an international school, bear in mind that tuition fees can be high.

Public schools are government funded, and all children, including expats, can attend them free of charge. Most schools ask for a 'parental contribution' that covers excursions and extra-curricular activities.

From the age of 16, school fees apply but are subsidised by the government.

Teaching standards in Dutch public schools are generally high and schools are efficiently run. Some public schools offer specialised programmes to help non-Dutch-speaking students learn the language and culture of the Netherlands.

International schools in the Netherlands are often the best option for older children or students staying in the country short term. Curricula vary, with some schools teaching a particular country's curriculum and main language.

There are also international and local private schools that offer the International Baccalaureate programme. Fees at international schools are high, and places can be scarce so it’s important to apply early.

Most healthcare facilities are regulated by the government. The government generally funds long-term health treatment through tax, while short-term treatment is covered by mandatory private insurance.

The Dutch healthcare system is divided into different tiers. GPs form a large part of the first tier, and specialist on the second tier. It isn't usually possible to visit a specialist without a doctor's referral.

All residents and taxpayers in the Netherlands are required to have medical insurance from a private health insurance company. This must be organised within four months of arriving in the country. Insurers are required to provide the same basic coverage for everyone. Some medical services are not covered by the basic insurance plans, and additional health insurance is optional to cover such costs.

Pharmacies (apotheken) are plentiful in the Netherlands and stock both prescription and non-prescription medications. Large cities usually have 24-hour pharmacies available alongside those operating during regular working hours.

The emergency number for an ambulance in the Netherlands is 112.

The Dutch rail network has trains running between all major cities as well as across national borders. There are also international and regional buses, as well as inner city buses. Within cities, buses have lines covering routes that are not met by other forms of transport.

Both Amsterdam and Rotterdam have well-developed metro systems. The RandstadRail Line E is a light rail system that connects Rotterdam with The Hague and areas in between. Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht all have efficient tram networks. And some Dutch cities, including Amsterdam and Rotterdam, offer ferry services.

Cycling is at the very heart of transport in the Netherlands and cyclists are well catered for with dedicated cycle paths, which are regulated with their own set of rules and systems, including traffic signals and lanes.