Relocating to a new country can be stressful and time-consuming, which is why the Abroad Experience team is determined to make your relocation as efficient and worry-free as possible. Below we have put together an essential relocation checklist to help you make sure you’ve ticked all the boxes to start your new life.
Pre-relocating (Moving)
□ Arrange for a visa and/or work permit (if applicable)
□ Find accommodation. We will have a blog coming up that goes into more detail on this subject but be sure to check out various housing agencies (makelaars), Marktplaats, even Facebook. Keep in mind that it is extremely difficult (not to mention ill-advised) to secure accommodation without visiting the house or apartment in person first.
□ Moving your things. One helpful way to transport your luggage and boxes is using inexpensive shipping companies such as Mybaggage.com.
Post-relocating (Administration)
□ Complete municipal registration and obtain BSN number. You cannot legally work in the Netherlands without a BSN (burgerservicenummer). Read our blog for more information on navigating the red tape of the gemeente.
□ Set up a bank account. There is a lot to choose from so do your research!
□ Arrange for a health insurance plan. There are also many health plans and types of coverage to choose from. Try some comparison sites such as this one and this one to see what kind of plans fit your budget and needs.
□ Set up your utilities.
□ Obtain your driver’s license or have yours exchanged (if applicable).
□ Register your vehicle in the Netherlands
□ Arrange for schooling and daycare for your children (if applicable). Many of us at Abroad Experience have families too; we’d be happy to give you advice for navigating the Dutch school system!
And now for some fun! (Social)
□ Sign up for Dutch classes! The Dutch are incredibly good English speakers but they appreciate it when newcomers make an effort.
□ Explore. There is so much to see and do in the Netherlands and the Dutch make it easy for you to try it all. Get yourself a museumkaart to save a ton of cash visiting over 400 museums. Follow Facebook groups for cities such as Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Amersfoort, or check the Netherlands’ board on Reddit for meetups and upcoming events.
□ Subscribe to a sport you love. There is no better way to feel more at home than finding an activity that is yours. There are hundreds of options you can choose from in the Netherlands, it is also a great way to meet people! Complete your relocating process by acting like you have always lived there!
Abroad Experience International Recruitment wishes you the best of luck in your relocating journey!
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