Expat checklist
Moving to the Netherlands for work
The things to arrange in your first weeks, in the order you usually need them. For everything the government handles we link to the official page, so you always read the current rules.
- 1
Check whether you need a residence permit
Citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland can work without one. Everyone else usually needs a permit, which a recognised sponsor (your employer) applies for at the IND.
IND - 2
Register at your municipality and get your BSN
Your citizen service number (BSN) is what your employer, bank, doctor and the tax office ask for. You get it when you register at the municipality where you live.
Netherlands Worldwide: BSN - 3
Apply for DigiD
With your BSN you can apply for DigiD, the login for the tax office, your municipality and most government services.
DigiD - 4
Take out Dutch health insurance
If you live or work in the Netherlands, basic health insurance is compulsory. You choose an insurer yourself; the basic package is the same everywhere, the premium and extras differ.
Government.nl: health insurance - 5
Open a bank account
Salary, rent and insurance are paid by bank transfer or direct debit, so you need an IBAN. Several banks let you open an account in English through an app; a money transfer service helps while your salary is still paid in another currency.
- 6
Find a place to live
Housing is the hardest part in most Dutch cities. Never pay a deposit before you have seen the place or signed a contract, and check that you can register at the address.
- 7
Ask your employer about the 30% facility
Some highly skilled migrants get part of their salary tax free. Your employer applies for it at the tax office; the conditions and the percentage have changed several times, so read the current rules first.
Government.nl: 30% facility - 8
Learn some Dutch
Many teams work in English, but Dutch helps with neighbours, the doctor and the next job. Short lessons online fit around a full-time job.
What your Dutch salary is net
Job offers in the Netherlands show gross pay. Fill in the amount to see roughly what you take home in 2026, without the 30% facility.
Calculate your net salary
Enter your gross salary as it appears in your contract or the job ad. The result updates as you type.
Enter your gross salary.
Estimate for 2026 using the rates and tax credits of the Dutch Tax Administration, below state pension age, without the 30% ruling. Your payslip may differ because of pension, collective agreements and the special rate. Nothing you enter is stored.
Find the job
Looking for the job first? These vacancies come straight from employer websites, without recruitment agencies.