Skip to content
HuislyHuisly
Relocation Guide

Moving to the Netherlands

Everything you need to know about relocating to the Netherlands, from housing to healthcare.

Step-by-step guide

1

Get your visa & permits

EU citizens can move freely. Non-EU citizens need a residence permit (MVV) or highly skilled migrant visa. Start this process months in advance.

2

Find housing

Start searching early. Use Huisly to compare current listings and open available original sources. Confirm registration eligibility with the provider before signing.

3

Register at the municipality

Within 5 days of arrival, register at your local gemeente. You will receive your BSN number, which you need for nearly everything.

4

Open a bank account

With your BSN, you can open a Dutch bank account at ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank, or online banks like bunq. Most landlords require a Dutch IBAN.

5

Get health insurance

Dutch basic health insurance is required when the statutory conditions apply. Compare the current annual premiums and coverage and arrange it within the official deadline for your situation.

City moving guides

Detailed housing guides for every major Dutch city.

Frequently asked questions

Take your home search with you

Search rent and buy, explore the map, compare property context and sources, save active listings, and create a free mobile alert. Premium adds higher alert limits and instant high-priority notifications.