Expat Cousin

Residency in the Netherlands for Expats

Whether you're planning a short stay or building a long-term life in the Netherlands, understanding residency is crucial. From permits and registration with the gemeente to staying compliant with immigration laws, our Residency section provides essential information and guidance to help you settle in smoothly and legally.

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The Netherlands Ranks High on the Global Happiness Index

The Netherlands consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries. Find out why expats love living here!

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Having a Baby in the Netherlands: A Guide for Expats

Expecting a baby in the Netherlands? Here's what expats should know about healthcare, birth choices, maternity leave, and registration.

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Highly Skilled Migrant Visa in the Netherlands

Learn about the Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) visa in the Netherlands, including requirements and benefits.

Who Is the IND and What Do They Do in the Netherlands?

The IND handles visas, residency, naturalisation and more. Learn about their role in your move to the Netherlands.

Getting Water, Electricity, and Gas in the Netherlands: What Expats Should Know

Need to set up water, electricity, and gas in the Netherlands? Learn how utility contracts work, what providers to choose from, and tips for expats.

Berichtenbox: Your Official Digital Mailbox in the Netherlands

Learn about the Berichtenbox, the Dutch government’s secure digital mailbox for official communication with residents and expats.

The DAFT Visa: A Pathway for Entrepreneurs in the Netherlands

The DAFT Visa is a special residency program for US citizens who want to start a business in the Netherlands. Learn about the requirements, benefits, and how to apply for the DAFT visa.

Navigating Dutch Banking as an Expat

Opening a Dutch bank account as an expat? Here's what you need to know about banking in the Netherlands.

Dutch Startup Visa: A Gateway for Entrepreneurial Expats

Everything expats need to know about applying for the Dutch Startup Visa and starting an innovative business in the Netherlands.

EU Blue Card: Work and Live in the Netherlands

Learn about the EU Blue Card, a residence permit for highly skilled workers to work and live in the Netherlands and the EU.

European Citizenship: How Expats Can Obtain an EU Passport

Learn how expats can obtain European citizenship, the benefits of an EU passport, and the different pathways to naturalization in the Netherlands.

Homeschooling in the Netherlands: What Expats Should Know

Is homeschooling allowed in the Netherlands? Learn about the Dutch laws, exceptions, and how expat families navigate education outside traditional schools.

HSM Visa Through Your Own Business in the Netherlands

Discover how to apply for a Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) visa in the Netherlands through your own business, including IND requirements and sponsorship routes.

Receiving Visitors in the Netherlands: What is a Bewijs van Garantstelling?

Expecting visitors from outside the EU? Learn how the Dutch ‘bewijs van garantstelling’ works, and when it’s needed to sponsor someone visiting you.

Starting a Business in the Netherlands: A Guide for Expats

Thinking of starting a business in the Netherlands as an expat? Learn the steps, legal forms, and requirements to successfully launch your company.

Studying in the Netherlands: What Expats Need to Know

Planning to study in the Netherlands? Learn about student visas, Dutch education institutions, and what expat students need to prepare.

TB Test Requirements in the Netherlands: Who Needs It and How It Works

Find out who needs a TB test when moving to the Netherlands, what countries are exempt, and the difference between skin test and chest X-ray options.

Traveling with a Verblijfsvergunning in the Schengen Area

Can you travel with a Dutch residence permit (verblijfsvergunning) in the Schengen area? Learn the rules, requirements, and passport necessity.

Can I Use My Verblijfstitel as ID or Do I Need My Passport?

Wondering if your Dutch residence permit (verblijfstitel) is enough for ID? Here's when you can use it and when your passport is still required.

What Is an Expat in the Netherlands?

Explore what it means to be an expat in the Netherlands. Learn how the term is used, its differences from immigrants, and how it applies in Dutch society.

What Is the Gemeente?

Discover the role of the Dutch gemeente in everyday life, including registration, services, and how it supports expats in the Netherlands.

What is a VOG in the Netherlands?

A VOG (Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag) is a Dutch Certificate of Conduct. Learn when you need one, how to apply, and what it means for expats.

Who Is DUO and What Do They Do in the Netherlands?

DUO handles student loans, education records, and integration exams. Essential info for expats and students in the Netherlands.

The Dutch Zoekjaar Visa: What Expats Need to Know

Finished studying in the Netherlands? The Dutch Zoekjaar visa gives graduates one year to live and work here while job hunting.

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