10 things you need to know before moving to the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a country in Western Europe. It shares borders with Belgium and Germany. It is known for its flat landscape, which is intersected by lots of canals and rivers. Their capital city, Amsterdam, is home to many canals and gabled houses are quite popular.

The Dutch people are known for their efficiency, as well as their amazing work ethic. They love art and literature and enjoy many museums around the country. In this article, we will discuss 10 things that you might want to know before moving to the Netherlands.

#1. The Dutch Culture

The Netherlands is filled with a rich culture and prestigious heritage. The country has been influenced by various cultures over the years. This, however, created a culture that is very broad and open to new changes. The people believe in equality and freedom, and the people are very tolerant.

The country focuses on human rights issues and has a long history of liberalism. The Dutch value their privacy a lot. They are individuals who strive to be self-reliant and efficient. They love their sports and are one of the very best at football. The Netherlands has contributed heavily to the growth of modern dance and music as well.

#2. Visas and immigration

As a non-EU citizen planning to move to the Netherlands, it is highly important to have all your documents. The requirements of the Visa depend on the length and duration of your stay. If your stay is short, you can apply for a Schengen Visa, whereas if you’re planning to stay for a considerable amount of time, you’d likely need a long-stay Visa.

It is very important to do thorough research on which category of Visa you’ll be eligible for. The Netherlands is known to have very strict immigration policies, and it is advised that all your documents should be ready and up to date. If you’re planning on Moving to the Netherlands, you might want to emphasize this point.

#3. Housing and cost of living

The cost of living in the Netherlands is very high. This is a common trait in the EU. The cost of housing is significantly higher than in other countries as well. It is very difficult to find affordable housing as there is a very high demand. One of the reasons why this is the case is the lack of available properties. The country has a minimal land area, and most of it is already built.

Due to the large number of international students that Move To the Netherlands for their education, the demand is constantly high. This keeps the demand for housing very high. To find a suitable place to stay in the Netherlands, you might want to start early as this will give you ample time to research and compare the prices.

#4. Transportation

The Netherlands has a very efficient transportation system. It includes trains, trams, and buses with the most modern technology. The Dutch love to cycle and the country can be seen with the densest cycle network in the world. The roads are top-notch as well. If you plan on Moving to the Netherlands, transportation shouldn’t be a factor of your concern as it is highly efficient.

The Dutch rail network is very dense. People use it very consistently and will be using it shortly. But we suggest that you buy a cycle as it is the most common means of transport in the country. Many Dutch people cycle their way to work and school.

#5. Language and culture

The language and culture are an integral part of the Dutch Heritage. It is very dear to the Dutch people. Dutch is the official language and is spoken by all the locals. But the Dutch are fluent in English as well. This saves a lot of time for conversing in English.

The Netherlands has a rich culture with immense love for art and music. The country has many historical monuments which you might want to look at during your stay in the Netherlands. The country has strong values of inclusion, and you won’t feel left out during public gatherings.

#6. Education and healthcare

The Netherlands boasts of its highly intellectual education system. There are lots of different options available depending on your budget. Dutch education is divided into 4 levels which provide all kinds of students with some knowledge.

Healthcare is a very developed sector in the Netherlands. The Dutch believe in the principle of Universal Coverage, which allows all people to get some sort of healthcare irrespective of their income. This is very beneficial for relocators who are planning to Move To the Netherlands.

#7. Working and doing business in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a popular point for businesses as it is a country with a very strong economy. The Dutch are known for their strong work ethic and efficiency. This is a huge green flag for employers. They are also home to many foreign workers. So if you’re a worker who’s planning to  Move To the Netherlands, you need not worry.

Many businesses love doing business in the Netherlands due to their high standard of living. The country’s workforce is very skilled and is open to learning new ways of being productive. Employers love these traits and often hire the Dutch.

#8. Taxes and finances

The tax rates are very high in the Netherlands. This is usually the case in most EU countries as they believe in community services. It is highly recommended that people who are moving to the Netherlands research its tax laws extensively.

In addition to the common taxes, the government is known to introduce new tax laws frequently. Fortunately, there are many financial advisors who can help you with your finances. Financial managers are quite respected in the country, and individuals should consult with these managers before making expensive purchases.

#9. Climate and weather

Fortunately, the weather in the Netherlands is very soothing. The climate is affected by the North Sea and its flat terrain. Heavy rain with strong winds is very common throughout the country. The country boasts a maritime climate, and average temperatures stick around 12°C throughout the year.

The weather can get quite chilled at times, and it is advised to have warm clothes available at all times. It is important to prepare for wet weather while Moving to the Netherlands. Having proper raincoats and umbrellas will be very beneficial for first-time tourists.

#10. Leisure and recreation

Leisure activities are very important in the Netherlands for a lot of reasons. They provide an opportunity to relax amidst the heavy workload or the busy week. Here are some of the leisure activities which are very popular in the Netherlands:

• Sports- The country is filled with sports fanatics. They love all sports and follow their national teams across different sports. They are also very fond of online video games.
• Outdoor Pursuits- Netherlands is home to some of the most beautiful natural sites. People often go hiking and cycling, where they enjoy the natural beauty of the country.
• Cultural Events and Festivals- The Dutch are very fond of music and literature. Many cultural events take place in the Netherlands, and people participate in them willingly.

If you’re planning to move to the Netherlands, make sure to participate in these leisure activities without fail. These activities will help you understand the culture better. It is also a nice way to get some relaxation.

Conclusion

The Netherlands is a welcoming country which is located in Western Europe. It is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Art and music play a very important role in the culture of the Netherlands. If you’re moving to the Netherlands soon, feel free to consult Earth Relocation.

Visas are very important while traveling to a country like the Netherlands. It is advised that the relocators perform thorough research before applying for a Visa. Overall, you can expect significant changes but very few cultural shocks when you move to the Netherlands.

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