Things to know if you're an expat in the Netherlands

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There are a lot of things you need to know about living as an EXPAT in the Netherlands:

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●      As an expatriate, you need to find a suitable mortgage

In the Netherlands, purchasing real estate is one thing, but obtaining an expat mortgage may be a difficult and frustrating process. For this reason, it’s good to have a great understanding of all the mortgage options available to expats on the Dutch market.

If you want to get the best deal, you need to know how each type of mortgage works so that you can make an informed decision. You should be aware that in the Netherlands, you may not have as many options for obtaining a mortgage if you are an overseas buyer.

A Dutch bank or a mortgage broker can help you apply for a mortgage. Of these two, however, expert counsel from an accredited mortgage broker is an option if you’re not sure what type of interest rate is appropriate for you. This is especially true for overseas customers, who have fewer options.

●      Finding long term accommodation

For expatriates looking to stay longer, it’s better to think about purchasing property however it might take months. Renting a home if you’ve recently relocated to the Netherlands or plan to stay in the nation for less than three years is the next option. In the Netherlands, 40% of the population lives in a leased home, however, the majority of these homes are government-subsidized. In addition to the high cost of renting privately, obtaining a lease isn’t always simple. Utilising the services of an experienced middleman might help you avoid potential pitfalls.

Homeowners enjoy tax advantages and cheaper monthly mortgage payments than renters, but the transaction expenses are high: about 5% of the purchase price.

●      Utilities in the Netherlands

When you buy or rent a home, it’s common to enter into a new agreement with the business that provides your heat and light, commonly known as the energy provider. Many foreigners find it difficult to sort through the various deals and pricing available.

This includes the cost of utilities like water and electricity, as well as the cost of phone and internet service if you live in the Netherlands. You’ll have to start a new contract if it’s not included or if you’ve purchased a property.

The water company you use depends on where you reside. Privatisation has made it possible for consumers to select their preferred electricity or gas provider from a variety of options.

●      Paying taxes 

To be a Dutch taxpayer, you need to submit an annual tax return in April and obtain a burgerservicenummer (BSN). This can be done online. As a percentage of total tax revenue (between 8.9 and 52%), income tax on income, employment, and house ownership is the primary source of revenue (30%). Among the many deductions and levies, there is a 30% bonus for foreign personnel with specialised skills. An employee migrating to the Netherlands can get 30% of their wages tax-free from their company. The 30% facility is the name given to this facility.

Property tax (between 0.1 and 0.3% of the property’s value) is another common tax in the Netherlands, as is inheritance tax and corporate tax (20 to 25%, depending on profits).

●      Required insurance in the Netherlands

Additionally, persons who own or start a business must get additional insurance coverage supplementary to the necessary health insurance. A life insurance policy and a liability insurance policy may also be purchased (taken out by 95% of the Dutch population). Liability insurance is required before you may get behind the wheel.

●      Culture and social life

The laid-back, liberal, and multicultural nature of Dutch culture is well-known worldwide. Amsterdam’s nightlife is well-known, but the Netherlands offers a wide range of other activities and sights to see. Dutch museums, for example, are world-class.

Once you’ve settled in the Netherlands, you can find a variety of support groups and organisations based on your country, way of life, or line of work.

●      Finding work in the Netherlands

Expats who have relocated to the Netherlands have a wide range of employment options available to them. Finance, IT, and engineering all have a significant need for qualified workers. The Netherlands is home to several international and multinational corporations, as well as employment services that specialise in placing foreign nationals in the country.

In the Netherlands, workers from the European Union and the European Economic Area (EEA) do not need visas to work, while those from outside the EU/EEA do. Anyone who needs a work permit and changes jobs must notify the Dutch immigration agency (IND).

Conclusion

What is your plan for the future?

If this is your first time moving abroad, the procedure will be daunting, and if you've done it before, you already know what to expect.

For expats looking to rent long-term accommodation or buy property, we are your right real estate agent, and we know how to make this process easy.

Getting housing in the Netherlands is easy, and we know how to help you...we have a high rates of success!

Regardless of where you are in the relocation process, feel free to contact us!