Moving to the Netherlands from the US: All there's to know

Learn about moving to the Netherlands from the US, from choosing the right visa and budgeting your move to finding American expat communities in the Netherlands.

Ivandzhelin

4 minute read

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22 Nov 2024

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Moving

Are you considering moving to the Netherlands from the US? To help you make a decision, we’ll answer the 8 essential questions about relocating to the Netherlands as an American. Discover all you need to know, from the types of visas US citizens can apply for to the cost of living and popular Dutch cities for expats.

Yes, US citizens can move to the Netherlands. You can enter the country without a visa for up to 90 days as a US citizen. However, if you plan to live in the Netherlands for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a residence permit.

Popular visa options for US citizens:

• Highly skilled migrant visa: for Americans with job offers in specialized fields.
• Entrepreneur visa: for people looking to start a business in the Netherlands.
• Student visa: for American students pursuing higher education in Dutch universities.
• Partner/family visa: for Americans joining a partner or family member already residing in the Netherlands.

For more than one year’s stay, you must apply for a residence permit through the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). This permit allows you to live, work, and access essential services.

Moving expenses vary based on your lifestyle and location within the US. On average, $8,000 to $12,000 is needed to cover moving costs, including plane tickets, visa applications, housing deposits, and initial living expenses. To give you a better understanding, here’s an estimated breakdown for an individual moving from New York to Amsterdam:

• Flights: $400 — $900 (one-way)
• Visa fees: €192 ($204) for a residence permit
• Shipping: $1,000 — $3,500 (depending on volume and company)
• Initial rent and deposit: $1,500 — $3,000 (monthly rent varies by city)
• First month’s living expenses: $1,300 — $2,500

The Netherlands is one of the most international countries in Europe. The country has a large expat community in most big cities. This is because these cities offer plenty of amenities, English-speaking job opportunities and high quality of life. Some of the best Dutch cities for American expats include:

• Amsterdam: Known for its international environment, job opportunities, and cultural attractions.
• The Hague (Den Haag): The seat of the Dutch government and home to many international organizations.
• Rotterdam: A modern city with an innovative spirit and diverse communities.
• Utrecht: A historic city known for its canals and academic atmosphere, popular among students and young professionals. You’ll find expat groups on platforms like Facebook and Meetup to help you integrate smoothly.

The cost of living in the Netherlands is generally lower than in major US cities but varies by region. Amsterdam is the most expensive city, comparable to living in New York or Los Angeles, while smaller towns like Eindhoven or Groningen are more affordable. Below you can see a comparison of the cost of living in Amsterdam and New York:

While rent and certain utilities may be cheaper in the Netherlands, services like eating out and technology can be more expensive than in the US. However, the public transportation system is reliable and affordable, reducing the need for a car.

The Netherlands is a country with high salaries and a roburts job market, so getting a job as an American is possible. There is a high demand for international talent in many fields, especially in industries like technology, healthcare, engineering, and finance. However, securing a position depends on your qualifications, experience, and ability to be approved for a work visa. Some things to consider are:

• Work visa sponsorship: Americans need a job offer from a Dutch employer willing to sponsor their work visa, such as the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa. This is common for roles requiring specialized skills.
• English-speaking roles: Many international companies and startups in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Eindhoven hire English-speaking professionals, particularly in IT, marketing, customer service, and creative industries.
• Dutch language skills: While some roles don’t require Dutch, especially in multinational companies, learning the language can significantly improve your job prospects and help you integrate into the workplace.

Opening Dutch bank account isn’t essential for Americans who plan on living in the Netherlands for a short while. You can rely on your domestic bank. But if you plan on living in the Netherlands, having a Dutch bank account will make your life much easier. You’ll be able to swiftly pay rent, receive a salary, or handling daily expenses. Top banks for Americans include:

• ABN AMRO: Offers a full range of banking services and has English support.
• ING: Known for its user-friendly app and good customer service.
• Bunq: A digital bank popular among expats for its flexible, paperless services.

Opening a bank account as a US citizen may require additional documentation due to US tax laws. To make the process smoother, ensure you have your BSN (Burgerservicenummer) and residence permit.

If you become a tax resident in the Netherlands (generally after living there for 183 days or more), you must pay Dutch taxes on your global income. However, the US and the Netherlands have a tax treaty to prevent double taxation. Some key things to consider:

• Income tax: the Netherlands has a progressive tax system with rates up to 49.5%.
• US tax obligations: You must still file US taxes abroad. Provisions like the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and the Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) help reduce your US tax burden.
• 30% ruling: Expats may be eligible for a tax break where 30% of their gross salary is tax-free, provided they meet certain conditions.

Yes, the Netherlands has a high-quality healthcare system accessible to everyone. Basic Dutch health insurance coverage is mandatory for all residents. So, you’ll need to sign up with a health insurance provider after you move to the Netherlands. Health insurance costs an average €149 ($156) per month, and coverage includes general practitioner visits, hospital care, and basic prescription medications.

Yes, moving to the Netherlands from the US is often worth it for the quality of life, excellent public services, and work-life balance. The country ranks high for safety, infrastructure, and environmental awareness. With over 30,000 American expats already residing in the Netherlands, you’ll find a welcoming community and resources to help you settle in.

Are you thinking of making the move? Start exploring homes for rent in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, or another Dutch city that caught your eye and prepare for an exciting journey in the heart of Europe!