Moving to another country

Moving to another country is one of the biggest decisions you can make in your life. Whether you are moving abroad for work, love or adventure, an international move requires extensive preparation and knowledge of the correct procedures. This complete emigration checklist will help you with every step of your move abroad. When you move abroad, there is a lot to consider.

Moving abroad

Every year, thousands of Dutch people emigrate to another country, from EU countries to destinations outside Europe. The process can seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation and checklist for emigrating, your dream of living abroad will become a reality. Living abroad often means that you have to arrange your affairs in a different way. Also the affairs regarding the Netherlands. We are happy to help you with what you need to think about so that you do not forget anything when you go abroad!

Why more and more people are considering emigrating abroad

The number of Dutch people emigrating increases annually. According to NederlandWereldwijd, more than 1 million Dutch people live permanently outside the Netherlands. The reasons for emigrating are diverse:

Main motivations for emigration

• Career opportunities: Better jobs and salaries in the country where you will live
• Quality of life: Climate, space and cost of living in your new home country
• Adventure and personal growth: Discover new cultures and develop yourself
• Relational reasons: Partner from another country or family who already lives outside the Netherlands
• Pension: Living abroad more cheaply during your old age

Expat quote: “I thought emigrating was mainly about arranging paperwork, but the biggest challenge was emotional. Letting go of your familiar environment and building a new life requires more time and effort than you think.” – Sarah, emigrated to Portugal

Choosing your new home country: where will you go?

Before you actually emigrate, it is crucial to choose the right destination country. This depends on the country and your personal priorities. Expats advise to research potential destinations for at least a year.

Factors when choosing your emigration country

Climate and lifestyle

• Temperature differences and seasons
• Culture and social customs
• Dutch language and culture: availability in your new country
• Leisure and recreational activities

Economic factors

• Cost of living compared to the Netherlands
• Average salaries in your field
• Taxes and fiscal differences with the Netherlands (pay attention to whether you become a foreign taxpayer)
• House prices and rental market

Practical considerations

• Distance to the Netherlands for family visits
• Time zone and communication with home country
• Healthcare quality and accessibility
• Education system for your children

Popular emigration countries for Dutch people

Country	EU country	Advantages	Challenges
Belgium	Yes	Close by, Dutch language	High taxes
Germany	Yes	Strong economy, culture	Language barrier, bureaucracy
Spain	Yes	Climate, lifestyle	Economic uncertainty
Portugal	Yes	Climate, expat friendly	Lower salaries
United States	No	Career Opportunities	Visa complexity
Australia	No	Quality of life	Distance, visa procedures
Canada	No	Quality of life	Climate, immigration procedure

Legal aspects of emigration: visas and permits

When you move to another country, visas and residence permits are often the first legal hurdles. The process varies greatly depending on the country you are going to live in and your nationality. When you go abroad for a few months, everything is different than when you emigrate and give up your home in the Netherlands! By the way, do you also want to take your benefits abroad? Then it is extra important to arrange your affairs properly.

Visa requirements: check if you need a visa

For EU citizens within Europe:

• EU countries: No visa required for Dutch citizens
• Free movement of persons within the European Union
• Staying abroad for more than 3 months requires registration

For destinations outside Europe:

• Visa is usually required for long-term stay. You often have to deal with the "IND" of the country in question.
• Different categories: work, study, family, investment
• Waiting times can range from months to years
• Government authorities in the target country process applications

Types of Long-term Stay Visas

Work visa

• Employer-sponsored visas
• Self-employment
• Often requires job offer in advance
• Tax liability in new country

Family association

• For partners of local residents
• Children under a certain age
• Financial guarantees often required

Investor Visa

• Minimum investment amounts
• Business plans and financial evidence
• Golden visa programs in some countries

Student visa

• For higher education
• Temporary period, often extendable
• Work rights may be limited

Timelines and documentation

Average processing times:

• EU countries: 1-3 months for registration
• English speaking countries: 6-18 months
• Asian countries: 3-12 months
• South American countries: 2-8 months

Required documents:

• Valid passport (often valid for 6+ months)
• Birth certificate (often legalized)
• Criminal record (not older than 3 months)
• Medical examinations
• Financial evidence
• Educational diplomas (legalized)

Arranging Dutch administration: deregistration and DigiD

Arranging with the Dutch government is a crucial part of your emigration. Dutch government procedures must be handled correctly to avoid problems. Where you live or move to does not mean that you can sever all ties with the Netherlands. Often there are still matters that need to be dealt with. You can arrange that you can close everything remotely in a proper way with a DigiD. It does not matter in which country you see it!

Deregistration from the Personal Records Database (BRP)

When should you unsubscribe:

• Stay abroad for more than 8 months per year
• Permanent relocation abroad
• No longer a main residence in the Netherlands

Unsubscribe procedure:

1. Register with your municipality in the Netherlands 5 days before your departure
2. Receive proof of deregistration for your administration
3. Provide address abroad if known
4. Preparing your final Dutch tax return

NB: The Hague Municipality and other major cities sometimes have longer waiting times. Plan your appointment well in advance.

Manage DigiD from abroad

DigiD is essential for contact with Dutch authorities. Applying for DigiD from abroad is possible, but has limitations. If you do not arrange these matters properly, you may encounter problems and in some situations you can only resolve matters by returning to the Netherlands. So pay close attention to this! 

Install and activate the DigiD app:

• Download the app before your departure
• Register your new foreign address
• DigiD required for online Dutch services
• Extension procedures vary by country

DigiD restrictions abroad:

• Not all services available from abroad
• Dutch embassy can sometimes help with problems
• Foreign representation offers limited DigiD support

Legalize Dutch documents

Legalization of documents is often required for use abroad. This process depends on treaties between countries.

Apostille procedure (within Europe and treaty countries):

• Faster procedure for EU countries
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs processes applications
• Costs approximately €20 per document

Legalization for non-treaty countries:

• Longer procedure via Dutch embassy
• First apostille, then embassy legalization
• Can take weeks to months

Documents that often need to be legalized:

• Diplomas and certificates
• Birth and marriage certificates
• Criminal record (Certificate of Good Conduct)
• Medical documents

Dutch benefits and allowances when emigrating

Emigrating has a major impact on your Dutch benefits. The Social Insurance Bank (SVB) manages most of the schemes and must be informed of your move abroad.

AOW and pension schemes

Retaining AOW rights:

• AOW continues to exist after emigration
• Payout possible in almost all countries
• Taxes may apply
• Preservative assessment for Dutch tax

AOW amounts per country:

• EU countries: Full payout
• Treaty countries: Dependent on bilateral agreements
• Other countries: Possibly limited benefit

Supplementary pensions:

• Employer pension usually continues to exist
• Foreign taxpayer status can have an impact
• Professional advice recommended

Child and family benefits

Child benefit after emigration: The right to child benefit usually ends upon emigration, unless you move to an EU country where different rules apply.

Child benefits in EU countries:

• Coordination rules between EU countries
• Highest benefit prevails
• Administrative complexity

Child-related budget:

• Ends upon deregistration from the Netherlands
• Child related budget not transferable abroad
• Final payment upon departure

Childcare allowance:

• Childcare allowance ends upon emigration
• Final settlement after tax year
• Possible refund due

Work and sickness related benefits

Unemployment benefit (WW):

• Benefits usually stop upon emigration to a non-EU country
• EU countries: Limited continuation possible (3 months)
• Application requirement remains in place

Illness and disability:

• WIA benefits can continue outside the Netherlands
• Medical checks via the Dutch embassy
• Depends on the country and treaties

Anw benefit for survivors:

• Usually payable worldwide
• Tax treaties determine taxation
• Remarriage can have an impact

Cancelling health insurance and healthcare allowance

Dutch health insurance:

• Cancel health insurance before departure
• Healthcare allowance ends automatically upon deregistration
• Final settlement after departure

International health insurance:

• EU countries: European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
• Local health insurance usually mandatory
• Transition period plans

Education and study: Dutch education for your child

Preserving Dutch language and culture for children is often important for expats. There are several options for Dutch education for your child abroad.

Dutch schools internationally

Distance Education (DLE):

• Complete Dutch curriculum
• Online lessons and guidance
• Recognized Dutch diplomas
• Suitable for different ages

Dutch schools worldwide:

• Physical schools in large expat communities
• High quality Dutch education
• Cultural connection with the Netherlands
• Limited locations available

International schools with Dutch department:

• Several countries offer this option
• Combination international/Dutch curriculum
• Preparation for Dutch follow-up studies

Manage your studies and student debt

DUO and student debt:

• Student debt remains after emigration
• Repayment possible from abroad
• Income-related arrangements may change
• Maintaining contact with DUO is essential

Paying off student debt:

• Direct debit international bank account
• Submit income statement annually
• Tax return as proof of income
• Postponement possible in case of financial problems

New studies abroad:

• Dutch student finance usually not possible
• Explore local financing options
• EU countries: Sometimes the same conditions as local students

Car and transport for international relocation

The decision to take your car is complex and depends on the country you are going to. If you want to take your car, there are several procedures to follow.

Taking a car abroad

Export procedure Netherlands:

• Deregister license plate with RDW
• Request an export license plate for transport
• Insured remains important during transport
• VAT refund possible

Import procedure destination country:

• Technical inspection often required
• Local taxes and tariffs
• Adjustments to local standards
• New registration and insurance

Cost-benefit analysis:

• Shipping costs (€500-€3000 depending on distance)
• Import taxes and VAT
• Technical adjustments
• Buy local alternative

Leave your car in the Netherlands

Pre-departure sales:

• Maximum yield by taking time for good sales
• No shipping costs
• No import problems

Storage with family/friends:

• Insurance remains necessary for damage
• License plate can remain in place for short-term storage
• Periodic inspection and maintenance

Rental during absence:

• Generate income
• Keeping the car in use
• Insurance issues and liability

Practical steps for your move abroad

An international move requires months of preparation. Investing time and effort in planning prevents stress and problems later.

Timing and planning your emigration

Optimal timing per season:

• Spring: Best Time for Families (School Year)
• Summer: Ideal weather, but busiest period
• Autumn: Good housing market, less crowded
• Winter: Cheapest period, weather challenges

Planning months in advance:

• 12+ months: Research and preparation
• 6-9 months: Visas and permits
• 3-6 months: Practical arrangements
• 1-3 months: Final preparations

Selecting International Moving Companies

Types of moving services:

• Full-service: Everything arranged, most expensive option
• Partial service: Mix of do-it-yourself and professional
• Self-service: Cheapest, do most of the work yourself

Quotation comparison:

• Minimum 3 different companies
• Moving company home visit for accurate pricing
• Check insurance and liability
• Reviews and experiences from other expats

Costs of international moving:

Destination	20ft container	40ft container	Air transport (per kg)
EU countries	€2.000-€4.000	€3.000-€6.000	€8-€15
United States	€3.000-€5.000	€4.000-€7.000	€12-€20
Australia	€4.000-€7.000	€6.000-€10.000	€15-€25
Asia	€3.500-€6.000	€5.000-€8.000	€10-€18

What to take and what to leave behind

Always take with you:

• Important documents (originals and copies)
• Sentimental objects
• Expensive electronics (if compatible)
• Clothing and personal items
• Medicines (supply for the first months)

Consider leaving behind:

• Large furniture (transport expensive)
• Electronics with different voltage
• Car (import costs)
• Books (heavy, cheap locally available)

Voltage and electronics:

• Europe: 220-240V
• United States/Canada: 110-120V
• Adapters and transformers required
• Sometimes situations where replacement is cheaper

Finding housing in your new country

Finding a home from another country is challenging but not impossible. Expats always recommend temporary accommodation for the first few weeks.

Researching the housing market

Online platforms by region:

• EU countries: Rightmove, Immoweb, Funda International
• United States: Zillow, Realtor.com, Apartments.com
• Australia: Domain, Realestate.com.au
• Canada: MLS, Kijiji, PadMapper

Local brokers:

• Specialists in expat housing
• Knowledge of landlords' visa requirements
• Support with contracts and procedures
• Network of expat-friendly landlords

Renting versus buying:

• First year usually renting recommended
• Are you sure the location is suitable?
• Building a credit history
• Get to know the local market

Neighborhoods and areas for expats

International neighborhoods benefits:

• Other expats and networking opportunities
• English language services available
• International schools nearby
• Trusted shops and restaurants

Local neighborhood benefits:

• Faster integration into local culture
• Often cheaper than expat areas
• Authentic cultural experience
• Children learn local language faster

Selection criteria:

• Safety and crime figures
• Public transport and accessibility
• Schools and childcare
• Shops and amenities
• Culture and recreation

Work and career after emigration

Career opportunities are often the main reason for emigrating. Good preparation for the local labour market is crucial for success.

Looking for a job abroad

International job sites:

• LinkedIn (global standard)
• Indeed (most countries)
• Glassdoor (salaries and reviews)
• TheLocal (news and jobs by country)
• Local platforms by country

Networking strategies:

• Expat groups and associations
• Professional meetups and events
• Alumni networks of your program
• Industry-specific organizations
• Social media groups

Adjust CV and application:

• Explore local resume formats
• “Translating” Dutch experience into local context
• Cultural differences in application processes
• Arrange references from Dutch employers

Recognize diplomas and qualifications

other EU country:

• Automatic recognition of many courses
• European Parliament guidelines
• Compensatory measures possible
• Faster procedures

Non-EU countries:

• Often lengthy recognition procedures
• Additional exams or courses
• Professional certifications required
• Different countries have different requirements

Common procedures:

• Diploma evaluation by recognized body
• Language certificates (often required)
• Work experience evaluation
• Professional registration where necessary

Entrepreneurship abroad

Starting your own business:

• Study local business culture
• Taxes and regulations vary widely
• Explore financing options
• Local partners consider

Legal structures:

• Some situations require local partnership
• Tax treaties between the Netherlands and the target country
• Tax liability in both countries possible
• Professional advice essential

Social integration and cultural adaptation

Living in another country means more than just arranging practical matters. Social integration often determines the success of your emigration.

Language learning and communication skills

Effective learning methods:

• Intensive courses for rapid progress
• Online apps (Duolingo, Babbel) for basic
• Conversation groups for practice
• Professional lesson for business contacts

Different levels:

• Survival: Groceries, transportation, emergencies
• Social: Making friends, pursuing hobbies
• Professional: Work and career development
• Academic: Studies of complex procedures

Local dialects:

• Standard language versus local pronunciation
• Regional differences within countries
• Informal vs formal language use
• Cultural context of expressions

Building social contacts

Expat communities:

• Facebook groups by city/country
• Meetup groups for hobbies
• International clubs and associations
• Church communities and spiritual groups

Local integration:

• Sports clubs and fitness centres
• Volunteering in the community
• Take courses and workshops
• Neighborhood activities and events

Online platforms:

• Bumble BFF for friendships
• Internships for professionals
• Couchsurfing meetups
• Expatica forums by country

Cultural adaptation and homesickness

Culture shock stages:

• Honeymoon phase: Everything is new and exciting
• Frustration stage: Differences become annoying
• Adjustment phase: Acceptance and understanding
• Bicultural stage: Comfort in both cultures

Homesickness management:

• Plan contact with family and friends
• Preserving the Dutch language and culture
• Search for Dutch products and food
• Planning a visit to the Netherlands

Professional help:

• Expat counselors and coaches
• Cultural orientation programs
• Online therapy in Dutch
• Some situations require professional support

Arrange healthcare and insurance

Good health care is essential, especially during the first period of your stay abroad when stress and adjustment can take their toll.

Arrange health insurance

Cancelling Dutch health insurance:

• Respect the notice period (usually 1 month)
• Healthcare allowance automatically terminated
• Process final settlement
• Insured until last day in the Netherlands

Local health insurance:

• EU countries: Often mandatory national systems
• United States: Complex private insurance
• Canada: Provincial Health Care
• Australia: Medicare for Permanent Residents

International health insurance:

• Worldwide coverage including the Netherlands
• Higher costs but more flexibility
• No waiting times for existing conditions
• Suitable for frequent travelers

Transition period:

• Bridging waiting times in new country
• Emergency insurance for the first few weeks
• Bring your medicine supply
• Consider repatriation coverage

Care providers find

Select GP:

• Recommendations from other expats
• Language skills (English/Dutch)
• Proximity to your home
• Accepting new patients

Specialist care:

• Referral procedures vary by country
• Private versus public health care providers
• Waiting times can be significant
• Second opinion culture differs

Transferring medications:

• Legalize prescriptions if necessary
• Local equivalents of Dutch medicines
• Pharmacy registration and insurance
• Documenting chronic conditions

Children and education during international relocation

Children emigrate with you and their adaptation is often crucial to the success of the entire family. Dutch education for your child can remain important.

Choosing schools for your children

International schools:

• English as the main language
• International Curriculum (IB, Cambridge)
• Various countries represented
• Preparation for international universities
• High costs (€10,000-€30,000 per year)

Local schools:

• Faster language acquisition and integration
• Cultural immersion
• Much cheaper or free
• System differences can be challenging

Dutch schools:

• Dutch education for your child completely
• Preserving the Dutch language and culture
• Direct connection upon return to the Netherlands
• Limited locations worldwide

Hybrid solutions:

• International school + Dutch tutoring
• Local school + Dutch language and culture at home
• Online Dutch education supplementary

Preparing children for emigration

Age-specific approach:

• 0-5 years: Adaptability highest, language picked up quickly
• 6-12 years: Friendships important, school stability
• 13-18 years: Identity formation, resistance possible

Emotional preparation:

• Open communication about reasons for emigration
• Keep expectations realistic
• Farewell rituals of friends
• Arrange contact options

Practical preparation:

• Legalize school documents
• Transfer medical records
• Find hobbies and sports in a new country
• Keeping Dutch friends in touch

International Finance and Banking

Taxes and finances become complex when emigrating. Good preparation prevents problems with both Dutch and foreign authorities.

Opening bank accounts abroad

Requirements for non-residents:

• Valid passport and visa
• Proof of address abroad
• Proof of income (employment contract)
• Minimum deposit (varies widely)
• Sometimes letters of recommendation Dutch bank

Banking options:

• Local banks: Best service, local knowledge
• International Banks: Global Access
• Online Banking: Lower Costs, Modern Technology
• Expat-focused banks: Special services

Services to be arranged:

• Current account for daily expenses
• Savings account for financial reserves
• Credit card for credit history
• Online banking and mobile apps
• International transfers to the Netherlands

Taxes and fiscal obligations

Dutch tax liability:

• Usually ends when you deregister from the Netherlands
• Preservative assessment for departure year
• Tax return for the last Dutch year
• Box 3 assets can remain taxable

Foreign tax liability:

• Depends on the country and length of stay
• Global income often taxed
• Tax treaties between countries prevent double taxation
• Professional advice highly recommended

Tax treaty benefits:

• Preventing double taxation
• Exchange of information between countries
• Specific arrangements per type of income
• 2022 new treaties with various countries

Important deadlines:

• Dutch declaration: May 1 (first year after emigration)
• Foreign declaration: Varies per country
• Quarterly estimates: United States
• Self-assessment: United Kingdom

Complete checklist for moving abroad

This comprehensive emigration checklist will help you not forget any important steps when moving abroad. Make sure all points are taken care of before you leave.

Always arrange for international relocation (Essential)

Legal documentation:

• Check if you need a visa for your destination country
• Check the validity of your passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Check the validity of your driving license and apply for an international driving license
• Check your DigiD and download the DigiD app for use from abroad
• Legalize or apostille Dutch documents
• Request a criminal record (VOG) if required

Administrative obligations:

• Deregister with your municipality in the BRP
• Keep proof of deregistration for your records
• Register your address abroad where possible
• Preparing your final tax return
• Informing the Dutch government about emigration

Expat tip: “Start DigiD procedures months in advance. Applying for DigiD from abroad is much more complicated than from the Netherlands.” – Marco, emigrated to Canada

Processing Dutch benefits and allowances

Pensions and AOW:

• Reporting AOW rights to SVB regarding emigration
• Informing employer pensioners about staying abroad
• Checking taxes on pensions in new country
• Understanding Preservation Assessment Procedures

Child and family benefits:

• Arrange child benefit termination at SVB
• End child-related budget
• Arrange final childcare allowance payment
• Final settlement of allowances after tax return

Work and sickness related benefits:

•  WW/WIA/Wajong benefit reporting emigration
• Arrange continuation of Anw benefit if applicable
• Check EU country coordination rules
• Arrange medical examinations at the Dutch embassy

Health insurance and health care allowance:

• Cancel health insurance as of departure date
• Check automatic termination of healthcare allowance
• Wait for final settlement of health care allowance
• Insured remains arranged until the last day

Arranging education and student debt

Dutch education:

• Dutch education for your child exploring options
• Search for Dutch language and culture programs
• Legalize school documents for international use
• Store educational files digitally

Student debt management:

• Inform DUO about emigration
• Adjust student debt repayment scheme
• Income data from abroad procedure
• Arrange direct debit for international account

Car and transportation decisions

Taking a car decision:

• Do you want to take your car with you? Cost-benefit analysis
• Start export procedures RDW
• Deregister license plate and apply for export license plate
• Arrange transport and insurance
• Investigate import procedures for destination country

Car abandonment procedures:

• Make a decision to sell or store
• Insured remains during storage arrangements
• License plate status for long-term storage
• Maintenance and inspection regulations

Practical timelines for emigration planning

Investing time and effort in proper planning is crucial. These timelines will help you get everything done on time.

12 months before moving: Research and orientation

Destination choice:

• Thoroughly research the country you are going to live in
• Compare different countries based on criteria
• Assessing climate, culture and living environment
• Expats connect for experiences

Legal preparation:

• Research visa procedures and requirements
• Waiting times for different visa types
• Government agencies collect contact information
• Consult an immigration lawyer if complex

Financial planning:

• Drawing up an emigration budget
• Study tax treaties between countries
• Investigate tax liability in both countries
• Consult a financial advisor

6 months before moving: Applications and regulations

Visas and permits:

• Start Visa Application
• Contact the Dutch embassy or consulate
• Start legalizing documents
• Follow foreign representation procedures

Practical preparations:

• Compare and book moving company quotes
• Explore International Health Insurance
• Finding housing in the country of destination
• Start a more intensive search

Dutch regulations:

• Inform SVB about planned emigration
• Contact DUO about student debt
• Dutch government services prepare
• Make an appointment with the municipality for deregistration

3 months before moving: Administration and farewell

Administrative matters:

• Install and test DigiD app
• Complete legalization of Dutch documents
• Preparing tax return for the last Dutch year
• Report all benefits and allowances

Car decisions:

• Car export or sale final choice
• RDW procedures start if export
• Completing license plate arrangements
• Carry out transport or sales

Social preparations:

• Planning farewell parties and events
• Inform family and friends
• Maintaining Dutch contacts planning
• Emotional preparation of children

1 month before moving: Final preparations

Last administration:

• Deregister with the municipality (5 days before your departure)
• Receive and keep proof of deregistration
• Cancel health insurance with exact date
• Stop all Dutch services

Practical completion:

• Moving company discuss final details
• Final selection and packing of furnishings
• Check travel documents and tickets
• Compile emergency contacts and important information

Emotional ending:

• Family and friends last visits
• Dutch traditions celebrate as a farewell
• Mental preparation for big change
• Positive mindset for new adventure

Avoiding common mistakes when emigrating

Learn from the experiences of other expats and avoid these common pitfalls when emigrating.

Research and preparation for shortages

Unrealistic expectations:

• Underestimating cultural differences
• Recognizing time and effort for integration
• Don't expect homesickness impact
• Are you sure you didn't check enough in advance?

Financial miscalculations:

• Tax complexity underestimated
• Hidden costs of emigration ignored
• Waiting times for income not calculated
• Emergency fund too small

Legal pitfalls:

• Visa requirements checked too late
• Forgotten to legalize documents
• Dutch government procedures ignored
• DigiD access lost

Practical pitfalls that cost money

Documentation errors:

• Forgotten or lost important papers
• Dutch documents not legalized
• Expired ID card or passport
• Medical records not included

Letting insurance expire:

• Health insurance gap between old and new
• Insurance is not arranged during transport
• Forgotten liability insurance
• Home contents insurance during relocation

Neglecting networks:

• Social contacts not a priority enough
• Expat communities not wanted
• Professional networking ignored
• Neglecting contact with family and friends

Expat warning: “I lost my DigiD access and could not arrange Dutch affairs for months. Start in time with all digital access.” – Lisa, emigrated to United States

Success stories and inspiration from Dutch expats

Emigrating is a big step, but thousands of Dutch people are going before you. Their experiences offer valuable insights.

Experiences of successful emigrants

Case study 1: Family to Australia “We emigrated to Melbourne with two young children. The visa process took 18 months, but the time and effort were worth it. Our children now speak fluent English and feel completely at home. Dutch education for your child through weekend school helps them retain Dutch language and culture.”

Challenges overcome:

• Visa complexity solved with professional help
• Car sold in the Netherlands, bought locally
• Health insurance transition of 3 months bridged
• Homesickness first year due to frequent skyping with family

Case study 2: Entrepreneur to the United States “As a freelancer, I emigrated to Silicon Valley for my tech startup. Taxes are complex with both Dutch and American requirements, but a good accountant helps. I still pay off my student loans from abroad.”

Success factors:

• E-2 investor visa via Dutch treaty
• Tax treaties optimally used
• Expat network crucial for business contacts
• Keep DigiD for Dutch administration

Case study 3: Pension in Portugal “We moved to the Algarve when we were 55. Our AOW is paid out normally, and the taxes are much lower. The health insurance is cheaper and better than in the Netherlands.”

Benefits discovered:

• EU country benefits for pensions
• Lower cost of living with higher quality of life
• Expat community very supportive
• Dutch shops and services available

Long term perspective emigration

Career development:

• International experience valuable on CV
• Language skills professional advantage
• Cultural adaptability highly valued
• Network in multiple countries

Personal growth:

• Self-confidence through overcoming challenges
• Broadening your worldview through other cultures
• Problem solving skills enhanced
• Adaptability developed

Family benefits:

• Children Global Perspective
• Dutch language and culture plus local culture
• International friendships for life
• Travel options in new region

Tools and resources for successful emigration

These practical tools will save time and prevent errors during your emigration process.

Useful websites and digital tools

Dutch government agencies:

• Rijksoverheid.nl: Official emigration information
• SVB.nl: Benefits and AOW schemes
• DUO.nl: Student debt and education
• RDW.nl: Car and license plate procedures
• DigiD.nl: Digital identity management

International resources:

• NetherlandsWorldwide: Expat community platform
• Dutch embassy websites per country
• Foreign Representation Official Sites
• European Parliament: EU rights and procedures

Practical apps and tools:

• DigiD app for government services
• XE Currency for exchange rates
• WhatsApp for family contact
• Google Translate for language support
• TimeZone apps for communication planning

Professional support services

Legal support:

• Immigration Lawyers for Complex Visas
• Tax advisors for tax treaties
• Notaries for legalizing documents
• Family lawyers for international families

Practical services:

• Moving company specialized in international removals
• Expat relocation services
• Health insurance brokers for international coverage
• Real estate agents with expat experience

Financial advice:

• International financial planners
• Tax liability specialists both countries
• Student debt management advisors
• Investment advisors for international portfolios

Costs of professional help

Service	Estimated costs	When needed
Immigration lawyer	€150-€400/hour	Complex visa procedures
Tax advisor	€100-€250/hour	Tax treaty optimization
Relocation service	€2.000-€8.000	Full-service emigration
Document legalization	€20-€100/document	Official procedures

Special considerations by region

Different countries have unique procedures and challenges. Depends on the country you are going to.

EU country specific benefits

Free movement of persons:

• No visa required for EU citizens
• Looking for work without a work permit
• Health insurance European coordination
• Benefit transfer possible

Social security coordination:

• Retaining AOW rights in EU countries
• Child benefit coordination rules
• Sickness benefits transferable
• Pension rights accrual in multiple countries

Practical benefits:

• Easily take your car with you within the EU
• Driving license valid in all EU countries
• Dutch products available
• DigiD often useful for EU services

United States Emigration Complexity

Visa diversity:

• Work visa (H1B, L1, E2)
• Family-based immigration
• Diversity lottery
• Investment visa (EB-5)

Tax complexity:

• Worldwide income taxed
• FATCA reporting obligations
• Tax treaty benefits limited
• State taxes vary widely

Health care:

• Expensive health insurance through employer
• Pre-existing conditions coverage
• Emergency room costs extremely high
• Medicines often more expensive

Asian countries challenges

Cultural adaptation:

• Major cultural differences with the Netherlands
• Dutch language and culture difficult to preserve
• Social hierarchies important
• Business etiquette is crucial

Practical challenges:

• Visa procedures often lengthy
• Car import is not possible
• Dutch products scarce and expensive
• Health insurance quality variable

Emotional aspects of emigration

Emigration is not only logistically difficult but also emotionally difficult. Preparation for psychological challenges is essential.

Homesickness and adjustment problems

Homesickness signals:

• Constant longing for the Netherlands
• Criticism of new country and culture
• Idealizing life in the Netherlands
• Social isolation in a new environment

Adaptation strategies:

• Continuing Dutch traditions at home
• Find expat friends with similar experiences
• Regular contact with family and friends
• Seek professional help if necessary

Supporting children:

• Preserving Dutch language and culture is important
• Facilitating contact with Dutch friends
• Encourage making local friends
• Be patient with the adjustment process

Identity and sense of home

Developing bicultural identity:

• Cherishing Dutch roots
• Embracing local culture
• Accepting Expat Identity
• Developing a global citizen mindset

Creating a feeling of home:

• Furnishing a home with Dutch elements
• Preserving Dutch cooking habits
• Adopting local traditions
• Developing a sense of community

Return to the Netherlands considerations

Some situations lead to a return to the Netherlands. It is wise to consider this possibility in advance.

Reasons for return

Personal reasons:

• Family circumstances (illness, care responsibilities)
• Homesickness stronger than expected
• Children adjustment problems
• Relationship problems due to emigration stress

Professional reasons:

• Career opportunities better in the Netherlands
• Work in new country is disappointing
• Business venture not successful
• Pension in the Netherlands is affordable

Practical considerations:

• Health insurance better in the Netherlands
• Dutch social security missed
• Language barriers remain problematic
• Costs of emigration too high

Return procedures

Administrative steps:

• Registration with a Dutch municipality
• Take out Dutch health insurance
• Resume tax liability in the Netherlands
• Reactivate DigiD if necessary

Financial implications:

• Taxes in both countries last year
• Moving costs back to the Netherlands
• Furniture transport or purchase new
• Car import procedures reversed

Realizing your dream of emigrating

Moving to another country is one of the most life-changing decisions you will ever make, but with the right preparation and emigration checklist it is doable. Thousands of Dutch people have gone before you and have successfully built a new life outside the Netherlands.

The most important success factors summarized:

Thorough preparation is essential:

• Start planning at least 12 months in advance
• Check all visa and legal requirements
• Arrangements with the Dutch government should not be forgotten
• Investing time and effort in research pays off

Financial planning prevents problems:

• Understanding Taxes and Tax Treaties
• Correctly handle all Dutch benefits
• Adjusting student debt regulations for abroad
• Emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances

Social integration determines your happiness:

• Expat communities are valuable for support
• Preserving Dutch language and culture for children
• Learning local language accelerates integration
• Seek professional help for adjustment problems

Arrange practical matters properly:

• DigiD and access to Dutch services retained
• Plan your health insurance transition without gaps
• Make a well-considered car decision
• Choosing a moving company with international experience

Last tip from an experienced expat: “Emigrating was the best decision of my life, but I never thought that the Dutch bureaucracy would be the hardest part. Start early with all the Dutch government procedures!”

Moving abroad doesn't have to be difficult!

Are you sure you have completed all the steps? Use this guide as an emigration checklist and you can start your new adventure with confidence. Dutch expats worldwide are ready to help you in online communities and expat organizations.

The country where you will live is waiting for you. With good preparation, your dream of living abroad will become a successful reality. Will you take this challenging but rewarding step?

Moving is happy to help you with an emigration checklist

Still have questions about emigrating? Join the NetherlandsWorldwidecommunities, consult the Dutch embassy in your destination country, or get in touch with other expats who have made the same journey. You are not alone in this great adventure!