More and more professionals in the Netherlands are taking the leap: moving for work. Maybe you get a fantastic promotion. Or your dream job is in another city. Sometimes your employer simply decides to move.

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At Moving, we see this every day. Approximately 30% of all working Dutch people are considering moving for a job. With the right preparation and knowledge of your rights, such a work-related move can give your career and quality of life a huge boost. This guide will help you every step of the way. From compensation and conditions to practical tips. We show you what works and what you should be aware of. Because moving for work is more than just packing boxes and calling a moving company.

Please note: reimbursements and conditions

What compensation can you get when moving for work?

Your employer is often required to pay a relocation allowance when you move for work. How much you can get depends on various factors. Fortunately, there are clear legal frameworks.

Standard moving expense allowance includes:

Your employer will usually fully reimburse these costs:

The moving company and all transportation costs
Packing service and packaging materials such as boxes and bubble wrap
Disassembly and assembly of your furniture
Temporary storage of your belongings

The Tax Authorities set clear rules. For 2024, a maximum amount of €7,750 applies that can be reimbursed tax-free. This amount increases annually with inflation.

Additional compensation for work relocation:

Cost category	Average amount	Reimbursed by employer
Brokerage fees	€2.000 – €5.000	Often partially
Notary fees	€800 – €1.500	Mostly complete
Valuation costs	€300 – €600	Mostly complete
Home search costs	€500 – €1.500	Often partially

A colleague of ours recently told me: “My employer reimburses everything up to €5,000. But I had to provide three quotes from recognized movers. That ultimately saved me €800 because I chose the cheapest one.”

What conditions must a business relocation meet?

There are strict conditions for a relocation allowance. Both legally and contractually. You must understand these conditions well before you take the step.

Legal requirements for moving expenses reimbursement:

The most important legal requirement? The distance between your old and new workplace must be at least 10 kilometers. This rule prevents employees from moving unnecessarily for small distance differences.

In addition, there must be a work-related necessity. You cannot simply move and expect compensation. The Tax Authorities check this strictly. The duration of employment also plays a role. Many employers require that you have been employed for at least one year before you are entitled to full relocation allowance. New employees often receive a modified arrangement.

Employer's contractual terms:

Many employers have laid down additional conditions in your employment contract or collective labor agreement:

Repayment obligation: If you resign within two years of the move, you may have to repay (part of) the compensation
Maximum reimbursement amounts: Employers often apply an upper limit of a maximum of €7,750 or more
Pre-Approval: Some expenses require pre-approval from HR
Time Limit: You usually have six months to a year to relocate after accepting the position

What costs can you get reimbursed if you move for work?

You need to know exactly which costs you can get reimbursed. This prevents surprises later. And it helps you to have a realistic budget to make.

Direct moving costs:

Professional moving company: Always compare at least three quotes from recognized moving companies. Costs vary from €800 for a small move to €2,500 for a complete family move
Rent a moving van: Are you moving yourself? Then your employer usually reimburses the rental costs (€50-150 per day)
Fuel and mileage: The statutory mileage allowance usually applies to private transport
Temporary storage: Self-storage costs (€50-200 per month) are often partially reimbursed

Housing costs when moving to work:

Double housing costs often form the largest expense item. The Tax Authorities recognize these costs. Employers usually reimburse:

Double housing costs: Maximum of six months' rent or mortgage for both homes
Tenant fee and deposit: For your new home, often 1-3 months rent
Purchase and sales costs: In case of home ownership, including real estate agent costs
Temporary housing: Hotel costs during your search for a new home

Additional costs of moving for work:

Redesign: Custom-made curtains, new carpeting or adjustments to your home
Connection of utilities: Gas, water, electricity and internet in your new home
Administration costs: Passport photos, official documents and copies
Childcare: Additional costs for care on moving day

Tip from our HR expert: “Always record in writing what your employer will reimburse. What is promised verbally can cause problems later. Make sure that everything is in your contract or is recorded in a separate agreement.”

What if the company you work for is moving?

Rights when relocating a business

Your employer decides to relocate. What does this mean for you? As an employee, you have specific rights and options. This scenario is becoming more common, especially in the Randstad where companies are looking for more affordable locations.

Legal position of employee:

Is your employer moving? In principle, you will retain your right to your position and salary. However, the new location must be “reasonably accessible”. The travel time may not increase excessively. As a rule of thumb, we consider a doubling of the travel time to be unreasonable.

You have several options:

Moving with the company to the new location
Negotiating changed employment conditions
Resignation with possible severance pay
Finding alternative solutions such as working from home

Compensation for business relocation:

Many employers offer compensation to employees who are faced with a company relocation:

Additional travel expenses: Compensation for increased travel expenses to the new workplace
Travel time compensation: Extra payment or shorter working hours as compensation
Public transport card or mileage allowance: Full or partial reimbursement of travel expenses
Parking costs: If the new location requires paid parking
Moving expenses allowance: For employees who decide to move themselves

Options when your employer moves

Moving with company:

Moving with your employer has advantages and disadvantages. Weigh them carefully:

Advantages:

You keep your position and salary
Possibly better work-life balance
New opportunities and challenges
Often better working conditions as compensation

Cons:

Possibly longer travel time from your current home
Loss of trusted network at work
Adjustment period to new environment
Less flexibility in future career choices

Alternative solutions:

Modern employers are often willing to find creative solutions:

Hybrid working: Combination of working from home and office work
Flexible working hours: Adjusting work schedule to optimize travel time
Satellite office: Working from a location closer to home
Part-time on location: Fewer days per week at the new office

Case study: “My employer moved from Amsterdam to Almere. I negotiated four days of office work and one day of home work. This saves me two hours of travel time per week. Now I have a better work-life balance.” – Marjolein, marketing manager

Should you move for work? Considerations and questions

Key Considerations When Moving for Work

Moving for work is complex. It requires careful consideration. This choice will impact your entire life, not just your career. Here are the key points to consider.

New workplace and financial considerations:

The financial impact goes beyond just salary increases. Consider, for example:

Salary increase vs. higher costs: In the Randstad, salaries are higher, but so is the cost of living
Career prospects: Does the new location offer better growth opportunities?
Job security: Is the new feature future-proof?
Secondary employment conditions: Pension build-up, insurance and other benefits

Table: Average salary differences by region (2024)

Region	Average gross salary	Cost of living index
Amsterdam	€55.000	120
Rotterdam	€48.000	105
Utrecht	€52.000	115
Eindhoven	€49.000	100
Groningen	€42.000	85

Personal, family factors and considerations:

Your family plays a crucial role. Important considerations:

Impact on partner: Can your partner find work in the new environment?
Children and education: What schools are available? What is the quality?
Social contacts: How important is your current social network?
Quality of life: Does the new location offer a better quality of life?

Essential Questions for Work-Related Relocation

Can you take leave? You are often entitled to moving leave to move your belongings. Before you finally decide to move for a new job, ask yourself these crucial questions:

Frequently asked questions to yourself:

Why do I want to move for this job?
- Is it purely financially driven?
- Are we talking about career opportunities that are not available elsewhere?
- Are you looking for new challenges and experiences?
What are my long term goals?
- Does this move fit into my five-year plan?
- Will it bring me closer to my dream career?
- What impact does it have on my retirement planning?
Can I get this chance later?
- Is this a unique opportunity or will there be more possibilities?
- How urgent is the decision?

Questions for your employer:

Discuss in detail with your employer or HR department:

What relocation cost compensation is possible?
Ask for specific amounts and conditions
Are there growth opportunities at the new location?
Think about promotional opportunities and training
What happens if you don't like the job?
Discuss a possible exit strategy
What support does the company provide in relocation?
Think of practical help and guidance

Questions for your family:

When you have to move for work, it can be difficult for the whole family. Move relaxed by talking about it first. This way, everyone will get a good feeling for the move that is planned. These conversations are essential for a successful move:

How do your partner and children feel about moving?
Honest communication is crucial
What impact does this have on everyone's career/education?
Think about school choices and employment partner
Can we easily rebuild our social network?
How social are you?
What are the deal breakers for each family member?
What factors make the move impossible?

Practical tip: Make a pros and cons list with your entire family. Give points to each pro and con (scale 1-10). Add up. This gives an objective picture of your collective opinion.

Taxes, Benefits, and Deductions When Moving for Work

Moving cost deduction and tax rules

The Tax Authorities acknowledge that moving for work involves costs. You can deduct these costs from your taxes. These arrangements can save you a considerable amount of money. However, you must meet specific conditions. Tax-free matters are of course nice. Are you not sure about everything? Then you can possibly hire a tax consultant.

Deductible costs for work relocation:

Taxes are complex. However, you can often deduct these costs:

Moving costs: All costs for transportation, packaging and labor of the moving company
Double housing costs: Maximum of six months' rent or mortgage for both homes
Travel and accommodation expenses: Costs while searching for a new home
Brokerage fees: For selling an old home and purchasing a new home
Advertising costs: For the sale or rental of your old home

Conditions for tax deduction:

To qualify for tax benefits, strict rules apply:

Distance criterion: The distance between the old and new workplace must be at least 10 kilometers
Work-related necessity: The move must be necessary for your work
Documentation: Keep all receipts and supporting documents
Timing: Submit your tax return within the specified deadlines

Employer compensation and taxation

It is important to understand when reimbursements from your employer are tax-free. And when you have to pay tax on them.

Tax free:

Reasonable moving costs: Up to €7,750 (2024 amount) is tax-free
Double housing costs: Within legal limits (maximum 6 months)
Business travel expenses: For home search and moving activities
30% scheme: Special scheme for foreign employees

Taxable allowances:

Be careful with these allowances – you will pay tax on them:

Reimbursements above the statutory maximum
Luxury elements such as upgrading to a more expensive home
Personal expenses that are not work related
Fees without a clear business need

Important note: Tax rules change regularly. Always consult a tax advisor or the Tax and Customs Administration website for the most up-to-date information.

Researching your new work location

Before you finally decide to move for work, thorough research is essential. This preparation prevents unpleasant surprises. It also helps you form realistic expectations. Get to know your new neighbors or check out where you can have a nice lunch! This is a good reason to research everything first!

Compare cost of living:

Finances go beyond your salary. Think about:

Rental and purchase prices: In Amsterdam you pay an average of €2,200 rent for a 3-room apartment. In Groningen €1,100. You also have to take into account chores and other expenses. For example, are you well insured?
Energy costs: Older homes in the city centre are often less insulated. Check this carefully in your new place of residence.
Municipal taxes: These can vary considerably between municipalities (€200-800 per year)
Groceries and daily expenses: Supermarkets in big cities are often more expensive. Working on location usually also means eating lunch out more often.
Parking costs: In the Randstad this can cost €100-300 per month. You can of course count this as working time, but in the end you have to pay for it yourself. Parking costs are unfortunately not a one-time cost. The first few weeks it might be doable, but in the end you have to make a choice so that you can save on the costs.

Infrastructure and accessibility:

Where you work is important. But also how you get there:

Public transport connections: Frequency, reliability and costs of public transport
Cycling routes: The Netherlands has excellent cycling infrastructure – use it! The Netherlands is of course really specialised in cycling routes.
Parking options: Both at work and at home
Traffic jams and rush hour: Travel time can vary greatly depending on the time of day

Practical checklist for location research:

[ ] Visit the location at different times
[ ] Test travel time during rush hour
[ ] View homes in different neighborhoods
[ ] Research schools for children
[ ] Check insurance and healthcare providers
[ ] Inquire about local amenities

Financial planning for work relocation

Moving for work involves considerable costs. Good financial planning prevents you from getting into financial trouble during this process.

Budgeting for moving expenses:

Always compare multiple quotes from moving companies. The costs vary greatly:

Type of move	Estimated costs	Comments
Studio/1-room	€400 – €800	Often do it yourself
2-3 rooms	€800 – €1.500	Average family
4+ rooms	€1.500 – €2.500	Larger families
Luxury service	€2.500 – €5.000	Packing, unpacking, setting up

Cash flow management during relocation:

The biggest challenge? Double housing costs. In most cases, you temporarily have two homes:

Deposit for new home: Often 1-3 months rent
Termination of old home: Pay attention to notice periods
Energy companies: Often a guarantee for a new connection
Internet and TV: Often installation costs new location

Financial tips:

Give yourself a financial buffer of at least €2,000
Negotiate an advance from your employer
Consider a temporary loan for large expenses
Take into account tax refund on moving costs

Financial tip: “Start saving for unforeseen expenses two months before your move. In most cases, there are always extra expenses that you hadn’t thought of.” – Financial advisor

Taking your partner with you when relocating to work

Moving for work has a big impact on your entire family. Especially your partner. Dual-career couples face extra challenges when one partner has to move for work.

Dual-career couples and job relocation:

In the Netherlands, 70% of families have two working partners. A work move often means that one career takes priority:

Partner's Career: Can your partner find work in the new environment?
Home working options: More and more functions are fully remote possible
Network and business contacts: Loss of professional network has career impact
Income difference: Temporary loss of partner's income

Relationship dynamics during major changes:

Moving is one of the most stressful life events. This has an impact on your relationship:

Stress and adjustment pressure: Both partners experience stress, but in different ways
Communication: Open conversations about expectations and concerns are crucial
Support: Mutual understanding and support during difficult times
Professional help: Consider a relationship therapist if you are experiencing major tensions

Feel at home quickly with practical tips for partners:

Involve your partner in all decisions from the start
Explore the new location and possibilities together
Plan quality time during the stressful period
Communicate about financial concerns and expectations
Search for new social contacts together

Children, homesickness and school choice after work relocation

For families with children, moving for work is extra complex. The impact on children must be carefully considered and minimized.

Education system and school choice:

The Netherlands has an extensive education system. But there are regional differences:

Public vs. special education: Options vary per municipality
School performance: Check the Education Inspectorate reports
Waiting lists: Popular schools often have waiting lists
After-school care: Availability and quality of after-school care

Social adjustment of children:

Children need time to get used to a new environment:

Friendships: Help children make new friends through sports or hobbies
Sports and activities: Register children quickly with local associations
Timing: Avoid moving in the middle of the school year if possible
Emotional support: Recognize that homesickness is normal. Give extra attention

Checklist for moving with children:

[ ] Research schools and sign up for waiting lists
[ ] Organize introductory visits to new school
[ ] Find local sports clubs and hobbies
[ ] Talk to children about the move and their concerns
[ ] Schedule extra time for adjustment and support
[ ] Please take school holidays and exams into account

Child psychologist advises: “Give children control where possible. Let them decorate their new room or choose between schools. This helps them accept the big change.”

Moving within the Netherlands for a career

Moving within the Netherlands offers unique opportunities and challenges. Each region has its own character, labor market and lifestyle.

Popular work cities and regions:

The Netherlands has several economic centers. Each with its own specializations:

Amsterdam and surroundings:

Financial sector: Banks, insurance, finance
Tech and startups: Major international tech companies
Creative industry: Media, advertising, design
Average salary: €55.000 – €75.000
Cons: High housing costs, crowds, parking problems

Rotterdam and region:

Port and logistics: Largest port in Europe
Architecture and construction: Modern architecture, many construction projects
Energy sector: Petrochemicals and sustainable energy
Average salary: €48.000 – €65.000
Advantages: More affordable housing, international appeal

Utrecht central:

Head Offices: Many international companies
Healthcare and pharmacy: Hospitals and pharmaceutical industry
Education: University and knowledge institutions
Average salary: €52.000 – €70.000
Advantages: Centrally located, good accessibility

Eindhoven Brainport:

High-tech industry: ASML, Philips, NXP
Engineering: Technical innovation and R&D
Design: Design academy and creative sector
Average salary: €49.000 – €68.000
Advantages: Innovative sector, affordable housing

Regional differences in the labor market:

Aspect	Randstad	Brabant	Limburg	Northern Netherlands
Unemployment	3.2%	2.8%	4.1%	3.7%
Average salary	€54.000	€47.000	€44.000	€42.000
Housing costs	High	Average	Low	Low
Travel time work	Long	Average	Short	Short

International relocation for work

Moving abroad for work brings additional complexity. But also unique opportunities. The Netherlands has attractive regulations for international employees.

Expat scheme and tax benefits:

The 30% scheme is an important tax benefit for foreign employees:

30% of salary tax-free: Significant savings on taxes
Conditions: Specific expertise that is scarce in the Netherlands
Duration: Maximum 5 years (before 2024)
Request: Must be within 4 months of commencement of employment
Advantages: Partner allowance and school costs also possible

Practical matters regarding international work relocation:

Visa and work permits: EU citizens do not need a permit
Recognition of diplomas: Some professions require recognition by Dutch authorities
Language requirements: Dutch is often not a requirement, but helps with integration
Health insurance: Dutch health insurance is mandatory for all residents

Expat experiences: “The 30% scheme made moving to the Netherlands financially very attractive. The first year was challenging because of the bureaucracy. But the support from my employer was excellent.” – James, software engineer from Ireland

Temporary vs. permanent work relocation

Sometimes a move is temporary. You get an assignment for a few years. Or your employer sends you to another location. This brings other considerations with it:

Contract duration: How long does the assignment last? Is extension possible?
Temporary housing: Hotels or furnished apartments instead of private homes
Double living: Are you keeping your current home and traveling on weekends?
Family situation: Is the whole family coming or will the partner/children stay?