Welcome to the North
We are here to support international newcomers in smoothly transitioning to living, working, and settling in the beautiful region of the Northern Netherlands.
Opening hours
Monday to Thursday, 09:30 – 12:00 & 13:00 – 16:30
Our latest blog post
Celebrating Our Volunteers
New events every week
Let’s Go Play Some Pool!
Dutch History & Culture | The Royal Family
Join our events!
News from the North
New bicycle parking at Achterweg; bicycle flat is closed
The bicycle flat at the Central Station has been closed since Friday the 17th of January as renovations at the central station progress GIC reported that cyclists from the south side of the city can park their bicycles in temporary bicycle racks on the Achterweg. They can then reach the station via the blue stairs. […]
No more new supermarkets in Groningen city centre
No more supermarkets larger than 500 square metres will be allowed to open in Groningen’s city centre, following a decision by the local council. In December GIC reported that this decision covers the area within the Diepenring, excluding the Westerhaven area. The city centre currently has six ‘large’ supermarkets, that are at least 500 square […]
This is where you can get free menstrual products in Groningen
There are approximately 50 locations in Groningen where you can get free menstrual products. The initiative is run by the Armoedefonds (poverty aid fund), which says that 1 in 8 girls and women in the Netherlands can’t afford menstrual products. They aim for people not to miss school or exams because of period poverty. The […]
About us
About Us
Feel at home in the North in just a few steps
We understand there are many things to take care of when getting settled in a new country.
That’s why it’s our mission to provide a welcoming space where you can take care of everything at one convenient location.
25+
3
45,000+
We helped 45,000+ international people
“I have lived in several countries (USA, Germany, Russia, Egypt) but I have to say that I have had the best experience at the Welcome Center in Groningen. Thank you again!”
“How happy it makes me to learn that the flowers got there and that they brightened up everyone’s day! This was my goal.
You guys work hard, and I wanted to make sure you guys know that your work is meaningful and very well appreciated in the city.”
“I would recommend the IWCN for new Internationals, who would like help finding their feet, but also for those who have been in the Northern Netherlands, as the information on offer is very extensive!”
“The idea to have such an office to welcome foreigners is a formidable one and this is a good tangible result. I wish there had been such an office, and people like you, 13 years ago when we arrived. It would probably have made our lives so much better, especially the first years!”
