Immigration & Formalities
Request an appointment for Formalities Services (IND and municipality)
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Welcome to the North
The International Welcome Center North helps you arrange practical matters (obtaining your residence permit, municipal registration, and BSN number), provides information on living, working or studying in the Netherlands, and offers events to help you integrate here —all in one place.
We’re open Monday to Thursday from 9:30 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:30.
Our Services
Our latest blog post
How to Avoid Rental Scams in Groningen
Tue, 7th of April 2026 | Groningen
Work related discrimination issues, in collaboration with Waard and Make it in the North | Groningen
Free
In Collaboration with External
Integration
Networking
Thu, 26th of March 2026 | Friesland
Women’s Circle Swap Day | Leeuwarden
Clubs
Networking
Social Gatherings
Sun, 29th of March 2026 | Groningen
Intercultural Afternoon | Groningen
Cultural Sharing
In Collaboration with External
Networking
Social Gatherings
Sat, 4th of April 2026 | Groningen
Historical City Tour – Groningen’s Slavery Past, in collaboration with Waard | Groningen
Free
In Collaboration with External
Trips & Discoveries
Thu, 9th of April 2026 | Groningen
Dutch Customs & Culture – Interactive session | Groningen
Free
Information
Integration
Fri, 10th of April 2026 | Groningen
Expats Meetup | Groningen
Free
In Collaboration with External
Social Gatherings
Sun, 12th of April 2026 | Groningen
Walking Club | Groningen
Clubs
Social Gatherings
Sports & Wellness
Fri, 17th of April 2026 | Groningen
NEW! | Wings & Roots – Women Connecting in The North | Groningen
Cultural Sharing
Social Gatherings
Join our events!
Whether you're interested in cycling, cultural activities, social clubs, family-friendly outings, or informative events, we've got you covered.
News from the North
New restaurant Souterrain 1634: for food lovers and flexitarians
Among the list of new restaurants in Groningen’s city centre, there’s also a first: a restaurant for flexitarians. Vegetables take centre stage here, but those who would still like a piece of meat or fish can simply order it on the side. The new restaurant is located in the monumental basement of Hotel Corps de […]
Exhibition about Marilyn Monroe at Forum: ticket sales start on April 1
In May, an exhibition about Marilyn Monroe will open at the Forum. Visitors will have a unique opportunity to see clothing, personal belongings, letters, photographs, and film footage up close. Ticket sales start on April 1. This year marks one hundred years since Marilyn Monroe was born. Even a century later, she remains a source […]
Record Fair XXL at Martiniplaza including special K-pop fair
Martiniplaza will once again host Record Fair XXL on Saturday, March 20. More than 45 record dealers are set to display their collections. There will also be a special section dedicated to K-pop enthusiasts. The fair offers a wide range of items, including specialized stalls featuring hard rock or singles, as well as stands selling […]
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+
Years of experience
3
Great provinces
45,000+
Internationals helped
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!”
Muhamed Amin
Saudi Arabia
“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.”
Kervin Zamora
Honduras
“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!”
Siddharta Omar
India
“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!”
Valerio Cugia
Italy
Founders and Supporters of IWCN
We are here to help
Still have questions?
Don't worry, our team is happy to help!