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
The IWCN is closed on the following days in 2025:
9 June; 22 through 31 December.
(And 1 & 2 January 2026).
Our latest blog post
How to Avoid Rental Scams in Groningen
New events every week
Join our events!
News from the North
Newborn Seal Pup Rescued from Illegal Rave on Groningen Coast
LAUWERSOOG – In a bizarre twist during the early hours of Saturday morning, Dutch police discovered a newborn seal pup amidst parked cars at an illegal rave near the Otterdunnerpier in Borgsweer, located in the municipality of Eemsdelta along Groningen’s Wadden Sea coast. The pup, just a few days old, was found alone and distressed, […]
Friesland Hosts Historic Island Alliance: Wadden and Caribbean BES Islands Sign Cooperation Declaration
In a landmark meeting on the Dutch island of Vlieland, local leaders from the five Wadden Islands and the three Caribbean BES islands (Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba) signed a joint declaration of cooperation under the working title “E8”. The agreement aims to strengthen collaboration across a range of policy areas, focusing on shared challenges […]
Make it in the North to launch campaign to connect international talent with Northern employers
The Make it in the North campaign, organised by the local job platform bearing the same name. will be launching in the coming days to highlight job opportunities across the Northern Netherlands available for international job seekers. The campaign, which will run from June 23 to July 15, will highlight job opportunities that are open […]
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!”
