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
Sat, 4th of April 2026 | Groningen
Historical City Tour – Groningen’s Slavery Past | Groningen
Free
In Collaboration with External
Trips & Discoveries
Tue, 7th of April 2026 | Groningen
Work related discrimination issues | Groningen
Free
In Collaboration with External
Integration
Networking
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
Sat, 11th of April 2026 | Groningen
FietsFriend Outing: Tulip Tour | Groningen
Free
Trips & Discoveries
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
Thu, 30th of April 2026 | Groningen
How to Hire an International | IWCN Expert Session
Free
Information
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
Muslim community launches peace campaign in Groningen: “We still gave hope”
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community will launch a peace campaign in Groningen starting April 4. Through the distribution of 100,000 flyers, a dedicated social media hashtag (#VoicesForPeace), and a public dialogue initiative in the city center, the community aims to encourage residents in promoting peace. “We hope as many people as possible will stand against war […]
Oude Ebbingestraat to undergo major redesign
The Oude Ebbingestraat in the city center will be redesigned. The street is currently mainly set up for motorized traffic, but that is about to change, says Lisa Spliet of the Municipality of Groningen: there will be more space for cyclists and pedestrians. Yellow paving stones and additional greenery will also be introduced. It is […]
More depression and anxiety in Groningen linked to earthquakes
Residents of the earthquake-affected region in Groningen are significantly more likely to experience anxiety and depression symptoms, according to new research by the UMCG and the University of Groningen (RUG). The researchers estimate that the impact amounts to tens of thousands of additional cases. The findings are based on data from Lifelines, a large-scale, long-term […]
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
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