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
Housing Workshop with Expat Mortgages
Let’s Go Play Some Pool!
Dutch History & Culture | The Royal Family
Join our events!
News from the North
Former Groningen mayor court case stalls
The court case against former Groningen mayor Koen Schuiling stalled on Wednesday after a judge ruled the case had been brought in front of the wrong court. Now journalists have also revealed that Schuiling has been economical with the truth surrounding his unexpected resignation. Mayor Schuiling (VVD) resigned in September 2024, citing a lack of […]
Lost something on the train? NS has a lost and found website
Have you forgotten something on an NS train? Your favourite scarf, or perhaps your wallet or phone? The Dutch rail company now made it easier for you to be reunited with your lost items. NS launched its new lost and found website in November, replacing its old system where passengers missing their belongings had to […]
Groningen rings in New Year
Residents of Groningen were treated to relatively dry skies that were illuminated by fireworks set off from different parts of the city as the world rang in the New Year. The main countdown celebrations took place at the Grote Markt for the 3,2,1 Gold&New Countdown Show. Local DJs treated crowds to contemporary hits and timeless […]
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!”
