
Get started with your life in the North
Welcome to the Northern Netherlands! Discover everything you need to know to make this beautiful region your new home.
Opening hours
Monday till Thursday from 9:30 – 12:00 & 13:00 – 16:30
International Student
Checklist: Moving to the Netherlands
Moving to the North soon? Fantastic! It’s a truly special region with plenty of room to grow.
To make sure you’re properly prepared, check out our list of everything that international students need to know before moving to the Northern Netherlands.

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News from the north

University of Groningen facing financial trouble
The University of Groningen (RUG) is facing a number of financial issues. Fewer student applications, a rise in energy costs, and a disappointing amount of government funds received for the academic year have all compiled to create a concerned atmosphere for those in charge, according to the University’s own news site UKrant. “There have been […]

NS eases peak hour surcharge: Maximum €2.50 for a morning ride
The Dutch railway company NS has announced that it will reduce the peak hour surcharge to a maximum of €2.50, down from the previously proposed €4, the Algemeen Dagblad reports today. The surcharge will apply to trains in the Randstad, the Netherlands’ most populous region, during the busiest hours. NS CEO Wouter Koolmees visits The […]

Tourism boom in Friesland: Striking a balance amid rising pressure
The people of Friesland are content with the influx of tourists into their region, but concerns are rising over the increasing pressure it imposes, a new report by Planbureau Fryslân has found. The report, based on a survey of over 7,000 Frieslanders, sheds light on the impact of tourism on the province, emphasizing both 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.

20+
3
35,000+
We helped 35,000+ 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!”