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:
18 & 21 April; 5, 29 & 30 May; 9 June; 22 through 31 December.
(And 1 & 2 January 2026).
Our latest blog post
More than Words: Celebrating International Mother Language Day
New events every week
Walking Club Friesland
IWCN Webinar | Filing your Income Tax in the Netherlands
IWCN Expert Session | How to Hire an International
Join our events!
News from the North
Effect of Folkingestraat cameras remains to be seen
Groningen’s Mayor attempted to curb the crime rate in and around the Folkingestraat, the shopping street connecting the Vismarkt to the Zuiderdiep, by installing security cameras a few months ago. Their effectiveness remains to be seen. The measure was widely requested and supported by residents of the area and businesses in the Folkingestraat as the […]
Help with filling out tax forms at Forum
Residents of the municipality of Groningen can get free help with their tax returns at two of the Forum’s locations in March and April. Organised by learning-by-doing organisation WIJS, students will be offering free tax consultation hours in the Forum on the Nieuwe Markt and the Forum library in Lewenborg. During these consultation hours, residents […]
Leeuwarden to get new international school
Leeuwarden is one step closer to getting its first international primary school as the Ministry of Educationhas given its official approval. In a statement, the International School Fryslân said its presence in the province will be a valuable addition to the regional educational offer and will play a crucial role in strengthening its business climate. […]
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!”
