Living in the North

With wide open spaces, beautiful coastline and inland water ways, bustling cities, innovative companies, ground-breaking academic research and rich history, the northern Netherlands is an inspirational place to live. Here is everything you need to know about getting settled in and making yourself at home in Groningen, Drenthe or Friesland.

Categories

Banking & Finance

Discover a wide range of bank services offered in the Netherlands, from opening an account to sending money overseas.

Childcare

From how to find schooling, to babysitters and daycare, to vaccinations and the child benefit, the information in this section will help to ensure that your child gets the best start to their lives in the Northern Netherlands.

Dutch Customs and Cultures

As in every country, there are certain sets of traditional or common behaviors that are considered the norm in the Netherlands, or at least not abnormal. As foreigners, it’s a good idea to become acquainted with these customs, so that it becomes easier to feel at home in the Netherlands.

Healthcare

Find everything you need to know to about healthcare in the Northern Netherlands.

Housing

All you need to know about finding a property, what to expect from houses in the North, moving, and setting up your new home.

Language Classes

Even though Dutch people usually speak very good English, it is highly recommended to learn Dutch.

Legal Matters

There are two kinds of attorneys in the Netherlands: notaris (notary) and advocaat (attorney).

Leisure

After sorting out the formalities and getting settled in your new home, here's what you need to know to make the most of your leisure time.

Living Expenses

What you can expect to pay for gas, electricity, tv, internet, telephone, water and water board taxes in the northern Netherlands.

Municipal Services

Your municipality, or gemeente, handles most of the day-to-day administration in your area of the Netherlands.

Permits and Registration

All you need to know about permits and registration for the purpose of study, orientation year, researchers, highly skilled migrants, and families.

Pets

Many people view their pets as another member of the family so if you are planning on staying in The Netherlands for a while, you might decide to bring them with you.

Private Vehicle

From cycling in the Netherlands (a crucial skill) to buying, importing, registering or importing a car, here is what you need to know about transportation in the northern Netherlands.

Public Transportation

Even when you do not have a personal vehicle, you can just use public transportation in the North without any worry.

Ukraine

Helpful information for Ukrainians who are coming to come to the Netherlands due to the war.