When I moved to the Netherlands and wanted to buy a home, it was exciting but also kind of overwhelming. I did not have knowledge of the Dutch language plus the Dutch housing market moves quickly it seamed because of limited demand of houses. Do I need to overbid and how much, plus finding out how mortgages work in the Netherlands was challenging.
Fresh KvK registration? Check. Tax number? Check. Customers waiting? Check. Now, let's talk about the final piece of the puzzle: getting paid. A business bank account to start getting paid. What are your options in the Netherlands?
For years, the 30% tax ruling has been a focal point for Dutch politicians who argue the policy is unfair to local citizens, claiming it fuels the housing shortage in major cities. This debate reached a new peak today when a local politician, joined by 40 others from the Amsterdam region, formally petitioned the government to scrap the ruling. They argue the tax break creates 'unfair competition' in an already strained housing market.
Local decisions matter. From where the new bike lanes go to how often your trash is collected, the Municipal Elections on March 18, 2026 shape your daily life. The best part? You probably have a say in all of this. Here is everything you need to know about voting.
For most people living in the Netherlands, Box 3 is a term that you hear a lot in the news but what is it exactly? And more importantly why do you need to worry about the upcoming changes. In short box 3 applies to your worldwide savings and investments. Over the last years, it has been messy, with legal battles between investors and the Belastingdienst. If you have significant savings or an investment portfolio, you need to be preperared of the changes to your situation.
Every two weeks we release Around the grounds (Rondje langs de Velden in Dutch) with in our opinion the most interesting news facts, fun written articles and not to miss events in the Netherlands that help you stay on top of what's happening in the country you live. We hope you enjoy it. This is not written by AI so we apologize for any typos.
Amsterdam is one of the most multicultural cities in Europe, and every day Taalhuis welcomes students from diverse language backgrounds, including children! Taalhuis transforms the school into a language playground for families and young language enthusiasts for the Kindertaalcafe every two months.
Everyone in the Netherlands can change their health insurance between the 13th of November and the 31st of December. During this period, you can either switch to a different health insurance provider or modify your existing policy, such as adjusting your personal contribution (eigen bijdrage).
A little background info on this typical Dutch tradition. Growing up in the Netherlands, the day I most looked forward to was the day Sinterklaas would visit our house and bring a big brown bag filled with toys. Besides from the presents there would be poems reflecting the year you had as a child.
When you arrive in the Netherlands, one of the first things you will want is a working mobile phone with data. From navigating public transport to arranging housing and staying in touch with family abroad, having reliable internet from day one makes settling in much easier.
If you have lived in Amsterdam long enough, you have probably heard the phrase "the war of the bikes." Cycling is part of the city DNA, but it has not always been the smooth, organized system we know today. In fact, Amsterdam has gone through several phases of bike chaos and right now, a new version of that "war" is unfolding.
Amsterdam has approved a new plan that will require many internationals in the city to follow integration courses. The aim is to help newcomers feel more connected to the city, learn the language and take part in local life.
Holland Festival is an international festival for the performing arts. Every year, we offer theatre, dance, music, opera, and other multidisciplinary art forms from a myriad of cultures in various venues throughout Amsterdam from the 11th to the 29th of June in Amsterdam, and one show in Den Haag.
