Frequently Asked Questions

Legal

1. Do citizens from the USA and India require a Visa in order to be able to visit the Netherlands?

An American national may visit the Netherlands for a period of 3 months within a 6 month time frame without a visa. An Indian national does however require a visa to visit the Netherlands.

2. Are citizens from Romania and Bulgaria free to work in the Netherlands on the basis of their EU citizenship?

No, these nationals do require a work permit

3. What are the requirements in order to qualify as a Knowledge Migrant?

The base salary is the most important factor for obtaining a Knowledge Migrant status. This salary is defined by the Immigration Service annually and has two age categories.

4. What is the maximum duration of a Dutch Work/Residence Permit?

A Work/Residence Permit can be issued for a maximum of 5 years (there are possibilities to extend).

5. Which local formalities do I need to complete when arriving in the Netherlands?

In general a foreign national should register with the local authority, the Immigration Service and with the Tax Office.

Housing

1. What can I expect to pay for housing in the Netherlands?

The location and area will greatly influence the prices of properties. In Amsterdam prices are higher than more rural areas and towns. You can find lists of properties with rental prices from most estate agents on the Pararius website: www.pararius.nl.

2. Do contracts include utilities such as gas, water, electricity and telecommunications?

Some contracts are drawn up including utilities. In these cases you will pay a monthly fee which is an estimate based on previous utility use in the property. At the end of a year, the actual use is calculated and if you have paid more, you will be given a refund. If you have used more gas/water/electricity than anticipated, you will need to pay the difference.

3. Why is housing so expensive in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands is a densely populated country and housing can be scarce. Compared to other European countries, housing is not overly expensive. Try not to look for properties which are identical to your current home. Instead, try to think about what you really need and where you can compromise.

Tax

1. What is the 30% ruling?

The 30% reimbursement ruling (the 30% ruling) is a tax advantage for foreign employees working in the Netherlands. When the appropriate requirements are met, the employer is allowed to grant a tax free allowance amounting to 30% times 100 / 70 of the gross salary subject to Dutch payroll tax. This tax free allowance is considered as compensation for expenses a foreign employee has for working outside their home country.

2. How much tax will I pay?

In the Netherlands, you'll pay 30-52% income tax on your earnings.

3. How do I deal with social security payments?

Your employer will pay your social security contributions to the various social security agencies in the Netherlands. The part of the contribution paid by yourself will be deducted from your wage.Your employer can tell you the levels of contribution which apply to you.

Health insurance contributions are collected directly by the Sickness Insurance organisation with which you are registered.

1. What kind of schools can I find in the Netherlands?

There are both International schools and Dutch schools in the Netherlands.

Information about international education can be found at the Foundation for International Education in the Netherlands at: www.sio.nl

The Dutch Ministry for Education provides information in English about different school options on their web site at: www.minocw.nl/english.

2. How will my children be able to make friends?

International schools normally have very active networks. Children play with class mates and attend local groups or clubs with their friends.

For children attending Dutch schools, there will inevitably be a period of adjustment and learning. Children socialize in the Netherlands with school friends and neighbours. Be prepared to stimulate play dates with new friends and be creative in helping your children to adjust.

3. Are there English language play schools and child care centres?

The majority of child care centres and kindergartens or play schools will be Dutch language based. In some areas there are English language centres, usually run by local expat parents and self financing.

Pets

1. Does our pet need to go into quarantine on arrival in the Netherlands?

Pets do not need to go into quarantine on arrival in the Netherlands. They will however require the correct certificates and documents in order to be able to travel.

2. What do we need to do to prepare our pet for the move?

Check the official Customs web site for the latest regulations at: www.douane.nl. Select the English option and consult the FAQ section for private individuals.

Partners

1. Can I work in the Netherlands?

Partners of Knowledge Migrant workers are free to work in the netherlands and do not require a work permit. Other Non EU citizens (including Romania and Bulgaria) will require a work permit in order to work in the Netherlands.

2. Is it difficult to find a job?

It depends on the job you are looking for and the qualifications you have. Some sectors have more openings for non-Dutch speakers than others.

There are a number of recruitment agencies in the Netherlands who specialize in finding job opportunities for expatriates. Try the Undutchables at: www.undutchables.nl