Name: NLCompass
Address: Netherlands, NL
Price range: Free

Question 1

Can ZZP (sole proprietorship) freelancers get the 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

No, ZZP/eenmanszaak structures are not eligible. Only employees qualify for 30% ruling, requiring BV setup with director employment. The freelancer must establish a Dutch BV and employ themselves as director to access 30% ruling benefits. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 2

What happens if my freelance income is below €67,000?

Accepted Answer

You can still get partial 30% ruling benefit with the minimum €46,660 salary, but tax savings are minimal. The 30% ruling only applies to salary amounts above €46,660, making €67,000 the practical minimum for meaningful tax reduction and full benefit. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Calculator.

Question 3

Can I transition from employee 30% ruling to freelancer BV?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you currently have 30% ruling from employment, you can establish a BV and maintain the ruling without the abroad recruitment requirement. This is often the easiest path for existing 30% ruling holders who want to freelance. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 4

How long does BV + 30% ruling setup take?

Accepted Answer

Complete process takes 3-6 months. BV incorporation takes 2-4 weeks, while 30% ruling application processing takes 2-6 months after submission. Start the process well before you plan to begin freelancing through the BV structure. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 5

What are ongoing costs for BV + 30% ruling structure?

Accepted Answer

Annual costs range €1,500-3,000 including accounting, compliance, tax filing, and ongoing advisory services. This includes monthly bookkeeping, payroll processing, annual tax returns, and professional advisory support for maintaining the structure. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 6

Can I have international clients with BV + 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the BV can invoice clients worldwide. This is a major advantage of the BV structure for international freelancers, allowing global business operations while accessing Dutch 30% ruling tax benefits through proper employment structure. Learn more in our 30% Ruling for Freelancers Guide.

Question 7

What is the 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

A tax benefit allowing highly skilled migrants recruited from abroad to receive 30% of their income tax-free for up to 5 years (as of 2025). Criteria regularly change. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 8

Who qualifies for the 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

You must be hired outside the Netherlands, meet minimum salary thresholds, and have special skills. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 9

Can I get the ruling after coming on a partner visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you can prove you lived and worked mainly abroad prior to employment in NL and meet other requirements. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 10

If I change jobs, do I keep the ruling?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if the new employer is a recognized sponsor, and the transition between jobs is less than 3 months. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 11

Can I visit NL for interviews before being officially hired?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Short visits for interviews do not affect eligibility. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 12

Are there other perks to the 30% ruling?

Accepted Answer

Yes-facilitated Dutch driver's license exchange, potential tax-exempt reimbursements, and sometimes dual residency tax advantages. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide and Driver's License Exchange Guide.

Question 13

What are the three main BSN registration paths in Amsterdam?

Accepted Answer

Amsterdam offers three paths: 1) Student Registration Days (immediate BSN for international students), 2) IN Amsterdam (premium expat center for highly skilled migrants), and 3) Regular Stadsloket offices (7 locations citywide with standard processing). Learn more in our BSN Registration Amsterdam Guide.

Question 14

How do I register for Amsterdam student registration days?

Accepted Answer

International students can register for special student days through Amsterdam Municipality website. These sessions run from August to September and provide immediate BSN issuance. Location is typically at Stadsloket West (Bos en Lommerplein). Learn more in our BSN Registration Amsterdam Guide.

Question 15

What is IN Amsterdam and who can use it?

Accepted Answer

IN Amsterdam is the premium expat center for highly skilled migrants and their families. It offers same-week appointments, multilingual support, and streamlined services. You must be registered as a highly skilled migrant to access these services. Learn more in our BSN Registration Amsterdam Guide.

Question 16

Which Amsterdam Stadsloket location should I choose?

Accepted Answer

Amsterdam has 7 Stadsloket locations: Centrum, Oost, West, Noord, Zuid, Nieuw-West, and Zuidoost. Choose the one closest to your address or with earliest availability. All provide the same BSN registration services. Learn more in our BSN Registration Amsterdam Guide.

Question 17

How long does Amsterdam BSN registration take?

Accepted Answer

Student registration days provide immediate BSN issuance. IN Amsterdam offers same-week appointments with quick processing. Regular Stadsloket appointments may take 2-4 weeks to schedule and BSN is typically issued within 5-10 business days. Learn more in our BSN Registration Amsterdam Guide.

Question 18

What makes BSN registration in The Hague different from other cities?

Accepted Answer

The Hague offers specialized international registration services through The Hague International Centre, with multi-language support (Dutch, English, French) and priority services for diplomatic and international organization staff. The city has dedicated services for its 60,000+ international residents. Learn more in our BSN Registration The Hague Guide.

Question 19

How long does it take to get a BSN appointment in The Hague?

Accepted Answer

Average wait time is 3-5 weeks, but The Hague International Centre often has better availability for international community members. Diplomatic staff and international organization employees may access expedited services. Learn more in our BSN Registration The Hague Guide.

Question 20

What documents do I need for BSN registration in The Hague?

Accepted Answer

Essential documents include valid passport/EU ID, proof of address in The Hague, and birth certificate (apostilled if not in Dutch/English/French/German). Non-EU citizens need residence permit/MVV visa. Diplomatic staff need additional diplomatic ID and assignment documentation. Learn more in our BSN Registration The Hague Guide.

Question 21

Can I get emergency BSN registration in The Hague?

Accepted Answer

Yes, The Hague offers expedited services for diplomatic staff (24-48 hours), international organization employees (same-week), and medical emergency cases. Contact The Hague International Centre directly for urgent situations. Learn more in our BSN Registration The Hague Guide.

Question 22

Can I use Rotterdam Expat Centre if I'm staying less than 4 months?

Accepted Answer

No, Rotterdam Expat Centre is for stays 4+ months. Use RNI (non-resident) registration at Rotterdam municipality for shorter stays. Learn more in our BSN Registration Rotterdam Guide.

Question 23

What if I live in Schiedam or Capelle - can I register in Rotterdam?

Accepted Answer

If you live in Schiedam or Capelle aan den IJssel, check specific municipality requirements. Some areas coordinate with Rotterdam Expat Centre. Learn more in our BSN Registration Rotterdam Guide.

Question 24

Do I need to speak Dutch for Rotterdam BSN registration?

Accepted Answer

Rotterdam Expat Centre provides English-speaking services. Standard Rotterdam municipality primarily uses Dutch with limited English support. Learn more in our BSN Registration Rotterdam Guide.

Question 25

How long does Rotterdam BSN registration take?

Accepted Answer

Rotterdam Expat Centre: Same-day BSN issuance. Standard municipality: Immediate BSN or within 1 week depending on appointment type. Learn more in our BSN Registration Rotterdam Guide.

Question 26

Can my employer handle my Rotterdam BSN registration?

Accepted Answer

Employers can coordinate appointments and provide information to Rotterdam Expat Centre, but you must attend in person for registration. Learn more in our BSN Registration Rotterdam Guide.

Question 27

What is a BSN and why do I need it?

Accepted Answer

BSN (Burgerservicenummer) is the Dutch citizen service number. You need it for work, health insurance, opening a bank account, signing rental contracts, accessing government services, receiving benefits, and using digital IDs. Without it, functioning in Dutch society is impossible. Learn more in our BSN Registration Guide.

Question 28

How do I get a BSN?

Accepted Answer

Upon registering at your municipality (gemeente) after arriving and having a Dutch address. Book the appointment online. Bring your passport, proof of address, and residence permit if non-EU. You will typically receive the BSN immediately or by post within 1-2 weeks. Learn more in our BSN Registration Guide.

Question 29

Can I get a BSN before moving?

Accepted Answer

No; you must be physically present, with a Dutch address and booked appointment. Learn more in our BSN Registration Guide.

Question 30

What if I lose my BSN?

Accepted Answer

Your BSN is permanent. If you lose documentation, request it from your municipality or find it on your Dutch tax, insurance, or municipality records. Learn more in our BSN, DigiD & Tax Forms Guide.

Question 31

Do I need a new BSN if I change cities?

Accepted Answer

BSN is for life; only your address is updated at your new gemeente, which may be done online or in person. Learn more in our BSN Registration Guide.

Question 32

What is an RNI number?

Accepted Answer

For non-residents staying under 4 months-RNI is a partial BSN registration, which upgrades to a full BSN if you take up longer residence. Learn more in our BSN Registration Guide.

Question 33

What is the best Dutch bank for expats in 2025?

Accepted Answer

ING Bank is considered the best overall choice for expats due to excellent English support, fastest account opening (20 minutes), largest branch network, and established expat infrastructure. For digital-first expats, bunq offers premium features like no BSN requirement initially and high savings interest rates (2.01% EUR). Learn more in our Dutch Banking Comparison Guide.

Question 34

Can I open a Dutch bank account without a BSN number?

Accepted Answer

Yes! ABN AMRO offers a 90-day grace period to provide your BSN, and bunq allows account opening without BSN initially. N26 (German bank) never requires BSN. However, most traditional Dutch banks like ING and Rabobank require BSN immediately. Learn more in our Banking & Money Tips Guide.

Question 35

Which Dutch banks offer full English language support?

Accepted Answer

ING, ABN AMRO, bunq, and N26 offer excellent English support including websites, mobile apps, and customer service. Rabobank has limited English support, while ASN Bank and SNS Bank are Dutch-only. Digital banks generally provide the best multilingual experience. Learn more in our Dutch Banking Comparison Guide.

Question 36

What are the monthly costs for Dutch banking as an expat?

Accepted Answer

Monthly fees range from €0 (bunq Free, N26 Standard) to €1.88 (ING). ABN AMRO and Rabobank cost €1.55/month. Premium digital accounts cost €3.99-17.99/month but offer advanced features like high interest rates and international banking benefits. Learn more in our Dutch Banking Comparison Guide.

Question 37

Should I choose a traditional or digital bank in the Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

Traditional banks (ING, ABN AMRO) offer branch networks and established expat services, ideal for first-time expats needing guidance. Digital banks (bunq, N26) offer innovative features, better international support, and higher interest rates, perfect for tech-savvy expats and professionals. Learn more in our Dutch Banking Comparison Guide.

Question 38

Which banks are best for expats?

Accepted Answer

ABN AMRO (expat-friendly, good English support), ING, Bunq (digital, easy/no initial BSN), Rabobank (outside cities). Learn more in our Banking & Money Tips Guide.

Question 39

What documents do I need to open a bank account?

Accepted Answer

Passport, BSN or appointment confirmation, Dutch address, and (for non-EU) residence permit. Some banks may ask for employment contract. Learn more in our Banking & Money Tips Guide.

Question 40

Are there monthly fees?

Accepted Answer

Yes (€2-5/month for standard current account, extra for credit cards). Learn more in our Dutch Banking Comparison Guide.

Question 41

What is iDEAL?

Accepted Answer

The standard Dutch payment system linked to your bank account, essential for online purchases, public transport, and utility payment. Learn more in our Banking & Money Tips Guide.

Question 42

What is the 30% tax ruling in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

The 30% tax ruling allows eligible expat employees to receive 30% of their salary tax-free to cover extra costs of working abroad. This significantly reduces your taxable income and increases your take-home pay. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Calculator.

Question 43

How long does the 30% tax ruling last?

Accepted Answer

The 30% tax ruling is valid for a maximum of 5 years from when you become a Dutch tax resident. You cannot extend this period, and it applies to all your employment in the Netherlands. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Guide.

Question 44

How much can I save with the 30% tax ruling?

Accepted Answer

Savings vary based on salary, but typical savings range from €8,000-€15,000 annually. Higher salaries see greater absolute savings due to the progressive tax system in Netherlands. Learn more in our 30% Ruling Calculator.

Question 45

What percentage of income should I spend on housing in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

The general rule is maximum 25-30% of gross income for rent, and maximum 4.5x annual salary for mortgage. With 30% ruling, your affordability increases significantly. Learn more in our Housing Affordability Calculator.

Question 46

How does the 30% ruling affect housing affordability?

Accepted Answer

The 30% ruling increases your effective income by 30%, significantly improving your housing affordability for both rental and mortgage applications. Learn more in our Housing Affordability Calculator.

Question 47

How much do international schools cost in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

International schools in Netherlands cost €10,000-€25,000 per year for tuition, plus extras like registration fees (€500-€1,000), books (€200-€500), and uniforms (€150-€300). European schools are cheaper at €5,000-€12,000/year. Learn more in our Family Guide.

Question 48

What childcare subsidies can expat families get?

Accepted Answer

Expat families can receive kinderopvangtoeslag (childcare allowance) covering 33%-96% of childcare costs based on income. Apply through Belastingdienst within first month. Childcare costs €8-€12/hour (€200-€1,200/month full-time). Learn more in our Family Guide.

Question 49

How much is kinderbijslag child benefit in Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

Kinderbijslag pays €231-€320 per child per quarter. Additional kindgebonden budget provides €100-€700/month based on income. Apply via SVB.nl after municipal registration with BSN. Learn more in our Family Guide.

Question 50

Can expat children attend Dutch public schools for free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Dutch public schools are free for all children including expats, with only small voluntary contributions (€50-€200/year). International preparation classes (IKC) available for non-Dutch speakers. Learn more in our Family Guide.

Question 51

Is health insurance mandatory for all expats in Netherlands 2026?

Accepted Answer

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all residents including expats. You must register within 4 months of arrival or face fines up to €1,584 (2026 rates). No exceptions for existing foreign insurance. Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Question 52

How much is the CAK fine for late health insurance registration in 2026?

Accepted Answer

First fine: €528, second fine: €528, third fine: €528 (total €1,584). After third fine, CAK automatically enrolls you in expensive government insurance. Register immediately to avoid these costs. Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Question 53

What is the maximum zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance) in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Maximum zorgtoeslag in 2026 is €132 per month (€1,584 annually) for individuals earning €23,500 or less. Couples can receive up to €264 monthly combined. Apply at toeslagen.nl immediately after getting insurance. Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Question 54

Which health insurance is cheapest for expats in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Basic premiums range €118-158/month. Budget options: Zorg en Zekerheid (€118), VGZ (€122), DSW (€124). Consider total costs including deductible (€385) and supplements when choosing. Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Question 55

What happens if I miss the 4-month deadline for health insurance?

Accepted Answer

You face immediate fines and must pay premiums retroactively from your arrival date. Total cost can exceed €2,000 for late registration. Register immediately to minimize penalties. Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Question 56

How do I apply for zorgtoeslag healthcare allowance in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Apply online at toeslagen.nl after obtaining Dutch health insurance. You need BSN, insurance policy details, and income information. Application takes 8-13 weeks to process, payments are retroactive. Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Question 57

Which health insurance providers offer best English support for expats?

Accepted Answer

Top expat-friendly insurers: CZ (dedicated expat helpline), Zilveren Kruis International (24/7 multilingual support), VGZ (comprehensive online tools), OHRA (corporate packages). Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Question 58

Is health insurance required?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Register within 4 months of moving (immediately after BSN). Back-pay and fines if you don't. Only exceptions: diplomats, certain short-stay students, posted workers. Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Question 59

What does basic insurance cost and cover?

Accepted Answer

Around €120-150/month plus €385 annual deductible. Covers GP, prescription medication, hospital and specialist care (with referral), and limited mental health. Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Question 60

How do I choose an insurer?

Accepted Answer

Compare on independer.nl or zorgwijzer.nl. Major expat-friendly insurers: CZ, Zilveren Kruis, and ONVZ for English-language support. Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Question 61

Can I see a doctor in English?

Accepted Answer

Most urban GPs and many hospitals have English-speaking staff. Always ask for English if needed; bring a translator for smaller towns. Learn more in our Healthcare Guide.

Question 62

What about pre-existing conditions?

Accepted Answer

Insurers cannot deny coverage or charge more due to pre-existing conditions. All residents are guaranteed acceptance. Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Question 63

What if I have trouble accessing care?

Accepted Answer

Wait times for specialists can be long (months). Bring medical records, be proactive, and request referrals from your GP ASAP. Learn more in our Healthcare Providers Directory.

Question 64

What is zorgtoeslag?

Accepted Answer

A government health insurance allowance for low-to-mid-income residents. Apply on the Belastingdienst website via DigiD. Learn more in our Health Insurance Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions