Expat Guides & Resources for Living in the Netherlands
Your comprehensive library for navigating Dutch life
Welcome to the NLCompass Guides section , your one-stop library of in-depth information for navigating life in the Netherlands. We know that moving to a new country comes with a lot of questions. That's why our team of experts (and expats who've been there, done that) have created a range of guides and articles to help you settle in and thrive. Whether you're curious about how Dutch taxes work, want to understand the local culture, or need clarity on work permits, we've got you covered. Below, you can explore our guides by topic. Click on any guide to read the full article and become an informed Netherlands expert!
Working & Work Permits
Navigate visas, permits, and Dutch workplace culture
Work Permits & Visas
Comprehensive breakdowns of permit types , highly skilled migrant visas, the orientation year (zoekjaar) permit for graduates, EU Blue Card, and entrepreneur visas.
Working Culture
What's it like in a Dutch office? Think flat hierarchies and 9-to-5 punctuality. Dutch business etiquette and direct feedback style.
Employee Rights & Contracts
Overview of Dutch labor laws , probation periods, notice rights, vacation days, sick leave, and what to expect in your contract.
Related: Don't forget our Legal Services directory for professional advice on work permits or contracts.
Taxes & Finances
Dutch tax system, 30% ruling, and financial planning
Income Tax & the 30% Ruling
A guide to the Dutch income tax system for expats. Tax brackets, filing dates, and the beloved 30% ruling , a tax break where 30% of your salary can be tax-free.
BSN, DigiD & Tax Forms
How to use your BSN and DigiD to manage taxes. Annual tax return (aangifte) process and common deductions for internationals.
Banking & Money Tips
Choosing a bank, using payment apps like Tikkie, sending money abroad, and understanding Dutch pensions and insurance policies.
Related: Check our Government Services page for basics on DigiD and BSN.
Dutch Culture & Lifestyle
Understand Dutch customs and integrate successfully
Dutch Customs & Etiquette
Social norms in the Netherlands. Why do colleagues eat sandwiches for lunch? Should you kiss on the cheek or shake hands? Dutch directness explained.
Language and Integration
Tips on learning Dutch and integration courses. Civic integration (inburgering) requirements and resources for language practice.
Social Life & Making Friends
Building your network, joining sports clubs, hobby groups, and understanding Dutch celebrations like King's Day and Sinterklaas.
Related: See the Interactive Checklist for cultural integration steps.
Getting Around: Transport Guide
Master Dutch public transport and cycling
Public Transport 101
All about the OV-chipkaart system for trains, trams, buses, and metro. Personal vs anonymous cards, top-up methods, and NS train app guide.
Cycling in the Netherlands
Ready to bike like a local? Where to buy a bicycle, road rules for cyclists, bike safety tips, and taking bikes on trains.
Driving & License Exchange
Dutch road rules, parking systems, and exchanging your foreign driver's license. Which countries can swap directly vs. requiring a test.
Related: The train system can whisk you between cities quickly , only about 35 minutes from Amsterdam to Utrecht by intercity train.
Housing & Home Life
Find and settle into your Dutch home
Renting vs. Buying
Pros and cons of each, and the home-buying process for expats. Mortgages, property taxes, and finding English-speaking real estate agents.
Utilities & Bills Explained
Understanding your energy bill, annual reconciliation, local taxes (garbage, water board), and setting up internet/TV packages.
Settling into Your Neighborhood
Meeting neighbors, Dutch recycling rules, registering for parking permits, and finding local markets for fresh stroopwafels.
Related: Visit our Housing section for practical housing search tips.
Keep Learning and Growing
The above is just a snapshot. We regularly update our Guides with new topics and the latest info (tax rates for 2025, anyone?). Be sure to check back often, and feel free to reach out if there's a topic you'd love to see covered. Meanwhile, use the internal links , like hopping over to our Housing section or reading the latest expat news on our blog , to keep learning. Knowledge is power, and we want you to feel at home here in the Netherlands. Happy reading!
Government Services
BSN, DigiD, and official procedures
Healthcare
Health insurance and medical services
Legal Services
Immigration lawyers and legal help
Housing
Find rentals and accommodation