MOVING TO NL

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NEW TO NL

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SETTLING IN NL

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Your Guide to Living, Working and Studying in the Netherlands

Recent XPat news

How to Learn to Speak Dutch: Top Tips and Tricks

Dutch is a West Germanic language, and the most common dialect spoken throughout The Netherlands. While plenty of individuals here are perfectly fluent in English, we need to remember that learning the basics is always a good idea if you are planning a visit in the near future. However, what if you happen to be … Continue reading "How to Learn to Speak Dutch: Top Tips and Tricks"

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The Holland Handbook 2026-2027

It is that time of year again; the new and annually-updated version of The Holland Handbook is here and ready to be enjoyed! Not only that, but this is the 26th edition! More than twenty five years ago, a modest group of three people sat around a table to discuss the possibility of creating a … Continue reading "The Holland Handbook 2026-2027"

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Preparing for the Inburgering A1 Exam

What Future Residents Should Know For many people planning a move to the Netherlands, the Inburgering A1 exam is one of the first important steps. If you need to take the basic civic integration exam abroad before joining your partner or starting a new life in the Netherlands, it helps to know exactly what to … Continue reading "Preparing for the Inburgering A1 Exam"

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Recent XPat posts

XPat.nl - The Information Platform for Expats in the Netherlands

XPAT.nl supplies English-language information on the Netherlands for anyone coming to live, work or study in the Low Countries.
The topics range from informative to lifestyle related: everything expats, their partners and international students need to know about Holland.
It is an ideal resource for soon to be expats planning their move and expats already in the Netherlands who need to make life decisions.
Our extensive network of writers, contributing consultants, journalists and editors allows us to offer expats in the Netherlands the high-quality, up-to-date information they need in order to make living, working and studying here as comfortable, effortless, and stress-free as possible.
Check the Business Directory for service providers in your region, essential checklists, useful references and tips, things to do in your free time in the Leisure Section, and much, much more…

XPat Topics

SOCIAL LIFE IN THE NETHERLANDS

Moving abroad is a lengthy and challenging undertaking! Once the more pressing matters have been taken care of, you can start to enjoy your social life in the Netherlands. To do this, it might be helpful to know more about Dutch traditions and social practices.

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Study

STUDYING IN THE NETHERLANDS

Does the idea of gliding between lectures on a bicycle sound romantic to you? Perhaps you should consider studying in the Netherlands. Before you decide to come, it is advisable to do some research on the rather unique Dutch education system. The articles in this section will take you through how it works, and advise you on the practical side of being a student in the Netherlands.

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Legal & Finance

DUTCH LEGAL & FINANCIAL MATTERS

You will inevitably have to deal with some Dutch legal and financial matters, now that you are living in the Netherlands. The articles on this page will explain what you might encounter, and take you through whatever action is required.

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HOUSING IN THE NETHERLANDS

Do you need a bit of help arranging your housing in the Netherlands? Whether your queries are related to finding the right real estate agent or the right rental agreement, the answers lie in this section.

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Healthcare

HEALTH CARE IN THE NETHERLANDS

Becoming unwell in an unfamiliar land can be frightening. You can rest assured, however, that healthcare in the Netherlands is of a very high standard. It is still sensible to read up on the Dutch healthcare system as soon as possible. That way, you will know exactly what to do if and when you need some medical attention in the Netherlands.

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kid 2

LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS WITH KIDS

One of your key concerns, when settling into a new country, may well be ensuring that your children adjust to their new environment. You can find information on both the practical and the fun side of living with kids in the Netherlands on Xpat.nl.

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LEISURE TIME

As an expatriate settling into life in the Netherlands, you are spoilt for choice over what to do in your leisure time. Culture vultures, nature lovers and lively families alike, are catered for here.

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Aerial from junction Muiderberg with the A1 in the Netherlands at sunset

GETTING AROUND IN THE NETHERLANDS

There are so many means of getting around in the Netherlands! Whether you’re looking to make your daily commute as efficient as possible, or you’re planning a tour of the entire country, there is a mode of transport to suit you in Holland.

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WORKING IN THE NETHERLANDS

Working in the Netherlands could be very different to working in your home country. Is the nature of ‘The Dutch Employment Market’ new perplexing to you? Fear not. The articles below will help you learn about the ins and outs of Dutch contracts, social security, insurance and working hours.

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