Bert van Essen, Author at XPAT.NL

Be prepared for the Dutch housing market

Buying a house in the Netherlands may work a bit differently to what you are used to. There are different rules and laws, different types of mortgage and financing, etc. Read the tips and be prepared for when you begin your search.

Hiring an estate agent: good idea or not?

Hiring estate agents costs money, of course, but they can also save you money. How? Local estate agents are experts in the housing market. They are the first to know when new homes come up for sale. And they know a lot about the neighbourhood – for example, whether there are sufficient amenities close by. An estate agent can also advise you on whether to carry out a building inspection. A building inspection will give you information on the condition of a house. If your house turns out to have hidden defects, you can renegotiate the price or even cancel the purchase without incurring a penalty.

So is hiring an estate agent a good idea or not? It is certainly something worth considering.

Mortgage and market value of your home

Tip
We at ABN AMRO regularly organise free online seminars especially for expats about buying a house in the Netherlands. During these seminars, we will take you through the entire process from start to finish.

When you go house hunting, you naturally want to know what kind of mortgage you can get. That mainly depends on your personal situation. This will include factors such as your financial income, whether you have outstanding loans, and your residence status. And if you intend to make your house more sustainable, there are additional regulations.

It is also important for you to know that in the Netherlands, it is possible to get a mortgage for up to 100% of the market value. And if you intend to make the house more sustainable, you can even get up to 106%. That is more generous than in some of the countries around us. But please note: the amount of a mortgage is based on the market value of a house. That is not the same as the asking price nor the price you may ultimately agree to pay.

How does that work exactly? If the homeowner selling the house accepts your offer, a valuation report will follow. This will state the market value. This figure may be lower than the asking price and lower than your offer. For example, say that the market value is €600,000, the asking price €610,000 and your offer €620,000. You can then only get a mortgage for a maximum of €600,000. You must therefore be able to pay the remaining €20,000 yourself.

As you can see, there is a lot involved when determining a mortgage. Therefore, a good place to start is to meet with a mortgage advisor who specialises in helping expats. They can give you all the information you need.

Tax breaks when buying a home

If you have bought a house in the Netherlands, you can benefit from tax breaks in two ways: once by deducting certain ‘additional costs’ and annually through the ‘mortgage interest deduction’. Here is a brief explanation.

If you buy your own house, you are not only paying the purchase price of the house. There are many other costs that you have to cover. Fortunately, you can deduct some of these additional costs in a one-time tax deduction. This includes costs that you incurred to get the mortgage, such as valuation and advisory costs. Any notary costs you directly incurred for the mortgage are also tax deductible. So if you are filing a tax return for the year that you bought your house, do not forget to declare these costs.

In the Netherlands, you can also use the mortgage interest deduction (in Dutch: hypotheekrenteaftrek). This basically means that the interest on your own house is tax deductible, even for expats. This of course means that you pay less tax. However, there are several regulations surrounding this tax deduction, so be sure to be well informed when claiming for it.

About ABN AMRO

With over 25 years of experience, we are the experts for expats in the Netherlands. And we are happy to share our knowledge and expertise about the housing market, mortgages, regulations, etc. with you. Our English-speaking mortgage advisors will take you step by step through the process of buying a house in the Netherlands.

Check our special webpage for more information on mortgages for expats in the Netherlands and try our mortgage calculator.

Home care in the Netherlands: how does it work?

Living in the Netherlands as an expat is exciting, but also comes with challenges. There’s a lot of new things you need to figure out: learning the Dutch language, all the traffic rules (and riding a bike) and how the healthcare system works. If you have an older relative that is moving to the Netherlands with you, healthcare and specifically home care are important to dive into. In this article, we’ll explain a bit more about the Dutch healthcare system and what to do if you or one of your family members is in need of home care.

Arranging a health insurance

The Dutch healthcare system is known for its efficiency and quality. In the Netherlands, it’s mandatory to have health insurance. Because of this, it’s important to take out health insurance within the first four months of moving to The Netherlands. Your health insurance will then be active from the start date of your employment.

Regular and private home care services

Home care services ( ‘thuiszorg’ in Dutch) are part of the Dutch healthcare system and are usually well-organized. As an expat, applying for home care services for yourself or one of your family members might seem confusing. It’s important to understand your options and how you access them.

In The Netherlands, regular home care services are part of the basic health insurance and will be reimbursed by your health insurance. However, you will need an indication by a community nurse for this type of home care. If you don’t have this or want more extensive home care than the community nurse advised for you, you can also request private home care. This is not covered by your health insurance.

Another reason you might want to choose for private home care is the long waiting lists for nursing homes. Private home care generally doesn’t have waiting lists, so you can quickly get a nurse or care worker to visit your home.

Types of home care

You can get home care in The Netherlands for several reasons. Examples are dementia, Parkinson’s disease, palliative care or when you’re temporarily injured after an accident or can’t take care of yourself after an operation.

In case of private home care, you can choose how much home care you wish to receive. For example, you can choose 5 hour care, 24 hour care at home or night care. This way you know you are well taken care of and you get the help you need.

Home care for expats

If you or a family member are in need of help, it is possible to request home care in the Netherlands. There are many healthcare companies that offer this type of help. Do you prefer an English-speaking nurse? Make sure to contact a company beforehand to see if this is possible. This way, you can explain your physical complaints and ask for help in a language you’re more comfortable with.

Tip
Want to know more about health insurance in the Netherlands?
Check this post on XPat.nl

Mortgage Interest Rates in the Netherlands in 2024

Rising mortgage interest rates can have a significant impact on homebuyers and homeowners. The average interest rate for a fixed-rate mortgage in the Netherlands is currently around 4%. As interest rates increase, the cost of borrowing money to purchase or refinance a home also increases. This can make it more difficult for potential homebuyers to qualify for a mortgage, and it can also make it more expensive for current homeowners to refinance their existing mortgages. Additionally, as interest rates rise, the monthly mortgage payments also increase, which can put a strain on a homeowner’s budget. It’s important for individuals to stay informed about interest rate trends and to speak with a mortgage advisor to understand how rising interest rates may impact their specific situation.

Hanno provides a complete and independent overview of all the mortgage interest rates in the Netherlands.

Hanno is a Dutch mortgage advisor who has been helping homeowners and potential homebuyers navigate the complex world of mortgage interest rates in the Netherlands. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the Dutch housing market, Hanno is the perfect choice for anyone looking to secure the best possible deal on their mortgage.

Mortgage Calculator for the Dutch market

Mortgage calculators are a useful tool for homebuyers and homeowners to estimate the costs associated with a mortgage. These online tools allow expats to input information such as the loan amount, interest rate, and loan term, and they then calculate the estimated monthly mortgage payment, as well as other costs such as interest and closing costs. This can help you to better understand the financial implications of a mortgage and to compare different loan options. Some mortgage calculators also include additional features such as the ability to estimate property taxes and insurance, and to factor in extra payments to pay off the loan faster.

Using Hanno’s mortgage calculator can be a helpful first step in the mortgage process, as it allows individuals to get a rough idea of what they can afford and to make informed decisions about their home financing options.

Hanno is an independent advisor for Expat Mortgages

One of the main reasons to choose Hanno as your mortgage advisor is their commitment to finding the best interest rates for his clients. The Netherlands is known for its high housing prices, and getting a good deal on your mortgage can mean the difference between a comfortable and a financially stressful home ownership. Hanno takes the time to understand your specific needs and financial situation, and uses this information to negotiate with banks and other lenders on your behalf.

Another advantage of working with Hanno is their knowledge of the various types of mortgages available in the Netherlands. From fixed-rate mortgages to adjustable-rate mortgages and everything in between, Hanno has the expertise to help you choose the right type of mortgage for your needs. Hanno will explain the pros and cons of each option and help you make an informed decision.

In conclusion, if you’re looking to buy a home or refinance your existing mortgage in the Netherlands, Hanno is the mortgage advisor you can trust. Their deep knowledge of the Dutch housing market, commitment to finding the best interest rates for his clients, and excellent customer service make Hanno the perfect choice for anyone looking to secure a great deal on their mortgage. Don’t hesitate, contact Hanno today and let them guide you through the mortgage process with ease.
They also offer a free webinar on How to buy a house in the Netherlands.
You can register here.

The Holland Handbook 2024

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 24th edition!

More than twenty years ago, a modest group of three people sat around a table to discuss the possibility of creating a handbook for expats coming to live here. Those were different times; the types of expats, the budget they had, the amount of time they spent here and the family members they brought with them have changed over time.

Over the past two decades, it has been updated completely every year, with easy-to-read and entertaining infographics and fresh photographs, while it has, of course, retained its familiar feel and trusted format. As always, The Holland Handbook has been expanded upon to reflect the latest political developments in the country, while it also includes topics that have gained in importance and relevance since the book first appeared, adapting to the new generation of foreign nationals, immigrants and students who have come to the Netherlands – either for a few months or for a longer period of time.

The Holland Handbook offers a wealth of information to those who have just moved here – or are preparing for their move here – on issues such as permits, bank accounts, international schools, universities, job-searching, employment law, the citizen service number (burgerservicenummer), finding a place to live, and insurances. However, The Holland Handbook goes beyond covering the very first steps you will be taking towards starting a life in the Netherlands; it also prepares you for what comes next, such as learning the language, getting to know your Dutch neighbors, celebrating life’s milestones and holidays the Dutch way, as well as perhaps more impactful issues, such as the health care system, the education system – ranging from pre-kindergarten to obtaining a Ph.D. – public transportation, legal problems, things to do in your free time, importing your car, having a baby, and much, much more.

Starting from the front to the back cover, it is a joy to behold; chock-a-block with beautiful photographs, it will enthuse you for all there is to see in the Netherlands, as well as remind you, once your career or other life developments have taken you to another country, of all the beautiful things that Holland had to offer while you were here. And last but not least, it will serve as a written and photographed source of information for your family and friends who would like to know what it is – or was – like for you to live here.

Useful links
www.hollandhandbook.nl

HOW TO ORDER THE HOLLAND HANDBOOK

PREVIEW

Download The Holland Handbook folder

The UnDutchables 9.0

Following the legendary previous 8 editions of The UnDutchables, the 9th edition of this all time best seller (more than 300,000 copies sold since 1999) is now available in the Netherlands.

The UnDutchables takes an in-depth humorous look at Dutch life, quirks and character. With subjects varying from coffee drinking habits to child rearing, from bargain hunting to food, and from train travel to the Dutch ‘water closet’, it is considered by many foreigners and expats to be a survival guide for living in the Netherlands. This book also includes tips on learning the Dutch language, including appendices on Dutch idioms, expressions, and homonyms.

The 9.0 edition has undergone a thorough editorial revision to catch up with the major developments of Dutch society since the previous edition appeared 6 years ago. This edition has been updated with new illustrations and photos, for a fresh and contemporary look.
Take a peak inside here

Read the interview with the authors on DutchNews

Authors: Colin White & Laurie Boucke
Illustrations: Joke Schat
Cover design: Huug Schipper, Studio Tint
292 pages
Size: 136 mm w x 210 mm H
Paperback / softback
Language: English
Price Europe: € 18.95
Publication date: 1 Nov. 2023
ISBN/EAN: 9789463192965
NUR-code: 740

Useful links
For more info: www.undutchables.com

Available in major bookstores and webshops such as: www.hollandbooks.nl

This is your checklist for moving to the Netherlands

Hello there, future Dutchie! Do you plan to move to Amsterdam or somewhere else in our beautiful country to work or live there? And are you going to stay for more than 90 days? Then you are in the right place! Because when you move to the Netherlands, there are some things you need to take care of beforehand. Luckily for you, we have put together a handy guide to help you with your move to the Netherlands. Together with us, your move to the Netherlands will happen smoothly.

Before you leave

Before you pack your bags and get ready for your Dutch adventure, there are a few things you need to arrange. First of all, you need to check whether you (and possibly your partner or child) need a visa and/or residence permit. Also, make sure you are allowed to work in the Netherlands. Start your integration – don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds! Ensure your passport or ID card is still valid, and check whether your foreign driving licence is valid in the Netherlands. Arrange a place to live and/or a correspondence address. Prepare your child for the Dutch education system and arrange the import of your household goods. Finally, make an appointment to register with the municipality.

Checklist:

Check whether you require a visa and/or residence permit.
Make sure you are allowed to work in the Netherlands.
Start your integration.
Ensure your passport or ID card is still valid.
Check whether your foreign driving licence is valid in the Netherlands.
Arrange a place to live and/or a correspondence address.
Prepare your child for the Dutch education system.
Arrange the import of your household goods.
Make an appointment to register with the municipality.

Moving to the Netherlands

Moving can be a challenge, especially when it comes to an international move. But don’t worry, we have a few tips to make the process smoother. First of all, start planning early. Make a checklist of everything you need to do and stick to a schedule. This will help you stay organised and ensure you don’t forget anything.

It’s also important to decide what you want to bring to the Netherlands. Remember that the cost of shipping goods can be high, so it might be worthwhile to sell or give away some things before you leave. Make sure you have all the necessary documents for the import of your household goods as well.

Once you’re in the Netherlands, you’ll find that houses here may be different from what you’re used to. Many Dutch houses are narrow and have steep stairs, so keep this in mind when packing. It might be useful to hire a professional moving company to help you move large or heavy items.

Finally, don’t forget to notify all relevant agencies of your new address, such as your bank, insurance company, and of course the municipality. Welcome to your new Dutch home!

Checklist:

Start planning early and make a checklist of everything you need to do.
Decide what you want to bring to the Netherlands. Sell or give away what you don’t need.
Make sure you have all the necessary documents for the import of your household goods.
Consider the characteristics of Dutch houses when packing. Consider hiring a professional moving company for large or heavy items.
Notify all relevant agencies of your new address, such as your bank, insurance company, and the municipality..

Arrival in the Netherlands

Congratulations, you are in the Netherlands! This is a big step.here are a few important things you need to arrange as soon as you arrive. First of all, make sure you register with the municipality where you are going to live. This is an essential step to be officially recognized as a resident. Then, it’s time to apply for and activate your DigiD. Your DigiD is your digital identity for the government, giving you access to many government services online. It’s essential to arrange this as soon as possible.

Also register for MijnOverheid, an online platform where you have access to your government email, can update your personal details and arrange important matters. Another essential step is to take out health insurance. In the Netherlands, it is mandatory to have basic health insurance, so make sure you arrange this as soon as you arrive.

Checklist:

Register with the municipality.
Apply for a DigiD and activate it.
Register for MijnOverheid.
Take out health insurance.

Things to arrange later

Now that you have settled in the Netherlands, there are still a few things you need to arrange. First, open a Dutch bank account. This will make it easier to manage your finances, receive your salary, and pay bills. If you plan to work, study, or do an internship, you can’t go without your Dutch bank account.

Make sure you arrange your healthcare providers and get any vaccinations you might need. The Dutch healthcare system is excellent, so you can trust that you will receive good care. It’s also important to file your tax return. In the Netherlands, tax returns are usually filed in the spring, but it’s a good idea to prepare for this as soon as possible.

Checklist:

Open a Dutch bank account.
Find work, start studying, or do an internship.
Arrange your healthcare providers and vaccinations.
File your tax return.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you with a smooth integration into the country! Welcome to the Netherlands, we can’t wait to meet you!

Making the most of your Dutch home

Whether you are renting, staying in a long-term AirBNB or have just bought a house in the Netherlands, making any space a home where you feel comfy and cosy is an enjoyable project. We have compiled some helpful tips to help you turn any type of accommodation into a true home.

Naming your home

If you own a home, naming your home and having a personalised sign made for your home is a wonderful way to make your house a home. In the Netherlands, you can order such signs at a shoe repair shop, where samples will be on display. You will also be able to order these via specialised shops or places like Etsy. If you are renting, you could opt for a removable sign to hang on your door. If you have the possibility to choose your own doorbell, go for a sound you totally love, perhaps even your favorite music.

Keeping warm and keeping cool

If you are renting of have bought a historic Dutch home, your home may have single glazing. For historic properties, there are guidelines in places as to what the options are when it comes to replacing glazing to make your home a warmer place. If you find yourself in a single-glazed property, thick curtains and radiator foil will help to keep the heat inside. If you own a home, check with your local council to see what subsidies and schemes are currently available to further insulate your home and make it more sustainable. You could also ask for advice at a Dutch DIY store such as Gamma, Praxis or Hornbach or become a member of the Dutch home owners association (Vereniging Eigen Huis).

Due to climate change, the Netherlands too is facing more and more heatwaves in the Summer months. Specialised interior stores can help you with made-to-measure sun blocking shutters and curtains but if you are on a budget, keeping the curtains closed and pinning white bed sheets onto the inside of your curtains on hot days is another way to keep your home cool. You can also find more affordable options regarding sun blocking curtains at places like IKEA and HEMA.

Decorating your windows

Dutch homes are known for their many, spacious windows. This comes with the added benefit of having a lot of daylight flooding into your home. If you want to ‘Go Dutch’ you may want to add some plants or other decorative items in your window sills or hang decorative items in front of your windows. As Dutch Winters can be dark and rainy, with little daylight, you may want to invest in a daylight lamp.

Clean air

Especially if you live in a city, or if you have neighbours who smoke, you may want to invest in an air purifier for your home. Most brands will have various models and will list the number of square meters a certain air purifier is suitable for.

Great joy in small spaces

Many expats find Dutch homes to be smaller than what they are used to but there are many ways to still make a small home the home of your dreams. If your budget allows you to do so, you may even want to hire an interior designer or architect to help you make the space work best for you. Another great tool is watching tiny house Youtube channels for more inspiration on how to cleverly use small spaces.

Greenery

Even if you have just arrived in the country, and are staying in temporary accommodation, adding a fresh bouquet of flowers instantly makes any space feel more homely. Once you have found your long-term home, adding greenery is a wonderful way to create the home of your dreams. The Dutch are very fond of houseplants and it is scientifically proven that indoor greenery improves our health and wellbeing. You may even find a plant which adds a touch of your homeland. From tiny coffee plants at Dille & Kamille to small lemon trees at Intratuin, you can easily add a Brazilian or Italian touch to your Dutch home.

Many major Dutch cities such as Amsterdam and Leiden also have a hortus botanicus (botanical gardens) which are wonderful to visit for inspiration and display plants and trees from all over the world.

Taking care of your outdoor items

You may be lucky enough to have found a home that comes with a garden, balcony or roof terrace. As the Netherlands is a rainy and stormy country, rain covers for outdoor items are a great investment. You may also want to install the KNMI app so you will be alerted when another storm is on its way so you can move any items inside in order to prevent them from being smashed by the Dutch wind. When installing new fencing in your garden, buy the strongest type you can find and install them as deeply into the soil as you possibly can, using metal or steel, as they will need to be able to withstand the Dutch wind and storms.

Adding scent, candlelight and soft furnishings

Candles are also a great way to add some cosines to any space, as is scent. If you are staying in accommodation where candles are not allowed, battery-powered candles are a great alternative. You will find them in many shapes and colours at garden centres and Dutch stores selling home goods, such as Blokker, HEMA, Action and Zeeman. Soft furnishings like throws, pillows and blankets also instantly make any space feel like a cosy haven. In the Netherlands, you will find those at stores like Xenos, Kwantum, Leen Bakker, Blokker, TK Maxx and interior shops. Adding a scent of your homeland via a scented candle or diffuser is also a great way to make your Dutch house feel like a true home.

How to Insure your E-bike

Now as an expat you have probably already noticed that the Dutch take their biking pretty seriously. They’re everywhere! Maybe best not to go into all the details of why the Dutch love their two-wheeler so much – but actually, most of the time, it is easier to get anywhere in the Netherlands by bike than by car. Especially in the towns and cities. City centers are mostly car-free, making the bike the best option. As a result, the Dutch infrastructure is well-adapted with special bike lanes and so on. The result: the bike is a relatively safe mode of transportation. So become more like the Dutch and get on your (e)bike!

E-bike Insurance from Allianz Global Assistance

E-bikes are becoming more and more popular these days. If you look at all the bicycles sold in 2021, this popularity becomes abundantly clear. A whopping 52% of them are electrically powered and it is expected that the share of electric bicycles is going to increase over the years to come. E-bikes are more in demand than ever, which means it is time to start thinking about insuring your bicycle with an e-bike insurance.

Allianz Global Assistance insures all brands and bicycle types, including e-bikes. Have you bought a new electric mountain bike, e-cargo bike or perhaps an electric city bike from VanMoof? Great news! You can now insure your e-bike with a bicycle insurance from Allianz Global Assistance.

Two Insurances and Three Possible Packages

Insuring your bicycle via Allianz Global Assistance means you get to choose between two insurances:

Aflopende fietsverzekering (= temporary bicycle insurance) which stops automatically after a period of three years.
Doorlopende fietsverzekering (= annual bicycle insurance) which you take out for at least one year and that remains active, until you terminate it with one month’s notice.

Regardless of your choice, you are always insured for legal aid assistance, and you are covered for bicycle theft. Also, both insurances offer you the option of selecting one of these three packages:

Standaard is the basic package that provides you with legal aid assistance and covers you for bicycle theft.
Uitgebreid is a more extensive package that includes legal aid assistance and coverage for bicycle theft and damages.
Compleet gives you all the possible coverages; legal aid assistance, bicycle theft, damages and roadside assistance for your bicycle.

The bicycle insurances are valid worldwide, although legal aid assistance is only provided in Europe. Roadside assistance is limited to the Netherlands and 30 kilometers across the Dutch border with Belgium and Germany.

What Are the Differences Between the Two Bicycle Insurances?

Bicycle insurance	Bicycle insurance	Doorlopende fietsverzekering (= Annual bicycle insurance).
Payment	In advance and all at once	Periodic payment, per year or per month
Insure another bicycle	Not possible	Possible
Insurance ends	Automatically after three years or in the event your bicycle is stolen and you have received compensation.	The insurance runs for at least one year and after that a notice period of one month applies. If your bicycle has been stolen, you can insure a new bicycle on the policy.
Premium restitution	No	Yes, if applicable
Extended warranty for e-bike battery	Yes	No

Why Insure an e-Bike?

There are a number of good reasons to insure your e-bike with Allianz Global Assistance:

insurance is suitable for all electrically powered bicycles¹
full purchase value of your e-bike covered²
covered for bicycle theft and legal aid assistance
possible to insure for bicycle damages and roadside assistance
optional: extended warranty for e-bike battery.

1 = For speed pedelecs (also called high-speed e-bikes) you need a separate liability insurance that Allianz Global Assistance does not offer.

2 = For race bikes, ATBs and mountain bikes an excess applies in case of bicycle theft or damages to the bike.

How to Insure My e-Bike?

In order to insure your bicycle, you need to know a couple of things before you start:

Bicycle type	What type of bike are you insuring? Is it a city bike or perhaps a mountain bike?
Purchase value	This is how much you paid for the bicycle. You need to be able to show this amount using a recent (i.e. younger than 6 months old) receipt. If you bought the bicycle longer than 6 months ago, you need to have an authorized bicycle dealer confirm the value.
Postal code / ZIP code	Where you live affects your premium. Example: 2581 AR
Manufacturing year	This is the year the bicycle was made. If you are the first owner of the bicycle, please use the current year.
Brand and model	For instance, VanMoof S5
Frame number	E.g. BA1234567. This number always starts with two letters followed by seven numbers. You can find this number on the receipt or purchase invoice.
ART key numbers	Every bicycle key has a unique number

Step-by-Step Plan

By clicking on the button below, you end up on the e-bike landing page from Allianz Global Assistance. But for now, keep reading a little bit.

CLICK HERE

Click on “Bereken premie” to start a premium calculation.
Next you select the bicycle insurance (and possible the package) that you want to take out. In this example we chose the Aflopende Fietsverzekering (= Temporary bicycle insurance).

To calculate your premium, you provide answers to the questions below. In this example, we are insuring a regular e-bike worth € 2,400 which has a two-star ART lock and we intend to use the[a1] e-bike for private purposes only.
Thankfully, this includes commuting to work. Yeah!

At the bottom of the premium calculation, you have the option to print out or send the quote to yourself via e-mail. In order to take out the bicycle insurance, please click on “Naar Mijn Fiets” to continue.
The next screen will ask other important (bicycle) details.

In step 3, you need to provide your personal details such as your name, date of birth and e-mail address.

In the fourth and final step, you can see all the details you have filled in. You need to select your desired payment method and Allianz Global Assistance will ask some closing questions.

Tip
It is a requirement that every bike has an approved lock. Meaning it has a minimum 2-star ART-rating. Any bike shop will know if your bike has one.

Gift giving in the Netherlands-all you need to know for those special moments

Birthdays

If you feel like skipping your birthday, you may be in for a challenge when relocating to the Netherlands, as birthdays are being held in high regard for children and adults alike. Most companies even keep a register of their employees’ birthdays so that none are forgotten and other companies even have a special birthday committee ensuring that your special day will be special indeed. If you work in an office role, you may find your desk decorated upon arrival and you may even be sung to. It is common practice to bring cake to the office on your birthday and in the same way, children usually bring small treats for their classmates and teacher on their birthday. Some primary schools and day cares may have guidelines for birthday treats, sometimes banning sugary items, so be sure to check with the school or day care. Another Dutch custom regarding birthdays is for children to choose what they would like to have for dinner on their special day and for their little chair, both at school and at home, to be decorated. Decorating the child’s bike is also a traditional Dutch birthday custom in some Dutch families, for all the world to see that this child is enjoying a special day.

Easter and King’s Day

Within the Dutch culture, an Easter egg hunt or sending greetings cards for Easter is not as common as it is in other cultures. However, you will most certainly brighten the day by making an Easter basket with goodies or gifts for your neighbour, housekeeper, babysitter or gardener. Another way to give, would be to invite your elderly neighbour (if you have one) or a few of your colleagues over for an Easter brunch. You may even like to organise an Easter breakfast or brunch for your entire street, sharing Easter customs across cultures and getting to meet some new people. Another festive event taking place in the Netherlands in April is King’s Day- marking the occasion of the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. If you would like to send a card or gift to the Dutch King on the occasion of his birthday, the postal address is listed at the website koninklijkhuis.nl

Weddings

When invited to a traditional Dutch wedding, you will usually be provided with plenty of instructions about the festive occasion, including any wishes regarding gifts. In Dutch, a wedding planner is called ‘ceremoniemeester’ and though some couples may choose to hire a professional wedding planner, the task of being the master of ceremony is often carried out by a close friend or relative of the couple. Being asked to be the ‘ceremoniemeester’ for a wedding is considered an honorary role which you should take very seriously. Instructions about gifts are most often printed on the wedding invitation but when in doubt, contact details of the ceremoniemeester will be provided. The ‘ceremoniemeester’ is also the main point of contact for any practical and organizational questions regarding the wedding. When the symbol of an envelope is printed on the wedding invitation, it indicates the couple would be happy to receive cash gifts and gift vouchers in lieu of any particular items. Gift vouchers are always a wonderful option, as are Groupons for fun outings or date nights, but be aware that gift vouchers in the Netherlands are often valid for a limited time only. If the happy couple has a garden, balcony or roof terrace, an item that will last for years to come, such as a small tree or shrub which symbolises something that is dear to them, or their homeland or culture, also makes a great gift. Your local garden centre will most certainly be able to help you find something special if you decide to go down the green route.

Religious ceremonies

If you happen to be invited to a religious ceremony such as a baptism, you may have to go beyond the high street or city mall to find a suitable gift item. Though some Dutch cities and towns do have Christian bookstores, you may have to travel some distance to find one. Etsy is a wonderful place for finding religious gift items and for suitable cards you could visit stores such as American Book Center, Waterstones or TK Maxx in the major cities, as finding cards for religious occasions are often hard to find at regular Dutch stores. If you would like to gift a personalised candle to mark the occasion, you may find this option available at some cathedrals, monasteries and convents where candle making is still taking place. Be aware the process can take some time so be sure to place your order well in advance. You will find an overview of monasteries and convents in The Netherlands at the website of the Dutch Association of religious orders knr.nl Given the fact that St. Nicholas is such a popular figure in Dutch culture, a children’s book about St. Nicholaas also makes a wonderful baptism gift for a child.

Babies

If your Dutch neighbour, colleague, teacher or friend is having a baby, it is highly likely you will be invited for ‘kraambezoek’ following the delivery of a birth announcement card. In line with Dutch ‘appointment culture’, the times to go meet the newborn will be printed on the birth announcement card, and sometimes you will be asked to phone the couple beforehand to schedule a specific time. You won’t have any difficulty finding gifts for a baby in the Netherlands as there are plenty of stores where you can find adorable items. Some specialized stores are Prénatal and Wijs West but you will also find lots of other suitable gift items at department stores, small independent shops or online. If you are into crafts, you may even like to knit or create your own gift for baby. If you are unsure of what the parents would like for their little one, or what items they already have, you can never go wrong with a classic picture book. A gift voucher for a family photo shoot also makes for a wonderful gift. In Dutch culture, colleagues or friends or family members sometimes team up to fund more expensive baby items, such as a pram, a Maxi-Cosi, a mama bike or a bike seat for the little one, as a shared gift.

Sint Maarten

In some parts of the Netherlands, the feast of St. Maarten is being celebrated during the eve of November 11^th. Children will walk the neighbourhoods carrying lanterns whilst singing traditional St. Maarten songs. It is customary to hand them sweets and tangerines. Be sure to place a candle in your window sill or place a sign in your garden or on your window indicating that children may ring the doorbell of your home on this festive evening.

Sinterklaas

Though there has been some political and even international debate about Sinterklaas in recent years, the feast of St. Nicholas remains a big festive occasion in Dutch culture. Traditionally Sinterklaas was being celebrated amongst families but these days there are many different ways to celebrate the feast of the generous bishop, riding the roofs on his white horse. Many employers will surprise their employees with a small gift such as a chocolate letter, speculaaspop or a banketstaaf (a sweet pastry filled with the Dutch version of marzipan) to mark the occasion. If you work in an office role or are part of a book club, or play sports, or are involved in a committee or home owners association, chances are you will be invited to a Sinterklaas party at the golf course, the girls scouts or at the home of a colleague. For larger group Sinterklaas celebrations, there will usually be a set amount to spend on gifts, with 5 euros or 10 euros being common amounts to buy a Sinterklaas gift for one specific person. Traditionally, you would also write a personalized poem for the person receiving the gift. If you need any help with that, there are websites where you can download pre-made Sinterklaas poems but be aware you may hear the same poem being read twice if multiple people have been using the same Sinterklaas poem websites. Another Dutch custom is to create a ‘surprise’ by wrapping the Sinterklaas gift in a fun&creative handmade structure. For example, if your neighbour loves cats, you could create a cat out of cardboard or clay, and place your Sinterklaas present inside. During the month of December, craft stores and some other stores will have special kits and supplies in stock to help you create a fun and unique Sinterklaas ‘surprise’. Celebrating Sinterklaas is serious business in The Netherlands so be sure to set some time aside in your calendar during the busy month of December to write St. Nicholas poems and create Sinterklaas ‘surprises’.

Christmas

With Sinterklaas traditionally being the main gift giving occasion in the Netherlands, aside from birthdays, exchanging gifts at Christmas time has not been as common in the Netherlands as it is in other countries. However, in recent years giving Christmas gifts has grown in popularity and stores will offer plenty of options to help you find the right item. It is common in the Netherlands to write Christmas cards for friends, neighbours, colleagues, teachers and family members who may live further afield. To help you pinch those pennies, the Dutch postal service offers special, discounted Christmas stamps during the month of December called ‘Decemberzegels’. It is common within Dutch culture to ‘go the extra mile’ during the month of December and spoil your housekeeper, gardener, babysitter, your child’s teacher etc by gifting them a Christmas hamper, gift voucher, cash gift or a traditional Dutch Christmas banketstaaf. You will find delicious traditional Dutch delicacies, which make great gift items, at Dutch bakeries (banketbakkerij) but make sure to place an order in advance to ensure the gift item of your choice as this is a busy time of year for Dutch bakeries.

New Year’s

In some Dutch families, it is a New Year’s custom for grandparents to gift a coin to each grandchild on the first day of the new year. If you are starting a family in the Netherlands, you might like to join in this custom. In smaller towns and villages in the Netherlands, it is common practice to invite your neighbours over around midnight to eat a freshly baked oliebol or appelflap and exchange New Year’s wishes.

Tips and tricks for Daily Life in the Netherlands

Rain management

With the Netherlands being a very rainy country, you will automatically have the title of ‘Rain Project Manager’ bestowed upon you when settling in this land. Rain boots and rain gear should be on top of your shopping list when relocating here. Furthermore, always carry a role of bin liner and a pair of small scissors. This way you can always create your own emergency raincape by simply cutting a big hole for your head, and two smaller holes for your arms, in a bin liner. Freezer bags and some ribbon make perfect emergency rain shoe covers should you have forgotten to pack yours. Always carry a dark-coloured cotton or bamboo towel in each bag you use regularly as you will need it to dry yourself, your bag and your shoes when arriving at your destination. The Dutch rain is so intense that it can literally destroy your phone or make the glue of some shoes brands come loose. Rain management preparation is therefore essential. Save your pretty and expensive shoes for indoor use and purchase a stirdy pair to wear outdoors. You will find travel bags for your tidy shoes in the travel items section of department stores or sew your own. A waterproof bag and coat will make your life easier but be aware that even the best quality coat can take two-three days to fully dry once it gets soaked in the Dutch rain. For this reason, an extra, spacious laundry rack to dry your soaked items is also a recommended item for your home or appartment. You will also find extra-large, extra-absorbant doormats (called ‘droogloopmat’) at some garden centres and homegoods stores. Whether your home is big or small, allocating a bit of space to create a ‘rain corner’ where you can place your rain boots and soaked stuff when arriving home, will keep your home dry and tidy and spare your floors, especially if they are wooden or laminate floors.

Also, do not wait for the rain to stop to go to a certain shop, the cinema or to have coffee with a friend, as you will be waiting the rest of your life. In The Netherlands, the rain is your ever-present companion. On the bright side, this means you will regularly get to spot some gorgeous rainbows and you will get to enjoy an abundance of rain water to flush your toilet or wash your car or bike.

When it comes to umbrellas, some years ago, The Delft University of Technology designed a special ‘storm umbrella’, able to withstand the strong Dutch wind. With regular umbrellas being destroyed by the Dutch wind within minutes, a storm umbrella is a great investment if you would like to arrive at work with hair, makeup and clothes intact. You will find them at more upmarket department stores and bag stores or online. These days, the ‘storm umbrella’ is available in a wide range of colours.

Discounts and perks

When settling in the Netherlands, you will find there are many discounts and perks to be enjoyed via supermarkets, stores, airlines and other brands. Most supermarket have a discount scheme of their own in the format of a customer card, app or another savings scheme. At some stores you can save up points towards a free takeaway coffee, a free product or a discount. Dutch newspapers and magazines also offer discounted deals for their subscribers, ranging from a discount on books, household items or theatre tickets to special travel deals. Some apps offer you a free drink when you first start using the app and there are also cashback schemes to be enjoyed when it comes to supermarket items or home appliances. Some brands and stores offer special discount codes via their e-mail newsletter. Though most discount schemes are connected to a certain brand or store, the Dutch Airmiles scheme, for example, is joined by a wide range of brands and you can save up Airmiles points at many different places. Some stores and schemes offer you the possibility to donate your points to well-known charities.

Birthday blessings

With birthdays being held in high regard in the Netherlands, many stores and brands want to highlight your special day by offering you discounts, free products or even free coffees, teas and cake. The HEMA department store, for example, invites you to collect a free tompouce on your birthday, whereas the La Place restaurants also happily serve you a free piece of cake on your birthday. Some city malls invite you to collect a birthday surprise on your festive day. There are in fact so many special birthday offers at Dutch stores that you may find you need more than one day to enjoy them all but bear in mind that most offers are only valid on your actual birthday.

Customer service

Depending on your country of origin, you may find that customer service in the Netherlands is organised in a somewhat different way compared to what you are used to. A few department stores have a dedicated, separate customer service desk, as do most supermarkets, but at a lot of other stores you will have to wait in line at a regular til. Regular staff members are not authorised to deal with refunds and complaints and you should not be surprised if you are being asked to wait until a store manager arrives to help you. In some cases, if the manager is not present or not available at that moment, you will be asked to come back to the store on another day or your details will be taken and you will receive a phone call or e-mail the following day or week. Be aware that customer service can be a lengthy process in The Netherlands, whether at a store or online. Most Dutch companies use a chatbot operated customers service online and having to wait for 30-40 minutes to speak to an actual customer service agent is common however your patience will be rewarded.

The Netherlands is very much a paperwork country and this also applies to customer service. Though under Dutch law you are entitled to return an item to a store even without a receipt, most stores will not help you unless you can show a receipt or at least a bank statement listing the transaction concerned. If your complaint concerns a food item, always keep the package and take photos of the production codes printed on the package as the customer service department will be asking for this.

Always keep all of your receipts so you always have them at hand when you unexpectedly need to take an item back to a store. This way you won’t have to turn your wheelie bin upside down in the garden on another rainy Dutch day in order to trace a certain receipt.

When ordering a specific item online, you may want to print the order confirmation in order to avoid having to search your inbox years down the line when an issue arrives, especially if your e-mail address is connected to a specific internet provider.

When contacting a store or brand online, you will in most cases receive a refund sent to your bank account, a gift voucher, a replacement item or compensation in another way.

Reviews and expert assistance

No matter how frustrated you may get or how long it may take, always stay calm, patient and kind and you will more often than not eventually receive a solution. Never post an angry review online in the heat of the moment before your case has been finalized by the brand, company or store, as this will not help. Most Dutch stores and companies have dedicated staff who continually monitor review websites and it will not be appreciated when you post an angry review before the store, hotel, brand or company has had a chance to resolve your issue or complaint.

Be aware that a lot of Dutch stores and brands operate a pricey 0900 number to contact them by phone. These 0900 numbers are being connected to call centres abroad and are often excluded from Dutch phone plans so this is something you may want to take into account when signing for a phone subscription with a Dutch telecom company. If you are surprised by a sudden high phone bill for no apparent reason, it could be due to you having dialed a 0900 number. In order to avoid high phone costs, dial the no that is listed for calling from abroad, as this number most often also works for calling from within the Netherlands.

Travel and events

When booking a holiday or outing via a Dutch company, and you find that something is not in order upon arrival, you must lodge your complaint right there & then in order to have a legal right to be entitled for a refund. Take photos on site and save all related proof and correspondence. Do not wait until you arrive home to address the matter.

In the event you really get stuck, there are a few Dutch TV-shows that help consumers when all else fails and another option could be joining the Dutch Consumers Association (Consumentenbond). Most law firms with lawyers specialized in consumer law are often also happy to answer some simple questions by e-mail without charging you.

Opening hours

Traditionally, most public places will be opened between 9am-5pm though some hospitals, dentist and other medical practices also offer evening timeslots. In cities, supermarkets are usually opened until 9pm or 10pm whereas in smaller towns and villages they may close earlier and may also be closed on Sundays. A lot of specialist stores, independent shops and family-run businesses are closed on Mondays but stores belonging to chains and department stores will be opened on Mondays. Pharmacies, GP practices and dental surgeries often open at 8am. Also take into account that some stores and places will close early on May 4^th (WW II Commemoration), December 5^th (St. Nicholas), Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve and some stores may be closed or have adjusted opening hours on public holidays. Though the customer service for insurance companies and some other brands will be opened over the weekend, be aware that these calls are being answered by external call centres working on behalf of multiple brands, and they may ask you to call again on Monday for more complicated matters.

(Medical) insurance

With medical insurance being mandatory by law, Dutch citizens are at the same time responsible for arranging their medical insurance on their own, taking it out at a commercial insurance company. You can only do so once a year in December/January (Unless you are eligible for one for the exception categories, such as when you return to the Netherlands after living abroad, at another time during the year). The Dutch medical insurance system is extensive and consists of multiple tiers. Comparing all the different options can be a very time consuming process. Make sure to allocate time in the busy festive month of December for ‘project medical insurance’ and if possible, start contacting insurance companies in October of November if you have specific questions, as customer service waiting times at insurance companies will be lenghty during the month of December. Do not be surprised if your colleagues, friends or neighbours have no time to stop by for bubbles & canapes on New Year’s eve as they need to arrange their medical insurance before January 1^st.