Obtaining a mortgage as an expat in the Netherlands can be a complex process, as the requirements and regulations for obtaining a mortgage can vary depending on your citizenship and the type of residence you are looking to purchase. However, with the right preparation and understanding of the process, it is possible for expats to successfully secure a mortgage in the Netherlands.

One of the most important things to consider when applying for a mortgage as an expat in the Netherlands is your income. Most Dutch banks require a steady income and a good credit score, as well as proof of income and assets. The income requirement can vary depending on the bank, but generally you will need to have a gross income of at least €35,000 to €45,000 per year.

Tip
Use Hanno’s mortgage calculator to get more insight into your possibilities

Another important factor to consider is the down payment. In the Netherlands, most banks require a down payment of at least 10% to 20% of the purchase price. However, some banks may require a higher down payment for expats, depending on the type of residence and your citizenship. Besides that, making sure you have the most optimal mortgage interest rate is also in your best interest.

Expats in the Netherlands also need to be aware of the different types of mortgages available. The most common type of mortgage in the Netherlands is the National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG) mortgage. This type of mortgage is guaranteed by the Dutch government, which can make it easier to obtain, but it comes with certain limitations, such as a maximum purchase price of €320,000.

Another option for expats is the Non-Resident Mortgage (NRM). This type of mortgage is specifically designed for expats and non-residents who want to purchase a property in the Netherlands. The requirements for this type of mortgage are generally more flexible, but the interest rate may be higher.

In addition, expats should be aware of the tax implications of their mortgage. In the Netherlands, the interest paid on a mortgage is tax-deductible, but it’s important to check with a mortgage advisor to understand the specifics of the tax laws and regulations that apply to your situation.

What you as an Expat should get in order before applying for a mortgage:

  1. Gather the necessary documentation: Most Dutch banks will require proof of income, assets, and credit score. Make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as your passport, proof of income, and bank statements.
  2. Check your credit score: Your credit score is an important factor when applying for a mortgage. Make sure your credit score is in good standing and take steps to improve it if necessary.
  3. Determine your budget: Before you begin the mortgage process, it’s important to determine your budget and how much you can afford to spend on a property.
  4. Research different types of mortgages: In the Netherlands, the most common type of mortgage is the National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG) mortgage, which is guaranteed by the Dutch government, but there are also Non-Resident Mortgages (NRM) that are available specifically for expats. Make sure to research which type of mortgage would be the best option for your situation.
  5. Find a good mortgage broker: Working with a mortgage broker who specializes in helping expats can be a great way to navigate the process and increase your chances of getting approved for a mortgage.
  6. Get pre-approved: Before you start searching for a property, it’s a good idea to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you an idea of how much you can afford to spend and will also make you a more attractive candidate to sellers.
  7. Understand the tax implications: Be aware of the tax implications of your mortgage. In the Netherlands, the interest paid on a mortgage is tax-deductible, but it’s important to check with a tax advisor to understand the specifics of the tax laws and regulations that apply to your situation.
  8. Look for properties: Once you have all the necessary documents, a good credit score, pre-approval and you have a good understanding of the tax implications, you can start looking for properties that fit your budget and preferences.
  9. Apply for a mortgage: Once you have found a property that you would like to purchase, you can apply for a mortgage. Be prepared to provide all the necessary documentation and information to the bank.
  10. Close the deal: Once your mortgage application is approved, you can proceed to close the deal and purchase your new home in the Netherlands.

This is a general checklist, it’s important to remember that each bank and each mortgage type may have its own set of specific requirements, so it’s best to consult with Hanno, who specializes in mortgages for Expats, to get a better understanding of the process and the specific requirements that apply to your situation.

In conclusion, obtaining a mortgage as an expat in the Netherlands can be a challenging process, but with the right preparation and understanding of the requirements, it is possible to successfully secure a mortgage. It’s important for expats to have a steady income, a good credit score, and to consider the different types of mortgages available in the Netherlands.

Register for the free webinar ‘how to buy a house in the Netherlands’

Article Page Half Page Ad

Recently Posted on XPat.nl

If you’re an expat living and looking for work in the Netherlands then there are some vital differences you should know about in regards to your job applications. In the Netherlands, as with most places in Europe, the norm is a CV rather than the resume which is commonly used in the United States amongst … Continue reading "The Difference Between a Resume and a CV"
Have you just bought or rented a house that needs remodeling – but have no idea where to begin? Then we have the perfect partner for you! We can imagine that it's hard to figure out where to start when you want to remodel your home or improve its sustainability. Veerkade Vastgoed is here to … Continue reading "Remodeling your house in the Netherlands"
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 25th 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 2025"
Public Wi-Fi networks are a convenient and often essential way to stay connected while traveling or moving about the city. Whether you're catching up on emails, browsing the web, or checking social media, these networks provide easy access to the internet when you're away from home or the office. However, as convenient as they are, … Continue reading "How to safely use public wifi networks in the Netherlands"
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, … Continue reading "Be prepared for the Dutch housing market"
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 … Continue reading "Home care in the Netherlands: how does it work?"

How to safely use public wifi netwo ...

Public Wi-Fi networks come with a significant risk to the security of your personal ...

The UnDutchables 9.0

Following the legendary previous eight editions of The UnDutchables, the 9th edition of this all ...

Gift giving in the Netherlands-all ...

If you feel like skipping your birthday, you may be in for a challenge when ...

Tips and tricks for Daily Life in t ...

With the Netherlands being a very rainy country, you will automatically have the title of ...

10 things you will find in every Du ...

The Dutch are very fond of houseplants, the more the merrier! You will find the ...

Your guide to Indoor Plants in The ...

Gardening has become a popular hobby in the Netherlands. It's not surprising, considering how ...

What are the Benefits of Having Sim ...

When you have just moved to the Netherlands, you will have to take care of ...

Economical, Not Stingy

Most of the work I do consists of giving 1 or 2-day workshops and ... And to ‘ease’ the delegates into to the subject of culture, I start talking about ...

Getting Connected in the Netherland ...

There are several criteria that are important to consider when choosing a mobile phone service ...

Dutch Gardens and Curtains

There are some specific and quintessential Dutch traditions, surrounding gardens and curtains in the Netherlands ...