10 Things to Know Before Moving to Amsterdam

Moving to Amsterdam is an exciting adventure, but it requires good preparation. The capital of the Netherlands is known for its high quality of life, bike-friendly infrastructure, and international community. However, to ensure a smooth start to your new life, there are some practical matters you need to know about.

This guide is based on the experiences of thousands of immigrants who have moved to Amsterdam. It contains information that will help you with everything from finding housing to health insurance, from BSN registration to daily life. Whether you're coming for work, education, or just for a new experience, this list will make your life easier.

The settlement process in Amsterdam may seem complex at first, but with the right information and preparation, it becomes quite manageable. Let's look at what you need to do step by step.

Finding housing in Amsterdam is probably one of the biggest challenges you'll face. The demand for housing in the city is very high and the competition is quite fierce. On average, 50-100 people can apply for one property, so you need to be patient and think strategically.

Most popular platforms:

• Funda: The largest real estate platform in the Netherlands. Used for both properties for sale and rent.
• Pararius: A professional platform especially focused on rental properties. Has an English interface.
• Kamernet: Ideal especially for students and room seekers. You can find room-sharing options.

Tips: Apply as soon as listings appear, prepare your profile information in advance (proof of income, employment contract, ID), join Facebook groups and network. Consider temporary accommodation for the first few months and continue your housing search on-site after arriving.

One of the first steps in settling in the Netherlands is opening a local bank account. You'll need a Dutch bank account for your salary payments, rent payments, and daily expenses. Most banks require a BSN (burgerservicenummer) to open an account, so you may need to register for your BSN first.

Popular banks:

• ING: One of the most popular choices among foreigners. English support is excellent and the mobile app is very user-friendly.
• ABN AMRO: One of the largest banks in the Netherlands. Offers a wide branch network and professional service.
• Bunq: A fully digital, modern bank. You can open an account even without a BSN, ideal for foreigners.

To open an account, you generally need your passport, proof of address, and BSN number. Some banks may require a small initial deposit. Online application processes usually take 10-15 minutes and your card arrives at your address within a few days.

BSN (Burgerservicenummer) is your social security number in the Netherlands and is required for almost every official transaction. You'll need your BSN to work, get health insurance, open a bank account, and pay taxes.

To get your BSN, you need to:

• Make an appointment at the population office of your municipality (gemeente)
• Prepare your required documents: passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Bring your rental agreement or proof of address
• Attend the appointment in person

Appointments generally need to be made 4-6 weeks in advance, so apply as soon as you arrive in Amsterdam. On the appointment day, officials will check your documents and your BSN number will arrive at your address by post within a few weeks. During this time, you'll be given a temporary document.

You can book an online appointment through the Amsterdam Gemeente website (amsterdam.nl). The process is free of charge.

Having health insurance is a legal requirement for everyone living in the Netherlands. You must get health insurance within 4 months of starting to work or live in the Netherlands. Otherwise, you'll pay monthly penalties.

The Dutch health insurance system consists of two parts:

• Basisverzekering (Basic insurance): Mandatory insurance. Approximately 130-150 Euros per month. Covers basic healthcare services.
• Aanvullende verzekering (Supplementary insurance): Optional. Covers extra services like dental care, physiotherapy, glasses.

Popular insurance companies: Zilveren Kruis, CZ, VGZ, Menzis. You can use independer.nl to compare prices and coverage.

Important: Every year there's a 385 Euro deductible called "eigen risico". You pay the first 385 Euros of your healthcare costs yourself, after that it's covered by insurance. If you have a low income, you may be eligible for zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance).

Getting phone and internet connection in Amsterdam is quite easy. The Netherlands has excellent internet infrastructure and most homes can access fiber optic connections. Mobile coverage is also of high quality throughout the country.

Mobile operators:

• KPN: The largest operator in the Netherlands. Has the best coverage area but is slightly more expensive.
• Vodafone and T-Mobile: Offer competitive prices and good coverage.
• Lebara, Lycamobile: Budget-friendly prepaid options, ideal for international calls.

Internet providers: Ziggo, KPN, Odido (formerly T-Mobile), VodafoneZiggo are the most popular options. Most packages offer 100+ Mbps speeds and cost around 40-60 Euros per month. Combined packages with TV and phone are also available.

Most providers require 1 or 2-year contracts. Installation is usually free and modem/router equipment is included. If there's already a connection in the house, activation takes 1-2 days, otherwise a technician visit may be required.

Transportation in Amsterdam is highly developed and diverse. The cycling culture is very strong and most people use bicycles for daily activities. Additionally, tram, metro, bus, and train networks cover the city and country.

OV-chipkaart (Public transport card): A smart card you can use on all public transport in the Netherlands. There are two types:

• Anoniem (Anonymous): 7.50 Euros, you can get it from any NS station or store.
• Persoonlijk (Personal): Has your name on it, can be replaced if lost. You can apply online.

Bicycle: Bicycles are indispensable in Amsterdam. Second-hand bicycles range from 50-150 Euros, new bikes start from 300 Euros. Subscription services like Swapfiets offer bicycle rental and maintenance services for 15-20 Euros per month.

Tips: Always lock your bicycle with two locks (theft is common in Amsterdam), learn traffic rules, and make sure your bicycle lights work (you'll get fined otherwise).

Although most people in Amsterdam speak excellent English, learning Dutch is very important for integration. It increases your chances of finding work, makes it easier to connect with locals, and makes your daily life more comfortable.

Language learning options:

• Gemeente Amsterdam courses: Free or low-cost Dutch courses provided by the municipality. May be mandatory for certain visas.
• Private language schools: Institutions like Direct Dutch, Amsterdam Dutch, UvA Talen offer intensive programs.
• Online platforms: You can learn at your own pace with apps like Duolingo, Babbel, iTalki.
• Language exchange communities: You can join free language exchange events through Meetup.com.

The NT2 (Nederlands als Tweede Taal) exam officially proves your Dutch proficiency. A1-A2 level is sufficient for daily conversation, B1-B2 is required for professional environments. Dutch people may switch to English when you speak Dutch - insist and keep practicing!

Dutch culture has different characteristics from most countries and adapting can take time. The Dutch communicate in an extremely direct manner - this is seen as honesty, not rudeness. It can be shocking at first, but once you get used to it, you'll find it very efficient.

Important cultural characteristics:

• Punctuality: Time is highly respected. Being even 5 minutes late to appointments can cause problems.
• Planning: Spontaneous visits are not welcomed. Make plans in advance even to see your friends.
• Going Dutch: Everyone pays their own share at social gatherings. Splitting the bill is normal.
• Cycling culture: Bike lanes are sacred. Never walk or stop in a bike lane.
• Pragmatism: The Dutch focus on practical solutions, thinking logically rather than emotionally.

Dutch society is egalitarian - hierarchy matters little and everyone expresses their opinion freely. You can comfortably discuss with your boss at work. The Netherlands is also a very multicultural society and diversity is respected.

Amsterdam is one of Europe's most expensive cities. It's very important to plan your budget well and set realistic expectations. Here are average monthly costs:

• Rent: Studio apartment 1,200-1,800 Euros, two-bedroom apartment 1,800-2,500 Euros
• Utilities: Electricity, water, gas 150-200 Euros
• Groceries: 250-350 Euros for one person
• Health insurance: 130-150 Euros
• Transportation: 50-100 Euros (bicycle + OV-chipkaart)
• Internet/Phone: 60-80 Euros

Total: For a comfortable life, one person should budget 2,500-3,500 Euros per month.

Conclusion: Moving to Amsterdam is a big step but with proper preparation it can be a great experience. By following the steps in this guide, you can make your settlement process easier and quickly start enjoying your new life. Dutch society is open and inclusive - it won't take long for you to feel at home. Good luck!