Permits, finance & insurance

Moving to another country always involves a lot of administration. The main thing is to sort out the right legal papers, such as work and residence permits. These procedures are not always easy. The Visa and Permits page refers you to the right organisations.

Insurance
The Dutch insurance system is probably different from what you are used to. Some insurances are obligatory, other are facultative. Everything about health insurance, usually by specialised insurance companies, can be found on our Health page. Other insurers like large insurance companies and banks offer a wide range of insurance packages that can include car, life, burial, accident, liability, rental, household and building, home-owner's and legal support insurances. For high-value items such as art, jewellery and antiques, you will need separate 'kostbaarheden' (valuables) insurance.

These combination packages can bring down costs and avoid the problems of figuring out what company or policy covers what damage in times of need. Be sure to shop around at different suppliers, as costs may differ. You can also ask your bank for information.

The Union of Dutch Insurers keeps a record of their members on their website (Dutch only).

Financial matters
The currency unit used in the Netherlands is the euro (€). Bank notes are issued in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros (although notes of 100, 200, or 500 euros are not widely accepted). Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, as well as 1 and 2 euros.

If you are planning to stay more than three months in the Netherlands, opening a local personal bank account is recommendable. The Dutch banking system requires only one Dutch bank account to be able to transfer money other accounts, to withdraw cash, to put money in your account and to get a bank (debit) card and a credit card. Online banking is often an extra service and an easy way to organise your monthly payments, for example to suppliers of gas, water, electricity and rent. For cash withdrawals, ATMs or cash dispensers are widely available in the city.

The majority of the Dutch shops accept payment by debit card, chip (electronic wallet) or cash. The smallest shops may only accept cash money. Please note that credit cards are not always accepted at all Dutch shops and supermarkets. At most hotels, department stores and larger supermarkets it ís possible to pay by credit card. And also note that checks are not accepted as a form of payment in the Netherlands.

For withdrawals and paying by debit card, you will need a PIN code (Personal Identification Number). Paying with the chipknip (electronic wallet) is designed for the payment of smaller amounts. With a credit card, all you must sign the payment slip and sometimes also enter the personal code provided with your credit card.

Your bank can inform you about all payment methods, online banking, loans, mortgages, investment, insurances and all other financial matters. Some banks even have a special Expat service. See the website of the Netherlands' Bankers Association for a list of members www.nvb.nl (choose English).