Welcome to the land of windmills, bicycles, tulips and... your new home! Moving here can be a great experience, but also a bit of a hazzard when it comes to arranging stuff. Don't worry, the Pararius Expat Guide is here to help. Learn everything you need to know about moving to The Netherlands!
The Netherlands is a true sporting nation. Sports are often organised through clubs, which is a distinctive feature of Dutch sports culture. Joining a club means training together, playing matches, or taking part in recreational activities within an organised setting. This article provides an overview of the five most popular sports within clubs in the Netherlands, showing which sports have the largest memberships and why they are so widely enjoyed.
Relocating to the Netherlands is increasingly common as Dutch companies expand globally and tap into diverse talent pools. The country’s strong infrastructure, international outlook, and high quality of life make it an attractive destination. But while the move may be strategic, the process is anything but simple. Behind every successful relocation lies a web of legal, logistical, and emotional challenges. When overlooked, these can lead to delays, compliance issues, and a rocky start for your relocation. In this article, we explore five common pitfalls companies face when relocating international hires, and offer practical solutions to help avoid them.
The Hague is a diverse, international city where history, politics, and vibrant urban life come together. You can stroll from long avenues to sunny boulevards along the beach, and from trendy coffee bars to the beautiful palaces of The Hague. For expats, the city offers a unique mix of a world city, comfort, and life by the coast.
The Netherlands is known for its tulips, canals, and progressive social policies, but for internationals entering the Dutch workforce, the work culture can be just as surprising. With its in general flat hierarchies, direct communication style, and strong emphasis on work-life balance, the Dutch professional environment offers both opportunities and challenges for new expats. In this article, we guide you through the Dutch workplace environment, so you’ll be optimally prepared for your Dutch job!
Last week, Pararius released its latest quarterly figures on the private rental market. The Pararius Rental Report Q2 2025 reveals a stark reality: rental supply is falling sharply, demand continues to rise, and rental prices are climbing faster than ever. The gap between what home seekers can afford and current market rates continues to widen each quarter.
Public transport in the Netherlands is well-organised and widely used as an alternative to driving. Especially in urban areas, trains, buses, trams and metros are efficient, safe and reliable. For expats new to The Netherlands, the system might seem a little complex at first. But with some basic knowledge from this article, you can quickly and easily travel throughout the country!
Studying in the Netherlands is a popular choice among international students. Every year, the country attracts tens of thousands of students from around the world. This is largely due to the wide range of English-taught programs, a highly international society, and the high quality of education. In this article, we explain what you need to arrange if you plan to study in the Netherlands as an international student.
One of the most beloved seasons in the Netherlands is spring. Whether you’ve been living here for a while or have just arrived, this season is definitely a highlight. In this article, you'll learn more about what makes spring special in the Netherlands, so you can enjoy it to the fullest and be well prepared!
Relocating to a new country is always a significant life event, but when family members are moving with you, it becomes even more complex. The Netherlands continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for international professionals, thanks to its stable economy, high quality of life, and excellent infrastructure. But while the professional opportunity may be exciting, the personal aspects of the move, especially when relocating with a family, it requires extra attention and planning. In this article, we discuss the basics of what you should know about moving with your family.
Pararius releases its Rental Report each quarter, offering insights into the trends within the Dutch private rental sector. The Q1 2025 edition highlights a further destabilisation of the rental market, driven by a sharp drop in available properties and steadily growing demand. These developments are pushing rents upward, especially in the more affordable housing segments.
Amsterdam is a hotspot for internationals, but its skyrocketing housing prices and increasing demand make it worth considering nearby alternatives. Whether you're looking for a strong international community, better family amenities, or more affordable living, several Dutch cities offer great options while keeping you close to the capital. In this article we discuss various alternatives and the difference in price range from Amsterdam.
The Dutch pension system is widely recognized as one of the most robust and sustainable pension systems in the world. Designed to ensure financial security during retirement, it operates on a three-pillar model that integrates state support, workplace pensions, and private savings. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Dutch pension system, including how it works, the provisions available for self-employed individuals (ZZP), and what happens to your pension if you decide to leave the Netherlands.
Starting a new chapter in the Netherlands begins with finding the right place to live. However, the Dutch rental market is known for being tight and highly competitive, which can make the process feel overwhelming. To make sure you’re prepared, we’ve put together everything you need to know about the situation on the housing market in 2025 and how to navigate it with confidence.
December is a month full of festive events in the Netherlands, kicking off on the 5th of December with the celebration of Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas). After Saint Nicholas leaves The Netherlands and goes back to his home country Spain, the Christmas spirit usually rises up in the country. At the end of the year, after Christmas, Dutchies celebrate New Year’s like no other. Read all about the Dutch festive activities with the holidays just around the corner.
Health insurance is mandatory in the Netherlands, ensuring everyone has access to essential healthcare. As the new year approaches, it’s important to be informed about any updates and make necessary decisions that suit your personal situation. We draw up everything you need to know about health insurance in the Netherlands for the coming year.
The Netherlands is celebrated for its high standard of living, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant expat community. Ranked 6th on the 2024 World Happiness Index, it’s no surprise the country is a popular destination for professionals and families. That said, this quality of life comes with associated costs. Expenses can vary significantly based on lifestyle, location, and individual habits. For expats, understanding these costs is essential for effective budgeting and smoother integration. Below is an in-depth look at the key expense categories in the Netherlands.
The Dutch regulations concerning the European Blue Card (EBC) have recently been updated, introducing several significant changes that are relevant for both employers and employees. These changes ensure that the EBC regulations in the Netherlands is more aligned with similar to other EU countries. Below we provide an overview of the most notable changes.
Rotterdam, heart of the industry and proud to have one of the biggest harbours of Europe! Even though largely destroyed during the Second World War, Rotterdam has managed to become an international city at the forefront of architectural design. With around 660,000 residents (2023), Rotterdam is one of the biggest cities of the Netherlands. We have listed the districts that could be characterised as most ideal for expats.
Congratulations with moving to the Netherlands! There are several formal tasks you will need to complete in order to have a smooth relocation to the Netherlands, and one of the most important tasks to you is most likely: securing a home.
When looking for a rental property, you often come across the choice between renting furnished and upholstered. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your personal situation, preferences and future plans. In this article, we list the pros and cons of both options for you so you can make an informed choice.
Despite its smaller size compared to other European capital cities, Amsterdam has held a prominent position as a thriving and international commercial hub since the 17th century. Whether you’re here as an expat for work or a fresh start, this city’s rich history, it’s multi cultural and innovative spirit makes it a wonderful place to call home or to visit.
Moving to the Netherlands as an expat is an exciting step, but learning the Dutch language can seem challenging. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to learn your new language and feel at home. Whether you want to be able to communicate daily with colleagues, hit the shops without stress, or just want to integrate more into Dutch culture, we list the best ways to start learning Dutch, including free options and handy tips.
Moving to the Netherlands is an exciting step, but it requires careful preparation. This article offers practical tips to ensure your move goes smoothly, with a focus on quality and sustainability.
So, you’ve decided to go for it and move to Amsterdam? Congratulations! You're in for a treat – beautiful canals, vibrant culture, and a lifestyle like no other. But first, let’s talk about where you’re going to live. Because, let’s be honest, finding an apartment in Amsterdam can be quite the adventure.
Trust. Such a simple word, but of great importance when it comes to the rental market here in The Netherlands. Where do you find a trustworthy landlord, especially if you live on the other side of the globe? Too many expats I speak with have been scammed on their house hunt before they hired a relocation agent. What can you actively do and what are the warning signs when it comes to trying to find a rental property?
Amsterdam, the most famous city when foreigners think about The Netherlands. The Dutch capital offers a range of neighbourhoods, each with their own offering when it comes to shops, restaurants and other facilities as well as types of properties. Let us tell you about the different areas of Amsterdam!
With its diverse landscapes and lifestyles, The Netherlands offers something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the dynamic energy of cities or the serene beauty of the skies, the light, the water. Let me tell you what surprised me about The Netherlands when I first moved here from London.
If you have a good understanding of the Dutch education system, the next step is to find a school that can welcome your children. But how do you tackle this, and what kind of hurdles might you encounter during the search, application, and registration process? Let us guide you by sharing some helpful input for the journey ahead.
Moving to the Netherlands offers a new way of living, especially for families. One critical aspect of settling in involves understanding the Dutch childcare system, which is pivotal for working parents. This article provides an in-depth look at the "kinderopvang" (childcare) system in the Netherlands, aimed at helping you navigate the various options, trends, and financial support mechanisms.
There's a Dutch saying that goes "Een ongeluk zit in een klein hoekje", which means that bad luck can strike out of nowhere. In such cases, it is good to know where and when to seek help in case of a (medical) emergency. In this article, we aim to guide Dutch newcomers with an overview of the 'Emergency Protocol', ensuring you are prepared at all times.
You can't start a new Dutch life without a home! And with a market that is tight and competitive, we will do our upmost best to prepare you for what is to come. The Dutch housing market also requires some necessary preparations and expectation management, so let us prepare you for what you can expect when you start your home search!
Welcome to the vibrant Dutch social scene, a blend of traditional values and contemporary openness that forms the essence of life in the Netherlands. If you're moving to the land of windmills and tulips, you're probably wondering about the social norms, favourite pastimes, and how to forge connections that turn a new environment into home. This article explores Dutch social customs and provides essential tips for building friendships in the Netherlands.
Welcome to the Netherlands! You've probably gathered some information about The Netherlands, but do you know the typical habits of its residents? Learn all about the typical Dutch mentality and what you can expect from your fellow Dutchies! This way, we want to help you make some friends in your new country.
Have you ever heard of Koningsdag (Kingsday)? Or are you familiar with Sinterklaas? And have you ever eaten raw herring? Doesn't it ring a bell? No worries, we are here to tell you all about the Dutch traditions and national holidays!
Are you looking for a home in the Netherlands? Then you've come to the right place! Our platform is developed to connect home seekers and home providers, making your search for a home much easier. In this article, we offer you some handy tools so you can find a home faster!
Moving to another country is not just an exciting step for you as an adult. This life change brings even more challenges for your family, including finding the right school. As a parent, you naturally want nothing more than for a child to feel safe, comfortable, and at home in a new culture and environment. This article highlights the educational system of the Netherlands, providing you as parents with the right tools to find a suitable school (or childcare) in the Netherlands.
Congratulations! You've found the perfect rental home in the Netherlands, a significant step towards starting your new life in this vibrant country. However, before you can truly settle in and call it home, there are several important arrangements to be made. This article aims to guide you hrough the process of transitioning from securing a rental to becoming an established resident.
Are you preparing to move to the Netherlands? Congratulations! You're about to start a new life in your new country. However, there are crucial steps that require your attention.
Searching for a rental home in the Netherlands can be daunting, especially for newcomers navigating the local housing market. Don't know where to begin? This article serves as a primer for those embarking on their housing journey in the Netherlands. Having explored market trends, let's now delve into some practical tips to start your home search in The Netherlands!
Updated february 2025 - Starting a new chapter in the Netherlands also means getting to know its healthcare system, an essential task for expats. In The Netherlands, the focus is on general practitioners (GPs) and dentists as primary care providers, and not so much on hospitals or specialists. This article offers insights into engaging with these key healthcare services, equipping you with the knowledge to smoothly integrate into the Dutch healthcare framework.
Updated February 2025 - Moving to the Netherlands involves various administrative tasks, including registering with the municipality, obtaining a Citizen Service Number (BSN), and applying for a DigiD. These steps are crucial for accessing essential services and facilities in the country.
Living in the Netherlands can come with a higher cost of living. To help offset these costs, your employer may offer you a tax-free benefit known as the 30% Tax Ruling. This tax advantage, part of the Dutch tax system, allows up to 30% of your employment income to be paid out tax-free. It can significantly influence financial decisions for those relocating to the Netherlands. This article will guide you through what the ruling entails, who is eligible, and how to apply.
If you are new to the Netherlands, one of the initial tasks on your checklist is likely sorting out your health insurance. It is vital to ensure both you and your loved ones are well-covered in your new home. In this article, we will guide you through the basics of Dutch healthcare, alongside what is covered and how to apply for suitable health insurance. In the meantime, we will also ensure that your temporary care is well arranged.