Staying connected in the Netherlands: The best mobile internet options for expats
Are you moving to the Netherlands or visiting for a while? If so, having internet on your mobile phone is a must. Odido looks at the different mobile plans available that offer the flexibility expats need.
Between sorting out your BSN, learning to dodge bikes like a local and figuring out the Albert Heijn bonus card, one question still nags: “How do I get mobile internet without signing my life away?”
Good news: whether you're a digital nomad, a student on exchange, or just figuring life out in the lowlands, there’s a mobile data option out there for you without any paperwork, Dutch bank account or multi-year contract required.
Why internet access can be tricky for expats
Newcomers often face a few hurdles in getting their mobile plan set up. These can include:
- Language barriers during sign-up processes
- The need for a Dutch address or BSN (citizen service number)
- Long-term contracts that don’t suit short stays or temporary situations
These barriers make it difficult to set up a traditional mobile plan right away. But, luckily, there are some options that meet the digital needs of internationals.
Which internet plan matches your expat life?
The type of mobile plan you need depends on your lifestyle and future plans. See which might be the best match for you:
- The just-landed settler: You’ve just arrived and don’t even have a Dutch number yet.
Solution: Prepaid physical SIM or instant-activation eSIM. - The work-from-anywhere wizard: Your life runs on Wi-Fi and Zoom.
Solution: Monthly prepaid plans or eSIMs with flexible data. - The data-hungry streamer: You can’t survive without Spotify, YouTube, and TikTok.
Solution: Go unlimited (or close to it). - The student-on-a-budget: You need something simple, cheap and month-to-month.
Solution: Budget-friendly prepaid SIMs or eSIMs, without any strings or hassle.
See why SimWallet from Odido is such a good choice for expats
Tips for choosing the right option
When choosing mobile internet in the Netherlands, start by checking the coverage and speed in your area. 5G is widely available in most Dutch cities and ensures fast, stable connectivity for streaming or remote work.
Depending on how long you’re staying, compare daily and monthly plans. Some providers offer ultra-flexible options where you only pay for the days you use the service, which are perfect for short visits or temporary stays.
Watch out for hidden costs and check that the provider is upfront about pricing and billing. Transparent pricing and user-friendly apps can save you time and hassle.
Lastly, check whether your phone supports eSIMs, if you're considering a digital SIM option; many newer devices do, but not all. You can confirm this in your phone's settings or through the manufacturer.
Simply connected
For expats in the Netherlands, staying online doesn't need to be a struggle. Whether you're here for a few days or a few months, there are flexible, no-fuss solutions that make getting connected much easier: no paperwork, no physical stores and no stress.
SimWallet from Odido is the perfect solution for new arrivals in the Netherlands. With options starting from a one-day bundle, you can use the internet as much as you want in the Netherlands, no strings attached. Looking for a permanent subscription with a Dutch phone number? Then Odido’s SIM-only subscription is a good fit for you. Check out Odido’s offers for SimWallet, SIM-only and mobile phone subscriptions.