Moving to the Netherlands as an international student is such a fun and enjoyable thing to do. You'll make new friends, try new foods and speak new languages! But there's plenty that needs figuring out before the real fun can begin, from finding a place to live to setting up a bank account.
This guide from bunq walks you through the essentials to help you settle in smoothly.
However much you just want to dive in, there are a handful of things you definitely need to set up first.
Student housing in the Netherlands can be tough to secure, especially in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht. Start your search as soon as possible using:
If you're staying in the Netherlands for more than four months, you’ll need to register with the local municipality to get a BSN (Burgerservicenummer). This number is required for work, taxes and setting up a Dutch bank account.
The process can take a while, but you don’t have to wait for your BSN to open a bank account. With bunq, you can sign up in just five minutes, even before receiving your BSN - which makes it easy to manage rent, daily expenses and incoming payments from day one.
Cycling is more than just a way to get around in the Netherlands - it's a way of life! Embrace your two-wheeled adventure with these tips:
Most Dutch people speak English, but knowing a few key phrases helps:
The Dutch love to have the right app for the right job. Having a few commonly-used apps can make daily life much easier. Here are some must-haves:
Moving to the Netherlands as a student comes with challenges, but with the right preparation, you'll settle in quickly. Finding housing, registering for your BSN and setting up essential tools early will make a big difference. Whether you're figuring out public transport, getting your first bike, or opening a bank account with bunq, you'll feel at home in no time.