The Netherlands, and especially the cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam, are increasingly attracting expatriates. More than 30,000 French people now live there. If the Brexit has accelerated Holland’s appeal to European expatriates, it’s not least thanks to its stable economy. It’s also its level of security, quality of life, accessible healthcare system with compulsory health insurance, and work-life balance that make the Netherlands an ideal destination!
The job market is also dynamic, and even if you don’t speak Dutch, English will suffice. The city is perfect for young couples, young workers and students. So here’s what attracts French people to move to the Netherlands.
The positives
The capital, famous for its canals, parks, cobbled streets and old houses, is not the only city that attracts expatriates. The Netherlands enjoys a very good reputation for quality of life throughout the country: whether for families (very present in Amsterdam) or students (numerous in Rotterdam), the country ranks in the TOP 10 of the world’s happiest countries! The country benefits from social stability, good living and health conditions. For example, it’s easy to get around the city by bicycle, which is much appreciated by families moving here.
The Netherlands is also blessed with a dynamic job market, with an unemployment rate below the European average. Expatriate salaries are also attractive. The geographical position of the Netherlands makes it a central economic point in Europe. The port of Rotterdam is ranked as Europe’s leading commercial port.
Not to mention the country’s reputation as one of the world’s top-ranked countries in terms of work-life balance (according to the OECD’s Better Life Index). Some companies even go so far as to offer 4-day rather than 5-day workweeks, not only for greater productivity at work, but also for a better work-life balance.
To immerse yourself in this new culture before your move and discover Amsterdam’s best addresses, we recommend a visit to the Pick.et.Pick.et.Amsterdam blog! Filled with excellent advice and information for new expats in the Netherlands.
Negative points
Despite everything, there are a few dark spots in this idyllic picture. One of the most important is the difficulty of finding accommodation. This is particularly the case in major cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht. Rent prices tend to be high, and you’ll need to be reactive, as the market is saturated. You should also bear in mind that the cost of living is higher than in France, which partly explains the higher salaries. This is particularly important for students.
The language, Dutch, can also be an obstacle to expatriation! Not only in terms of employment, even if English is sufficient in most cases, but also in terms of social integration. Before you leave, we advise you to learn the basics of Dutch (the official language of the Netherlands), as this will facilitate your integration.
Holland’s landscapes are beautiful and verdant. But the weather is different from France and can sometimes dampen your spirits. Expect a few degrees cooler, rain and wind.
Santexpat.fr, la nouvelle façon de
s'assurer à l'étranger
1. Meilleurs prix
- Sans surcoût sur les tarifs assureurs,
nous comparons + de 300 offres d'assurance
2. Simplicité
- Un parcours simple pour sélectionner votre
solution en quelques clics
3. Accompagnement
- Nos conseillers sont là pour un
accompagnement 100% personnalisé
Administrative procedures
The Netherlands is a member of the European Union, which makes administrative formalities much easier. You won’t need to apply for a visa, for example. As far as identity papers are concerned, all you need is a valid passport or identity card. Only one of these two documents allows you to move freely throughout the country. If your stay lasts longer than 3 months, you’ll need to register with your local town hall to obtain an identification number for public services: this is the burgerservicenummer* (BSN). It’s a quick and easy procedure, which you’ll need for a number of purposes (applying for benefits, opening a bank account, etc.).
To make your departure as easy as possible, we recommend that you register with the Registre des Français de l’Étranger. This is not compulsory for European citizens, but it will make life easier for you when it comes to certain administrative formalities (electoral roll registration, document renewal, etc.).
To make all your administrative formalities easier, we recommend that you have any important documents translated into English prior to your expatriation.
“A family move to the Netherlands is a marvellous opportunity in terms of quality of life: nature, sports, cycling, the friendly, relaxed atmosphere (“gezellig”), the very supportive French community, and overall a real openness to children and their well-being, make it an ideal destination with little ones.
But be warned: expatriation to the Netherlands can be treacherous… it’s a 3h30 train ride from Paris, it borders Belgium… Yes, but it’s nothing like France, and there’s a culture shock that’s often underestimated. The language barrier is significant, the culture and attitudes are very different (as is the gastronomic shock), and everything has to be rebuilt in spite of everything. That’s why we launched Pick&Pick and Amsterdam, to help families find their bearings again.
Health in the Netherlands
When you move to the Netherlands, you’ll be obliged to take out health insurance. Since 2006, anyone residing and working in the Netherlands (except seconded workers or students) must take out health insurance or Basisverzekering** . Your policy is managed by private Dutch insurance companies. However, you are free to choose the insurer of your choice, but you must apply within 4 months of your arrival. What’s more, your insurance policy must offer the minimum coverage defined by the Basisverzekering law (doctor’s visits, emergencies, medication). Please note that if your contract does not meet the minimum coverage requirements, you may be subject to penalties.
Several solutions are available to you. You can take out local health insurance. In this case, be sure to check your reimbursement rates, which vary from contract to contract and are not necessarily 100%. You can also supplement your compulsory health insurance with international health insurance. With this solution, you’ll be covered in the Netherlands and all over the world, including when you return to your country of residence. This flexible solution can be tailored to your needs.
The health care system in Holland is different from that in France: visits to the doctor are less frequent, antibiotics are only prescribed in emergencies,childbirth is mostly carried out at home… It’s worth finding out more beforehand. To find the health insurance best suited to your needs, or for any information on your healthcare pathways, contact a santexpat.fr expert. He or she will work with you to find the right solution for your profile.
International health insurance in the Netherlands: how to be well covered
* burgerservicenummer: translates as “citizen service number”. This is a unique number assigned to you when you first register with the local authorities in the Netherlands.
** Basisverzekering: Basic compulsory health insurance scheme governed by law, which determines the nature of care, its scope and therapeutic indications.
