01
Schengen Visa Preparation
Short visits to Europe, prepared calmly and thoroughly.
Learn more
Destination · International & practical
The Netherlands
Introduction
- EU
- EEA
- Schengen
A highly international country where English is widely spoken, with an efficient but rules-based approach to residence and registration. Popular with professionals, students and families alike.
The Netherlands is a member of the EU and the Schengen Area. Short stays follow Schengen rules; longer stays for non-EU citizens are governed by Dutch national rules administered by the IND.
The general journey
Moving to the Netherlands, in three stages.
- 01
Short visit
Visitors who need a visa apply for a Schengen short-stay visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
- 02
Longer stay
Longer stays generally depend on a specific purpose of residence — for example work, study or family. For some routes, an employer or institution acts as a recognised sponsor. The IND publishes current conditions.
- 03
Arrival and registration
Registering with your municipality typically provides your citizen service number (BSN), which you need for work, banking and healthcare.
This is general information, not a statement of current requirements. Always confirm with the official sources below.
Practical considerations
Worth knowing early.
- 01Housing availability in larger cities can be the biggest practical challenge.
- 02Some routes rely on a recognised sponsor — clarify this early.
- 03Certain documents may need legalisation or an apostille and translation.
- 04Dutch basic health insurance rules apply to most residents.
Official sources
Requirements, fees and processing times are set by the authorities. Start here:
How we can help
Services for the Netherlands.
04
European Relocation Planning
Turn a big idea into a realistic, verified plan.
Learn more06
Settling-In Support
The first weeks, made less overwhelming.
Learn moreOther destinations
Still deciding?
Let's make your next step clearer.
Answer a few thoughtful questions and we'll suggest where to begin — no commitment, no pressure.