Author: Bert van Essen

The Dutch Freelancer

This article was originally published in The XPat Journal Autumn 2016 Issue

 

On May 1, 2016, the ‘Wet deregulering en beoordeling arbeidsrelaties’ (DBA) entered into force. As a consequence, all existing VAR-statements (showing that the person in question was not working in employment) have lost their legal force. So, now how do you prove that the relationship with your principal is not an employment relationship?

Employed vs. Self-Employed

In the Netherlands, there is a difference in tax treatment between an employed person and a self-employed professional. If the relationship between you and your principal qualifies as an employment relationship, your principal (the employer) has the obligation to withhold and transfer Dutch payroll taxes to the Dutch Tax Authorities.

According to Dutch tax law, the relationship between an employer and employee qualifies as a private employment relationship if the following conditions are met:

·         the employee has the obligation to perform the work personally
·         the employer has the obligation to pay wages to the employee
·         there is a relationship of authority between the employer and the employee.

In order to determine whether the relationship between you and your principal qualifies as a private employment relationship, not (only) the text of the written agreement (if there is one), but also the actual facts and circumstances are relevant.

If there is no employment relationship because the conditions mentioned above have not been met, then, based on the Dutch Wage Tax Act, the relationship could still be a ‘deemed employment relationship’. As a consequence, payroll taxes will be due. An example of a deemed employee could be a small contractor who does not qualify as an entrepreneur.

Declaration of Independent Contractor Status

The ‘VAR’ was a declaration provided by the Dutch Tax Authorities. This declaration clarified the status of the freelancer. The Dutch Tax Authorities issued four types of declarations. If you were in the possession of the VAR-WUO (income from business activities) or VAR-DGA (applicable if the independent contractor worked through an entity – mostly a B.V.) and certain conditions were met, your principal could not be held liable for the reassessment of payroll taxes. Without the VAR, this liability could become a risk.

Declaration of Independent Contractor Status

As stated above, all existing VAR-statements have lost their legal force. As a consequence, both you and your principal can be held liable if the Dutch Tax Authorities qualify your relationship as an employment relationship (retroactively). That is why it is important to establish whether the relationship between you and your principal qualifies as a private employment relationship.

If you and your principal are of the opinion that the relationship does not qualify as a (deemed) employment relationship, you can choose to work according to a model agreement, for example a model agreement for free replacement or no relationship of authority between the principal and the contractor. If the contract is executed as described in the contract, your principal is exempt from the obligation to withhold payroll taxes.

There are three different kinds of model agreements:

·         general model agreements
·         sector- or profession-specific model agreements
·         individual model agreements.

Model and Sector Agreements

In the past months, external parties and commercial sectors have submitted contracts to the Dutch Tax Authorities. The Dutch Tax Authorities have reviewed these contracts and published several contracts on their website. They have also published general template model contracts as well as model contracts per sector and profession.

If you and your principal work according to a model agreement and the contract is executed as described in the contract, your principal is exempt from the obligation to withhold payroll taxes. Should it become apparent, however, at a later stage, that the contract has not been fulfilled in the way described, this situation may change.

Please note that the initial assessment (template contract) does not provide a conclusive statement on the fiscal status (employer or otherwise) of the contractor.

Individual Model Agreement

Another possibility for you and your principal is to create and submit your own template contract. This is, amongst others, especially advisable for specific professions. The template contract can be submitted with the Dutch Tax Authorities. An initial assessment will be made on the basis of this employment relationship (also in this case, the initial assessment is not a conclusive statement on the fiscal status of the contractor). If the Dutch Tax Authorities are of the opinion that there is no evidence of (genuine) employment and the contract is executed as described in the contract, your principal is exempt from the obligation to withhold payroll taxes.

Please also note that it is not mandatory for contractors and principals to use a model agreement (as it was also not mandatory to use the VAR). If you and your principal do not use a model agreement, both of you are obliged to assess whether the relationship qualifies as an employment relationship.

Transitional Period

As of May 1, 2016, a transitional period of 12 months applies. During this period, you and your principal have the time and flexibility to adjust the procedures if necessary. It is advisable to use this time to properly establish your relationship with your principal. During the transitional period, the Dutch Tax Authorities will not enforce the rules, but will conduct supervision. It goes without saying that fraud cases will be tackled at all times.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Robin Schalekamp and Kees de Graaf work for BDO ACCOUNTANTS & ADVISEURS in Rotterdam and can be reached at tel.: 010 – 242 46 00, or via e-mail: robin.schalekamp@bdo.nl or Kees.de.Graaf@bdo.nl

Student Life in the Netherlands

There is a rich and thriving student life to be had in the Netherlands! The extracurricular activities you involve yourself in at University are arguably just as valuable as the course you take, and the degree you end up with. If you have chosen to study in NL, or you are considering it, keep reading. This page will explain what’s on offer to you, in the way of: sports clubs, student organizations and alumni networking. Making the most of these opportunities will help you to truly get to know your chosen Dutch city, whilst making invaluable life-long friends and connections. You may be thinking: ‘all this sounds wonderful, but how can I afford it as a student’? Living on a shoestring is difficult, but it should not mean that you miss out during your studies. Therefore, we have also provided a little advice on how to keep costs to a minimum, without compromising your enjoyment of student life in NL.

For further help on this topic, take a look at our page devoted to ‘Financial Matters for Students in NL‘.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS IN NL

These days, Dutch University campuses tend not to revolve around fraternities, sororities or student organizations as much as they did in the past. However, student life still has a huge influence on the atmosphere and identity of University towns in Holland. There are several reasons for this:

  • Many Dutch cities are not very big
  • Relatively, therefore, students tend to make up quite a high percentage of a city’s population
  • This means that their presence can be felt in the centers of towns, and in neighborhoods that are popular with young people
  • There are few large student campuses in Holland
  • Still, every student town has a number of student organizations
  • Sometimes, a student organization has its own ‘club house’
  • Club houses often have their own unique traditions, rules, atmosphere and culture
  • This seeps out of their walls and can be felt in and around the city as well

Why Join a Student Organization in NL?

  • Joining a Dutch student organization is a great way to meet new people
  • Because organizations tend to be the locus of student life within a city, joining one is a way of accessing the centre of the action!
  • Their buzz and lively atmosphere make them ideal for making friends relatively fast
  • Club houses can feel like a home away from home for international students in NL
  • They often serve as a regular meeting place, where students can hang out with their friends
  • Being a part of a student organization will enable you to naturally build up a network of like-minded people. This could help with your career later on
  • Friends you make at the club house could become future colleagues

Hazing in the Netherlands

In order to become a member of a student organization, you may well have to go through a process called ‘hazing‘:

  • Hazing is a kind of ‘rite of passage’ a student must undergo, in order to be given membership to a fraternity
  • The fraternity will usually devise a series of challenges potential members must overcome, in order to prove they are worthy of joining
  • If you plan to study in NL for just a short period of time it might suit you better to check out some smaller student organizations
  • These are less likely to uphold hazing traditions. Or, said traditions might be less extreme than those of larger fraternities and sororities

TYPES OF STUDENT ORGANIZATION IN NL

There are many different types of student organization on the Netherlands!

1. Organizations for a Common Interest or Hobby

  • Many organizations are aligned with a common interest, such as a sport, a religion, an activity or a cause
  • Some of these have been founded by institutions of higher education themselves

2. ‘Free Time Organizations’

  • These are called ‘gezelligheidsverenigingen‘ in Dutch
  • No particular activity is at the center of such organizations. They are more like social clubs, through which students can meet other people easily
  • They are very popular in Holland

3. ‘Faculty Organizations’

  • In contrast to free time organizations, these organize a lot of activities
  • The events tend to revolve around a specific line of study
  • Activities might include: lectures, workshops or sales of textbooks at a reduced price
  • Faculty organizations are called ‘studieverenigingen‘ in Dutch
  • If you are interested in gaining advice related to your studies and your career path, it is these organizations that are worth looking into

4. National and International Student Organizations

  • These organizations serve a similar purpose  
  • Both can help you find internships, work placements and temporary jobs
  • They also provide fun and interesting activities to help you enjoy student life as an expat in NL

Tip

‘AEGEE‘ and ‘AIESEC‘ are examples of popular international student organizations:

  1. AEGEE is a general European student organization
  2. AIESEC helps students find international internships in a global learning environment

The Organization for You

Student organizations should not be the only thing you base your choice of university on. However, they can act as a good indicator of a city’s character. The types of organization a town is host to are a good meter for what  interests and values its population has. Here are a few tips on how to research student organizations in NL:

  • We recommend that you look over each city’s list of the organizations, to find out which one you would feel most at home in
  • Talking to people at your institute of higher education is another great way to find out what’s on offer
  • If you can attend an open day, we encourage you to do so! It is the only way to really get a taste of a town’s atmosphere 

THE HOLLAND ALUMNI NETWORK

As an international student, you can join the Holland Alumni Network. This network offers services to international students in the Netherlands. By joining, you will gain access to:

  • All sorts of Alumni associations
  • Careers advice from alumni who have gone through the Dutch Higher education system
  • Communication with alumni who are affiliated with Dutch higher education institutions
  • Other relevant organizations for international students and job seekers
  • 62,000 fellow students

SPORTS FOR STUDENTS IN NL

The Dutch are a very sporting nation. Hence, all student towns have sports facilities. This makes sport a huge part of student life for many Dutch University attendees:

  • Sometimes the facilities are a part of a local sports organization
  • Others are affiliated with the institute of higher education itself
  • Sports organizations aim to create camaraderie amongst students
  • They are not usually about serious competition
  • Sports club membership is generally affordable in NL
  • Most organizations offer a student discount too

Rowing in NL

Rowing is one of the most traditional and competitive student sports in the Netherlands:

  • Most Dutch rowing clubs are student clubs
  • Some of them are affiliated with larger student organizations, and others are completely independent
  • Many students take up this sport during their first year, and stop after graduating
  • The main Dutch rowing event is the ‘Varsity‘
  • This is a huge rowing tournament, to which large student rowing clubs send their best teams to compete
  • During the race, thousands of students sit and stand by the water to watch, picnic, drink and boogy
  • A huge party usually continues long into the night on the premises of the student organization of the winning team

Other Sports for Students in NL

If rowing is not your thing, do not be put off! There are plenty of other sports for you to get involved with, such as:

  • Soccer
  • Hockey
  • Rugby
  • Tennis
  • And more!

Most of these sports have their own organization. 

HANGING OUT IN HOLLAND

Having some ‘go to’ places to socialize with friends is fundamental for a healthy student life. Typically, students want:

  • Hangouts that are ‘frequented by other students’
  • Affordable food and drink 
  • A variety of cafés, restaurants, bars and dance clubs

Luckily, most Dutch towns cater very well for these requirements:

  • They tend to have a lot of student cafés and restaurants 
  • Designated student cafeterias are also popular
  • These are best known for offering very cheap meals
  • ‘Eet-cafés’ are also common. These establishments have a pleasant atmosphere and very cheap grub as well

When you first move to your new Dutch student town, we advise you to:

  • Ask other students what they recommend
  • Go out and explore for yourself. The search is half the fun!

STUDENT DISCOUNT CARDS IN NL

There are multiple discount cards designed for young people in the Netherlands. They enable students to save a lot of money. This, in turn, equips them for a richer student life.

The Dutch Cultural Youth Passport

If you are interested in educating yourself on the culture of your new city and country, get yourself a ‘CJP’:

  • CJP is pronounced ‘say-yay-pay’ and stands for ‘cultureel jongeren paspoort‘
  • This translates as ‘cultural youth passport’
  • The CJP costs € 17.50 for those under 30
  • There is a special kind of CJP for students, which costs just €25
  • This student CJP includes a ‘Knaek-discount‘. Knaek is a Dutch company that offers discounts on lots of products that are useful to students
  • The CJP can be bought via the CJP website
  • The pass enables you to claim reductions on theater tickets, concert events, entrance fees for exhibitions and films
  • You can also download CJP’s app

Other Discount Cards in NL

  • The CJP is part of ‘European Youth Card Network‘, or ‘EYCA’
  • This network shows students how to benefit from discounts at restaurants, cinemas, and shops all over the world
  • Another student card that offers discounts is the ‘ISIC‘
  • This is the ‘International Student Identity Card’

A CAREER IN HOLLAND AFTER GRADUATION

Many expat students enjoy student life in the Netherlands so much that they go on to forge a career in Holland, after graduating from their Dutch institution.

The types of students listed below have three years to request a residence permit, following their graduation from a Dutch University. They must dedicate one of these years to finding work as a highly skilled migrant in the Netherlands:

  • Foreign students who have obtained a bachelor’s degree in NL
  • Foreign students who have obtained a master’s degree in NL
  • Students that have obtained a master’s degree, or a Ph.D., at a qualifying university abroad
  • Scientific researchers
  • Post-doctoral students

Useful links

Go to the Directory for International Universities

Int. Higher Education in NL

Holland is host to a huge range of degree courses, taught in both Dutch and English. This makes it a popular study destination for students from all over the world! International higher education in NL may well differ to that of your national country. So, if you are considering applying to Dutch university, please keep reading. This page will outline how higher ed works in Holland, what kinds of institution are out there, and which degree courses are available. Learn which educational path is right for you, and what admission requirements you must meet to follow it, in NL.

Choosing your Institution

In the Netherlands, there is a ‘Dutch system of quality control‘. This guarantees that the education offered at all higher education institutions meets the same high standards. So, how do you pick the right one? 

  • When Dutch students decide where they want to study, they tend not to base their decision on which university is regarded most highly
  • Instead they look at:
  1. Which specializations are offered 
  2. What kind of academic traditions are upheld 
  3. The unique atmosphere and style of the institution 

Dutch Employers

  • The three points above are the main ways in which Dutch Universities distinguish themselves
  • Because Dutch students do not pick a higher education based on its ‘quality’, employers who are based in the Netherlands do not judge their potential candidates by which University they attended
  • They are mostly interested in the degree a future employee has earned

Selection Criteria

For these reasons, it is advisable to compare Dutch Universities by looking into the three aforementioned points of comparison. It is also advisable to consider:

  1. The structure and content of the study programs a university offers
  2. The city in which it is located
  3. The clubs and extra curricular activities available 

Quality Control in NL

There is one measure we recommend you take, in order to ensure that the higher education institution you are interested in is up to scratch:

  • Find out whether it has been approved by the ‘Accreditation Organization of the Netherlands and Flanders’
  • This is called the ‘Nederlands Vlaamse Accreditatie Organisatie‘ in Dutch
  • The Dutch and Flemish government created this organization specifically for the purpose of monitoring the quality of the higher education courses and programs in the Netherlands
  • Most institutions that offer English-language education are obligated to sign a special Code of Conduct
  • This code sets out standards for Dutch higher education institutions
  • It also lays down rules regarding the fair treatment of international students
  • These rules are to do with: quality of educational programs, student recruitment policy, selection and counselling procedures

Dutch Higher Ed: the Basics

Let’s start by covering the fundamental set-up of higher education in the Netherlands:

  • The higher education system in Holland is based on a three-cycle degree system
  • The system begins with a Bachelor’s degree, progresses to a Master’s degree and concludes with a PhD degree
  • Students can go through this system at ‘research universities’. These are referred to as ‘WOs’ in Holland
  • Alternatively, students can gain a degree from a university of applied sciences. These are referred to as ‘HBOs’ in the Netherlands
  • In Dutch, higher academic education is referred to as ‘universiteit‘
  • Approximately 29% of the population of the Netherlands, who are aged between 15 and 75, have a higher education degree. This percentage is on the rise too!
  • 49% of women and 45% of men in Holland, aged between 35 and 45, have acquired a degree

What Higher Ed looks like in Holland

To get a clearer idea of the educational options available to young people in NL, and how they can be reached, take a look at the diagram below:

Tabel by Educaide

Research Universities in NL

Dutch research universities offer higher education to students in the Netherlands, who hold either an IB-Diploma or a Dutch VWO.  These higher education institutions can be found in:

It is also possible to study in other locations, through one of the above univeristies:

  • Some of these universities have faculties in other cities 
  • Many Dutch universities have partner institutions in other countries too
  • Students can follow part of their course abroad, at one of these partner institutions

WO Higher Education in NL

As we explained earlier, students will follow a ‘WO’ education program at a Dutch Research university:

  • This program will commence with a bachelor’s course, which will last three years 
  • It will be followed by a master’s course, which can last between one and three years
  • A bachelor’s program is sometimes referred to as an ‘undergraduate’ course, and a masters as a ‘graduate’ course
  • Unsurprisingly, Dutch ‘Research universities‘ tend to run research-oriented programs
  • The programs taught at these universities are described as ‘Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs‘, or  ‘WO’ for short
  • This kind of education is designed to prepare students for careers that require highly skilled employees

Fields of Research

Dutch research universities offer students the opportunity to conduct research in a varied and exciting range of disciplines, in order for them to gain expertise in a specific field. These diciplines include, but are not limited to: 

  • Language and culture
  • Behavior and society
  • Economics
  • Law
  • Medical and health sciences
  • Natural sciences
  • Engineering
  • Agriculture

Universities of Applied Science in NL

Universities of applied sciences are called ‘Hogescholen‘ in Dutch. Here’s what you need to know about them:

  • Primarily, Hogescholen offer programs of higher ‘professional’ education
  • In Dutch, this is called ‘Hoger Beroepsonderwijs‘, which is abbreviated to ‘HBO’
  • These programs prepare students for specific professions
  • The education these universities offer tends to be more practice-oriented than that of research universities

HBO Education in NL

  • Universities of applied sciences offer four-year bachelor’s degree programs
  • Two-year master’s programs are also available
  • All degree programs focus on preparing students for particular professions
  • They tend to be more practically-oriented than programs offered by research universities
  • HBO education consists of lectures, seminars, projects and independent study
  • Students are also often required to complete an internship or work placement
  • This normally takes up part of the third year of their course
  • During their fourth year of study, students are usually expected to complete a final project or a major paper

Entry Requirements for HBO Education

  • Students with an IB-diploma can attend a Dutch HBO
  • In some cases, students who have taken the ‘IGCSE-diploma‘, along with two additional subjects at GCE-level, can also attend a Dutch University of applies sciences
  • MBO-diplomas and Dutch HAVO/VWO-diplomas are sometimes considered acceptable entrance qualifications too

HBO programs focus on applied arts and sciences in one of the seven HBO sectors:

  • Agriculture
  • Engineering and technology
  • Economics and business administration
  • Health care
  • Fine and performing arts
  • Education/teacher training
  • Social welfare

International Education in NL

Next to research universities and universities of applied sciences, Holland has a third  branch of higher education. This branch is a lot smaller and lesser known. In the Netherlands, it is simply referred to as ‘International Education’, or ‘IE’:

  • International education offers advanced training courses
  • These are taught in English
  • Originally, they were designed for people from developing countries whose jobs required highly specialized knowledge
  • Most IE institutions are part of a research university
  • They typically focus on courses relevant to developing countries

Tuition Language in NL

Across the Netherlands, Dutch higher education institutions are teaching a growing number of courses in English:

  • It is possible to take specialized courses as well as entire bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. programs in English
  • In total, there are over 2,100 international courses on offer
  • These are all taught entirely in English

English Language Education in NL

In order to enrol in a program or a course that is conducted in English, you must have a sufficient command of the language. Your English will be tested in the following way:

  • You must take an English language test
  • TOEFL is a common example, which is recognized in the Netherlands. TOEFL stands for ‘Test of English as a Foreign Language’
  • IELTS is also recognized in the Netherlands. This is the ‘International English Language Testing System’
  • Some courses have their own, additional, language requirements
  • Make sure you visit the database of the course you are considering applying for, to check whether you will qualify

Higher Education Taught in Dutch

  • Whilst many degree programs are taught entirely in English, some expats opt to take on the challenge of studying a program in Dutch
  • A number of university centers offer ‘Dutch as a second language‘ courses
  • Said courses are specially designed for foreign students, whose lack of Dutch is the only thing stopping them from being qualified for admission 
  • In order to take a Dutch course, you must be able to prove that you have mastered the language sufficiently

Admission Requirements in NL

As we mentioned earlier, students are usually required to have an IB diploma, or a VWO-diploma, in order to be admitted onto a WO bachelor’s program in Holland. There are a few extra admission requirements they must meet on top of this:

  • The minimum access requirement for an HBO course is an IB-diploma
  • In some cases, undergraduates must hold an IGCSE-diploma, with two additional subjects at GCE-level
  • Other courses stipulate that students must have a Dutch HAVO, a VWO-diploma or a level-4 MBO-diploma

Subject Clusters

  • When applying for a WO or an HBO, students must have completed at least one subject ‘cluster’
  • In Dutch a cluster is called a ‘profielen‘
  • The cluster must fulfil the particular requirements that will have been laid out by the individual higher education program for which they are applying

Program Quotas

  • Certain programs have a quota. In Dutch, this is called a ‘numerus fixus‘
  • It is primarily courses related to the health sector that have quotas
  • For these programs, places are allocated using a weighted lottery
  • Prospective students who are over 21 years of age, and are not in possession of one of the afore-mentioned qualifications, can still be admitted onto a Dutch higher eductaion course
  • To qualify, said students need to pass an entrance examination and an assessment
  • The only access requirement for the ‘Open University‘ is that applicants are at least 18 years of age

Equivalent Diplomas for Dutch Higher Ed

Many international students need to apply to a Dutch higher ed institution, with a diploma from another country. How does this work in NL?

  • To determine whether your diploma renders you qualified for admission to a Dutch course you must have it evaluated
  • Your prospective educational institute will carry out this evaluation for you
  • Admission requirements are set by individual institutions themselves in NL
  • So, once you have found a study program that appeals to you, be sure to check its admission requirements. They will not necessarily be the same as those of other programs you have looked at
  • It is essential that you speak, read and write English well!
  • As we mentioned earlier, you must have passed an English language test to be admitted into higher education in the Netherlands
  • IELTS and TOEFL are commonly accepted certificates
  • Institutions may also, however, accept other tests
  • Cambridge English,  for example, is sometimes sufficient

Failure to Meet Entry Requirements

In principle, you can only come to the Netherlands as an expat student, if you meet all the aforementioned requirements. There are, however, a few exceptions to this rule. If:

1. You do not Speak Dutch

  • If the course you want to take is taught in Dutch, and you do not have a sufficient grasp of the language, there is an answer
  • Provided that you meet all the other requirements for the program, you can come to Holland for a year before your course begins, to study the local language and get your skills up to a sufficient level

2. You do not Meet Every Entry Requirement

  • If you do not possess the correct qualifications to be admitted onto the course of your choice, you can come to NL for a year to follow a preparatory program
  • Alternatively, prospective students who are over 21 years of age, and who do not possess one of the qualifications mentioned above, can qualify for access to higher education on the basis of an entrance examination and assessment

3. You do not Feel Ready!

  • If you want to come to NL to study, but you simply do not feel prepared to take the leap, Dutch Universities might be able to help you
  • In Holland you can take a ‘foundation year‘
  • This is a transitional year that has been created specifically for non-European and non-Western students
  • It is intended to help them prepare for their studies in the Netherlands
  • The only access requirement for the Open University is that applicants be at least 18 years of age

Unqualified for a WO

If you would like to pursue a degree at a WO University in the Netherlands, you technically need to have either a ‘HAVO-diploma’ or the equivalent from another country. However, if you do not have this diploma, there is an alternative path you can take:

  • The first year of every HBO and WO-program is known as the ‘propedeuse‘ year
  • Once you have your ‘HBO-propedeuse‘, you can choose whether or not to continue with the bachelor’s program at your university of applied sciences
  • If you opt not to, you can begin the first year of a WO university program
  • To do this, you will usually have had to complete your propedeuse year in a subject that relates to what you wish to study at the WO
  • After ‘investing’ a year in obtaining an HBO-propedeuse, WO universities will accept you without a HAVO diploma

Admittance to a Masters Program in NL

Once you have secured a WO-bachelor’s degree, you are automatically qualified to continue on to at least one master’s program in the Netherlands:

  • Most students choose to do this at the university from which they were awarded their undergraduate degree
  • You can, however, usually attend a different university if you wish
  • This University can be in the Netherlands, or in another country
  • If you want a change of direction, and you wish to apply to a different master’s program at the same university, there could be additional requirements that you must meet

Degrees in the Netherlands

Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in NL

Bachelor’s and master’s degrees are awarded by both universities and universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands:

  • At the end of an HBO bachelor’s degree program graduates obtain the title: ‘Bachelor of …’, for the professional field of study in which they have achieved their qualification
  • Having completed a WO-bachelor’s degree course, graduates are awarded a ‘Bachelor of Science’ or a ‘Bachelor of Arts’ degree
  • The same distinction is made for the names of master’s degrees

Associate Degrees in the Netherlands

An associate degree program is a two-year ‘short cycle’ degree program:

  • Dutch people also refer to it as an ‘associate degree’
  • It is offered by universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands
  • It enables students to obtain a professional qualification in a condensed period of time
  • An associate degree is intended to help them learn skills and competencies needed to improve their chances of finding a job
  • To be accepted onto an associate degree program, prospective students typically require the same qualifications they would need for admittance to an HBO bachelor’s program
  • Once you have obtained an associate degree you can seek employment
  • Alternatively, you could move on to the last two years of an HBO-program, and obtain a bachelor’s degree

Doctorates in the Netherlands

In Holland, students who make it through their third cycle of higher education will be awarded a doctororate degree:

  • This impressive accolade can be achieved only at a research university in Holland
  • All research universities in the Netherlands are eligible to award the country’s highest academic degree, the ‘doctoraat‘, to their students
  • They can also award their pupils a Ph.D.
  • This degree entitles someone to use the title ‘doctor’, or the abbreviated form ‘dr.’
  • The process by which a doctorate is obtained is referred to as the ‘promotie‘ in Dutch

What actually is a doctorate degree?

  • A doctorate is primarily a research degree
  • Students who embark upon a doctorate must write a dissertation
  • This must be based on original research, written up in full and publicly defended
  • The minimum amount of time required to complete a doctorate is four years

How to Apply for a Doctorate Program in NL

  • Most students working on doctorates are actually paid employees, rather than ‘students’
  • They apply for a position as an AIO
  • This stands for ‘assistent-in-opleiding‘, and is a research assistant job
  • It is not essential for a doctoral student to take on such a position, in order to obtain their Ph.D.
  • Working as an AIO merely enables them to have a source of income, whilst they are working towards their Ph.D
  • AIO positions are advertised in the same way jobs are in Holland
  • Candidates must approach a supervisor directly in order to apply
  • Candidates with foreign qualifications can apply for these positions alongside their Dutch counterparts
  • They must ask permission to write their dissertation in another language
  • Prospective doctoral students may also contact a university faculty independently, and write their own research proposal
  • Sometimes the research for a dissertation can be conducted in the candidate’s own country

The Dutch Higher Ed Credit System

The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is used by all higher education institutions in the Netherlands. Here are the bullet points:

  • A WO bachelor’s program stipulates that students must complete 180 credits
  • Ordinarily, a WO master’s program demands that between 60 and 120 credits are completed over the course of one or two years
  • An HBO bachelor’s program asks that students amass 240 credits 
  • 120 credits are required for an associate degree
  • The number of credits a student manages to achieve dictates the degree that he or she is ultimately given

How Many Credits?

120 credits are always required for the completion of a degree in one of the following subjects:

  • Engineering
  • Agriculture
  • Dentistry
  • Math
  • Natural sciences 120

Universities ask that their students complete 180 credits if they are following programs in:

  • Medicine
  • Veterinary medicine
  • Pharmacy

An HBO master’s program requests that students complete 60 to 120 credits

Side Note

The Dutch Grading System

The grading system has been the same for several decades in the Netherlands. Here’s how it works:

  • The grading scale in Holland is fairly simply
  • According to the scale, 1 is very poor and 10 is outstanding
  • The lowest passing grade is 6
  • 9s are seldom given
  • 10s are extremely rare!
  • Grades 1-3 are hardly ever used

Useful links

  • Study in Holland: Everything you need to know about higher education in NL
  • Millian: Find masters programs and business courses in NL
  • Educaide: Advise on all forms of higher education in Holland

Student Housing in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a fantastic place to study as an international student, in so many ways. One of it’s few downfalls, is that there is a shortage of student housing. On this page, we offer a little advice on how to make sure you have a roof over your head, during your time at Dutch University. It is best not to expect to live in luxury during your time as a student in NL, but try not to be put off by this! What you may lack in terms floor space will be more than made up for in terms of thriving student life and Dutch culture!

The Student Housing Shortage in NL

In Holland, most student towns have one problem in common: a shortage of student housing!

  • It is hard enough for Dutch students to find a good place to live in the Netherlands
  • Unfortunately, as a foreign student, this means that it may well be even harder for you
  • It is unlikely that you will be coming to the Netherlands with a ready-built network, from which you can receive help
  • What’s more, short-term accommodation is tougher to come by in NL. Since you may well not be staying in the Netherlands for long, this could put you at more of a disadvantage

How to Find Student Accommodation in NL

Here is our advice:

  • Your education institution may have arranged housing for you. This will usually be the case if you are participating in an exchange program, or you are enrolled in an international course
  • If you do have pre-arranged housing, we recommend that you accept it immediately! It can be tempting to try and find something for yourself. However, this will be a challenge, and the room you are offered could be give to someone else if you wait too long to accept it
  • If your University has not arranged housing for you, they will probably still be able to offer some help
  • Many higher education institutions in NL have special departments for foreign students. These departments are equipped to help students find a suitable place to live
  • Visit your University’s website, to see whether they have a section on housing for international students
  • If they have no such section, contact your institution directly 

Tip

Dutch Housing Websites

If you are undertaking the search yourself, you will probably have to navigate some housing websites, which will be written in Dutch. Try not to be too put off by this:

  • The sites are quite simple to navigate once you get the hang of them
  • In Dutch, ‘housing’ translates as ‘huisvesting‘
  • ‘Huur‘ means ‘rent’
  • ‘Kamers‘  means ‘rooms’. Anything that includes this word is usually related to housing
  • Find a list of housing websites at the bottom of this page

What is Student Housing like in NL?

Once you have found a place to live, what can you expect from it?

  • In Holland, students usually have their own room
  • A student house will typically have a shared shower, toilet, kitchen and living room
  • Students tend to live with other students. So, your roommates will probably be in the same boat as you
  • It is common for men and women to live together in a shared house in Holland
  • If you would rather live with people of the same sex, let your University know as soon as possible
  • Due to the shortage of good accommodation in NL, you may find the room you are offered a bit small and dingy
  • We’re afraid that there is not usually a lot you can do about this
  • Most institutions will simply be glad to offer you shelter!
  • Remember that what really makes student life great is the course, the friends and the city. Once you are happy with these areas, you will forget that your room is not too luxurious!

Useful links

Find a room in Holland through:

For further information on accommodation in the Netherlands, take a look at our pages:

If you plan to stay in your hosing outside of term-time, there are so many productive ways to use your time. Finding an internship, a work placement, a temporary job, or just an activity you love is a great way to gain career experience and to integrate deeper into life in NL. The following organisations can help you with this:

Financial Matters for Students

All students need to keep on top of their financial matters. Tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses and student life all require funding. Throw in another currency and another culture, and you have quite a task on your hands! Luckily there are many forms of financial aid available to you, as an international student in NL. Which type of loan you are eligible for will depend on your personal situation. On this page we will discuss all the various forms of financial support on offer to expat students. Read on to learn about which ones apply to you, and how you can arrange them, in order to make the most of your time studying in Holland!

Tuition Fees in NL

How much you will have to pay to study at a government-funded higher ed institution in NL, as an international student, will depend on where you are from:

  • Expat students from the EU, the EEA, Switzerland and Surinam should expect to pay anything upwards of €2,006 per year
  • Thats is, for 2017/2018. Prices could rise in the future
  • Unfortunately, students of all other nationalities generally have to pay higher fees
  • The average tuition fee for a bachelor’s program is between € 6,000 and € 17,000
  • For a master’s program it is between € 9,400 and € 20,000
  • Tuition for theology studies, however, is lower

Affordable Education

This might seem expensive. However, tuition fees in the Netherlands are generally considered to be very reasonable:

  • Compared to many other countries, international higher education fees in NL are relatively low
  • The level of education in Holland is also of an excellent standard
  • Plenty of grants are available
  • EU, EEA and Swiss students can still apply for ‘studiefinanciering‘. This is the a study loan from the Dutch government, which we will explain in more detail in the paragraphs below

Student Finance in NL

In Dutch, student finance is referred to as ‘studiefinanciering‘. Unfortunately, it will not automatically be available to all international students who come to the Netherlands. We will cover what makes you eligible for this loan a little later on, so keep reading!  

If you do meet the requirements to receive studiefinanciering, we advise you to accept it! It is a huge asset when it comes to financial matters for students in NL. The Dutch student finance system works as follows:

  • Students no longer receive a grant from the government, with which they pay for their studies
  • Instead, students can take out a maximum loan of € 1042
  • This loan includes a tuition fee loan
  • It is up to students themselves to decide how large a loan they would like
  • There are no longer any limits to the amount of money a student is permitted to earn whilst he or she is receiving studiefinanciering
  • If their parents are of limited financial means, students can apply for an additional grant of € 391 a month

Once the Studying is Over

  • This grant will be converted into a gift, if the student achieves his or her diploma within ten years
  • Students in the Netherlands have 15 years to pay off their student loan
  • Those who commence their studies in the academic year of 2018-2019 will have 35 years to pay off their loan 
  • If you entered a Dutch university as a student of applied sciences between 2015 and 2019 or between 2018 and 2019, you will be issued a € 2000-voucher for further studies. That is, on the condition that you obtain your diploma
  • It is important to note that the old student finance system will continue to apply to students following secondary vocational education, or ‘MBO‘

The Student Travel Card in NL

  • If you are eligible to receive a Dutch student finance loan, you will automatically be eligible for a ‘Studenten OV-chipkaart‘
  • This is a discount student travel card, which can be used on all forms of Dutch public transport
  • With your card, you can travel for free either during the weekend or on weekdays
  • You must choose which part of the week you would like to claim your free travel on, for yourself
  • You will still be able to travel at a reduced rate during the other days of the week
  • Using a student discount on public transport is also subject to whether or not you complete your studies within ten years
  • If you fail to meet this condition, you will have to make a retroactive monthly payment for having possessed your card
  • You can own and use a Studenten OV-chipkaart for a maximum of five years
  • You can still have a student travel pass, if you do not take out a Dutch student finance loan

Are you Eligible for Dutch Student Finance?

In order to receive Dutch student finance, you must possess ‘demonstrable’ ties with the Netherlands. Below we have outlined the requirements that constitute ‘demonstrable ties’. 

Student Finance for Non-Dutch Nationals

You can apply for Dutch student finance if you are a non-Dutch national, who legally resides in the Netherlands. You will be eligible for ‘studiefinanciering’ if you are either:

  • Enrolled in full-time higher education, or:
  • Enrolled in a dual course that will last at least one year

Eligibility for EU, EEA or Swiss Nationals

If you are an EU,EEA or Swiss national, you must meet the following requirements in order to qualify for Dutch student finance:

  • You must have lived in the Netherlands for five consecutive years
  • During this time, you must only have lived outside of the Netherlands for a maximum of six months
  • If you, or if your non-Dutch parent or partner, have lived away from Holland for a significant period of time contact DUO
  • DUO stands for ‘Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs‘
  • It is the Dutch Ministry of Education. There could be some additional conditions to which you must adhere

Residence Permits for Non-Dutch Nationals

As well as meeting one of the above conditions, non-Dutch Nationals must hold one of the following residence permits:

  • Type I (temporary) residence permit. This permit must have been issued to you on particular grounds
  • Type II (permanent) residence permit
  • Type III (temporary) residence permit
  • Residence permit type V. This is an EU residence permit for long-term residents
  • Asylum seekers must have a type IV (permanent) residence permit

The DUO strongly advises non-Dutch EU students to do the following:

  • If they have not been living in the Netherlands for five consecutive years or more, contact one of the DUO support Offices
  • They can provide you with further information regarding Dutch student finance

If, according to the requirements above, you are not eligible to receive Dutch student finance, fear not! There are plenty of other forms of assistance available to you. Read on to learn about them.

Side Note

In order to receive student finance in the Netherlands, you must arrange to have a ‘DigiD’. This is your Dutch Digital Identity

Tuition Fees Loan in NL

If You Do not Qualify for Student Finance 

EU, EEA and Swiss nationals who do not qualify for full studiefinanciering, can still apply for a tuition fee loan. This loan can be repaid once they have completed their studies.

How large a loan a student can receive, depends on the type of institution they are attending. If you are:

1. Legally receiving tuition fees, that are being put towards a higher education from a government-funded Dutch University:

  • You can receive a total annual amount of € 2,060
  • That is, for the academic year of 2018-19

2. If your loan money is being used to pay tuition fees to a non-government-funded institute of higher education in NL:

  • You can apply for a loan for whatever the sum of the fees for your institution comes to
  • This means that you can receive up to a maximum of five times the ‘legal’ tuition fee quantity, charged by a government-funded education institution

Nationality and Eligibility

To qualify for a tuition fee loan, you must be between the ages of 18 and 30, and come from one of the countries listed below:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • The Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Great Britain
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Rumania
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland

Accepted Types of Institution

In addition, you must be enrolled as a full-time student in an accredited course at one of the following institutions:

Further Requirements

You must also have:

Lifelong Learning Credit in NL

If you qualify for neither studiefinanciering nor a tuition fees loan, you can apply for something called ‘lifelong learning credit‘. You can receive this loan, upon the following conditions:

  • You are a full-time, dual or part-time student at a university of applied sciences, or a research university, in the Netherlands
  • You are a full-time student in an MBO learning program
  • Your study program is officially recognized in the Netherlands
  • You are an EU, an EEA or a Swiss National
  • You have a residence permit. Said permit bust be of type II, III, IV or V
  • If you have a type I permit, refer to the DUO, to see whether you qualify for lifelong learning credit
  • You are older than 30 and younger than 55

Side Note

Under certain conditions, you can apply for lifelong learning credit if you are under the age of 30. To qualify, you must:

  • Already have a bachelor’s or a master’s degree
  • Be following a second full-time, or part-time, study at a university of applied sciences
  • Not be in receipt of full reimbursement for your tuition fees. This means that neither an employer, nor a parent, can be helping you to fund your higher eductaion
  • If, however, another party is only partially reimbursing you for your study fees, you can request credit for the remaining amount

Grants in the Netherlands

Scholarships for EU Students

EU students have many of their financial matters taken care of for them, if they come to the Netherlands to study as part of an exchange program. For example, the following affairs will be organized on their behalf:

Scholarships for Non-EU Students

If you are coming to the Netherlands from outside of the EU, we recommend that you take a look into which grants or scholarships are available to you. They could really help cover the costs of your higher education in NL.

If there are scholarships available for international students, they tend to be for students:

  • In a particular field of study
  • From a particular country or region

As well as looking for scholarships online, we recommend that you contact your University and ask what is available. Some institutions have special grant programs for international students.

Refugee and Asylum Seeking Students in NL

Approach the ‘Stichting UAF Steunpunt‘ if you are about to begin your higher education in NL, and you have refugee status, or you are seeking asylum in Holland.

The Stichting UAF Steunpunt is the foundation for refugee students in the Netherlands:

  • They will be able to tell you whether there is a grant available to you
  • There is a small British flag in the top, right-hand corner of their website
  • Click on this flag to access an English-language leaflet. It lists the conditions you must meet, in order to receive financial assistance during your studies in NL

Banking as a Student in NL

All international students will need to open a Dutch bank account, in order to manage their financial matters. Most Dutch banks will be very accommodating:

  • Many banks respect and understand that because foreign students have come to gain a good quality higher education in a completely new and unfamiliar country all by themselves, they need financial advice and support
  • Therefore, you should find the staff friendly and flexible
  • If you ask about their loans, they will endeavour to advise you, and find one that suits you personally
  • They will be open to working out an arrangement that will help you cover your fees
  • They should only expect you to pay back your loan once you have completed your studies and found a job
  • In Dutch cities that have large international student populations, banks should be especially helpful
  • Staff will be happy to answer any questions related to financial matters you may have
  • They will, however, certainly ask to see your student registration
  • You will probably need to provide a guarantor too

Special Banking Programs for Students in NL

The following Dutch banks have special programs for students. We recommend that you contact one of them to set up your banking, whilst you are studying in the Netherlands:

These student banking programs will include features such as:

  • Special interest rates
  • A maximum loan
  • The use of a credit card
  • Special repayment programs
  • Health insurance, for those who cannot take out a health insurance in the Netherlands
  • Other insurances

Student Insurance in NL

If you are a student, under 30 years of age, who has come to NL solely for the purpose of studying, you will be exempt from the general requirement to take out Dutch public health care insurance. In order to be immune to this requirement you cannot hold a part-time job, or a paid internship, during your studies. In addition, you are obligated to make alternative arrangements:

Insurance for European Students

If you are from an EU-country:

Insurance for Non-European Students

If you are from a non-EU country, this financial matter requires further attention. Here’s what we suggest:

  • You can take out a private insurance policy in Holland
  • There are private packages on the market, created specially for international students
  • Visit AON for more information
  • This company has packages that include liability insurance, household content insurance and legal advice
  • We advise you to read up on the different kinds of Dutch insurance that exist in NL. This way, you will know which forms on insurance you are, and are not, obligated to have
  • If you are covered by a public health care insurance plan in your home country, check whether it will cover you during your studies abroad too

Student Jobs in NL

There is nothing to prevent you from taking on a paid job alongside your studies in the Netherlands. In fact, it is a great way to gain work experience and to give your finances a boost! However, there are a few things to bear in mind:

  • You will only be allowed to work in Holland if you have a residence permit and a ‘burgerservicenummer’. This is a Dutch Citizen Service Number
  • Depending on your nationality, you can only work for a limited number of hours per week in NL
  • Your employer must also apply for a work permit on your behalf 
  • Make sure that you check which regulations apply to you before you apply for, or accept, a job. Your University should be able to help you with this

Types of Student Job in NL

What kind of work can you do as a student in NL?

The Perks of Work

  • The process of asking your boss to apply for your work permit should be relatively uncomplicated, if you are from the EU. So do not be put off by having to do this
  • EU, EEA and Swiss nationals are free to work as many hours as they like in the Netherlands, alongside their studies
  • Do not forget that you will have to take out Dutch healthcare insurance if you take on a job. You risk receiving a hefty fine if you fail to do this
  • There is no limit to how much you are allowed to earn, whilst you are receiving the ‘studiefinanciering’ loan. We will discuss this in more detail further on

A Career in Holland After Graduation

Are you considering forging a career in the Netherlands, after graduating from your Dutch institution?

Most expatriates have three years to request a Dutch residence permit, following the conclusion of their studies. They must dedicate one of these three years to finding work as a highly skilled migrant in the Netherlands. This rule applies to the following graduates:

  • Foreign students who have obtained a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in the Netherlands
  • Students that have obtained a master’s degree, or a Ph.D., at a qualifying university abroad
  • Scientific researchers
  • Post-doctoral students

Said expats can also use this time to start up an ‘innovative company’, or to work without a work permit. Until they find work, however, they will not be eligible for benefits in NL. This makes it unlikely that they will be able to cover the basic costs of living in Holland.

Useful links

  • Educaide: Advise on all forms of higher education in Holland
  • Study in Holland: Everything you need to know about higher education in NL
  • Career Professor: The network that bridges the gap between graduates and employers
  • Millian: find masters programs and business courses in NL

Information Centers & Business Clubs

Information centers and business clubs can be a huge asset to expats living in the Netherlands. Starting work in a new country is a big challenge! If you have come to Holland to pursue your career, you may well have very minimal resources. You are likely to have few contacts, limited knowledge about the Dutch employment market and perhaps even less about Dutch culture. Luckily there are numerous sources of help and support on offer to you in NL. The information centers listed below can provide you with priceless, practical advice on doing business here. Be sure to take a look at the international clubs we have mentioned too. Being part of a group of like minded people is an invaluable means of learning, networking and amassing colleagues. You can be supported further by the Dutch chambers of commerce, as well as those of your national  country, in the Netherlands. Find details about these at the bottom of this page.

International Information Desks in NL

IN Amsterdam
WTC Amsterdam, I-tower first Floor
Strawinskylaan 1767, 1077 XW Amsterdam
Tel: 020 254 79 99
www.iamsterdam.com/en/in-amsterdam

Amsterdam Airport Area
P.O. Box 75700, 1118 ZT Schiphol Airport
Tel.: 020 405 47 77
www.aaarea.nl

The Hague Business Agency
Prinses Margrietplantsoen 25, 2595 AM The Hague
Tel.: 070 311 55 55
www.businessagency.thehague.com

The Hague International Centre
The Hague City Hall, Atrium
Spui 70, 2511 BT The Hague
Tel.: 070 353 50 43
Open Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 17.00 hours.
www.thehague.com

Rotterdam Info Expatdesk
Korte Hoogstraat 31, 3011 GK Rotterdam
Tel.: 010 790 01 40
https://rotterdamexpatcentre.nl

Expat Center Leiden
Stationsweg 41, 2312 AT Leiden
Tel.: 071 516 60 05
www.expatcentreleiden.nl

Leiden Bio Science Park
Poortgebouw Noord
Rijnsburgerweg 10, 2333 AA Leiden
Tel.: 071 524 75 53
www.leidenbiosciencepark.nl

Province of Utrecht – Foreign Investment Office
P.O. Box 80300, 3508 TH Utrecht
Tel.: 030 258 23 96
www.investinutrecht.com

Expat Center Utrecht
Utrecht City Hall
Stadsplateau 1, 3521 AZ Utrecht
Tel.: 030 286 58 20
www.utrecht.nl/english/expatcenter

BOM Foreign Investments
Goirleseweg 15, 5026 PB Tilburg
Tel.: 088 831 11 20
www.foreigninvestments.eu

Brainport Development
Emmasingel 11, 5611 AZ Eindhoven
Tel.: 040 751 24 24
www.brainport.nl

High Tech Campus Eindhoven
www.hightechcampus.com

Ontwikkelings Maatschappij Oost Nederland NV
Meander 601, 8625 ME Arnhem
Tel.: 026 384 42 22
Hengelosestraat 585, 7521 AG Enschede
Tel.: 053 851 68 51

Limburgse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij (LIOF)
Boschstraat 766211 AX Maastricht
Tel.: 043 328 02 80
www.liof.com

Invest in Holland
Prinses Beatrixlaan 2, 2595 AL The Hague
Tel.: 088 602 80 60
https://investinholland.com

International Business Clubs in NL

THE AMSTERDAM AMERICAN BUSINESS CLUB
A professional networking organization for Dutch and American companies around Amsterdam
Keizersgracht 62-64, 1015 CS Amsterdam
Tel.: 020 520 75 34
www.aabc.nl

CLUB OF AMSTERDAM
An independent, international, future-­oriented think tank involved in channeling preferred futures
www.clubofamsterdam.com

COMMERCIAL ANGLO DUTCH SOCIETY
Provides an informal meeting point for Dutch and British professionals
http://cads-amsterdam.org

WTC The Hague International ­Business Club
Prinses Margrietplantsoen 33, 2595 AM The Hague
Tel.: 070 304 36 65
www.wtcthehague.com

CONNECTING WOMEN (THE HAGUE)
A network of professional internationally aware women.
Juliana van Stolberglaan 154, 2595 CL The Hague.
www.connectingwomen.nl

WOMEN’S BUSINESS INITIATIVE INTERNATIONAL
A community of entrepeneurial women.
Laan Copus van Cattenburch 86, 2585 GE The Hague
Tel.: 070 358 85 57
www.womensbusinessinitiative.net

WOMEN’S INTERNATIONAL NETWORK (WIN)
The international networking association for professional women in the Netherlands
www.winconference.net

Chambers of Commerce in NL

DUTCH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE: www.kvk.nl

KAMER VAN KOOPHANDEL AMSTERDAM
Amsterdam Chamber of Commerce
De Ruyterkade 5, 1013 AA Amsterdam
Tel.: 020 531 40 00
Team International Trade Information
Tel.: 020 531 44 39
www.kvk.nl

KAMER VAN KOOPHANDEL ROTTERDAM
Rotterdam Chamber of Commerce
Blaak 40, 3000 AL Rotterdam
Tel.: 010 402 77 77
www.rotterdam.kvk.nl
International Business Department
Blaak 40, 3000 AL Rotterdam
Tel.: 010 402 78 90
www.kvk.nl

KAMER VAN KOOPHANDEL DEN HAAG
The Hague Chamber of Commerce
Koninginnegracht 13, 2514 AA The Hague
Tel.: 088 585 15 85
www.kvk.nl

KAMER VAN KOOPHANDEL UTRECHT
Utrecht Chamber of Commerce
Kroonstraat 50, 3511 RC Utrecht
Tel.: 030 236 32 11
www.kvk.nl

INT. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (ICC)
www.iccwbo.org

AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Scheveningseweg 58, 2517 KW The Hague
Tel.: 070 365 98 08
www.amcham.nl

BELGISCH-LUXEMBURGSE KAMER VAN KOOPHANDEL
Groenmarkt 17, 3311 BD Dordrecht
Tel.: 078 635 19 90
www.nkvk.be

ITALIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
De Ruyterkade 5, 1013 AA Amsterdam
Tel.: 020 751 33 63
www.italianchamber.nl

JAPANESE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
World Trade Center 8-9, Strawinskylaan 935, 1077 XX Amsterdam
Tel.: 020 662 14 57
www.jcc-holland.nl

NETHERLANDS BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 328, 1012 RW Amsterdam
Tel.: 020 421 70 40
www.nbcc.co.uk

Fun Things to Do for Kids in NL

Almost every municipality in the Netherlands will have a few ‘fun things’ for kids to do. This can come as a blessing to some parents, since most Dutch schools do not have extra curricular programs for their pupils. Luckily, your child will not have to twiddle his or her thumbs during the school holidays. This page contains tons of fun ideas and resources for keeping your offspring occupied and engaged, outside of the classroom.

Find out what’s on Offer

The best way to seek out fun kids activities is to:

  • Just ask around. Fellow parents and colleagues are bound to have recommendations
  • Check your local online ‘gemeentegids‘
  • Give your municipality a call, and ask about your options

Fun Opportunities

Here are just a few examples of what you might find:

  • Carpentry
  • Painting
  • Music
  • Dancing
  • Art
  • Cooking
  • You name it!

Playing in your Dutch Neighborhood

If your kids are getting bored and restless, why not simply take them out to play in your local neighborhood? The Netherlands is generally a very safe country, and this is still a common and popular practice.

Dutch Sports Organizations

The Netherlands is a very sporting nation. Encouraging your kids to join one of the many sports organizations can be a great way for them to get regular exercise, meet friends and experience being part of a tight team. The most popular organizations are:

Alternative Sports

If these do not interest your kids, there are many less main stream options for them to try, such as:

  • Judo
  • Basketball
  • Baseball
  • Soccer
  • Dancing
  • Horseback-riding
  • Cycling (of course)
  • And many more!

CAMPS IN THE NETHERLANDS

Scouting clubs, for both girls ad boys, are very popular in the Netherlands. Here’s how they work:

  • The scouts get together almost every Saturday afternoon
  • Fun and educational activities will have been arranged for them to participate in
  • Occasionally, the groups will go camping for an entire weekend
  • Week-long summer camps are often organized during summer vacations too

Other Camps in NL

If you do not have a scouting camp nearby, there may be another kind of out-of-school camp for you kids to get involved with, such as:

  • Horseback-riding camp
  • Sailing camp
  • International schools sometimes arrange camp-like activities for their pupils during the summer months. Even if your kids attend a Dutch school, you can ask whether they could come along
  • Some municipalities arrange a ‘day-camp‘ during summer vacations. These typically consist of a full program of activities for the children. Drop-off time is usually early in the morning and pick-up time is late in the afternoon
  • Once again, we recommend that you check your gemeentegids or ask someone at the municipal offices about what’s on offer in your locality

Activities for kids in NL

Dutch Petting Farms

Petting farms are a very popular form of entertainment for little kids in the Netherlands

  • Farms can be found in almost every town and city in Holland
  • They usually have: goats, sheep, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, ducks, pigs, a pony, some cats and the occasional donkey
  • Not only do kids tend to love it, but they often get educated about about the animals while they are there
  • Are you looking for a pet rabbit? The petting farm is a good place to buy one from. They often have a few extra bunnies hopping around
  • If you do not happen to have an actual petting farm in your municipality, you may well be able to find something called a ‘hertenkamp’
  • These an enclosed areas where herds of deer graze peacefully. They are very gentle animals, and kids are often allowed to feed them

Other Children’s Activities

If your little ones are not animal lovers, there are plenty of other things to do with them:

  • Playgrounds can often be found in Dutch towns and cities. At the very least they tend to have: swings, slides, seesaws, sand boxes. Most zoos in the Netherlands also have great children’s playgrounds. You can find more on zoos a little later on this page
  • Traveling circuses are another quintessential part of Dutch summer time
  • Fairs can be another fun place to take your offspring. They are called ‘kermis‘ in Dutch. Their arrival is announced well in advance, so you can set aside time for a fun day out with the kids
  • Rainy days: they are fairly frequent in the Netherlands! Luckily, there are plenty of covered playgrounds. Some examples are: Ballorig, Playcity, or Kidzcity. At these playgrounds, your kids can play on: humongous slides, intricate rope-climbing structures, merry-go-rounds, trains, you name it
  • In some bigger Dutch cities you will find activity centers. Here, children learn to build tree houses, floats and other complicated contraptions

AMUSEMENT PARKS AND MUSEUMS IN NL

The Netherlands is home to some fantastic amusement parks and museums. Here is a comprehensive list:

Amusement Parks in NL

De Efteling
A huge park offering several days’ worth of entertainment. It is a fantasyland, full of fairytale woods, wild rides on rollercoasters, castles, fairytale figures and more.
Europalaan 1, Kaatsheuvel (near Tilburg)
www.efteling.com

Corpus
Take your kids on a ‘journey through the human body’! On their way, they will see, feel and hear how the human body works. They will also find out about the importance of a healthy diet, a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise. Corpus offers education and entertainment, as well as a vast number of permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Willem Einthovenstraat 1, Oegstgeest
www.corpusexperience.nl

Safari Park Beekse Bergen
A place where you can take a drive or a walk amongst more than 100 wild animals. Your trip could take more than a day!
Beekse Bergen 1, Hilvarenbeek (near Tilburg)
www.safaripark.nl

Duinrell
A fantastic water festival, with attractions, a ski valley, a wild pool and lots of entertainment.
Duinrell 1, Wassenaar
www.duinrell.com

Pony Park Slagharen
A place where you can experience life in the Wild West! You will find an amusement park, a shopping street, ‘Wigwam World’, Colorado City and much more.
Zwarte Dijk 37, Slagharen
www.slagharen.com

Planetarium Franeker
Where, more than 200 years ago, Eise Eisinga made a scale model of the solar system in his living room. It has a mechanism that keeps planets and pointers in motion, and still works to this day.
Eise Eisingastraat 3, Franeker
www.planetarium-friesland.nl

Walibi World
A huge outdoor swimming and water paradise in the Netherlands. This world has more than 50 attractions and shows, providing entertainment and adventure.
Spijkweg 30, Biddinghuizen
www.walibi.nl

Madurodam
A miniature version of the Netherlands, including Schiphol airport, the Delta works, the center of Amsterdam and more.
George Maduroplein 1, The Hague
www.madurodam.nl

 

Museums in NL

NEMO Science Museum
A scientifically oriented play / educational center. NEMO offers kids a trip of discovery, through fantasy and reality.
Oosterdok 2, Amsterdam
www.nemosciencemuseum.nl

Children’s Museum at The Tropical Institute
This is called the ‘Koninklijk Instituut voor de Tropen‘ in Dutch. Contemporary, non-Western cultures are brought to life for children between the ages of 6 and 12 at this museum. It can also be booked for children’s parties.
Linnaeusstraat 2, Amsterdam
www.kit.nl

Louwman Museum
The national automobile museum of the Netherlands. The Louwman is great for anyone who is car crazy! You will learn about the history of automobiles, from the first horseless carriages to motorized, steam and electric vehicles.
Leidsestraatweg 57, The Hague
www.louwmanmuseum.nl

Open Air Museums in NL

Open air museums are called ‘Openluchtmuseum’ in Dutch. The Netherlands is host to a lot of these establishments. Here are a few of the most popular:

1. Nederlands Openluchtmuseum
Daily life in the Netherlands between 1600 and 1970
Schelmseweg 89, Arnhem
www.openluchtmuseum.nl

2. Orientalis
A glimpse of the world 2,000 years ago in the Middle East. This museum focuses on Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
Profetenlaan 2, Heilig Landstichting
www.museumparkorientalis.nl

3. Zuiderzeemuseum
Life in a fishing village around 1900.
Wierdijk 12-22, Enkhuizen
www.zuiderzeemuseum.nl

ZOOS IN THE NETHERLANDS

Animals are always a big hit with kids! Luckily, the Netherlands is full of zoos. As we mentioned earlier, Dutch zoos have extensive playgrounds. So your kids can blow off some steam in-between the big cats and the reptiles. Usually, there will also be indoor facilities for rainy days, and child-friendly cafeterias.

Amersfoort Zoo

  • This large zoo near Amersfoort has provided its animals with increasingly spacious and comfortable habitats over the last two decades
  • This puts it on a par with all the other large zoos in the Netherlands
  • It is encircled by a ‘Savannah’, from where you can watch the animals as they graze and drink peacefully
  • A Japanese Garden and a lot of daytime activities are also part of the package

DierenPark Amersfoort, Barchman Wuytierslaan 224, Amersfoort
www.dierenparkamersfoort.nl

Apenheul

  • Apenhaul is home to 30 species of apes, monkeys and prosimians – some of whom are allowed to roam free!
  • Their group areas are extensive and imaginative, providing them with familiar surroundings and all manner of activities to keep them occupied
  • Monkeys and apes are not, however, the only animals you will meet at Apenheul
  • Macaws, pudus, anteaters, gundis, tortoises, and many other creatures live there too
  • Please note that Apenheul closes for the winter

Apenheul, J.C. Wilslaan 21, Apeldoorn
www.apenheul.nl

Artis Zoo

  • Artis was founded more than 175 years ago
  • Its winding paths, majestic trees and monumental historical buildings still give it a special, 19th-century atmosphere
  • There are more than 8,000 animals in the zoo
  • Artis also houses a Geological Museum, a very sophisticated Planetarium, a magnificent and recently renovated Aquarium, and a ‘Micropia’: the only microbe-museum in the world!

Artis, Plantage Kerklaan 38, Amsterdam
www.artis.nl

Avifauna

  • Avifauna is one of the largest bird parks in the world
  • The birds come from all over the world, from the tropics to the cold Northern Hemisphere
  • Over 450 species of birds are kept in beautiful settings, which are expertly and lovingly taken care of
  • Avifauna is not only a bird ‘zoo’. It is also actively involved in the breeding programs and bird protection activities for endangered species
  • Children can be educated on nature protection programs too

Vogelpark Hotel Rederij Avifauna, Hoorn 65, Alphen aan den Rijn
www.avifauna.nl

Rotterdam Zoo

  • Walk from continent to continent, meeting fascinating animals that feel perfectly at home in their surroundings, that emulate their natural habitat
  • There are plenty of covered facilities, in case of rain
  • These include Taman Indah and Oceanium
  • Oceanium contains: sharks, king penguins, sea lions and and jellyfish
  • You can also visit Gorilla Island, travel up Crocodile River and visit the African Vulture Rock.

Rotterdam Zoo / Blijdorp, Blijdorplaan 8, Rotterdam
www.rotterdamzoo.nl

Burgers’ Zoo

  • Come to a modern, but genuine jungle in the Netherlands!
  • This zoo, located near Arnhem, covers more than 45 hectares and houses more than 3,000 animals
  • It has a spectacular tropical rain forest, a living desert and a large animal population
  • Bighorns, red lynxes, and many more creatures can be admired in their natural surroundings
  • A large number of hoofed animals and birds live with the lions in the ‘Safari Park’
  • There is a wonderful indoor water world too

Burgers’ Zoo, Antoon van Hooffplein 1, Arnhem
www.burgerszoo.nl

Dolfinarium Harderwijk

  • At Dolfinarium, you can visit the Lagoon. Here, dolphins, fish, seals and sea lions all live together
  • The Lagoon is a 15 million-liter closed saltwater ecosystem
  • Aqua Bella, the dolphin show, should not be missed either
  • The modern rescue and research center for sick or injured dolphins is worth a visit too, as are the walrus and seal shows
  • Weather permitting, you can sunbathe, swim or ride in a paddle boat near the Park Beach
  • Dolfinarium’s program is continually changing. So, before your visit, be sure to check the website to see what’s going on

Dolfinarium Harderwijk, the World of the Sea, Strandboulevard Oost 1, Harderwijk
www.dolfinarium.nl

Wildlands Emmen

  • This park’s habitats represent the continents of the world
  • Animals reside in the part of the world that they originally came from
  • The zoo has a very spacious feel about it and all the animals enjoy a great amount of freedom in their enclosures
  • You can spend hours enjoying the Jungola jungle, the Serenga Savannah, or the cold rocks of Nortica

Noorder Dierenpark Emmen, Hoofdstraat 18, Emmen
www.wildlands.nl

Naturalis
At Naruralis, nature is exhibited in all its colors and diversity. The museum is a combination of natural history and high-tech multi-media in a modern, artistic and technologically advanced setting, representing but a selection of two centuries’ worth of collecting animal and plant specimens, fossils, stones and minerals. Exhibition rooms have seven permanent displays (including a walk through the Ice Age, with dinosaurs), while Naturalis hosts many fascinating temporary displays as well. There is also a Nature Information Center where amateur researchers can search through a wide range of books, magazines, slides, photographs, videotapes, computer files and reference collections.
Naturalis, Darwinweg 2, Leiden.
Museum entrance: Pesthuislaan 7, Leiden
www.naturalis.nl

Ouwehands Dierenpark
This is a wonderful family zoo, close to Arnhem, but off the beaten track. It was established more than 75 years ago and has retained that early-20th century cozy feel. It has a huge bear habitat with rescued circus bears, and a gorgeous polar bear pool, where kids can press their noses up against the glass and be inches away from these huge white animals, a seal show, and much more. Extra-special is its huge, indoor, all-wood-mulch-and-sand playground for children (RavotAapia), with rope-bridges, sand games, waterplay, huts, caves and slides – at no extra charge. Even if the weather doesn’t clear up all day, making it impossible to see the animals, you can still spend a full day in this indoor children’s habitat and have the children begging you to go back soon!
Ouwehands Dierenpark, Grebbeweg 111, Rhenen
www.ouwehand.nl

International Clubs in NL

Are you struggling to find a circle of like minded friends, now that you have moved to the Netherlands? Try connecting with fellow expats at one of Holland’s many international clubs! Of course, it is so important to befriend your Dutch neighbors and colleagues. However, this takes time when you do not speak the same language, and they might not be able to relate to your experience as a Netherlands newbie. Meeting others, who know exactly what it’s like to be an outsider in a new country, can really help you to settle in. Below is a detailed list of the international social clubs you could become a part of in Holland.

ENGLISH-LANGUAGE GROUPS AND CLUBS

ACCESS
American Women’s Club Amsterdam
American Women’s Club The Hague
Andrew’s Society of the Netherlands
British Club The Hague
British Society of Amsterdam
CADS (Commercial Anglo Dutch Society)
Canadian International Club Amsterdam
Club of Amsterdam
Connect International, Groningen
Connecting Women, The Hague
International Almere
The International Rotaract Club in ­Amsterdam
International Women’s Contact The Hague
International Women’s Contact Amsterdam
International Women’s Contact Breda
International Women’s Contact South ­Limburg
International Women’s Contact Utrecht/Amersfoort
The Irish Club-Netherlands
Newcomer’s Club
Petroleum Wives Club, The Hague
South African Club
Toastmasters in the Netherlands
The Hague Online Social Club

FRENCH-SPEAKING CLUBS

Accueil des Francophones de La Haye
Alliance Française
Institute Français
Union des Français à l’Étranger

GERMAN-SPEAKING CLUBS

Deutscher Klub in den Niederlanden
Deutsch-Niederländischer Verein

SPANISH-SPEAKING CLUB

Asociación Hispánica De La Haya

Places Undiscovered by the Masses in NL

Do you fancy an interesting outing, but can’t stand the idea of being jostled by a crowd of tourists? Take a look through this list of places undiscovered by the masses in the Netherlands. Whether you are after education, entertainment, or natural beauty there will be something for you on this page. The following attractions have been recommended by the Dutch themselves, and they know the lay of their land! By visiting these sights, you can see and enjoy the riches of the Netherlands, without the queues and the flashing cameras.

TEYLER’S MUSEUM IN HAARLEM
Aside from being the very first museum in the Netherlands, Teyler’s Museum was the third museum to be made in Europe! It followed in the footsteps of the Oxford Ashmolean and the British Museum. It was once a living theater in which colleagues discussed the inventions of the times. They would listen to speakers and chew over the discoveries of science and art. Experiments and demonstrations would take place in the laboratory as well. Today, we can peer into the past through the museum’s collection of:

  • Microscopes and telescopes
  • Newtonian measuring equipment
  • Fossils, rocks and gems
  • Paintings
  • Drawings
  • Etchings and sketches

Teyler’s also has an amazing library, containing Important Documents. These include: the Diderot Encyclopedia (the first in Europe), James Cook’s travel journals, Darwin’s scribbles and the works of other world-renown scientists and explorers.
Spaarne 16, Haarlem
www.teylersmuseum.nl

BIESBOSCH NATIONAL PARK
Situated near Dordrecht, this park is made up of 7,000 hectares of winding gullies, deep creeks and fields of rushes. It was created in 1421 when the St. Elizabeth flood washed away 16 villages and turned a prosperous agricultural region into a freshwater tidal area. Today, visitors can explore the park on foot or by boat, and observe a unique range of plants, animals and birds.
www.np-debiesbosch.nl

THE SINGER MUSEUM
Laren lies near Hilversum in the province of North Holland. It became fashionable with painters in the 1870s, notably those of the Impressionist Hague School. The Singers were an American couple who moved to Laren in 1901. They collected the paintings of visiting artists, and this delightful museum is based on their collection. It is situated in the residential area of a very chic town, which is also home to some upscale local shops.
Oude Drift 1, Laren
www.singerlaren.nl

FRANEKER PLANETARIUM
In 1774, Eise Eisinga, an amateur scientist, built a planetarium in his living room in order to calm the villagers’ fears about the end of the world. Despite his limited knowledge about the conjunction of the planets, the planetarium is a masterpiece of engineering. It still functions perfectly after some-200 years. This makes it the oldest planetarium in the world.
Eise Eisingastraat 3, Franeker (Friesland)
www.planetarium-friesland.nl

RECREATIONAL AREA SPAARNWOUDE
In 1969 the government, five municipalities and the province of North Holland decided to keep the area between Amsterdam and Haarlem ‘green’. Thus, the recreational area named ‘Spaarnwoude’ was launched. It covers a total landmass of over 6,178 acres. Located just outside Haarlem, Spaarnwoude has become one of the most popular recreational areas in North Holland. It is a haven of peace and tranquility, offering its visitors the opportunity to hike, cycle and inline skate through areas of natural beauty. But that is not all! There are also parks, play areas, a golf course, a scaling wall, an educational farm, canoe courses, ‘adventureland’ and the opportunity to go skiing at ‘Snowplanet’.
www.spaarnwoudepark.nl

THORN
A popular subject for posters, advertising the province of Limburg: Thorn is a Dutch village which remains relatively untouched by foreign visitors. It is a wonderfully picturesque town of cobbled streets, white-washed houses and farms that intrude right into the main street. This gives the village, which is located near Roermond, a calm and rural atmosphere. It’s local abbey was founded towards the end of the 10th century.
www.vvvmiddenlimburg.nl

PANORAMA MESDAG
Panorama Mesdag is a panoramic painting. It is more than 14 meters high, and 120 meters in circumference. It depicts a vista of sea, dunes and the village of Scheveningen. It was painted by one of the most famous painters of the Hague School: Hendrik Willem Mesdag. It is the oldest 19th-century panorama in the world in its original site, and a unique a cultural heritage.
Zeestraat 65, The Hague
www.panorama-mesdag.nl

BOSCHPLAAT NATURE RESERVE (ISLAND OF TERSCHELLING)
The reserve is situated on the marshy land of the southern shore of Terschelling, one of the five ‘Wadden’ islands. It is where thousands of waterfowl and migrating birds gather. Nearby you’ll also find lovely beaches of golden sand and clean water.
www.natuurlijkwandelen.nl/boschplaat

THE TROPEN MUSEUM
Not as crowded as Amsterdam’s other large museums, you can discover the culture of New Guinea at the Tropen Museum. You can travel through Africa and South-East Asia, or visit Latin America and the Caribbean, learning about art, culture and colonialism. Other features include an excellent restaurant, which serves unusual dishes from around the world, and a wealth of temporary exhibits. The adjacent Tropentheater presents a mind-boggling selection of cultural performances from around the globe too.
Linnaeusstraat 2, Amsterdam
www.tropenmuseum.nl

WATERLAND NEELTJE JANS (THE DELTA PROJECT)
Through a fascinating exhibition and tour, find out about Zeeland’s endless fight with the sea and the pragmatic response of the Dutch. They built a massive dam and flood barrier, that quite literally closed off the sea! From April-October you can visit a dolphin station and make a round-trip on the Oosterschelde. The Oosterschelde is a portion of the sea that once stretched into the province of Zeeland. Now, due to the dikes, it has become brackish water and a unique natural area. Don’t miss the hurricane simulator either!
Island of Neeltje Jans, Faelweg 5, Vrouwenpolder
www.neeltjejans.nl

NOORBEEK
Popular with Dutch hikers, this tiny village nestles in the side of a valley (yes, they do exist in the Netherlands) in Limburg, near Maastricht. It still retains its authentic atmosphere, with tractors chugging down the high street to deposit hay in the lofts above the farms.
www.noorbeek.nl

ZUIDERZEE MUSEUM
This living museum of 130 buildings sits on the banks of the IJsselmeer. It gives visitors a snapshot of what Dutch life looked like between 1880 and 1932. The original houses, school, church and shops have been transported from 39 locations in the IJsselmeer region.
Wierdijk 12-22, Enkhuizen
www.zuiderzeemuseum.nl

OPEN AIR MUSEUM (NEDERLANDS OPENLUCHT MUSEUM) – ARNHEM
This 44-acre park acts as a time capsule of Dutch provincial life. All the historical customs and traditions have been preserved here. The museum features a cross-section of real historic buildings and houses, literally transported from their original location. Windmills, fully furnished thatched-roof farmhouses and craft shops complete the melting pot.
Schelmseweg 89, Arnhem
www.openluchtmuseum.nl

FOAM FOTOGRAFIE MUSEUM – AMSTERDAM
FOAM aims to inform and inspire its audience, by presenting all facets of contemporary photography. It exhibits world-famous photographers alongside emerging artists, and displays both historical and contemporary work. The museum also hosts major exhibitions and discussion forums.
Keizersgracht 609, Amsterdam
www.foam.org

EYE FILM INSTITUTE NETHERLANDS
EYE Film Institute is completely dedicated to film and the moving image. Film is exhibited as art, entertainment, cultural heritage, and a conveyor of information. EYE offers exhibitions, programs, films for children, educational programs and activities for all ages.
IJPromenade, Amsterdam
www.eyefilm.nl

GRONINGER MUSEUM – GRONINGEN
This eclectic museum juts out into the canal, and defies description. It is home to a variety of exhibits, ranging from arts to crafts to fashion. If the drawbridge entrance happens to be raised for a passing boat, be sure to look at the ‘tongue-in-cheek’ tiles underneath… It is a zany place, through and through.
Museumeiland 1, Groningen
www.groningermuseum.nl

HUNEBEDDEN (DOLMENS)
One of the largest concentrations of Stone Age boulder formations exists in the idyllic province of Drenthe. It is located in the northeast of the Netherlands, where 54 dolmen configurations are scattered throughout the countryside. They are all believed to be the megalithic skeletons of burial tombs, used by farmers in this most ancient area of the Netherlands. One is a capstone, weighing an incredible 20,000 kilos. Amazingly, these structures are almost 2,000 years older than England’s famous Stonehenge, and 1,000 years older than the pyramids in Egypt.
Even more amazing, is how they were transported and lifted into place. To get the lowdown on theories, and to seethe largest hunebed, visit Borger. This is where the ‘Nationaal Hunebedden Informatiecentrum’, is located. In English, it is called the ‘National Dolmen Information Center‘.
Information center: Hunebedstraat 27, Borger (between Assen and Emmen)
www.hunebedcentrum.nl

Recommended reading
The Dutch And Their Delta – Living Below Sea Level
New Visions of the Netherlands
Zeeland

Top Ten Tourist Attractions in NL

Settling into your new Dutch town or village, and becoming ‘one of the locals’, takes time and effort. Do not forget to enjoy the amazing tourist attractions the Netherlands has to offer as well! There are lots of them, but we have put together a list of the top 10 must-sees on this page. A visit to any of these attractions makes for a fun day out with friends or family. What’s more, it is a great way to learn more about the culture and history of your new home.

1. VAN GOGH MUSEUM
Amsterdam’s top tourist attraction is devoted almost entirely to the work of one of the world’s most popular artists. Yep, it’s Vincent. The Van Gogh museum’s display spans from his early years in South Holland, through his Impressionist stage in Paris, to his final days in St. Rémy. This museum is the perfect size for those with a tight schedule.
Paulus Potterstraat 7, Amsterdam
www.vangoghmuseum.nl

2. ANNE FRANK HOUSE
Possibly the most deserving of all the Netherlands’ major tourist attractions, the Anne Frank House provides a fascinating insight into the Frank family’s life in hiding from 1942 until 1944, during the Nazi occupation. The museum also provides background on the awful plight of the 100,000 Dutch Jews who were killed in the Holocaust. It hosts a variety of other exhibitions too, focusing on issues of persecution and the repression of freedom of expression, both past and present. Please note that entrance tickets are bought online.
Prinsengracht 267, Amsterdam
www.annefrank.org

3. RIJKSMUSEUM AMSTERDAM
This is the largest museum in the Netherlands. It recently reopened its doors after a complete renovation and it houses an internationally renowned collection of paintings. They are from the 17th-century Dutch Republic: the ‘Golden Age’. Works include pieces by:

  • Rembrandt, the most famous of which is the ominous ‘Night Watch’
  • Johannes Vermeer
  • Frans Hals
  • Jan Steen

Plus there are exhibits of:

4. KEUKENHOF
From late March through the end of May, visitors come in droves to see the display of over 7,000,000 flowers in the famous Keukenhof Gardens. The 70-acre gardens offer a breathtaking and immaculate display of tulips, hyacinths, daffodils and amaryllis. They are planted and tended to by the Netherlands’ leading flower growers. This spectacle is not to be missed.
Open: Mar. 24 – May 16, 2017
Stationsweg 166a, Lisse
www.keukenhof.nl

5. DELFT
Famous for its distinctive blue and white porcelain, Delft continues to charm visitors and shoppers alike. Once home to the Dutch artist Vermeer, it has an abundance of beautifully preserved 17th-century buildings. These include the imposing Town Hall and the Old Church. Visitors also enjoy the town’s picturesque tree-lined canals and plethora of porcelain shops.
www.delft.nl

6. THE KRÖLLER-MÜLLER MUSEUM
This museum is located in the wooded parkland of De Hoge Veluwe National Park. You can either drive or cycle a couple of kilometres through it, to reach the Kroller. It is also possible to borrow a white bicycle at the park gates, free of charge. The collection of art at this museum is ranked as the third most important in the Netherlands. It houses almost 90 paintings and over 180 drawings, in including works by:

  • Van Gogh (roughly 50 of which are on display at any given time)
  • Seurat
  • Monet
  • Picasso

The sculpture Garden is fabulous as well, and worth a trip in itself.
Houtkampweg 6, Otterlo
www.kmm.nl

7. DELFSHAVEN
Delfshaven is the place from which the Pilgrim Fathers departed for the New World in 1620. The tiny harbor has been preserved to look much as it did in centuries past, with the addition of some trendy waterfront restaurants. Across the road, at the ‘Spido Landing Stage’, you can buy a boat tour. These tours offer visitors a unique insight into modern life at one of the world’s busiest seaports.
Delfshaven/Spido Cruises: www.spido.nl
www.rotterdamhistorischdelfshaven.nl

8. MADURODAM
‘All of the Netherlands in a day’ is the best way to describe this miniature scale-model town. Visitors can see all of the Netherlands’ major cities and landmarks up close and personal, but on a tiny scale. There are lots of mechanized exhibits, including busy motorways and sailing ships, to enjoy as well!
George Maduroplein 1, The Hague
www.madurodam.nl

9. KINDERDIJK
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kinderdijk is located by the Lek River, southeast of Rotterdam. It consists of 19 windmills standing along a beautiful, broad canal. Take a cruise down the waterway to better observe this archetypal Dutch scene. Or, if you are visiting during July and August, try to make your trip on a Saturday when the mills are put into action.
www.kinderdijk.nl

10. THE ARCHEON
This archaeological theme park lies in Alphen aan de Rijn, South Holland. It is world-renowned amongst history ‘buffs’. The Archeon is made up of reconstructions of villages from three major time periods: Prehistory, the Roman Period, and the Middle Ages. It is a ‘live’ museum, where people in period dress live and work. This makes it a pleasantly participatory way to see and learn about history!
Archeonlaan 1, Alphen a/d Rijn
www.archeon.nl

Recommended reading
Beautiful Holland
Here’s Holland
The Netherlands – The Rough Guide
Over Holland
Holland From The Top
Atlas of Amsterdam
The Dutch and their Delta