Your first 30 days in the Netherlands as an expat: the complete checklist
The first 30 days in the Netherlands can feel exciting, chaotic and a little overwhelming. Between registering at the municipality, applying for a BSN, opening a bank account, choosing health insurance, arranging internet at home and getting your daily life started, it’s easy to lose track of what to do first.
Before you dive in, you can generate a personalised relocation plan with our Moving to the Netherlands checklist. It shows exactly what to prepare before and after arrival.
Prefer a customised step-by-step plan for your first weeks? Try Expat Buddy and instantly get your personalised first-30-days roadmap.
Below you’ll find the essential actions every new expat should take in their first month, plus expert tips, links and common mistakes to avoid.
Days 1–7: register at the municipality and get your BSN
Your BSN is the key that unlocks life in the Netherlands.
One of the very first things you must do after arriving in the Netherlands is register with the municipality (gemeente). This registration is necessary to obtain your BSN (citizen service number), which you will need for work contracts, health insurance, banking, taxes and official administration.
If you’re still planning your move or want to ensure you’ve covered all pre-arrival steps, try the Moving to the Netherlands checklist for a personalised relocation plan.
For tailored guidance on BSN steps and registration timelines, you can also use Expat Buddy to generate a personalised BSN checklist.
Days 1–10: open a Dutch bank account
A local bank account makes everyday life much easier.
Although international cards work across the Netherlands, having a Dutch IBAN is essential for rent, bills, subscriptions and most direct debit payments. Many expats open accounts with ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank or digital banks like bunq.
For a full breakdown of the best expat-friendly banking options, visit our guide: Opening a bank account in the Netherlands.
Days 1–14: arrange Dutch health insurance
Health insurance is mandatory once you live and work in the Netherlands.
If you work in the Netherlands, you must take out Dutch basic health insurance (basisverzekering). This covers GP visits, hospital care, maternity care and essential medication. Supplemental packages vary by insurer.
More information is available on the official government website: Government.nl – Health insurance.
Days 1–21: set up internet and mobile phone
Reliable internet and a Dutch phone number make daily life smoother.
You will likely choose between fibre, cable or DSL depending on your location. Providers such as KPN, Ziggo and Odido offer English-friendly support and quick installation.
For a detailed comparison of the most used providers, speeds and contract types, visit: Internet providers in the Netherlands.
Mobile options range from prepaid to SIM-only to bundled phone plans.
Need a personalised roadmap for your first 30 days? Use Expat Buddy.
Days 7–30: understand your salary, tax and payslip
Knowing your net salary helps you budget confidently from day one.
Your Dutch payslip includes your gross salary, holiday allowance, tax credits, pension contributions and withheld income tax. Understanding these elements helps you plan your monthly budget.
For a quick calculation of your expected net salary and tax burden, try our dedicated tool: Dutch Income Tax Calculator.
Days 20–30: everyday life admin and feeling at home
Small practical steps help you feel less like a visitor and more like a resident.
By the third week, you’ll likely feel more settled. This is a great moment to register with a GP, explore supermarkets, learn biking rules or set up digital services such as DigiD.
You can also generate a full relocation plan (before and after arrival) using the Moving to the Netherlands checklist.
Your first month in the Netherlands does not have to be confusing. With a clear sequence of tasks, you can move from “Where do I even start?” to “I know exactly what to do this week.”
Looking for more practical tools? Visit the Expat Tools overview.
Take it one step at a time and your first 30 days in the Netherlands will become the foundation of a confident, well-organised expat life.