Information for researchers

Living in the Netherlands

You may have many questions about living in the Netherlands. Here you find answers to many of those questions.

What you need to know when moving to the Netherlands

If you want to move to the Netherlands, or extend your stay in the Netherlands, there are several topics, which are probably very relevant to you.

Accomodation

It might be difficult to find accomodation in the Netherlands. Generally, there is short supply and it can therefore be very expensive to find suitable accomodation. The different accomodation options are discussed and useful information sources are given.

Accomodation

Entry conditions and visas

Depending on your nationality, entry conditions may apply such as the need to have an entry visa and/or a residence permit. Here you can find if you need a visa, residence permit or work permit when you come to the Netherlands.

Entry conditions and visas

Personal finance

Upon arrival in the Netherlands it is important to become familiar with the Dutch banking system and how to make financial transactions. All relevant information regarding banking can be found.

Personal finance

Daily life

The Netherlands is a relatively small country with many inhabitants and has a lot to offer. Information is provided about connecting to the Dutch, the Dutch business culture, cultural taboos, language courses and transport.

Daily life

Medical care

The medical system is a social provision, which means that everyone has health care insurances and access to care. Information is provided about general practicioners, pharmacy, hospitals, first aid & emergencies, children, pregnancy & maternity, dentist.

Medical care

Insurance

When you are in the Netherlands, you must make sure that you are adequately insured, both for your health and other risks. Your host institution can advise you on this. Here you can find information about the health insurance system and on when you are adequately insured.

Insurance

Family

When you bring your partner/family along, there are several issues that you might come across. Here you can read more about immigration procedures, family & work, children & medical facilities, childcare facilities and school & education.

Family

Pan-European Pension Fund for Researchers: RESAVER

Even if you haven't thought about retirement yet, it is a good idea to get started now to ensure a comfortable pension. Moving between jobs and countries can cause complications regarding your pension. Find out more about your pension rights in Europe, including the pan-European pension scheme for researchers: RESAVER.

FAQs for pensions

Working in The Netherlands

You may have many questions about working in the Netherlands. Here you find answers to many of those questions.

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What to know about working in the Netherlands

When you are working in the Netherlands, either on a contract, or as a fellow, there are several issues that might be relevant for you.

Work permit

Depending on your nationality or the purpose of your stay, a work permit may be required for you. In this section you can read up on work permits and whether you may be exempted from this requirement.

Work permit

Financial matters

Here you can find information about taxation, fellowships and salaries.

financial matters

Recognition of diplomas

Information on diploma recognition can be found on the website of IDW.

Recognition of diplomas

Unemployment / social security

The Netherlands has an extensive social security system, which provides financial security when your income is effected by events such as health hazards, job loss or old age. Here you can find information on the different social insurance schemes, whether you are covered by them and whether you are paying money for them.

Unemployment / social security

Pension rights

The Dutch pension system might be hard to understand and needs more explanation.

Pension rights

Career development

Here you can find out what's important for you in your career with the help of a toolkit.

Career development

IPR

Information about intellectual property rights can be found here.

IPR

Research landscape

About 25% of the research in the Netherlands takes place at universities, about 15% at research institutes and most (about 60%) within commercial enterprises.

Research landscape

Leaving the Netherlands

If you are leaving the Netherlands for a short while, a longer time or for good, here you might find relevant information to help you on the way.

Going outside of Europe

Visit the EURAXESS Links website to find out more about research outside the EU, including links to researcher’s mobility portals in Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan and South Africa.

Another useful website for funding opportunities is BILAT. This has information about funding opportunities for European researchers in 11 countries around the world; Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, India, Mexico, New Zealand, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, USA.

For Dutch researchers

Make sure you have a valid Dutch passport at all times. If you have lived outside of the Netherlands for 10 years, and do not apply for a renewal on time after your old passport is no longer valid, you might risk losing the Dutch nationality.