Netherlands
Residence procedure: Registration in the BRP (Basisregistratie Personen) at the municipality
Official government websiteYour 7-step relocation checklist
- Step 1
EU Free Movement confirmed
As an EU citizen, you have the right to live and work in Netherlands with no visa. Bring a valid passport or national ID card.
- Step 2
Find accommodation
A local address is required for most other steps (registration, bank, tax number). Check housing costs before you move.
Cost of living in Netherlands - Step 3
Register your residence — Registration in the BRP (Basisregistratie Personen) at the municipality
Deadline: Within 5 days of arrival if staying over 4 months. This is the local residence registration procedure required under EU Directive 2004/38/EC after your first 3 months.
Official government portal - Step 4
Get your BSN (Burgerservicenummer)
You need a BSN (Burgerservicenummer) to work, get paid, or open a bank account in Netherlands.
Apply for BSN (Burgerservicenummer) - Step 5
Register with Zorgverzekering (mandatory private basic health insurance)
Once resident and working, register with Zorgverzekering (mandatory private basic health insurance). In the meantime your EHIC covers necessary care.
Zorgverzekering (mandatory private basic health insurance) portal - Step 6
Open a local bank account
Most Netherlands employers pay salary into a local EUR account. Bring your ID, proof of address and BSN (Burgerservicenummer).
- Step 7
Calculate your expected net salary
See what you'll actually take home in Netherlands after tax and social security.
Open net salary calculator
FAQ — Moving to Netherlands
Information verified for 2026 from official Netherlands government sources. This guide applies to EU citizens under EU Directive 2004/38/EC.