Nederlands

Checklist: your first 30 days

What to arrange, and in which order, after arriving in the Netherlands.

Week 1. Book an appointment at your municipality to register; this must be done within five days of arrival if you are staying longer than four months. Bring your passport, rental contract and a legalised birth certificate. On registration you receive your citizen service number (BSN). Also collect your residence document from the IND and have your biometrics taken if required.

Week 2. Use your BSN to open a Dutch bank account and take out health insurance: this is compulsory within four months, and the premium applies retroactively. Register with a GP in your neighbourhood, because without a GP you cannot see a specialist.

Weeks 3 and 4. Apply for a DigiD, which you use to log in to all government services. Check whether you need a tuberculosis test at the municipal health service (GGD). Arrange liability insurance, a public transport card or contactless bank card, and a bicycle. If you work here, apply for the 30% ruling together with your employer if you qualify.

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