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Moving to the Netherlands as an American can be an enriching experience. Keep reading to know everything about costs, how to move, and what requirements you’ll need to live and work.
Find the table below with the average furniture shipping prices:
| Furniture Volume | Average Cost |
| Studio Apartment | $5,300.00 |
| 1 Bedroom | $8,500 – $10,500 |
| 2 Bedroom | $11,700 – $13,700 |
| 3 Bedroom | $14,900 – $16,900 |
| 4+ Bedroom | $18,100+ |
The prices are estimates. The final cost will depend on different factors such as distance, volume, season additional services, etc.
Before moving your household goods, you may want to keep in mind some things:
As a US citizen, you can move to the Netherlands but will require a residency permit. Generally, to apply for any visa, prepare and gather your valid passport, studies certificate, proof of income, and proof of lack of criminal record.
Beware the process of becoming a Dutch citizen is different and longer. However, obtaining residency allows you to live and work in the country.
Whether you’re moving without a job or with already one, a residency permit is required. There are different ways to get it:
You must have a job offer and a work permit from your employer. Your company will be the one applying for your residency permit. The conditions are to have a valid passport, a minimum income, financial proof, and be skilled for the position you’re being hired for.
If you want to work as a freelancer in the Netherlands, the service/product you offer must be essential to their economy. The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) will punctuate your business based on your personal experience, business plan, and added value.
You must submit your residency permit to the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) upon your arrival.
Only those who recently graduated in the Netherlands and started looking for jobs can be entitled to this opportunity to get the residency permit through an orientation year. The permit only lasts 1 year, to give enough time to find a high-skilled position or business idea.
As said above, the main condition is to have a valid passport and have completed your study or doctoral program within 3 years in the country.
💻 If you’re still unsure what visa or process you need to follow, check out the government page Do I need a visa for the Netherlands?
American-entrepreneur citizens with investments, doing business (or willing to) in the Netherlands are eligible for this visa. Besides the generic requirements, you could apply as long as a trade exists between the US and the Netherlands and business operations are developed and led in the Netherlands.
Moving to a new country it’s exciting but can be stressful. The following guide will help you get practical and keep in mind all the important steps:
The average cost to move a pet is around $2,500 – $4,000
If you’re bringing your dog or cat from the USA to the Netherlands, they must meet the following conditions:
Car shipping from the USA to the Netherlands price: $1,500 to $3,000
To bring your car to the Netherlands, you must be +18 years old and be registered in the BRP (Personal Records Database). To import the car, you also must:
As an American coming to Europe, adjusting to new cultural behaviors and lifestyles can be challenging but enriching. Read on to prepare for your new adventure:
The average monthly cost of living in the Netherlands including rent for a single person is $2,300 and $4,200 for a family of 4. Find the table below with some daily expenses comparing the Netherlands and the US:
| Metric | Netherlands | US |
| Eggs | 4.24 $ | 3.73 $ |
| Restaurant Meal | 37 $ | 35 $ |
| Cappuccino | 3.48 $ | 5 $ |
| Single transport ticket | 3.62 $ | 2.50 $ |
| Basic utilities | 240 $ | 205.61 $ |
Source: Numbeo
If you’re still balancing the benefits and disadvantages of moving to the Netherlands, this list may give you more insights to decide.
Depending on your preference for cities or countryside, budget, family-friendliness, or lifestyle you’re searching your decision can change. However, these are the most popular places to live in:
Living in the capital, expect a welcoming and cosmopolitan vibe. With many stunning canals and museums to visit, it makes the city the perfect one for those searching for movement. However, keep in mind that’s also the most expensive place to live in the Netherlands.
If you’re moving to The Hague, you’ll find a more relaxing environment next to the sea. Nevertheless, it’s a university city, so you’ll find many students and a great nightlife. It is also home to several embassies and international organizations, a good choice for those also working in diplomacy or international affairs.
One of the main cultural hubs and most different cities in the country, known for its modern architecture, a large expat community, and many top-notch restaurants. The cost of living in Rotterdam is lower than in Amsterdam, but you can expect higher prices than in other smaller cities.
Strategically located in the center and well-connected, it is the perfect base to explore the rest of the Netherlands. It has a beautiful historical center and a rich cultural scene. Keep in mind that it’s a very popular place to live, so finding a house can be quite competitive.
