Relocating to the Netherlands from the US: Visas, documents, and checklist
Whether you're a digital nomad, retiree, or professional seeking a better work – life balance, the Netherlands has become a top destination for many Americans.
As of Jan 1 2026, about 78,707 US citizens live there, attracted by its safety, culture, and efficient infrastructure. With updated immigration rules, improved tax coordination, and strong bilateral ties, moving to the Netherlands from the US is now more accessible than ever.
This guide by Taxes for Expats breaks down visa options, residency steps, cost of living insights, tax rules, and what life is really like for an American expat in the Netherlands.
Dutch visa and immigration permits for US citizens
For relocating to the Netherlands from the US, the most important step is choosing the right residence permit from the start.
One clear way to narrow it down is to ask if you have:
- a job sponsor,
- an EU partner,
- a business or freelance plan, or
- a study background.
to lead into visa types?
Below, we break down the main visa types with what they’re for, who they suit, where to apply, how much they cost, and how long they last – so you can find the best fit for your plans.
Dutch–American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) visa
The DAFT visa allows US entrepreneurs to start a business in the Netherlands under the Dutch–American Friendship Treaty.
It isn’t labeled as its own separate visa type on the official website; rather, it is considered under the self–employed residence permit and can apply to any small business or freelance work.
Required documents:
- valid US passport
- proof of sufficient funds (minimum €4,500)
- business plan
- registration with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK)
- health insurance coverage
- completed application forms
The IND lists a minimum capital requirement of €4,500 for most business structures under this treaty.
The application fee is €423, and the IND standard decision period is up to 90 days once the file is complete.
The permit is usually issued for 2 years and can be renewed if the business remains active.
DAFT fast facts
- Deposit / proof: Plan around the €4,500 minimum and keep clear bank records.
- Typical timeline: IND aims to decide within 90 days.
- Renewal + common mistakes: Renewals often fail due to missing annual accounts or late registration with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK).
This option works well for moving to the Netherlands as an American.
Highly skilled migrant permit
The Highly skilled migrant visa is designed for professionals with advanced expertise who have secured a job offer from a recognized Dutch sponsor, typically in fields like tech, engineering, finance, or academia.
For 2026, the IND required gross monthly salary levels are:
- €4,357 for workers under 30
- €5,942 for those 30 and older
- €3,122 under the reduced salary category
For many professionals, this is the most direct path when relocating for work and already holding a signed contract.
Orientation year (Zoekjaar) visa
An Orientation year permit allows recent US graduates to stay in the Netherlands for a year to seek employment.
This is an ideal option for recent graduates seeking employment opportunities in the Netherlands. The visa is valid for one year and is non–renewable.
To apply, you’ll need:
- valid passport
- diploma
- proof of funds
- health insurance
The application fee is €254.
Qualification is tied to education completed within the last 3 years. For degrees earned outside the Netherlands, the school must rank in the top 200 worldwide in at least 2 major rankings at the time of graduation.
Once an eligible job is secured, holders can switch to a Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) permit. The reduced salary threshold may apply if the switch happens within the allowed timeframe.
This route fits graduates who want flexibility while exploring long–term options after moving to the Netherlands from the US.
Student residence permit
The student visa is available to US citizens accepted into accredited Dutch universities or vocational schools.
| Requirement | Amount (2026) | Proof examples | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sufficient financial means (living costs) – HBO/University | €1,130.77 / month | Bank statement in the student’s name; sponsor/financier proof, where applicable; scholarship letter stating coverage | Showing the wrong amount, using non-liquid assets, or submitting statements that don’t clearly show the balance available to the student |
| Sufficient financial means – Secondary/MBO | €928.58 / month | Same as above (bank statements/sponsor proof/scholarship coverage) | Using the HBO/university amount when applying for MBO (or vice versa), or mixing time periods (monthly vs annual) |
| IND residence permit fee (study) | €254 (first application/change of purpose/extension) | Payment confirmation (where applicable), application reference | Forgetting to budget the fee (and other school/admin fees), or paying the wrong fee category |
| Proof of enrollment/admission | Varies | Unconditional offer/admission letter; enrollment confirmation from the institution | Uploading a conditional offer as if it’s final, or mismatching program dates vs intended arrival |
| Health insurance coverage | Varies | Proof of coverage (student policy / NL insurance, depending on the situation) | Assuming travel insurance alone always works long-term, or waiting too long to arrange coverage |
Family and partner residence permit
If you're a US citizen and your spouse, registered partner, or close family member already lives legally in the Netherlands, you may be eligible to join them through a family reunification permit. This visa enables reunification for spouses, partners, and children and supports long – term settlement.
This permit is ideal for spouses, partners, or dependent family members of Dutch citizens or legal residents and is valid for up to 5 years, with a path to permanent residency. It costs €207 ($225) and requires a US passport, proof of relationship, sponsor income, and health insurance; apply through Dutch consulates in the US, like Los Angeles.
Retirement residence permit
The Netherlands does not offer a retirement–specific visa for US citizens. If you wish to retire there, you cannot apply under a dedicated “retirement” route. However, if you have sufficient passive income (such as pensions or savings), you may still qualify for residence – but only through existing residence options, such as:
- The Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) for entrepreneurs and self–employed individuals.
- Family reunification permits if you have close relatives legally living in the Netherlands.
- Other standard residence categories (e.g., work or study, if applicable).
While there is no standalone “retirement visa,” these established pathways can provide long–term residence for financially independent Americans who want to settle in the Netherlands.
Visa and permits comparison table
| Route (NL) | Best for | Needs sponsor? | Can bring family? | Can switch routes? | Typical processing time* | Key documents users will be asked for (starter set) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM / kennismigrant) | US citizen with a job offer at a recognized sponsor | Yes (employer must be recognized sponsor) | Yes (family reunification) | Often yes (e.g., orientation year → HSM; other routes depend on status) | Weeks to a few months (varies by IND workload + completeness) | Passport; employment contract; employer sponsorship/recognized sponsor proof; salary/role evidence; biometrics; (if applicable) MVV steps |
| DAFT (Dutch American Friendship Treaty) | Self-employed / freelancers / founders | No (self-sponsored) | Yes (family rules apply) | Sometimes (e.g., DAFT → employer-sponsored later; depends on eligibility) | Usually 1–3+ months (varies) | Passport; business registration plan; proof of business activity; proof of funds / bank evidence; address/registration; biometrics |
| Orientation Year (Zoekjaar / “search year”) | Recent grads from eligible top schools who want time to find work | No (self-sponsored) | Sometimes (depends on situation; not the “main” family route) | Yes (commonly → HSM when you get a qualifying job) | Weeks to a few months (varies) | Passport; diploma/degree proof + eligibility; financial means proof; address/registration; biometrics |
| Student residence permit | Enrolled in NL university/HBO program | Yes-ish (school acts as sponsor) | Sometimes (depends on family circumstances; not “automatic”) | Sometimes (often possible to switch after graduation to orientation year / work routes) | Weeks to a few months (varies) | Passport; proof of enrollment/admission; proof of financial means; insurance (as required); address/registration; biometrics |
| Family/Partner residence permit | Joining a spouse/partner/family member in NL | No employer sponsor (requires qualifying relationship + sponsor/reference person) | N/A (this is the family route) | Sometimes (can later move to work route if eligible) | Weeks to a few months (varies) | Passport; marriage/partnership proof; birth certificates (if relevant); proof of relationship; sponsor/reference person documents; translations/apostille where needed; biometrics |
| Short-stay (Schengen 90/180) + ETIAS (future) | Visits only – not relocation | No | No (not a residence path) | No (doesn’t convert to residence by itself) | Entry authorization is typically fast once ETIAS starts, but it’s not a moving permit | Passport; ETIAS authorization (once live); travel/return proof; travel medical insurance (for visits) |
NOTE! US citizens don’t need a startup visa when moving to the Netherlands from the US – this visa is intended for non–EU entrepreneurs from third countries who want to launch innovative, high–risk startups in the Netherlands.
- Instead, Americans can apply under the DAFT, which offers a simpler path for self–employed professionals and small business owners from the US to live and work in the Netherlands.
- No short–stay visa is required for US citizens visiting the Netherlands (or any other Schengen country) for up to 90 days within a 180–day period.
However, starting in the last quarter of 2026, you will need to apply for ETIAS – a quick, online travel authorization similar to the US ESTA.
Guide to acquire Dutch visas & permits for US citizens
Planning on moving to the Netherlands from the US? This works best when each step has a clear place on the calendar. Dutch immigration follows a set order. When you follow that order, the process feels far less stressful. Below is a simple timeline for operations:
90 days before → pick your permit route
- Start with one clear reason for the move. That reason decides your IND path. Common paths are work, study, partner, and self–employed.
- For work, the highly skilled migrant route is popular. A Dutch employer must be a recognised IND sponsor. The employer files the application. This is not a DIY step.
- For the self–employed, the IND self–employed permit can apply. The IND notes a minimum investment of €4,500 for most business forms. Keep bank proof ready.
- Next, check MVV rules early. The IND lists the United States under MVV exemptions. Many US nationals do not need an MVV, but the IND still checks your full case. Keep this step on your list.
- Now start the paper trail. Keep originals and clean copies in one folder. A basic set often includes a valid US passport, proof of funds or income, and health insurance proof. Then add purpose papers, like a work contract, a school letter, or business papers.
NOTE! Organizing your documents when moving to the Netherlands can take time, so visit the Netherlands Worldwide visa tool and start early.
30 days before → submit and book your key visits
- Submit the application the right way for your route. For highly skilled migrants, the employer submits it. For study, the school sponsors and submits it. For self–employed, you apply through the IND process for that route.
- Plan for biometrics. After you submit, you may need to give a photo and fingerprints. This can be done at an IND desk, based on your process.
- Keep your file simple and complete. Small gaps can slow things down. A clean file often moves faster than a rushed file.
- Also line up your first address, as you will need it for registration. Keep a rental contract or a written home statement ready. Many people call this part “things to know before moving to the Netherlands” because housing ties into almost every next step.
Arrival week → register fast and get your BSN
- For a stay longer than 4 months, register with the municipality within 5 days of arrival. This places you in the BRP. It also triggers your BSN.
- Pick up your residence permit card when the IND tells you it is ready. This card proves your lawful stay. It also shows your work rights.
- For pay, insurance, and tax forms, write down your arrival date, and the start date on the permit.
First month → lock in insurance and settle the basics
- Dutch health insurance is time–based. You must take it out within 4 months after arriving. With a residence permit, the policy must be effective from the date the permit comes into force. Do not ignore the back–date rule.
- Keep your plan in one place. A simple moving to the Netherlands checklist works best. Add your permit steps, your BRP date, your BSN date, and your insurance start date. Add notes like “biometrics done” and “card picked up.”
Finding your ideal home in the Netherlands
Choosing the right city is crucial for a fulfilling expat experience when moving to the Netherlands from the US. Let's explore three popular Dutch cities that offer unique lifestyles and opportunities for Americans abroad.
Before you consider the city you want to live in, look at the following factors:
- Family: Look for quiet streets, parks, and easy bike paths. Utrecht can work well for family life. It is central and well–connected.
- Singles: Look for social life, culture, and a big expat mix. Amsterdam offers that. It is also one of the most expensive places to rent.
- Budget: Look for more space for the price. Rotterdam can feel more open and may offer better value in some areas.
- English–first workplaces: Many global firms are in bigger cities. English is common in many offices, especially in tech and finance hubs.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the capital city, is renowned for its historic canals, vibrant culture, and international community. It's a hub for finance, tech, and creative industries, attracting professionals worldwide.
Utrecht
Utrecht combines a rich history with a youthful energy, thanks to its large student population. It's centrally located, making travel across the Netherlands convenient.
Utrecht’s housing market is competitive, with most expats opting for long-term rentals due to limited availability and high property prices. To improve your chances, apply early and ensure all required documents are prepared in advance.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture, bustling port, and dynamic cultural scene. It's a city that blends innovation with a laid-back lifestyle.
Trusted websites to find housing in the Netherlands
Looking for a rental or new home in the Netherlands? Start your search with these trusted platforms:
- HousingAnywhere - Great for international students and expats.
- Kamernet Popular - for finding rooms and shared apartments.
- Huurwoningen - Listings for apartments, houses, and studios.
- Direct Wonen - User-friendly and focused on rentals.
- Funda - The go-to platform for buying homes.
- Pararius - High-quality rentals with an expat-friendly interface.
Cost of living comparison
If you're considering relocating from the US, you'll find that the Netherlands offers a more affordable lifestyle in several key areas.
- Average monthly cost of living (single person): Netherlands $1,835 vs. United States $2,434 (about 25% lower in the Netherlands).
- Overall affordability: While salaries tend to be higher in the US, everyday essentials in the Netherlands – healthcare, groceries, and public transportation – are significantly cheaper.
- Typical monthly essentials in the Netherlands: Public transportation passes average €90–100, and basic health insurance costs around €120, far less than typical US premiums.
- Average city-center rent for a one-bedroom apartment: Amsterdam €2,069, Utrecht €1,590, and Rotterdam €1,510, all more affordable than comparable urban centers in the US.
These numbers highlight why the Netherlands continues to attract Americans looking for quality living at a more manageable cost.
(Cost of living, healthcare, and property data sourced from Numbeo.)
Understanding the Dutch tax system in 2026
Paying taxes in both the US and the Netherlands may sound overwhelming – but it’s more manageable than you think. Thanks to the US–Netherlands tax treaty, you can avoid being taxed twice while staying compliant in both countries.
If you're relocating to the Netherlands under the Dutch–American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) and also qualify for the 30% ruling, you may benefit from favorable treatment in both immigration and taxation.
The 30% facility – the new 30–20–10 rule
The expat scheme changed on January 1, 2024. It now scales over time:
- 30% for the first 20 months
- 20% for the next 20 months
- 10% for the last 20 months
From 2026, there is also a cap. The maximum untaxed allowance is €78,600. That is reached with a salary of €262,000 or more when the scheme applies all year.
Do I pay taxes in both the US and the Netherlands?
Yes, but you may be able to exclude or credit what you pay in one country. As a US citizen living in the Netherlands, you must file a US tax return annually and report all global income.
However, you can often reduce your US tax bill by claiming the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) – up to $130,000 in the 2025 tax year (to be filed in 2026) – or using Form 1116 to claim a Foreign Tax Credit.
Now, let’s look at how taxation works on the Dutch side:
- Tax year: January 1–December 31
- Filing deadline: May 1 (with invitation from us), July 14 (if you didn’t receive an invitation)
- Form: P (resident), M (movers), C (non–resident)
-
Tax structure:
- Box 1: Work and home income – up to 49.5% (35.75% / 37.56% / 49.50% for those under AOW age in 2026)
- Box 2: Substantial interest – 24.5% up to €68,843 and 31% above €68,843 in 2026
- Box 3: Investments and savings – 36% tax on the calculated (deemed) return
- Tax residency: Based on the 183–day rule, permanent home, and economic ties
- Other taxes: Property (WOZ–based), inheritance, and social security contributions
NOTE! If your foreign accounts exceed $10,000, file an FBAR. Have assets over $200,000? File Form 8938 under FATCA.
If your tax home and abode are outside the US on April 15, you generally get an automatic 2–month extension to June 15, 2026, for the 2025 return.
Dutch healthcare & insurance: what US expats must know
The Dutch healthcare system offers top-tier, universal coverage. All residents – including expats – must purchase basic insurance, averaging €156/month in 2025. Register with a local GP and use a GP post for after – hours care.
Expats must secure health insurance within four months of arriving in the Netherlands or risk fines. Coverage is handled by private providers, but the state ensures a standardized baseline for all. You can customize your plan by purchasing supplemental insurance for services not covered by the basic package, like adult dental care, physiotherapy, or alternative treatments. For a deeper look into how Dutch insurance works, visit SKGZ’s English portal.
If you live in Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC (a merger of AMC and VUmc) is the city's top medical hub. In Utrecht, the University Medical Center provides leading care, particularly in cardiology and oncology. Rotterdam is home to Erasmus MC, one of the country’s largest and most advanced hospitals.
These institutions are renowned for their innovative care, modern facilities, and international patient services, making them trusted names for both Dutch locals and American expats.
Schooling in NL for US expats
Moving to the Netherlands from the US with children? High–quality education is available, but choosing between public and international schools – and understanding how to enroll – can shape your family’s expat journey.
- Public schools are free and open to expats, with Dutch as the main language; some offer bilingual programs. Parental contributions are typically under €100/year.
- International schools offer IB, British, or American curricula, with full English instruction. Tuition ranges from €24K–€33K/year in Amsterdam, €4.6K–€6.6K in Utrecht, and €17.5K–€24.4K in Rotterdam.
- Many international schools integrate Dutch language classes to help kids adjust culturally and socially.
- Enrollment in public schools involves registering with your local municipality and submitting a child’s passport, birth certificate, and proof of address.
- International school applications may require proof of expatriate status, interviews, and entrance assessments – start early due to long waitlists.
- Dutch education prioritizes independence, creative thinking, and early academic tracking by age 12.
Documents needed for enrollment
Government rules list these items for primary school registration:
- Child’s BSN
- Child’s birth certificate, passport, or proof of identity
- Proof of deregistration from the old primary school when changing schools
Public school enrollment often ties back to municipality steps. Address and registration matter, since they connect to the BSN. Keep your proof of address and key papers in the same folder as your school documents.
Dutch education often supports independence. Many children adjust well once routines feel steady. A calm start helps, especially in the first weeks. This can be a big win when you plan to move to Holland from the US with kids.
Working in the Netherlands
To work in the Netherlands as a US citizen, you’ll need a valid residence permit tied to your employment, especially if you’re coming as a highly skilled migrant, which requires a sponsoring Dutch employer.
The job market is strong in tech, healthcare, and engineering, and English is commonly used in international companies. Speaking Dutch is helpful but not essential for many roles. Networking plays a big role in landing jobs, often more so than submitting CVs through job boards.
Dutch work culture is collaborative, non-hierarchical – meetings are direct, and feedback is honest. Work–life balance is a real priority, with shorter workweeks and generous time off being the norm.
To find a job, use platforms like:
- LinkedIn,
- Glassdoor, and
- Indeed NL,
or work with expat–friendly recruiters. Check your visa eligibility and start the process on the official IND site.
Relocating to the Netherlands: cultural and integration tips
To fully adapt into Netherlands as an American expat, there are ways of the Dutch, which you would have to know, including:
- Dutch directness can seem blunt to Americans but is rarely meant to offend.
- Casual friendliness isn’t the norm – keep greetings short and sincere.
- You don’t need to be fluent in Dutch, but basic phrases go a long way.
- Try learning essentials like "Thank you" is “Dank je wel” and "Do you speak English?" is “Spreekt u Engels?”.
- Some official documents arrive in Dutch only – Using Google Translate or Artificial intelligence helps.
- Evening Dutch classes (inburgeringscursus) are popular with expats.
- Participating in local routines like biking or recycling earns respect from locals.
- Saying “lekker weer, hè” (nice weather, huh) at the park can start genuine conversations.
Smooth moving to the Netherlands checklist
| When | Step | Who | Documents (prepare / bring / show) | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 90–60 days before | Pick your residence route (HSM / DAFT / student / family) + map “who submits” | You + employer/school/partner | Passport; offer/admission; relationship docs | Treating a short-stay visit as a relocation plan (no residence rights) |
| 90–60 days before | Build a core civil-doc pack (for municipality + IND processes) | You | Birth certificate; marriage certificate (if relevant); old passports; (if relevant) parents’ documents; naturalisation docs; immigration history statement (where applicable) | Not planning for legalisation/translation needs until the last minute |
| 60–30 days before | Confirm where you will register (address + appointment rules) | You | Housing contract/confirmation (temporary or long-term), passport | Booking registration appointments too late (some cities require scheduling ahead) |
| 60–30 days before | Prepare “proof of means” / sponsor docs (route-specific) | You + sponsor (employer/school) | Bank statements / sponsor letter / scholarship letter (as applicable) | Using statements that don’t clearly show access to funds or using the wrong time window |
| 30–14 days before | Make a “landing folder” (digital + printed) | You | Passport; key letters (IND/sponsor); civil docs; housing proof; insurance/travel coverage docs | Arriving with only screenshots or missing originals when an office asks for them |
| Arrival week (Day 1–5) | Register with the municipality (BRP) (in person) | You (+ family attends too) | Passport; documents the municipality requests (often birth/marriage certs) | Missing the 5-day expectation for registration after arrival |
| First 1–2 weeks | Confirm/receive your BSN (Citizen Service Number) | You | BRP registration confirmation; ID | Assuming you can do everything without BSN (many steps require it) |
| First 1–3 weeks | Apply for DigiD (online ID for government services) | You | BSN + registered address + mobile phone | Applying before you have BSN/registered address → stalls the process |
| First month | Set up essentials (banking, phone, GP registration) | You | BSN; proof of address; passport | Not asking what the provider requires for newcomers (BSN/address mismatch delays sign-up) |
| Within 4 months | Get Dutch health insurance (if you live in NL) | You | BSN + address; insurer onboarding docs | Missing the 4-month deadline window for obtaining healthcare insurance |
| Ongoing (first 90 days) | Keep a “tax & compliance” folder (US side) | You | Travel/move dates; pay slips; foreign account opening details | Not tracking arrival/work dates and foreign accounts early (creates messy US reporting later) |
| If you’re only visiting (not moving) | Know the ETIAS change (short stays) | You | Passport; (ETIAS will apply for visa-exempt visitors once live) | Thinking ETIAS is a residence permit (it’s for visits); ETIAS starts last quarter of 2026 |
Need help with taxes abroad?
From digital nomads to families relocating for work, more Americans are choosing the Netherlands for its quality of life, global opportunities, and strong social support system. In this guide, we’ve covered everything you need to know about relocating from the US to the Netherlands – from visas and housing to financial planning and tax compliance.
At Taxes for Expats, we specialize in helping US expats meet IRS requirements while they build a life overseas. Let us make your move smooth and easy.
FAQs on moving to the Netherlands as an American
Start by choosing the correct residence permit based on your situation, such as work, study, family reunification, or self–employment. Each permit has its own eligibility rules, documentation requirements, and processing timelines, so it’s important to identify the right category early. This registration is a foundational step for settling in and accessing services.
A valid passport is a required document when moving to the Netherlands, as it serves as your primary form of identification. Municipalities may also ask for civil documents such as birth certificates or marriage certificates, particularly if you are registering family members or need to document personal status. In some cases, these documents may need to be legalized or apostilled. Proof of address is usually needed during registration as well, such as a rental agreement or confirmation from your housing provider.
For stays longer than 4 months, register with the municipality within 5 days of landing. This is one of the most important administrative steps after arrival. Registration links you to the Personal Records Database (BRP) and allows you to receive a BSN (citizen service number). Many essential tasks depend on that number, including opening a Dutch bank account, signing up for health insurance, starting work, and dealing with tax authorities. Without registration, daily logistics can become unnecessarily complicated.
No action is needed right now. ETIAS is expected to start operations in the last quarter of 2026. Until then, it is not a step for travel planning or relocation. Americans can continue to enter the Netherlands under the current visa–free rules for short stays. When ETIAS becomes active, it will apply to future travel, not retroactively, and will involve an online authorization rather than a traditional visa.
Yes. Living in the Netherlands does not end US filing obligations. US citizens are required to file US tax returns regardless of where they live. For 2025 income filed in 2026, Form 2555 shows the $130,000 maximum foreign earned income exclusion if you qualify based on residency or physical presence tests. Form 1116 is often used to claim the foreign tax credit, which can help reduce or eliminate double taxation.
