The Netherlands has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Rain is distributed throughout the year, and the country is known for its variable weather.

☀️Summer Average

17-22°C (63-72°F)

❄️Winter Average

2-6°C (36-43°F)

Seasonal Overview

Spring (March - May)

Mild weather with famous tulip blooms in April-May

Summer (June - August)

Pleasant temperatures, long days, occasional rain

Autumn (September - November)

Cooler weather, more rain, beautiful fall colors

Winter (December - February)

Cool and damp with occasional frost, rare snow

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Cost of Living

78/100

Cost Index

Relative to global average78/100

Netherlands has a high cost of living, especially in Amsterdam. Housing is the biggest expense, but salaries are generally competitive. The 30% ruling can significantly help expat finances.

Rent (1-bedroom city center)

Amsterdam most expensive, smaller cities 30-40% cheaper

€1,200-3,200/month

Food & Groceries

Supermarkets like Albert Heijn expensive, local markets more affordable

€300-500/month

Transportation

Excellent public transport, cycling infrastructure, OV-chipkaart system

€100-200/month

Utilities

Including gas, electricity, water, internet, and municipal taxes

€150-250/month

Healthcare

Mandatory basic health insurance, excellent healthcare system

€120-150/month

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Work Culture

Dutch work culture emphasizes work-life balance, direct communication, and egalitarian approach. Meetings are efficient, feedback is direct, and hierarchy is relatively flat.

Working Hours

36-40 hours/week

Vacation Days

20-25 days/year minimum

Key Characteristics

•Excellent work-life balance culture

•Direct and honest communication style

•Flat organizational structures

•Flexible working arrangements common

•English widely used in international companies

•Strong emphasis on efficiency and planning

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Visa Information

Netherlands offers various visa options including Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) visa, EU Blue Card, startup visa, and family reunification. 30% ruling available for qualifying expats.

Processing Time

2-8 weeks

Validity

1-5 years renewable, pathway to permanent residence

Requirements

✓Valid passport

✓Job offer from recognized sponsor (HSM)

✓Minimum salary threshold (varies by age)

✓Educational qualifications

✓Clean criminal record

✓Health insurance coverage

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Healthcare System

Universal Healthcare with Mandatory Insurance

Netherlands has excellent healthcare with mandatory basic insurance. All residents must have health insurance, with government subsidies available for lower incomes.

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Coverage

Universal coverage through mandatory health insurance

Key Features

✓Mandatory basic health insurance for all residents

✓Excellent quality of care and facilities

✓GP (huisarts) as gatekeeper for specialist care

✓Dental and mental health partially covered

✓Emergency care always available

✓Health insurance subsidies (zorgtoeslag) available

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Digital Nomad Friendliness

9/10

Nomad Score

Digital Nomad Friendliness9/10

Internet Speed

300-500+ Mbps average

Coworking Spaces

200+

Highlights

•World-class internet infrastructure

•Abundant coworking spaces and cafes

•English-speaking business environment

•Central European location for travel

•Excellent public transport for mobility

•Progressive society welcoming digital nomads

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Taxes

Progressive income tax 9.45%-49.5%; beneficial 30% ruling for expats

Top Rate

49.5% top rate (above €75,518)

VAT

21% standard VAT (9% reduced rate)

30% ruling allows 30% of salary tax-free for up to 5 years for qualifying expats

Sources: www.belastingdienst.nl, www.government.nl

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Language & Safety

Language

Dutch

English

Excellent - 90%+ speak English, especially in business/urban areas

Safety

Very safe

Holidays

~8-10 public holidays including King's Day (April 27), Liberation Day (May 5), and Christmas

Low crime rates, excellent emergency services, bike theft most common issue

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Payments

Excellent - cards preferred, many places don't accept cash

Common apps: iDEAL, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Tikkie, Bunq

Highly cashless society - many places prefer cards over cash

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Mobile & Internet

5G Coverage

Excellent nationwide coverage

Carriers

KPN, Vodafone, T-Mobile

Excellent coverage throughout country; competitive pricing; eSIM available

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 30% ruling?

Tax benefit allowing 30% of salary to be tax-free for up to 5 years for qualifying highly skilled migrants with salaries above €40,000-56,000 depending on age.

Do I need to speak Dutch?

Not essential in most international companies and major cities. English proficiency is excellent, but learning Dutch helps for integration and some jobs.

How expensive is housing?

Very expensive, especially in Amsterdam. Budget 30-40% of income for rent. Consider Rotterdam, Utrecht, or smaller cities for more affordable options.

Is cycling really necessary?

Highly recommended! Netherlands has world-class cycling infrastructure. Biking is often faster than driving in cities and part of Dutch culture.

Best cities for expats?

Amsterdam for finance/startups, Rotterdam for logistics/affordability, The Hague for international orgs, Eindhoven for tech, Utrecht for central location.

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