Moving overseas involves more than arranging transportation. Questions around timing, documentation, and delivery access tend to surface long before a move is scheduled. At Isaac’s Moving & Storage, we handle international relocations that require careful coordination across borders, customs, and local regulations. For people researching how to move to the Netherlands from US, understanding the order of operations early on can make the difference between a controlled transition and one shaped by delays.
We often recommend reviewing the Dutch government’s guidance on living in the Netherlands on a residence permit early in the planning process, as it explains who qualifies and what conditions apply to non-EU nationals. For Americans, residency approval shapes shipping schedules, housing access, and even storage decisions, which is why immigration clarity should come before firm moving dates.
Moving to the Netherlands from US
Understanding Residency and Dutch Visa Options
A move to the Netherlands starts with legal status. As a European country within the European Union, the Netherlands requires most non-EU citizens, including US citizens, to hold a valid residence permit tied to a specific purpose. Residency pathways differ depending on employment, study, or family reunification, and each follows its own immigration process through Dutch immigration authorities. Reviews are handled by Dutch authorities, and timelines can shift with little notice. In practice, applicants are usually asked for a valid passport or US passport, and documents such as a birth certificate. Some clients choose to work with an immigration lawyer to keep the process moving.
Exploring the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) Visa
Many American clients ask about the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty. A DAFT Visa allows self-employed individuals to apply for residency with lower financial barriers than other European business routes. This option allows a self employed person with a viable business plan and a substantial interest in their company to apply for a Dutch visa without employer sponsorship. It still involves business registration and renewals that show continued activity. From a moving perspective, DAFT applicants often benefit from staggered shipments or temporary storage while approvals are finalized.
Preparing for a Competitive Housing Market
Housing can be one of the most stressful parts of the move. Rentals move quickly, and documentation requirements can be difficult to meet before local registration. Short-term housing is common during the first months. We often coordinate international moving plans so permanent deliveries happen only once a long-term address is secured.
Registering Locally and Receiving a BSN
After arrival, registering with the local municipality leads to a Burgerservicenummer, or BSN. This number affects employment, banking, healthcare, and utilities. Appointment availability varies by city, and delays can slow settlement. We factor this reality into delivery timing and storage planning.
Setting Up Healthcare and Health Insurance
Health insurance becomes mandatory once residency begins. The Dutch system relies on private insurers within national guidelines, which differs from US healthcare structures. Clients who understand this transition early avoid administrative delays that can affect work and registration.
Managing Banking, Taxes, and Costs
Opening a Dutch bank account usually requires a BSN and in-person verification. Americans continue filing US taxes and may need to report foreign accounts. Living costs vary by region. Some expenses are lower than in the US, while housing in major cities often offsets those savings. Budgeting for the first few months brings stability.
Adjusting to Dutch Culture
Daily life in the Netherlands is shaped by Dutch culture and Dutch society. While it is common to speak English, residents are encouraged to learn Dutch. Employment options depend on the Dutch labor market, and working legally may require a work visa, work permit, or sponsorship from a Dutch employer, including routes such as highly skilled migrant visa, or highly skilled migrant permit. Students attending Dutch universities enter under a student visa, while others pursue a startup visa. Long-term residents may later apply for permanent residency, complete the civic integration exam, and eventually pursue Dutch citizenship or Dutch nationality.
Moving Forward with the Right Support
Relocating overseas involves many moving parts, and experience makes a difference. At Isaac’s Moving & Storage, we support clients through international moving with careful coordination and flexible storage options. Our team handles customs, packing, and delivery through our international moving services, with added care for unique items through our special moving services. When clients are ready to move forward, we help get the job done smoothly
