Living in the Netherlands
Understand the rules, then use the tools. Each guide links to a practical tool and relevant reference material.
How to use the Dutch salary calculator and 30% ruling simulation
A gross salary offer is not the same as take-home pay. Use the net salary calculator to estimate a 2026 annual budget and see how an approved 30%…
Read guide →Dutch public and school holidays in 2026–2027
Public holidays and school breaks are different calendars. The holiday calendar lets you choose a year and school region and compare dates with…
Read guide →Netherlands–China time difference: planning around daylight saving
China is six or seven hours ahead of the Netherlands. The difference changes because the Netherlands switches between standard and summer time while…
Read guide →Five Dutch rental deposit mistakes to avoid
Before signing a rental agreement, separate basic rent from service charges and check the contract date. The deposit calculator helps you compare the…
Read guide →China to the Netherlands: parcel tracking and delivery delays
Use the parcel tracking tool to open 17TRACK with your tracking number, or choose a carrier’s official website. Tracking results are provided by the…
Read guide →Your first Dutch tax return: ordinary resident return or M return?
Before calculating a refund, identify the tax year and your residence situation. The tax filing guide explains common routes and provides a limited…
Read guide →Can you exchange a mainland Chinese driving licence in the Netherlands?
A valid mainland Chinese licence alone does not guarantee a Dutch exchange. Use the licence checklist to organise questions and documents, then…
Read guide →Getting a BSN and activating DigiD after moving to the Netherlands
A BSN is a citizen service number. DigiD is a digital identity used to sign in to public services. They have different purposes: complete the…
Read guide →Applying to study in the Netherlands: from programme choice to documents
Compare specific programmes before comparing university names. Course content, prerequisites, teaching language and deadlines are often more useful…
Read guide →Dutch highly skilled migrant applications: details to check before submitting
The kennismigrant route is a Dutch residence route for highly skilled migrants. Check the employer, salary conditions and personal formalities…
Read guide →Applying for a Dutch rental: documents and privacy
A clear application helps a landlord understand your situation, but that does not mean sending a complete identity file and bank history to every…
Read guide →Dutch integration routes: A2, B1 and Z-route
Check the applicable act and your personal integration and participation plan (PIP). Education and self-rated learning speed do not replace an…
Read guide →Applying for Dutch housing felt like a lottery: from 13th place to 1st, then disqualified
Applying for housing in the Netherlands can feel like a lottery.
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