FAQ

Can I use my non-EU proof of Coronavirus vaccine or negative test (DCC/QR code)?

Lots of locations in the Netherlands, including restaurants and cafés, ticketed events, and cultural institutions require you to show proof of vaccination or a negative Coronavirus test to enter.

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How can I obtain a Digital COVID Certificate?

If you would like to travel within the European Union, or if you would like to attend an event or activity in the Netherlands; you may be asked to show a negative COVID test result, proof of ...

How to obtain a Digital COVID Certificate if I received my vaccination abroad?

If you have received one or more COVID vaccinations abroad, you can still apply for a Digital COVID Certificate (DCC). Here's how:

How can I get a proof of vaccination without a DigiD?

If you want to obtain a proof of vaccination but you do not have a DigiD, you can contact the GGD (Municipal Health Services). You can request for a digital certificate or a paper certificate by ...

How do I get a coronavirus vaccine?

Everyone aged 18 and over in the Netherlands will be invited to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Everyone living in the Netherlands is eligible for an EMA-certified COVID-19 vaccination. The ...

How can I get a DigiD?

With a DigiD, it is easier to arrange for government-related matters online. You can apply for your DigiD for free here is how you can apply:

If you are registered with a municipality in the ...

Can I exchange my driving licence for a Dutch one?

You may only exchange your licence for a Dutch one if you meet several important conditions.

How do I get a parking permit?

Applying for a parking permit differs per municipality. At the Municipality of The Hague, there are three ways to apply for a parking permit: online, in writing or in person. Applying for a permit ...

What is a BSN (citizen service number)?

A 'BSN' is a unique personal number for everyone who is registered in the Municipal Personal Records Database (BRP).

How do I get a residence permit?

If you want to work and live in the Netherlands for longer than 90 days, in most cases you will need to have a special visa to enter the country, called an authorisation for temporary stay (MVV). You ...

Can I stay in the Netherlands after I graduate?

If you are looking for a job or want to start your own business in the Netherlands after completing your studies, you can make use of the orientation year permit for highly educated persons. This ...

How does health insurance work?

Dutch health insurance is required for all people who live and work in the Netherlands. All health insurance companies need to offer a basic plan to everybody without exception.

What is DigiD?

With your DigiD (short for Digital Identification), you can prove your identity online to hundreds of government organisations in order to get access to their services. It is like a digital version of your passport or driving licence.

Do I need to deregister if I am leaving the Netherlands?

Yes, it is very important to inform the municipality of your move. The municipality will inform other government authorities of your departure. Read more…

How can I work as a freelancer or ZZPer?

To become a freelancer, you will need to follow a few steps, such as registering with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.

How do I deregister?

There are two ways to deregister: in person and by writing. You will need to make an appointment with or send a letter to the municipality you currently live in. Read more…

How do I register at The Hague International Centre?

To register at The Hague International Centre, you or your employer need to make an appointment. You can make an appointment on this website, by filling out a form.

How do I register my employees at The Hague International Centre (as an employer)?

To register at The Hague International Centre, you need to make an appointment for your employee. Read more…

How do I start a business in the Netherlands?

To start your own business, you will have to have a valid residence permit, allowing you to work and live in the Netherlands. As of 2015, a new regulation makes it possible for ambitious entrepreneurs ...

How does the health care system work?

Internationals moving to The Hague will be happy to learn that Dutch health care is among the very best in the world, although it may take some time getting used to it.

Which education options are there for my child in The Hague region?

There are many different options for your child to attend school in The Hague region. There is both international and Dutch education on international or local schools.

I have moved, how do I report a change of home address?

Have you found a new home during your stay in the Netherlands? You will need to inform the government authorities of your change of address within five days of moving. How to register your new address ...

What do EU citizens need to know?

If you are an EU citizen, many immigration rules do not apply to you. You do not need a provisional residence permit or a residence permit to stay in the Netherlands. Read more…

What is a highly skilled migrant?

A highly skilled migrant is

a person who comes to the Netherlands on an employment contract.
who earns sufficient long-term income.
whose employer is recognized by the IND.

There are several options to learn Dutch in The Hague region. Taalhuis is your starting point in The Hague region to find a suitable language course. Taalhuis is usually located in the greater library ...

What is child benefit and how do I apply for it?

If you live or work in the Netherlands and you have a child or children under 18, you will get Dutch child benefit. You can fill out a claim form from the SVB.

What kind of taxes do I have to pay?

Various taxes apply to everyone in the Netherlands. Some taxes are collected by the state (such as taxes on income, wealth and assets), others are local government taxes for the provision of local ...

Where can I find out about volunteering jobs?

If you do not know where to start your search for a volunteering job, visit our article on volunteering. Read more…

How is The Hague International Centre affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19)?

In order to safeguard visitors and personnel from the coronavirus, only 30 people are allowed in the City Hall's public spaces at any given time. As such, The Hague International Centre is open for ...

Where can I learn about housing in The Hague region?

Whether you are looking to find rental accommodation, to buy a house, or even to understand your housing rights, our section on housing will give you all the information you need. To get to know more ...

Where can I find out about work and employment?

Anything you want to know about work in the Netherlands such as where to find a job, Dutch social security or Dutch work culture, you will find in our section on Work in the Netherlands.