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The Netherlands attracts people from all over the world with its interesting cities, high quality of life and well-thought-out infrastructure. From vibrant Amsterdam to tranquil Utrecht, there is something for everyone.

In this article we will look in detail at the best cities in the Netherlands for living and find out in which of them you should buy property.

Amsterdam is a dynamic capital city with an outlook

The capital city of Amsterdam is renowned for its developed infrastructure, cultural opportunities and stable property market. The city offers the best standard of living, making it an ideal location in the Netherlands. Amsterdam is also the country’s largest economic and cultural centre with many opportunities for work and career development. Key advantages include an excellent transport network, including an extensive system of trams and cycle paths.

Transport Infrastructure:

1. Trams and buses run every 10-15 minutes.
2. A developed network of bicycle paths with a length of more than 500 kilometres.
3. A train system that allows you to reach other cities in less than an hour.

Taxes and utilities:

1. Property tax is about 0.05% of the value.
2. Utility bills – on average 150-200 euros per month, including water, electricity and gas.

Cost of living and property prices

The cost of living in Amsterdam is higher than in other Dutch cities, but it is compensated by the convenience and high quality of services. The average price of a flat in Amsterdam is about 5000-6000 euros per square metre, depending on the area. The closer to the centre, the higher the price, but investing in Amsterdam real estate remains a profitable and promising option.

Property prices:

1. In central areas: from 6000 euros/m².
2. In neighbourhoods on the outskirts: from 4500 euros/m².
3. Average rent per flat: 1500-2000 euros per month.

Additional Costs:

1. Property purchase tax: 2% of the property value.
2. Legal services and formalisation: about 2000-3000 euros.

Areas of greatest interest to the Russian-speaking community

For the Russian-speaking population, Amsterdam also offers plenty of amenities and attractive neighbourhoods. One of the most popular is Zeiderham, where there are internationally orientated schools and many cultural facilities. This makes Amsterdam the best city in the Netherlands to live in with a large Russian community where Russian speakers can feel at home. Also popular are the neighbourhoods of De Pape and Oosterdok, offering a combination of tranquillity and affordability.

Rotterdam – an innovation centre with affordable housing

Rotterdam is considered an ideal place for young professionals and entrepreneurs due to its cosy atmosphere and affordable housing. The city is actively developing and attracts people from different countries. The largest port in Europe is located here, which contributes to the development of logistics and maritime business. Young professionals choose Rotterdam as the best city in the Netherlands to live for work due to the many start-ups and favourable conditions for career development.

Jobs and Careers:

1. Port and logistics companies are actively hiring.
2. The IT and startup sector is growing rapidly.
3. Support programmes for young entrepreneurs, including subsidies and grants.

Housing costs and investment prospects

One of the main advantages of Rotterdam is affordability. The average cost of property here is lower than in Amsterdam and ranges between 3000-4000 euros per square metre. A great place for those who want to start investing in property. The Netherlands’ best cities to live in with affordable housing offer great opportunities to buy a flat for the future, and Rotterdam is definitely on the list.

Property prices:

1. Flats in the centre: from 3500 euro/m².
2. On the outskirts: around 3000 euros/m².
3. House rent: 1000-1500 euros per month.

Investment Opportunities:

1. Projected property value growth: 5-7% per year.
2. High rental demand among students and young professionals.

Developed infrastructure and social life

Rotterdam is known for its cultural diversity and active social life. Numerous museums, festivals and exhibitions make the city attractive to people of all ages. The metropolis is also characterised by a well-developed environment: the transport system is clear and modern residential complexes include everything you need for a comfortable life. This makes Rotterdam the best city in the Netherlands to live in, with a well-developed infrastructure where there is something for everyone.

Utrecht – cosiness and tranquillity in the heart of the Netherlands

Utrecht is located in the heart of the country and is considered a great place for family life and for those who want to enjoy a peaceful retirement. One of the best cities in the Netherlands for retirement living, it is cosy, with plenty of parks and a beautiful historical centre where life flows at a leisurely pace. Here you can find many places for recreation and walks, as well as take advantage of quality medical services.

Security and crime rates

Utrecht has one of the lowest crime rates in the Netherlands. The city administration actively takes care of the safety of residents by installing CCTV cameras and developing police liaison systems. Everyone can feel comfortable walking the streets here, even at late hours.

Safety Measures:

1. CCTV cameras have been installed in most public places.
2. Active engagement programmes with local police stations.
3. Neighbourhood watch programmes and community support.

Social and cultural life

Utrecht is famous for its cultural events and festivals that take place here throughout the year. Many museums, theatres and cafés make the metropolis a truly attractive city in the Netherlands for those who appreciate cultural and social life. The beautiful canals and old architecture create an atmosphere of tranquillity and cosiness.

Conclusion

The Netherlands is a country with a rich selection of cities, each offering a unique living environment. Therefore, before making a choice, it is important to carefully weigh all factors and find the place that best suits your needs.

The Netherlands is renowned for its architectural masterpieces, and owning a luxury home here symbolises not only a high social status, but also the ability to enjoy truly exceptional living conditions. Property in the Netherlands is an opportunity to experience a unique atmosphere where history meets modernity and prestige meets refined comfort.

Why you should pay attention to property in the Netherlands

High-end properties are not just luxury, but an investment in a stay imbued with unique Dutch traditions and quality standards. In Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam you can find accommodation that harmonises historic architecture with ultra-modern technology. Holland is one of the few countries where modern homes can be located in the same neighbourhood as monuments that are several hundred years old. This creates a unique cultural and historical space.

Architectural heritage and modern technology

The Dutch know how to preserve and use historic buildings wisely. For example, many luxury apartments are adapted to modern engineering requirements, preserving their authentic appearance. The aquatic civilisation successfully introduces energy-saving technologies such as geothermal heating, solar panels and smart home systems. All this makes investing in Dutch property not only attractive, but also environmentally friendly.

Prestigious neighbourhoods and their characteristics

The Canalengracht in Amsterdam is a mecca for those who appreciate prestige and luxury. A canalside home is more than just a view of the water, it is a part of the city’s history. Premium homes in Amsterdam are often located in the neighbourhood of old mansions, allowing you to not only enjoy luxury but also feel part of history. The Hague and Rotterdam also offer unique neighbourhoods to live in, where sophistication and a high standard of living become the norm.

How real estate emphasises your status

A symbol of prestige and success that distinguishes its owner. Each property is unique, be it the view of Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, the designer interiors or the proximity to significant cultural sites. Owning a luxury property in the Netherlands emphasises refined taste and is a sign of a high standard of living, providing opportunities to enjoy all the benefits of the modern world.

Views of the canals and unique interiors

Living with a canal view is not just about romance, but a daily sense of harmony and connection with nature. Apartments in the Netherlands often offer views of Amsterdam’s famous canals, where every morning can be greeted with a view of the water and historic facades that have remained unchanged for centuries. The interiors of such properties are designed by leading designers, making every detail unique.

Proximity to cultural and business centres

Privileged Estates is located near key cultural and business venues. This means that the best museums, theatres, galleries and restaurants are literally steps away. Proximity to such venues allows you to live a busy life at the centre of cultural events, as well as quick and easy access to business meetings.

What are the benefits of buying luxury property in the Netherlands

Buying a top-level residence offers the owner many advantages: a high standard of living, privacy and sustainability of the investment. The area here is constantly growing in value, making it a favourable investment for future generations. Thanks to a transparent taxation system and a stable economy, buying square metres here guarantees investment protection and minimal risks.

Tax incentives and investment prospects

Property taxes in the Netherlands are a transparent and clear system that allows you to predict future costs. In addition, there are tax incentives for buyers, which makes such investments even more attractive. Investments demonstrate stable returns, which is especially important in conditions of global economic instability. Mortgage on property in the Netherlands for foreigners is also available on favourable terms.

Privacy and high standards of living

Gated residential complexes, access to private parks and well-developed infrastructure provide a high level of privacy and security for the whole family. This is an ideal place for those who value privacy and comfort. A villa in the Netherlands is not just a home, it is a refuge from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.

Premium estates in the tulip kingdom for family and business

Safe neighbourhoods, international schools, access to the best medical facilities make this country an ideal place to live for the whole family. Holland also offers great business opportunities.

Safety and access to education

The cost of living in The Hague State is quite high, but it corresponds to the level of services provided. Security in prestigious neighbourhoods is top-notch, and international schools and kindergartens guarantee excellent education for children. All this is attractive for families who want to provide a better future for their children. Property in Amsterdam allows you to enjoy all the benefits of city life without giving up safety and a high level of comfort.

Business opportunities and prestigious surroundings

Investing in commercial property in the Netherlands opens up prospects for international investors seeking to strengthen their position in the European market. Prestigious surroundings, proximity to business centres, convenient transport infrastructure – ideal for setting up an office or holding business meetings. The flat country is renowned for its stability and high level of economic development: business immigration offers great prospects for entrepreneurs who want to expand their opportunities.

Conclusion

Buying property in the Netherlands is an investment in stability, prestige and a high standard of living. It is an opportunity to become part of a unique culture, enjoy architectural masterpieces and secure a future for yourself and your family in one of the most progressive countries in Europe. The birthplace of Rembrandt offers everything you need for comfort and successful business. Buying a flat in the Netherlands is not only an investment in the present, but also a certainty for the future.

Is it worth moving to the Netherlands? This is a question that is heard more and more often not out of curiosity, but out of an inner search for a stable alternative. Not because it’s beautiful there, but because it works: transport, labour market, institutions, even the rubbish recycling system seems better organised than one’s life. This article is not about the mythical Holland from Instagram, but about the real pluses, the pitfalls.  What actually awaits those who dare to go beyond the boundaries of the usual.

How the market works

The phrase “working in Holland” has long ceased to sound exotic. In 2025, the country holds the position of one of the most stable economies in Europe. The unemployment rate is 3.4%, and vacancies are steadily growing in IT, medicine, logistics, and engineering. Employers are actively seeking English-speaking professionals, especially in Rotterdam, Utrecht and Eindhoven.

Minimum wage after taxes is €1,995 per month, average wage is €3,200-3,600. White wages, union protection, flexible hours. Contracts are strictly regulated and overtime is paid. The economy decides whether it is worth moving to the Netherlands, and it says yes to professionals with skills and ambition.

Living in Holland: comfort without pomposity

Dutch minimalism is about everything: design, everyday life, socialising. To live in Holland means to live rationally. Transport – bicycles, trams and intercity transport at the expense of the state (if you are a student or a trainee). Tap water is the purest, electricity comes from the wind.

Holland is not about show-offs, it’s about equality. No one will appreciate watches, but they will appreciate politeness and punctuality. A society with a strong core of tolerance and structural security.

Whether it is worth moving to the Netherlands depends on your attitude to simplicity and order.

Housing: square metre in the crosshairs

Rent is the main stress for newcomers. The average cost is €1,200 for a studio flat in Amsterdam. In less touristy cities like Groningen it’s €800-900. Competition is high, the contract is strictly legal. The deposit – up to two months rent.

The purchase of housing is available if you have a residence permit and a stable income. Mortgage – from 3.7% per annum. Investments in Dutch property show stable growth: +5.1% for 2024.

Education and learning: a stake in practice

The universities of Wageningen, Delft and Leiden are world-ranked. English programmes are plentiful. A year of study costs €2,530 for EU citizens, €9,000-15,000 for others. Internships, exchanges and research are encouraged.

Study is one of the main reasons why immigration to the Netherlands is often considered. Strong applied knowledge, internships and quick access to the labour market make degrees in demand.

Medicine and taxes: how they treat and how much they charge

Health care in the country is insured. The basic package costs about €135 per month. It includes a visit to a general practitioner, diagnostics, emergency care. Without insurance – a fine.

Taxes range from 36.93% to 49.50%. But there are free schools, subsidies, housing and transport subsidies. The average tax deduction per child is €3,654 per year. Whether it is worth moving to the Netherlands depends on your willingness to invest in stability.

Culture, language, mentality

The Dutch are straightforward. They tell it like it is and expect the same. The culture is a mix of Protestant modesty and experimental openness. Discuss any topic without taboos.

Dutch is not an easy language. But English is spoken by 91 per cent of the population. In everyday life – barrier-free communication, especially in large cities. For integration it is desirable to learn the language – it speeds up adaptation.

The mentality is based on trust and individualism. They work for life, not live for work.

Adaptation and integration: a test of integrity

Immigration to the Netherlands is a test of patience. Without knowledge of the language and local nuances, it takes 6-18 months to adapt. The Dutch are friendly, but do not intrude into personal areas. Initiative and consistency are required.

Integration starts with participation in the life of the neighbourhood, attending language courses, volunteering. The state provides support programmes, but success depends on activity.

Feedback from those who have moved to the Netherlands often emphasises not the complexity but the length of the process – you have to get used to it, grow in, learn to think differently.

Expats and society

Foreigners living in the country create a dense and active network. Platforms like Internations, Meetup and local Telegram chats speed up the process of getting to know the system. Societies are open to cultural dialogue, but initiative is valued above expectations.

Feedback from expats emphasises: the system doesn’t adapt to everyone, you have to adapt yourself. Whether it’s worth it to move to the Netherlands depends on your ability to fit into an already working mechanism.

Society accepts, but does not adapt. Rules work, not exceptions.

Cost of living

Food is more expensive than in Eastern Europe, but cheaper than in Scandinavia. Milk – €1, bread – €2.5, lunch outside the house – from €13. Average monthly expenses without rent – €950-1,200.

Clothes, appliances, transport – within the average European price tag. A student spends about €900 per month, a family – from €2,800. Whether it is worth moving to the Netherlands depends on your readiness for the high but predictable price level.

The pros and cons of living in the Netherlands: whether it’s worth moving to the Netherlands

Life in the Netherlands is like a smart home: everything works, but first you have to figure out the buttons. This list is not a tourist brochure, but an honest look at a system that needs to be fitted in, not conquered.

Pros:

1. High standard of living and security.
2. A robust economy and stable wages.
3. Developed system of education and medicine.
4. Great opportunities for expats and students.
5. Green transport and a clean environment.
6. A tolerant, orderly society.
7. High level of digitalisation and transparency of public services.

Minuses:

1. Housing shortage, high rents.
2. High taxes and insurance premiums.
3. Difficulties in integration without language skills.
4. Strong competition in the labour market.
5. Climate with rain and wind 8 months of the year.

Whether it is worth moving to the Netherlands is a question of priorities: if stability, professional growth and a safe environment are the goal, the arguments are obvious.

Immigration to the Netherlands

Immigration is clearly regulated. Highly skilled migrant status is awarded in 2-6 weeks with a salary of €3,672 for professionals under 30 and €5,331 for those over 30. The process is digital, transparent, logical.

Residence permits are issued through the IND – Immigratie- en Naturalisatiedienst. A contract, insurance, residential address are required. Headache-free immigration is possible if the conditions are met. For some it is a door to stability, for others it is a test of the system.

Investments

Holland is not offshore, but it is not a bureaucratic storm either. It takes 3-5 days to open a business. Investments from €1,250,000 in a fund recognised by the Dutch state entitle you to a residence permit.

Taxation of investments is transparent. Capital is protected by EU legislation.

Whether it is worth moving to the Netherlands: conclusions

A country for those who are ready to work, to change, to invest. Life here is not soft, but it is honest. Moving is not a solution to problems, but a step into an environment where activity is valued over complaining.

Is it worth moving to the Netherlands? Depends on the scale of the goal. For professionals, students, investors, families with a long planning horizon – the answer is obvious.

Buying a property in the Netherlands in 2025 requires accurate calculations and an understanding of the law. Superficial schemes and “willy-nilly” do not work here. Holland sets high standards for both properties and buyers. Most mistakes are made before the contract is signed – that’s when money, time and chances are lost.

Prices: figures that do not deceive

Buying property in the Netherlands starts with a sober look at prices. In 2025, the average cost of housing in Amsterdam reached €6,550 per m². In Utrecht it is €5,100 and in Rotterdam it is around €4,700. Houses in the countryside are cheaper, but they are also less liquid.

New objects are offered at fixed prices – without bidding, but with mandatory participation in lotteries and tenders. On the secondary market the situation is more tense. Here, owners raise the price by 5-10% of the market price, focusing on the demand from foreigners. This is especially strong in areas with tourist infrastructure.

Buying property in the Netherlands: conditions

Foreigners can buy any type of property – a house, a flat or a plot of land. But mortgages are granted only if you have a residence permit or EU income. The bank will ask for proof of employment, tax history, credit rating and a deposit of 20-30%.

The transaction is formalised by a notary – not a broker. He checks the documents, formalises the transfer of ownership and registers the transaction in the Kadaster register.

Transaction order: steps, no margin for error

Buying a property in the Netherlands follows a strict procedure. It includes:

1. Finding and verifying an object. A professional broker analyses the market offers, checks legal cleanliness, communications, status of land and building permits.
2. Signing a preliminary contract. The document fixes the price, terms and obligations of the parties. A deposit – 10% of the value.
3. Final signing at the notary’s office. The notary checks all documents, transfers the funds to the seller, formalises the transfer of ownership and sends the data to the registration chamber.
4. Property registration. Kadaster enters the new owner into the register. From this moment on, the status of owner is acquired.

All stages are strictly regulated and legally protected. This approach minimises risks and guarantees the transparency of the transaction at every step.

Taxes and expenses: count to the last euro

Buying a property in the Netherlands comes with several mandatory costs. One of the main ones is the transfer tax (Overdrachtsbelasting). In 2025, the rate is 2% for residential properties and 10.4% for non-residential properties.

Additionally:

• Notary services: €1,000-€2,000;
• registration and legal support: €800-€1,500;
• brokerage commission: 1-2% of the value.

Total costs can be as high as 5-8% of the value of the property.

What not to ignore when buying a property in the Netherlands

Buying a property in the Netherlands entails a number of responsibilities. The owner pays an annual property tax (Onroerendezaakbelasting – OZB) as well as utility and municipal fees.

The maintenance of the dwelling requires compliance with building and technical regulations. In case of redevelopment, it must be approved by the municipality. Fines of up to €25,000 are provided for violations.

Investments: calculation, not emotion

Property in the Netherlands brings a stable yield – on average 3.5-5% per annum, especially when renting in Amsterdam, Utrecht and Haarlem. Studios and “two-bedrooms” are in demand – they are quickly rented by students and young professionals.

Demand is consistently higher than supply, especially in areas with good transport and educational infrastructure. It is important to take into account: rent is strictly regulated, the contract is for at least one year, indexation is limited, and penalties for violations are possible.

Immigration and residence permit

Buying a property in the Netherlands does not entitle you to a residence permit. The law does not provide for benefits in the presence of property. Ownership status can be a plus when applying for a visa on other grounds: business, startup, work.

Immigration requires legal income, contract, health insurance and integration. Only after several years of legal residence does one become eligible for permanent residence.

How to buy property in the Netherlands

Buying a home is not a spontaneous process. It requires analysis, preparation, and consideration of dozens of factors. A simple list helps keep you focused:

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Determine budget and region.
2. Evaluate goals: living, renting, investing.
3. Contact a licensed broker.
4. Check the object: technical condition, documents.
5. Sign the preliminary contract.
6. To post bail.
7. To be notarised.
8. Complete your registration with Kadaster.
9. Calculate all taxes and fees.
10. To record the rights and obligations of the owner.

Buying property in the Netherlands: restrictions

Purchasing a home is open to non-EU citizens, but with a number of nuances. Many cities have an opkoopbescherming rule – a ban on renting for the first 4 years after purchase. This helps protect the market from speculation. In Amsterdam and Rotterdam new projects can include quotas for sale only to residents – without local registration the transaction cannot be carried out.

Foreigners are not eligible for subsidies and pay all taxes and services in full. At the same time, there are no restrictions on land acquisition: both building plots and fully owned agricultural land are available.

Object types

Buying property in the Netherlands covers a wide range of properties. The market includes:

1. Flats in apartment blocks are a common format in cities. The layout is standard, often without balconies. The average size is 65-85 m².
2. Tanhouses are two- and three-storey houses with a common wall, popular in suburbs. The price starts from €320,000.
3. Villas and detached houses are premium segment properties, often located outside of cities. Costs start from €650,000.
4. Building plots are a scarce commodity, especially near agglomerations. Municipalities sell such plots by agreement, with strict conditions for development.

The key to making the right choice is to match the purpose of the purchase with the location. A compact flat in the centre is suitable for renting. For living – a house in a quiet neighbourhood. For investment – a liquid object in a development zone.

Regional differences

The property market in the Netherlands differs significantly by region. Amsterdam is the most expensive and overheated: the price per m² exceeds €6,500, objects leave in 12 days. Utrecht and Haarlem are stable, but with less competition – €4,900-5,100/m². In Rotterdam and The Hague housing is more affordable, but there are rental restrictions and neighbourhoods with a high migration background.

Maastricht and Groningen offer stability and prices of up to €3,800/m², maintaining growth potential – both for living and investment for 5-7 years.

Leases and alternatives

Buying a property in the Netherlands is not always justified. Renting a flat costs €1,200-1,800/month, and the tenant does not have to pay for taxes, repairs, insurance and registration.

If the plan of residence – up to 3 years, renting is more favourable. If the term is 5 years or more, buying becomes reasonable, especially in view of rising prices and difficulties with mortgages.

Conclusion

Buying a property in the Netherlands in 2025 is an informed decision, not an emotion. The property must be fit for purpose: investment, residence or migration. With a clear strategy and proper design, the property becomes a stable asset rather than a burden.

Many people are concerned about how to obtain Dutch citizenship in 2025. The answer lies not in the glamour of Amsterdam, but in following the legal requirements and providing facts from your immigration history. Every path to citizenship is not a formality, but a calibrated sequence of actions where there is no room for chance. The conditions may have changed, but the system’s approach remains the same: strict but clear. If you have the necessary data, have taken the necessary steps and have serious intentions – the goal is achievable. We will go through each method in detail, focusing on the key requirements and steps.

Legal start: through naturalisation

Naturalisation is the classic way of obtaining Dutch citizenship. It is suitable for most migrants who have undergone long-term adaptation.
Prerequisites:

• continuous residence for at least 5 years under a Dutch residence permit, including residence in the Kingdom for at least 80% of the time;
• Successful completion of a language, culture and constitutional exam;
• no criminal record;
• renunciation of previous civil status, with few exceptions.

As of 1 January 2025, the integration exam has been modernised. It is fully digitalised. It includes listening, a written part and an interview. The average level of requirements is B1, according to the CEFR. The result is Dutch citizenship, with all the rights of an EU citizen.

Option: shortcuts for “their own”

The optatisation procedure is not an indulgence, but a recognition of the rights of persons historically linked to the Netherlands. It is one of the least known but realistic ways of obtaining Dutch citizenship.
Those who can take advantage of it are:

• persons who were born in the country and have lived there for at least 3 years;
• children whose parents are Dutch;
• former subjects of the kingdom who have lost their passport for technical reasons.

The opt-in process is a pure formality: registration in the municipality, submission of an application, confirmation of facts. The passport is issued after 3-6 months. The principle of confirmation, not proof, applies here.

By birth and by blood: transfer by law

It is possible to acquire Dutch citizenship by birthright if one of the parents is a Dutch citizen. Act No. 305 (ed. 2022) preserves this right regardless of the territory of birth. When you are born in the country from foreign parents, you are not granted a passport of the country. But after 3 years of residence it is possible to apply for an option. Adoption by a Dutch citizen gives the right to formalisation, subject to international norms.

How to obtain Dutch citizenship through marriage

Marriage to a Dutch citizen does not automatically entitle you to Dutch citizenship, but it does open the way to citizenship through naturalisation. One of the key conditions is a minimum of 3 years of living together in the Netherlands or 5 years outside the Netherlands. The marriage must be intact at the time of application. The IND immigration office carefully checks the authenticity of the relationship. It looks at the presence of common children, shared household, photographs, correspondence and financial ties. In 2024, 12 per cent of applications were rejected because of suspected sham marriages. Preparation for filing should be as thorough as possible, focusing on the real facts of living together.

Dual nationality: strictly but with reservations

If you are thinking about obtaining a Dutch passport, it is important to consider the prohibition on dual Dutch citizenship. The law requires you to relinquish your former passport upon naturalisation.

Exceptions apply if:

• the country does not allow refusal (e.g. Iran);
• the applicant is married to a Dutchman;
• civilian status obtained by option;
• the loss of the first passport will result in damages;
• the person was born with two citizenships.

In 2024, the IND approved 23 per cent of applications with retention of previous citizenship. The decision depends on the circumstances and the level of integration.

Immigration and residence permit: transition to citizenship status

Any path to Dutch citizenship starts with legal status. Immigration to the Netherlands is by labour, study, family or humanitarian status. A permanent or long-term residence permit for the Netherlands is needed to go through the naturalisation procedure. Temporary residence permit is not taken into account. The steps include selecting a category, applying to the IND, possible MVV, registration, annual renewal. Since 2025, migrants follow the process through the DigiD online office.

Examination, language and culture: compulsory stage

The main filter on the way to how to get Dutch citizenship is the Inburgering exam. It includes:

• understanding, speaking and writing in Dutch;
• Knowledge of laws and social norms.

Until 2021 – A2 level, from 2022 – B1 level. In 2025 it is planned to strengthen to B1+ with the addition of digital skills. The integration course is compulsory. The municipality sends it to an accredited centre. The duration is up to 18 months. Without the course, refusal is inevitable, even if all other conditions are fulfilled. For children under 16 years of age, a simplified scheme is in place: the written part is adapted and the oral part is removed altogether.

How to build a path to legalisation and naturalisation

Emigration to the Netherlands is not just a change of country, but a strategic decision that opens the way to permanent residence. The initial step is to choose a solid migration base. One of the most attractive options is participation in the EU Blue Card programme. It provides a residence permit with the prospect of obtaining a permanent residence permit after three years, rather than the standard five. There is a special type of visa for innovative entrepreneurs. Called startup visa, issued with the support of one of the 36 recognised facilitators relevant for 2025.

Determining the basis for migration

The most common legal avenues are:

• employment under contract with a Dutch employer;
• training at accredited universities or research institutes;
• Family reunification or partnership with a national/resident of the country.

Financial planning

Living in the Netherlands requires a stable income and a clear budget:

• rent starts from 950 € per month (depending on the city and type of property);
• food costs – minimum 300 € per person per month;
• additional expenses: transport, mobile communications, utilities, leisure activities.

Analysing key areas

Before moving, it’s important to research:

• the labour market for your profession or business niche;
• health care system: compulsory insurance, choice of family doctor, registration with GGD;
• education: entry conditions, types of schools, language support for children and students.

Drawing up of mandatory documents

Legal residency requires:

• conclude a health insurance contract (basic policy is compulsory for all residents);
• open a bank account in a Dutch bank to receive your salary, pay your rent and other daily expenses;
• get a BSN (personal taxpayer number) – the key to accessing all state services.

Each of these steps is a brick in the foundation of your new life. The more thoroughly you work through the preparatory phase, the more confident you will feel as a new resident of the Netherlands. Start with the right strategy and it will only be a matter of time before you are on the road to citizenship.

How to obtain Dutch citizenship: conclusions

Obtaining Dutch citizenship is a process that requires careful planning and strict adherence to regulations. Each path available consists of sequential steps that go far beyond mere formality. Citizenship status cannot be achieved without proven integration into society, proficiency in the national language and demonstration of strong ties to the country.

Although the immigration system is transparent, it requires the active participation of the applicant at every stage. Only by completing all the necessary procedures legally can you gain access to a Dutch passport, the full range of rights of an EU citizen and a wide range of opportunities that are not limited by national borders.

Taxation remains a key aspect of financial planning for homeowners in Europe. Property tax in the Netherlands is a mandatory payment, the amount of which depends on the cadastral value of the property and a number of other factors. Ignorance of the nuances leads to unexpected costs and penalties. To understand the calculation mechanism, you need to take into account municipal fees, possible exemptions and methods of determining the value of the object.

Unlike some countries, the Dutch tax system is transparent, but it has specific features that you should be aware of in advance. The Onroerendezaakbelasting (OZB) system is based on an annual revaluation of residential properties, and the WOZ fee affects not only the amount of payments, but also the incentives available. By understanding the details, it is possible to optimise the tax burden by reducing costs.

How property tax is calculated in the Netherlands

Every property owner in the Netherlands is obliged to pay an annual property tax. The tax is based on the cadastral value (WOZ) determined by the municipality. The WOZ is reviewed annually and its amount is reflected in the notices sent to the owners.

The municipality calculates the Onroerendezaakbelasting (OZB) based on the interest rate set for the specific region. In Amsterdam the coefficient for residential properties is – 0.0436 per cent and in Utrecht it is 0.0485 per cent. The rates are higher for commercial properties.

Additional charges include water management fees and sewerage charges, which are payable regardless of the type of property.

WOZ and its impact on tax

The amount of WOZ in the Netherlands is determined by valuers based on market data from the previous year. The municipality sends a notice stating the value, which can be challenged within six weeks. The appeal is made by filing an appeal and you must provide evidence of the overvaluation, such as independent expert reports or statistics on similar properties.

Municipal taxes in the Netherlands

In addition to property tax in the Netherlands, every owner of a property is required to pay a number of municipal fees each year, the amount of which varies from locality to locality. Onroerendezaakbelasting (OZB) is a part of the fiscal burden that includes, among other things, mandatory fees. These fees are used to support the city’s infrastructure as well as to finance public utilities.

Utility charges are a financial instrument that ensures the maintenance of water systems, sewerage networks and waste management. Major expense items include:

1. Waterschapsbelasting – water management fees. Costs for the maintenance of dams, sewage treatment plants and canals to prevent flooding. The amount of the fee is determined by the regional water authorities and depends on the location of the property.
2. Rioolheffing is a fee related to the use of sewerage systems. It is levied not only on residential property owners, but also on commercial property owners. Its amount is calculated depending on the number of users in the house or the amount of water consumed.
3. Afvalstoffenheffing – fee for household waste disposal. Includes the costs of transporting and recycling waste. The amount of the fee varies depending on the recycling policy of the particular municipality and may depend on the number of residents.

The calculation of council tax in the Netherlands is not fixed, so it is important to check the amount set by the authorities every year. In order to reduce the fiscal burden, it is recommended to analyse the published tariffs and apply for a review in case of unjustified increases.

Property tax incentives in the Netherlands: when you can pay less taxes

There are tax incentives for certain categories of property owners in the Netherlands. Pensioners, people with disabilities, large families and socially disadvantaged groups can apply for a reduction.

To apply, you must apply to the local authorities with supporting documents. Examples of successful challenges are found in court practice, which makes the process accessible to owners.

Buying a property in the Netherlands: peculiarities of paying taxes on the primary and secondary markets

The process of purchasing a home is accompanied by mandatory fees and charges that can affect the final value of the transaction. Property purchase tax in the Netherlands includes several payments depending on the type of property and its market value. It is important to take into account the differences:

1. On the primary market, new buildings are subject to a value added tax (VAT) of 21%. This tax is included in the price of the property and the price quoted by the developer already contains all mandatory payments. At the same time, buyers are exempt from paying transfer tax.
2. On the secondary market, a transfer tax (Overdrachtsbelasting) of 2 per cent applies, which is payable by the buyer separately. The rate applies to residential properties purchased for personal use. If the property is purchased for investment purposes, the tax rate increases to 10.4%.

Additionally, buyers pay a registration fee, the amount of which depends on the value of the object and notary fees. The cost of registration ranges from €1,000 to €3,000, including legal fees and changes to the cadastral register.

Proper cost allocation will avoid unexpected costs and reduce the financial burden of buying a property in the Netherlands.

Is it worth the investment?

Investors take property tax in the Netherlands into account when calculating profitability. High duties are compensated by market stability and price growth. The average annual increase in the cost of housing in the Netherlands is 5-7%, which attracts foreign investors.

Rental yields depend on location. In Amsterdam the average yield is 3-5%, in The Hague – 4-6%. Comparison with markets in other EU countries shows that the Netherlands remains an attractive jurisdiction for investment.

Conclusion

Property tax in the Netherlands requires careful calculation and planning. It is possible to reduce costs by challenging the WOZ, utilising exemptions and choosing the right property. Timely payment of fees and understanding of the taxation system can minimise risks and avoid penalties.