Once you have arrived in the Netherlands, you will have to make sure that you arrange some things in the first couple of days of your stay in the Netherlands. These things are necessary for legal residence in the Netherlands.

These following things need to be done during your first days after arrival in the Netherlands:

Contact Employer
Make sure you contact your new employer as soon as you can after arrival. They will give instructions and tips about what to arrange where and when.

Health insurance
According to Dutch law you need to have specific health insurance in order to reside legally in the Netherlands. Some employers require that their employees arrange this in advance of their stay in the Netherlands. Others will ask you to arrange it as soon as you are in the Netherlands.

Rental agreement
You will have to make sure that once you receive the keys of your accommodation you also sign the rental agreement as soon as possible. This rental agreement is necessary for other things that need to be done, such as registration at the GBA/BRP.

Officially apply for the Residence Permit
If you are not from the EU, you will have to apply for a residence permit if you are staying in the Netherlands for more than 90 days. It is best to contact your employer so you know where you need to be.

BRP Registration
Everyone living in the Netherlands, needs to register his address at the BRP (Administration of the Municipality Office). This registration shows that you are legally residing at this address. This registration is necessary for your residence permit, your fiscal number (BSN) and therefore also for legal residence and opening a bank account.

BSN
After registration of your Dutch home address at the GBA/BRP, you will automatically be sent your BSN (Burger Service Nummer) to this address. The BSN is needed by your employer in order to pay your salary. Furthermore, you need this number for other purposes, such as opening a bank account.

DigiD
A DigiD is a digital account that is used for tax purposes and is very useful for all residents in the Netherlands. A DigiD log in can be applied for after registration at the GBA/BRP and you have received a BSN.

Expat centres and expat desks
The Netherlands has many expat centres and expat desks that help newcomers in the Netherlands. Check the website of the expat centre of your region and see how they can help you settle in.