Checklist for expats
As an expat you can feel quite lost when you move to a new city or country. Therefore we created a checklist for expats moving to Groningen so you can see everything you need to arrange before you move, when you arrive and when you are settled in Groningen. This checklist also includes information for your partner and children.
IWCN is the place to go for all expats and spouse related information, you can also contact them for help.
Before you move
- Find a job
- Arrange your visa (for Non-EU/EEA citizens)
- Arrange your residence and work permit (for Non-EU/EEA citizens)
- Arrange travel insurance
- Arrange health insurance
- Start (preparing) your civic integration process (if applicable, check exemptions section)
- Arrange (short term) accommodation on arrival
- Find a school or childcare provider for your children
- Arrange the transfer of your larger belongings (e.g., furniture from your home country)
- Prepare the necessary documents and get them translated and legalised
- Book your flight or transport to the Netherlands
- Check how to import your car and get a mandatory Third-party liability insurance
- Check how to import a pet
- Check out the map of Groningen
- Pack rain-proof clothes ;)
When you arrive
- Arrange transport to your new city
- Check in to your (short stay) accommodation
- Register at your municipality to obtain your BSN
- Collect your residence document (for Non-EU/EEA citizens)
- Take a TB test (if required)
- Obtain a DigiD: a secure digital identification system in the Netherlands that allows residents to access a variety of government services online
- Open a bank account
- Get a Dutch phone number
- Arrange your utilities
- Register with a general practitioner (GP), pharmacy, and dentist for your medical needs
When settling in
- Find long-term accommodation
- Apply for the 30% ruling
- Get Dutch health insurance
- Obtain an OV chip card
- Get a bike (and learn how to cycle)
- Exchange your driving license
- Apply for a parking permit
- Start learning Dutch
- Fall in love with Groningen!
Are you coming with a partner or children:
- Find a job for your spouse
- In case you work at the UG, they can help your partner find a job: dual career services at the UG
- Find a school or childcare provider for your children
- Arrange family permits
The original checklist from International Welcome Center North was used to create this checklist. On their website you can find a lot more information on living, working, and settling in Groningen.