Timeline Planner

Review and sign your employment contract. Make sure it includes salary, start date, and whether the employer is an IND-recognized sponsor.

If you're a non-EU citizen, your employer needs to apply for your work/residence permit via the IND. This can take 2–8 weeks.

Your employer submits a joint application to the Belastingdienst. Must be filed within 4 months of your start date.

Secure at least temporary accommodation. You need a Dutch address to register at the municipality. Consider short-stay apartments or expat housing services.

Dutch health insurance is mandatory from day 1 of residence or employment. Compare providers and sign up before arrival. Expect €120–170/month.

Book an appointment at your local municipality (gemeente) to register and receive your BSN. In busy cities this can take weeks — book early.

Register your address within 5 days of arrival. You'll receive your BSN (citizen service number), which you need for almost everything.

You need a BSN for most banks. Bunq allows opening without a BSN. ING, ABN AMRO, and Rabobank are other popular options.

Apply online at digid.nl. You need your BSN. An activation code is sent by mail to your Dutch address (3–5 business days).

Contact your health insurer to provide your BSN. This activates your full coverage and eligibility for zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance).

The activation letter arrives at your registered Dutch address within 3–5 business days after applying.

Go to digid.nl and enter the activation code from your letter. Set up the DigiD app on your phone for easier access.

Log in with DigiD at the Belastingdienst website. Set up your profile to manage tax matters, request preliminary assessments, and file returns.

Find and register with a family doctor (huisarts) near your address. In the Netherlands, you always visit your GP first before seeing a specialist.

Get a Dutch SIM card or phone contract. Options: Vodafone, KPN, T-Mobile for contracts. Lebara or Lyca for prepaid. Many services require a Dutch number.

The Belastingdienst typically processes 30% ruling applications within 1–3 months. You'll receive a letter with the decision.

Once your 30% ruling is approved, request a preliminary tax assessment via Mijn Belastingdienst. This lets you benefit monthly instead of waiting for your annual return.

If you arrived partway through the year, you may benefit from filing a tax return for the partial year. Check with the Belastingdienst or a tax advisor.

File your annual tax return (aangifte inkomstenbelasting) between March and May. Use DigiD to log in to the Belastingdienst portal.

Every November–December is open enrollment for health insurance. Compare plans and switch if you find a better deal. Your new plan starts January 1.

The 30% ruling lasts up to 5 years (reduces to 27% from 2027). Make sure you still meet the conditions — salary threshold, employment with a recognized sponsor, etc.