Essential Tools for Expats in the Netherlands

Settling into expat life in the Netherlands is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. From setting up your DigiD registration to figuring out Dutch public transport, healthcare, and housing, there’s a lot to organise. This practical guide lists the best apps, websites, and resources for expats in the Netherlands so you can settle in faster and with less stress.

Best Apps and Websites for Expats in the Netherlands

• DigiD – Your Digital ID 🔗 www.digid.nl
  • Your personal digital ID for accessing Dutch government services like taxes, healthcare, and education. Setting up your DigiD registration Netherlands early will save you time and headaches.
• 9292 Travel Planner – Public Transport App 🔗 www.9292.nl
  • The most reliable Dutch public transport app for buses, trains, trams, and ferries. Perfect for new arrivals navigating cities like Eindhoven, Amsterdam, or Utrecht.
• Too Good To Go – Reduce Food Waste and Save Money 🔗 www.toogoodtogo.com
  • Fight food waste while finding great deals on surplus meals and groceries from local shops.
• NL-Alert – Dutch Emergency Notification System 🔗 www.nl-alert.nl
  • A government service that sends safety alerts straight to your phone. No download needed—just make sure alerts are enabled.
• Marktplaats – Buy and Sell Locally 🔗 www.marktplaats.nl
  • The Dutch version of Craigslist, ideal for expats furnishing a home with affordable second-hand furniture, bikes, and more.
• Bol.com – Online Shopping in the Netherlands 🔗 www.bol.nl
  • The largest Dutch online retailer with fast delivery and a wide range of products.
• Tikkie – Easy Payment Requests 🔗 www.tikkie.me
  • Quickly send payment requests via WhatsApp or SMS. A must-have for splitting bills in the Netherlands.

Finance and Cost of Living Tools for Expats

• Dutch Banking Comparison Websites 🔗 www.independer.nl or www.consumentenbond.nl
  • Compare bank accounts, insurance, and energy providers—essential for managing the cost of living in the Netherlands.
• Healthcare Insurance Comparison 🔗 www.zorgwijzer.nl
  • Clear, English-language comparisons of Dutch healthcare insurance providers, including details of mandatory coverage.
• Belastingdienst – Dutch Tax Office 🔗 www.belastingdienst.nl
  • Everything related to Dutch taxes, allowances, and benefits, available partly in English.

Housing and Utilities for Expats in the Netherlands

• Xpat Agent FAQ – Eindhoven Housing Guide 🔗 xpatagent.nl/faq
  • Local advice for housing for expats in Eindhoven, relocation guidance, and property tips.
• Municipal Rental Portals
  • Sites like WoningNet, Huiswaarts, and Klik voor Wonen are official housing portals for social and municipal rentals (mostly in Dutch).
• Water and Utility Providers
  • Most areas in Eindhoven are served by:
    • www.brabantwater.nl (water)
    • www.easynuts.nl, or www.utilitydirect.nl (easily arrange your utilities in one place)

Language and Integration Tools for Foreigners

• DUO – Civic Integration (Inburgering) 🔗 www.inburgeren.nl
  • The official site for integration courses Netherlands, including language exams and practice materials.
• Dutch Language Schools in Eindhoven
  • Regina Coeli
  • STE Languagses
  • Dutch Academy Eindhoven
  • Una Paloma Blanca
• Learn Dutch Outside of the Classroom
  • 🔗 Learning Dutch as an Expat: 10 Hacks to Increase Your Language Learning Outside of the Classroom
• Dutch Grocery Shopping Tips for Expats
  • 🔗 Grocery Shopping Tips for Expats in Eindhoven

Life Admin and Community Resources

• Gemeente Eindhoven – Municipal Service 🔗 www.eindhoven.nl
  • Register your address, apply for parking permits, and access other local services.

• Expat Centers in the Netherlands
  • Holland Expat Center South – One-stop shop for permits and registrations.
  • ACCESS Netherlands – counseling, coaching, and relocation support.

Facebook Groups for Expats

Join communities like “Expats in Eindhoven” or “Eindhoven Parents” to find local advice, events, and second-hand goods., secondhand items, and Dutch bureaucracy survival tips)

Summary: Your Netherlands Expat Resources at a Glance

Starting a new life abroad can feel daunting, but with the right expat resources in the Netherlands, you can make the transition much easier. From securing housing in Eindhoven to comparing healthcare insurance in the Netherlands, mastering Dutch public transport apps & joining local expat communities, these tools will help you settle in confidently. Whether you are here short-term or planning to stay, having these essential tools will save you time, money, and stress—so you can focus on enjoying everything your new Dutch home has to offer.