Dear Cloggie Queries,
I was born in Germany and we live in America now, but in two years we want to move to the Netherlands. I have been looking all over the web for information on living in and moving to the Netherlands. My mother went to the city hall in her town in the Netherlands and they said it would be no problem. But still I'm checking for information. I know they have changed the rules a lot but can you see a problem with me moving to the Netherlands? Insurance, etc....?
-Debbie
Dear Debbie,
Let me start by saying that I am in no way an expert. The best I can to is tell you about my experience and hope that the information is helpful to you in some way. As for my seeing a problem with you moving to the Netherlands: I certainly don't. There are many people in your position coming into the Netherlands with no trouble whatsoever.
The best way to start is by going to the IND website. The IND is the immigration department here in the Netherlands. It will give you all the information you need and tell you where to go and what needs to be done.
In my situation, it was just a matter of going to the local IND office and getting an application for a residence permit (verblijfvergunning). The application process is very expensive but, because you are American, you won't have to fill out much. The Dutch are never in any sort of hurry, especially when it comes to bureaucratic matters, so be prepared for long waits and delays.
You will need an apostille stamp for both your birth and marriage certificates. Just Google "apostille" for information. These stamps need to come from the state/province you were born or married in. If you have this done before you move, it will make life ever so much easier for you.
That's really it. All in all, it's a rather simple process and nothing to be worried about.
Insurance is something you will have to settle for yourself as things are different in every situation. It is required that everyone living or working in the Netherlands be covered for all insurances: health, car, accident, ect. You can find information on health insurance via this article in ACCESS Magazine (pages 16 and 17), this piece on eHow, or the most recent edition of The Holland Handbook.
This blog also has some other tips and pointers, and community members are more than willing to give excellent feedback on the Facebook page. I also encourage you to leave comments and any questions in the comments secion below. Best of luck!
Groetjes,
Cloggie Queries
