🇳🇱 Moving to the Netherlands: A Step-by-Step Timeline From My Experience

Ankit Tomar,

Well, if you’re reading this after landing in the Netherlands—Welcome!
And if you’re still planning your move, I hope this blog gives you a clear picture of what lies ahead.

When I moved to the Netherlands from India, I had dozens of questions. Most of my time went into browsing through scattered forums, outdated blogs, and fragmented government websites. So, I thought I’d make it easier for others by sharing my complete journey—from getting a visa to settling in, and eventually switching jobs and understanding long-term residency.

⚠️ A Quick Disclaimer

I’m not an immigration or legal consultant. Everything in this post is based on my personal experience as a non-EU citizen (Indian). Please consult the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) or a lawyer for official advice.

👤 My Background

I’ve been working as a data scientist in the Netherlands for 2 years now. I have 10+ years of experience in the IT industry, and I moved here initially on an ICT visa, later switching to a Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) visa.

If you’re from a similar background—or even if you’re not—the process I’m sharing should still be helpful.

✈️ Before You Arrive: Visa Application Timelines

Whether you’re coming to the Netherlands via ICT transfer or as a foreign hire on HSM, the process is fairly predictable.

🧾 ICT Visa (Intra-Company Transfer)

  • 2 weeks for document collection and preparation
  • 2 weeks for IND decision
  • ➡️ Total: ~1 month

🧾 HSM Visa (Highly Skilled Migrant)

  • Similar timeline, unless your employer uses a third-party consultant
  • ➡️ Total: ~1 month

📌 Biometrics & Passport Stamping

  • After a positive IND decision, you need to book an appointment at the Dutch Embassy in New Delhi for biometrics and passport submission
  • Depending on appointment availability, this could take 1–2 weeks
  • Once done, stamping + return via courier takes another 5–7 days

🛬 After You Arrive: Settling In

When you first land, your company may provide temporary accommodation for 2 weeks (sometimes extendable to a month—negotiate if needed).

During your first month, try to complete these essential tasks:

🔧 Post-Arrival To-Dos:

  1. Collect your residence permit (RP)
  2. Get your BSN (Citizen Service Number)
  3. Open a bank account
  4. Purchase health insurance
  5. Register your address at the local municipality
  6. Book a TB test (if required by IND)

Although you technically have 3–4 months to complete some of these, I recommend wrapping it all up in your first month so you can settle in faster and start exploring the country.

💼 Switching Jobs in the Netherlands

If you’re planning to change jobs after some time, here’s what I’ve learned:

  • It’s good to stay at least 2+ years with your first company—it shows stability, which Dutch employers value
  • Changing companies too quickly? Be prepared to explain your reasoning clearly
  • From job application to final joining, the process may take 3–6 months, including:
    • Interview rounds
    • Offer letter
    • Visa transfer
    • 30% ruling transfer

⏳ Visa Transfer

  • Visa transfer duration: 2 weeks to 2 months
  • If you’re switching from ICT to HSM or just changing employers, you’ll need a new RP card

💡 You can book a new RP card appointment at the IND portal—I collected mine on the first day of starting my new job.

💶 The 30% Ruling Transfer

If you’re eligible for the 30% ruling, you can transfer it to your new employer. But note:

  • You must still meet the eligibility conditions
  • Approval can take up to 90 days
  • Your new employer may withhold the 30% benefit temporarily
  • Once approved, the withheld amount is paid in a lump sum, usually in the 3rd month

🏡 Applying for Permanent Residency (PR)

You can apply for PR after 5 years of uninterrupted legal stay in the Netherlands.

Key Points:

  • Ensure no gap between residence permits (even one day matters)
  • Process can take 1–4 months, depending on your case
  • You’ll need to show integration, language skills, and clean records

🛂 Applying for Dutch Citizenship

Citizenship is often applied for after or along with PR. It’s a longer and more expensive process compared to PR.

  • It can take 8–12 months
  • You’ll need to prove Dutch language proficiency and pass civic integration exams
  • But once approved—you get the red passport, which is one of the strongest in the world for travel

🚪 Planning Your Exit

Thinking of returning to your home country?
There’s no right or wrong answer. It depends on your goals—whether it’s financial stability, global exposure, or quality of life.

I’ve written another blog sharing my thoughts on returning to India after a few years abroad. Feel free to check it out if you’re considering this decision.

✅ Final Thoughts

Moving to the Netherlands is a life-changing experience, and the journey—while a bit bureaucratic—is smooth if you stay organized.

I hope this blog helps you:

  • Understand key timelines
  • Avoid common mistakes
  • Plan better, with realistic expectations

If you have questions or want to share your experience, feel free to leave a comment. I also write about travel, lifestyle, and living abroad tips—subscribe if that interests you!

📢 Reminder

This blog is based on personal experience and is not professional immigration advice. For official information, always refer to the IND website or your immigration lawyer.

Thanks for reading, and best of luck on your journey in the Netherlands! 🇳🇱✨

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