Practical information for international staff

There are multiple practical matters you should take in consideration when moving here. We have created an overview of the most important things.

DigiD

DigiD stands for "Digital Identity". It is a personal digital identity which allows the user to obtain digital services from governmental bodies, as well as education, healthcare, and pension funds. You can obtain your DigiD once you have obtained your BSN. When accessing (governmental) websites where you have to share personal information, you are typically required to confirm your identity using the two-step verification of the DigiD mobile app. An example of when you have to use DigiD is when you want to view the digital messages you receive from the Dutch Tax Office (Belastingdienst). Once you've started working with us, you will receive more information on how to apply for your DigiD.

Healthcare insurance

When you move to the Netherlands, it is important to get healthcare insurance. Most people in the Netherlands are obliged to take out a Dutch public health insurance, but not everyone.

A Dutch public healthcare insurance (also known as basic healthcare insurance or "basiszorgverzekering" in Dutch) covers most of the costs of all regular medical procedures. Think of a visiting the GP, medicine, visiting a specialist, hospital treatment and more preventive care.

Costs

It costs around 150 euro per month per person, children under 18 are free of charge. We refer you to the Zorgverzekeringslijn for extensive neutral information about the Dutch healthcare system and the Dutch public health insurance. For people who do not fall under the Dutch public health insurance, HR International can recommend you other fitting insurance packages.

Once your contract has been formalised, EUR will contact you to help with administrative preparations. This also includes advice on your healthcare insurance, both during your travel to the Netherlands, and your stay here. Advice will also be offered to possible accompanying partner and/or children.

Registration and BSN

When moving to the Netherlands, you are required to register at the local municipality within 4 months after arrival. If you intend to live in Rotterdam or The Hague, we can help schedule an appointment for you at the Expat Center.

Once you are registered, you will receive your citizen service number (BSN). The BSN is a general unique registration number for every citizen and is to be used for all government services. You need your BSN to register yourself with the public healthcare insurance, and to access online government services such as filing your income tax return and applying for allowances (including the 30% rule). Most importantly, we will also need your BSN in order to pay out your salary. It is therefore important to schedule your registration appointment as soon as possible after arriving in the Netherlands.

Wage tax

If you get an employment contract at EUR and generate income, you are obliged to pay wage tax in the Netherlands. Wage tax is deducted from your salary each month and remitted to the tax authorities. Once a year, you have to declare your entire income to the Dutch tax authorities to see if you have paid enough tax or if you paid too muxh taxes. In that case, you will get overpaid taxes back. To help you do this, every year we organise  a tax workshop for internationals in English, just before you have to file your tax return. If you need one-on-one help with filing your tax return, we can also refer you to an external tax advisor.

30% rule

If you move to the Netherlands to work for our university, there is a considerable possibility that you will incura dditional costs related to your move. These moving costs can be reimbursed through the so called 30% rule (the Expat Scheme).

If you meet the specific conditions, EUR can grant a tax-free allowance equivalent to 30% of your gross salary for a maximum of 5 years. HR International can determine if you qualify and assist you with the application.