The South African Expat

Moving to a new country is an adventure filled with excitement, challenges, and endless possibilities. For my husband and I, making the leap to the Netherlands amidst the backdrop of COVID-19 restrictions in 2021 was a journey unlike any other. While the process may not be as daunting now with fewer restrictions, there are still essential tasks to tackle as we settle into our new Dutch life. Here’s a glimpse into our experience and the essential steps we’ve encountered along the way.

Getting Started: Upon our arrival in the Netherlands, one of the first tasks on our to-do list was registering with the municipality. This involved obtaining our Citizen Service Number (BSN), which serves as our unique identification in the Netherlands. Simply Google your municipality (gemeente) and make an appointment online.

Get Your Residence Permit: If you’ve relocated to the Netherlands as a highly skilled migrant, securing a residence permit is essential. This permit serves as your identity card in the Netherlands and enables travel within the Schengen area. Only employers recognised by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) can apply for your residence permit. Upon arrival, make sure you have an appointment with the IND to provide your biometrics and then schedule another appointment to collect your permit. Expect your new residence permit card to be ready approximately 2-3 weeks after your biometrics appointment.

Get a Sim Card with a Dutch Number: Get a Ducth number asoon as possible. They are not very expensive. The most common ones are Lebara or Odido.

Essential Documents: Ensuring we had all the necessary documentation in order was crucial for a smooth transition. This included legalising and translating our unabridged birth certificates and inabridged marriage certificate, which were required for registration with the municipality. Additionally, as part of the residency permit process, we were informed about the mandatory tuberculosis (TB) test, which was necessary as South Africans.

If you are required to undergo a TB test, you will need to make an appointment at the Tuberculosis Department of the Dutch Municipal Health Service (GGD).The GGD is responsible for monitoring, protecting, and promoting public health, with specific attention to high-risk groups.

Open a Bank Account: For most Dutch banks, having a Citizen Service Number (BSN) is a prerequisite for opening a bank account. However, there are alternative options available, particularly with online banks, where you can open a Dutch bank account without a BSN. Examples of such banks include N26 and Bunq. Also, if you were to open a bank account at ABN, for example, it is normal for them to invite you to an in-person meeting.

Navigating Healthcare and Finances: Securing health insurance was a top priority for us. With our BSNs in hand, we were able to do this quite quickly. If you don’t get it, you will have to back pay as it is mandatory to get health insurance in the Netherlands. Note: Health insurance providers are not competitive in the Netherlands, check to see if your job gives you a little benefit for one or the other, otherwise choose one that you believe would work best for your family.

Settling Your Children: Children between the ages of 5 and 16 are required to complete compulsory education in the Netherlands. The Dutch school system provides ample support for expat children, helping them adapt to their new environment with ease.

Embracing Technology: Embracing technology played a significant role in simplifying many aspects of expat life in the Netherlands. Applying for a DigiD, a digital identification system used for online transactions with government agencies and other institutions, allowed us to securely handle various online interactions. To apply for a DigiD, you need:

-Citizen service number (BSN)
-Registration address with a Dutch municipality
-Mobile phone

If you applied for a DigiD you will receive a letter with an activation code by post. You will receive this letter within 3 business days on the address where you have registered with your municipality. And remember: You are not allowed to apply for a DigiD that is meant for someone else.

Additional Tips for South African Expats:

Connect with other South African expats and international communities through networking events, social media groups, and expat support organisations. There are quite a few WhatsApp groups for golf, get-togethers and so much more. Join our Facebook group to get started!