Moving to the Netherlands from the UK: Guide 2026

Last updated: 23 October 2026

The Netherlands is a popular choice for British movers: English is widely spoken, the cities are bikeable and the economy is strong. Since Brexit, UK citizens need a residence permit to live there. This guide explains the main routes in 2026, registration and BSN, housing and the cost of living.

Residence permit options for UK citizens

Route	Who it suits	Key points
Highly skilled migrant (kennismigrant)	Skilled workers with a job offer	Employer must be a recognised sponsor; salary thresholds apply
EU Blue Card	Graduates with a skilled job	Salary threshold applies
DAFT (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty)	Not available to UK citizens	Only for US citizens; UK entrepreneurs use the self-employed route
Self-employed permit	Freelancers and business owners	Points-based test of the business’s value to the Dutch economy
Orientation year (zoekjaar)	Recent graduates of top universities	One year to find work
Partner or family permit	Partners of Dutch residents	Income requirements apply

Rules change regularly. Check the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) before applying.

Crane unloading containers at a terminal — Rotterdam is Europe’s biggest port and a major employer.

First steps after arriving

Register with your municipality (gemeente) to get your BSN (citizen service number).
Collect your residence permit from the IND.
Take out Dutch health insurance (zorgverzekering): compulsory within four months.
Open a Dutch bank account.
Apply for DigiD, the digital ID for government services.

The 30% ruling

Some highly skilled migrants recruited from abroad can receive part of their salary tax-free under the expat tax scheme. The rules have tightened, so check eligibility with your employer or an adviser.

Housing: the biggest challenge

The Dutch housing market is very tight, especially in Amsterdam, Utrecht and The Hague.

Start looking early and use reputable agents.
Expect competition and be ready to move fast.
Watch for scams: never pay a deposit before viewing and signing.
Consider nearby towns such as Haarlem, Leiden, Delft, Amersfoort or Almere.

Cost of living

Cost	Amsterdam	Rotterdam	Eindhoven
1-bed flat rent	€1,700–€2,300	€1,300–€1,700	€1,200–€1,600
Health insurance (basic)	about €150 a month	about €150	about €150
Bike	€150–€600	Same	Same

Indicative 2026 figures.

Close-up of waves — Much of the Netherlands sits below sea level, protected by dykes and dunes.

Moving your belongings

Overnight ferries make removals quick, often 1–3 days. See removals to the Netherlands for costs, customs and canal-house tips.

Tips for Dutch life

Get a bike and learn the cycling rules.
Learn some Dutch. It helps with integration and is needed for citizenship.
Embrace directness: Dutch communication is famously straightforward.
Plan for rain and enjoy the summers.

Use our moving abroad checklist and moving money abroad guide to plan.

Reach the Netherlands by sea

Ferries from Hull, Harwich and Newcastle sail overnight, and container ships connect the UK with Rotterdam. See exploring Europe by ship.

Frequently asked questions

Can I move to the Netherlands from the UK after Brexit?

Yes, with a residence permit such as the highly skilled migrant permit, the EU Blue Card or a self-employed permit.

Can UK citizens use DAFT?

No. DAFT applies only to US citizens. UK entrepreneurs apply for the self-employed permit.

What is a BSN?

Your citizen service number, issued when you register with your municipality. You need it for work, banking and healthcare.

Is health insurance compulsory in the Netherlands?

Yes. You must take out Dutch health insurance within four months of becoming resident.

Is it hard to find housing in the Netherlands?

Yes, especially in Amsterdam, Utrecht and The Hague. Start early and watch for scams.

Cross the North Sea by ship

Ask us about freighter voyages from the UK to Rotterdam and Europe.

Explore sea voyages →

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Steve Joury

Cargo trip advisor at Cargoholidays

Passionate about slow trip travel and sea. Steve know most shipping route and procedure to discover our beautiful world from sea on a container ship. He have been at most trips from 7 days on cargo travel to 140 days on board.