Formalities

By the time you arrive in the Netherlands you should have had your certificates legalised and will have an entry visa if you need one. Everyone must also register at their local Town Hall soon after arrival.

Non-EU citizens must also apply for a residence permit. EU citizens do not need a permit, but obtaining one can be useful as the document counts as legal ID (valid ID must be carried at all time by everyone in the Netherlands). Knowledge Migrants will make their permit application directly to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service, with help from their employer. Others should apply at the Town Hall carrying a passport photograph, birth certificate, passport, work contract from your employer (if applicable), and marriage certificate (if applicable).

Depending on your country of origin you may also need a work permit.

You will also need to register with the tax authority, which will issue you with a social-fiscal number (SOFI (BSN) number). From July 2006 you will need to obtain this before you can start work.

Planning (arrival phase):

1. Apply for and collect your work permit (if applicable). Your employer will make the application so consult your HR Manager for details.
2. Register at the Town Hall where you will be living. See Appendix VI for contact details.
3. Apply for your residence permit (if applicable). In some cases this application can be done before the work permit has been issued. Consult your HR Manager for details.
4. Collect your SOFI (BSN) number. Call 0800 0543 to make an appointment.
5. Start work (if given authorisation by the Dutch authorities - this depends on nationality, type of work and residence permit).
6. Receive confirmation by post that your residence permit will be issued (if applicable).
7. Start work (if not previously given authorisation).
8. Collect your residence permit from the Town Hall (if applicable).

People who do not require a work permit can start work as soon as they have a SOFI (BSN) number. Those needing a work permit and residence permit can expect to spend between one and three months on the procedure. Depending on your nationality, some people also have to pass medical screening at the GGD to obtain a residence permit, including a chest X-Ray to screen for tuberculosis.