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Arrival checklist
Tasks for your first month in the Netherlands.
In short
Your first month centres on a handful of official steps, municipal registration, your BSN, a bank account and your residence permit card if you have one, plus everyday basics like a SIM card and transport pass.
Official steps
- Register with your municipality (gemeente) within the required timeframe after arrival.
- Receive your BSN (citizen service number), you'll need it for almost everything else.
- Collect your residence permit card from the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) if you arrived on an MVV (visa) or already-approved permit.
- Register for Dutch health insurance if your situation requires it.
Everyday setup
- Open a Dutch bank account, most banks will ask for your BSN first.
- Get an OV-chipkaart for public transport.
- Get a local SIM card or mobile plan.
- Register your new address with your institution and insurer.
Timing tips
Some steps depend on each other, you often need an address to register, and a BSN to open a bank account, so book your municipal appointment as early as your institution allows.