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    Moving Abroad Guide

    Görkem Gümüştekin • public
    • 30 min read

    Table of contents

    Introduction

    What is the Purpose of This Guide?

    In the past, it was difficult to travel and experience different countries. Our knowledge about foreign places was limited to what we saw in movies. Working and living abroad seemed like distant ideas. However, in recent years, there has been a global migration trend, fueled by the internet and technology.

    Everyone now knows about better conditions and cultures that suit them. They are finding different ways to work, live, and settle there. Many of my friends have also joined this trend in the past 10 years, and I have recently joined too, although I work in the white-collar job market.

    There are various ways to do it. In this guide;

    • I will talk about how we can achieve it,
    • What we need to do when moving to the Netherlands,
    • The challenges we may encounter, and how we can overcome them.

    During this process, I often received help from my friends and the internet. However, I felt it would be helpful to have a well-organized guide that explains everything. So, I created a guide that includes all the information I gathered throughout the process.

    Note: I created the guide based on information from 2022 for Netherlands specific. Some details may become outdated in the future. You can check with other sources to be sure. Also, everything written in this guide is based on my personal experiences and observations. It is up to you to decide whether to apply them.

    Who is This Guide For?

    This guide is primarily intended for individuals who are considering moving abroad, specifically to the Netherlands, or for those who are already in the process of moving to the Netherlands.

    What Will You Get?

    At the end of this guide, you will have access to the following information:

    • Necessary documents and how to handle them,
    • Information about moving your goods and pets,
    • How to open utilities in NL (water, gas, phone, internet, etc.),
    • Tips for finding housing,
    • Tips for adapting to the culture,
    • Other practical information for your everyday needs,
    • Template for managing whole process.

    Template for Managing Whole Process

    There are a lot of items that you need to be aware of when you're moving to the Netherlands. I know from firsthand experience that it's a challenging process to manage. That's why I created and used a template for the whole process.

    You can subscribe below to get this template.

    Where and How

    What Are The Ways to Move Abroad?

    Finding a Job
    If you work in IT, the best and easiest way to move abroad is to find a job there. If you work in a field with a shortage of workers, especially in Europe, it is very possible to find a job there. However, you will need to overcome the language barrier first. I have explained how to solve this job search problem in a separate guide (Jobcrafting Guide).

    Starting Your Own Business
    Our second option is to consider starting or continuing your own business in the Netherlands. While I don't have firsthand experience with this, I can direct you to resources provided by the Dutch government. In essence, if you can demonstrate that you can contribute to the country's economy, it is highly likely that you will be able to pursue this path.

    Education
    I believe education is a commonly chosen method that many of us are familiar with. However, there is a budget concern involved. It can be challenging to afford expenses in the Netherlands or another European country. If you consider working part-time, it may be easier financially but more demanding in terms of pace.

    You have two options to experience this:

    1. Through the Erasmus program at your current university.
    2. By going abroad directly for university, master's, or doctoral studies.

    However, it is important to research the admission requirements of each university and country specifically. Instead of using a general method, conduct tailored research based on your goal.

    Self-Employed
    You can this link for detailed information on self-employed option.

    Entrepreneur
    You can check out here for detailed information on entrepreneur option.

    Which Country Should I Move to and Can I Move to?

    Honestly, answering this question is not easy. It depends on what you like, who you are, and what you expect.

    For instance, figuring out the kind of life I want to have and seeing which countries can provide that was very important for me. I also thought about: Which geography and culture do I feel close to? What kind of climate, people, and environments do I like?

    The next thing to consider is whether you can go to the countries you want to visit based on your current job or opportunities. If there is a match, you are fortunate. If not, you can evaluate if it's worth the effort by listing the pros and cons of the countries you can go to.

    When I think about it, the Dutch culture and lifestyle were just right for me. Also, it's a country where I can speak English, they treat immigrants well, and there's generally a calm and relaxed lifestyle there. So, the Netherlands is my answer to this question.

    However, I have friends in different parts of Europe. I have met people who lived in Canada, traveled to America, stayed in Eastern countries for a long time, and had a good experience. Personally, my time in Turkey was also very enjoyable. So, the answer to this question depends on you.

    If you wonder how you think or what criteria you should consider, here is a list:

    • Standard of Living: You can determine the standard of living that you can achieve with your monthly income by using this website. On this website, you can select two different countries or cities and compare the cost of living. By inputting your income in your current country, you can see and interpret its equivalent in the country you plan to move to. Alternatively, you can also assess offers and incomes by comparing their equivalent values in your current country.
    • Attitude to Immigrants: The way people in the country feel about immigrants is important when you move there. If you have a friend who already works there, they can give you good information. If you don't have any friends in the country, you can watch videos, read articles, and use the internet to get an idea. Being away from your home country and people you trust can affect how you feel. Feeling left out can be hard and make it harder to find people to support you in the future.
    • Language requirements: Can you integrate into society with just English, or do you also need to learn the language of the country? The answer to this question is important. It's worth noting that when it comes to integrating into society, the local language is always important. However, in many countries other than the UK and the USA, English alone is sufficient for the business world.
    • Legal Side: What options will you have legally in the future? For instance, you can explore topics like the feasibility of acquiring citizenship and establishing your own firm.
    • Geography: The weather and geographical conditions of the country. Do you prefer warm or cold weather? This can have a big impact on you. For example, I can't handle hot weather well. It becomes difficult for me to live in such conditions. So, living in southern countries is unlikely for me. What about you? Additionally, the climate also affects the people's character in a significant way. A cold climate tends to make people more individualistic, while a warm climate tends to make them more sociable. Also, consider the natural conditions, such as access to nature, the amount of greenery and parks, and the geographical features you will encounter.
    • Indexes: The country's happiness index can be a good indicator. If the people are happier and more peaceful, you will be influenced by them when you move there. You can also check other indexes to understand the lifestyle in the country you want to go to.
    • Food: It's really important for some people. If you enjoy eating out and food is a big deal for you, I suggest doing some research. However, if you're skilled in the kitchen, you can make a good meal for yourself almost anywhere. It wasn't a big deal for me, but it's something to think about.

    Paperwork

    Preparing and Gathering Necessary Documents

    In my opinion, one of the most stressful parts of the process was dealing with passport and visa procedures.

    I began the process by seeking assistance from a consultancy firm that my workplace had a partnership with, as I was there for work. They provided me with an overview of how the process would generally unfold and what stages I would need to go through.

    However, I often looked up information on the internet to find specific details, like how to fill out forms, etc. I also reached out to friends who had already been there and received their assistance.

    So, let me start by saying that if you go there for work or collaborate with a local consultancy firm, don't expect fast feedback. They tend to act calmly and relaxed, and that's just how they are. You'll understand and even like it once you start working there. However, if you're waiting for a response or feedback from them, it can be quite unsettling and stressful. That's why it's helpful to be aware of their process, gently remind them from time to time, and try to expedite things.

    Regardless of how you plan to go there, if you want to stay for an extended period, you will need to apply for a residence and work permit. The process I will explain here is related to obtaining this permit. (Note: If you hold European citizenship, the process is much simpler. You do not have to go through all these steps.) (Note 2: The information I am providing here is specific to the Netherlands. It may vary in other countries.)

    First, let me share the steps. Then, I will list the forms you need to complete in each step.

    For those who are traveling for work, I can provide a list of all the steps for passport and visa procedures:

    1. Completing necessary documents: The documents listed in the document section below will be needed at different stages of the process. They are categorized by stage. I suggest filling them out promptly and submitting them.
    2. Submitting documents to IND for MVV application: Once the advisory firm and your employer have received the required documents from you, either through a document portal or encrypted channels, the process will begin.
    3. Approval for Invitation Letter from IND: After reviewing the information and documents you provided, IND has granted approval. This is not the official approval or the visa itself. It is only a preliminary approval that is necessary to schedule an appointment with the consulate. The time it takes for this process can vary greatly. I received my approval 20 days after the advisory firm submitted the application. However, it took 40 days for my spouse's approval to be granted.
    4. Scheduling an appointment with the Dutch consulate through the invitation letter: To schedule an appointment with the Istanbul consulate, send the invitation letter to ist-ca@minbuza.nl. The appointment is usually scheduled for 7-10 days later. Check their website for the relevant email address for Ankara.
    5. Bring all necessary documents to your consulate appointment: Make sure to have all the required documents with you when you go to your appointment. The consulate will send you a list of the documents you need after you schedule the appointment.
    6. Receive passport with visa: You will get your passport back with the visa printed in it within around 7 days after your appointment.
    7. First entry into the country: You must enter the country within 3 months of the visa being printed in your passport.
    8. Scheduling an appointment for the residence card and receiving the card at the appointment: To make things easier, it's a good idea to schedule this appointment through the advisory firm before you enter the country. You can schedule the appointment in the first week after you arrive. At the appointment time, go to the Expat Center where they will give you a residence card that looks like an identity card. You will use this card when you enter and leave the country.
    9. Scheduling an appointment with the municipality for registration and tax identification number (BSN): This is one of the most important appointments. Municipalities are usually very busy, so if you try to schedule an appointment today, they will usually schedule it for two months later. Therefore, I suggest scheduling your appointment as soon as your visa is approved. You can do this at major municipalities like Amsterdam and Utrecht. Another option is to schedule an appointment with less busy municipalities using your rental contract if you have found a place outside the city center. For example, I got mine from Bilthoven. This way, you can schedule an appointment for around 1 week later.
    10. Receiving tax identification number (BSN) by post and email: It usually takes about 2 weeks to receive the BSN after submitting the documents. However, during holiday periods, this duration may vary. Sometimes it can be quicker than expected. For instance, it took me 3 weeks, but my spouse's arrived in just 1 week. The BSN always arrives by mail, but you can also request it to be sent via email for faster delivery.
    11. Scheduling an appointment with any bank to open an account: Along with the BSN, another important thing to consider is having a bank account. Without a bank account, it can be challenging to manage things like electricity, water, internet, natural gas contracts, rental contracts, and salary. It would be helpful if you could make an appointment during the week you arrive or the following week. It usually takes around 2-3 weeks for the account to be opened and for the card to be delivered.
    12. DigiD Activation: DigiD is like the e-government system. To get started, you need to register on the DigiD website or through the app. They will ask for information like your tax number, home address, and date of birth. After about a week, you'll receive an activation letter by mail. Once activated, you can use the app to perform various transactions more quickly.

    Now let's move on to the documents that need to be filled in on a stage-by-stage basis;

    • Documents requested by the consultancy firm to start the process;
      • Valid Passport: Copy of information and all used pages. It must be valid for at least 6 months.
      • Completed Demographic Form: A form with your and your family's personal information. The consultancy firm had sent it.
      • Employment Contract & Assignment Letter: A job contract or job offer email for the job you found.
      • Signed Antecedent Certificate: https://ind.nl/en/forms/7601.pdf
      • Signed Declaration of Care: A confirmation form that you will comply with the conditions specified for coming to work in the Netherlands and sponsor your family. The consultancy firm had sent it.
      • Signed Authorization and Sponsorship: If you are taking your spouse or child with you, they also want you to submit this form.
      • Updated CV: I had submitted the CV I used for job application.
    • Consulate appointment;
      • MVV Form: You need to bring the filled form with you when you go to the consulate. The consulting firm will provide it to you. It is also available on their website.
      • Valid Passport: A copy of all information and used pages. It must be valid for at least 6 months.
      • Photograph: 2 photos taken in accordance with the visa application requirements. It must not have been used before.
      • IND letter and other mentioned documents in the letter. I recommend that you translate the letter and review its contents.
      • In addition, different documents are required for your spouse and child's appointment. All of these will be emailed to you with details.
    • Municipality appointment;
      • Passport
      • Signed Rental Agreement: It is requested because it allows you to register through that municipality and shows that you will live in that region.
      • Legalized Birth Certificate (Form A): You need to make an appointment and get it from the Population Directorate in Turkey, by saying "Form A". After receiving it, you need to get apostille at the Governorship. The apostille process is called legalization. If you do not do this, the document will not be accepted. I suggest you get 2 copies in case one of them is lost.
      • Marriage Certificate (Form B): You need to make an appointment and get it from the Population Directorate in Turkey, by saying "Form B". After receiving it, you need to get apostille at the Governorship. The apostille process is called legalization. If you do not do this, the document will not be accepted. I suggest you get 2 copies in case one of them is lost.
      • Application Form: When you make an appointment, the relevant municipality will send you a form to fill out. It is a form that includes your personal information.
      • QR Code: They will email it to you when you make an appointment.
    • Bank appointment;
      • Passport
      • Employment Contract
      • Confirmation: Email confirmation that the appointment has been made.
    • Residence permit appointment;
      • Passport
      • QR Code: They will email it to you when you make an appointment. You scan it at the Expat Center entrance.

    Housing and Moving

    How to Find a Rental House Abroad

    When it comes to moving to the Netherlands, finding a house can be the most challenging step. We had heard about it before moving, but experiencing it was different. It felt like going through a second interview. Let me guide you through the process step by step.

    1. House Search Platforms: The two top online platforms for finding a house during this process are funda.nl and pararius.nl. Most houses can be found on these two sites. After contacting the houses on these sites, you can continue searching through the following websites. Remember to save the houses you have contacted, otherwise it becomes difficult to keep track of the process. I also suggest checking house listings daily. When you see a listing, it's best to directly call the relevant real estate agency.
      1. www.bnsrentalservice.nl
      2. www.hometorent.nl
      3. www.directwonen.nl
      4. www.interhouse.nl
      5. www.housingtarget.com
      6. www.huurwoningen.nl
      7. www.rotsvast.nl
    2. Searching for a House through Real Estate Companies: You have the option to make an agreement with a reliable real estate company in the city you are moving to. They will help you in finding a suitable house, accompany you to house viewings, and assist you in the communication and contract process with the landlord. The fee for their services may vary, but it usually amounts to one month's rent plus taxes. The advantage of this option is that they only charge a fee if they successfully find a house for you. Personally, I didn't choose this option because I wanted to try my luck on my own. However, considering the effort involved, it can be a highly preferable method.
    3. House Search Criteria: When looking for a house, we all have things we consider like size, interior design, brightness, and the age of the building. Additionally, there are specific points to keep in mind when searching for a house in the Netherlands. Here are the details:
      1. Firstly, there is a specific classification in the Netherlands called "Bald, Upholstered, Furnished". They may also refer to "Bald" as "Unfurnished". The understanding here is slightly different from that in Turkey. "Bald" means an empty house without furniture, flooring, or curtains. "Upholstered" is a model that includes white goods. Flooring may not be included in the "Bald" and "Upholstered" categories. You can see this from the advertisements or when you visit the house. You can buy it from the previous tenant or furnish it yourself. You can also take it with you when you leave. They have a different understanding in this regard. "Furnished" means a house with furniture, including everything.
      2. They may expect your monthly gross salary to be 2, 3, or 4 times the monthly rent, as stated in the advertisement. I recommend checking this before contacting the landlord to avoid wasting time. When calculating this, I suggest dividing your annual income, including salary and bonuses, by 12 and comparing it that way. If you really like the house but don't meet the salary requirement, you can try contacting the landlord with offers such as paying an extra deposit or paying rent in advance to increase your chances of getting the house.
      3. Check if they accept pets. This was an important criterion for us as we have cats. They can be quite strict about this. I applied to some advertisements that initially stated they do not accept pets. I offered to pay an extra deposit or even higher rent, but it didn't work. Therefore, if you have a pet, I recommend applying to those who accept pets first to avoid wasting time.
      4. The energy rating of the house is quite important in the Netherlands. The worse it is, the higher the bill will be. A and B classes are the best. It decreases gradually from C and onwards. To be honest, when you find a nice house to live in, you may not care about the energy rating that much. However, it is still worth considering.
      5. I also recommend checking the contract and leasing period. Some houses are rented for a short period of time. You don't want to go through the house search process again in a short time.
      6. Houses in central locations are more expensive, so you can choose areas close to the center. You may have the chance to live in nicer houses for a cheaper price. In addition, transportation is quite easy and practical in the Netherlands. If your house is close to a train station or bus stop outside the center, you can reach the center quite fast. This is also an important criterion when searching for a house.
      7. The proximity to facilities in the area where the house is located (such as markets, parks, forests, sports centers, etc.) can also be considered when making your choice. The closer everything is, the more convenient your life becomes. However, in this regard, city planning is good. There are enough facilities in every region.
      8. Finally, I recommend checking the safety levels of the neighborhoods on this site. When you enter the name of the neighborhood, it shows you the result based on the color scheme. The reason why some neighborhoods have more house advertisements is usually because people generally do not want to live in those neighborhoods. You can understand this situation with this query. But the reality is that even relatively poor neighborhoods in the Netherlands look quite beautiful.
    4. Stages of renting a house: Here are all the stages you go through while renting a house, and what you need to pay attention to:
      1. You need to make an appointment to see the house through websites and real estate agents. Most houses are advertised and shown by real estate agents. After a house is advertised, they choose a day to show the house and plan to show it to 6-10 people on that day. Of course, this quota fills up immediately after the announcement. Therefore, it is important to contact them and request an appointment as soon as you see the advertisement. They usually prefer to see you face to face for the appointment. However, some real estate agents and homeowners may accept online meetings. If you want to search and find before coming to the country, you can try your luck online.
      2. Let's say you went to see the house and liked it. Probably, there will be others who liked it among the people who saw the house that day with you. Therefore, do not delay in making an offer for a house you like. You can even go to the meeting with the documents they want ready with you. Acting quickly increases your chances of renting the house. Act immediately rather than thinking for a while. For this reason, try to plan house viewings as close as possible to each other.
      3. Each homeowner and real estate agent requests different documents. The real estate agent and homeowner I rented from asked for my employment contract, passport, and residence permit to understand each other. However, some real estate agents and homeowners may request additional documents such as a document showing that you work at your workplace, your bank account statement, etc. They usually do this to understand whether your financial situation is suitable for renting the house.
      4. After preparing the documents, it is time for the contract process. The real estate agent will send you a draft and ask you to review it. Contracts are usually in the local language, i.e. Dutch. I had read the entire contract by translating it with Google Translate. I recommend you to do the same. Because contracts are quite long and have a large number of binding articles. Especially pay attention to the articles containing penal provisions. Also, carefully check the landlord's information, IBAN information to be paid, when the rent should be paid, and as I said, penal provisions. If you have a pet and have agreed this way, pay attention to the special penalty provisions for pets. They need to remove them. Real estate agents can sometimes skip these detailed articles. Otherwise, penalties can be added for each day that pets are kept in the house. They do not have bad intentions here. When you request corrections regarding the contract, they update it smoothly.
      5. After signing the contract, the key delivery takes place on the agreed day. The real estate agent and the homeowner had come together for my key delivery. They also gave a small gift like chocolates. If you want to be polite and establish good communication with the homeowner, you can also give a small gift. Personally, I forgot due to my preoccupation and felt a little embarrassed.

    How to Move Goods Abroad

    One of the important decisions that needs to be made when moving abroad is whether or not to move your belongings. Frankly, moving belongings abroad is not a cheap and easy process. When making this decision, I approached it in the following way:

    • Making A List: Make a list of the items you want to move. Calculate how much it would cost to buy them from scratch in the country you are going to. If there is no difference in cost between buying from scratch and moving the items, or if the difference is minimal, you can choose to buy from scratch. If buying from scratch is much more expensive than moving, then moving would be a more logical choice. If your belongings are old and you are considering renewing them, I would recommend buying directly in the country you are going to.
    • Logistics: Let's say you have decided to move your belongings. Or maybe you just want to get a quote from a logistics company to make a decision. You can find logistics companies on Google or ask a friend who has moved before for the name of the company they used. When I moved, the cost was around 135 euros per cubic meter. They will provide you with an Excel document for calculating the cubic meters. It lists the average cubic meter value for each item. You fill it out and it gives you an average result. It should be noted that the Excel calculation gives a slightly higher cubic meter value than what is actually needed. For example, when we calculated, it was 10 cubic meters. But when it was loaded onto the truck, it took up 12 cubic meters. Another important point is that most companies require a minimum of 10 cubic meters. If you try to move an entire house with all its belongings, it seems like an average of 25-30 cubic meters of volume would be needed. We decided to only move small and tiring items to collect at the lower limit. We bought all the big items in the Netherlands.
    • Company: You can work with a company from Turkey or find a company through the Netherlands for logistics. However, the company you find in the Netherlands will charge a much higher fee. When I received a quote, they offered a fee that was about twice as much. You pay half of the fee upfront and the other half after the items are delivered. You sign a contract with the logistics company and prepare the necessary documents for customs. The logistics company shares their list with you.
    • Timing: The moving process takes about 3-4 weeks. However, I have had friends who have had different results depending on the country, time, and company. Ours arrived in about 3 weeks. Keep in mind that this process can take longer.
    • Packaging: The items are packed nicely during the move. However, some of our boxes were damaged and some small items were broken. The damage was low. I don't think your belongings will suffer serious damage. But it would be wrong to expect the process to go smoothly. You can direct the logistics company during the packing process.
    • Moving to House: You need to evaluate whether the street of the house you rent in the Netherlands is suitable for the vehicle to dock. If it is a narrow street and the vehicle cannot dock, additional transportation costs will be incurred. If your house is higher than the second floor, additional costs will also be incurred. In some streets, permission must be obtained from the municipality for a large vehicle to dock. You should also evaluate these conditions and how additional expenses will be incurred. You can also include the assembly of the items in the service you receive from the logistics company. It will cost an additional fee per cubic meter. You can discuss the details with the logistics company in advance.

    If you don't want to deal with all of these issues or want to see if you can live in the country before delving into them, renting a furnished apartment is the most logical option. Then you can plan these processes more comfortably at a later time. However, if you want to go with your pet, finding a furnished rental with pets is very difficult. Even if you find one, a large portion of the deposit can go towards any damage your pet may cause to the apartment.

    How to Bring a Pet Abroad

    I am sharing this section for those who want to take their pets abroad. Do not assume that you can take your pet with you on the plane or that you can address this issue later. In fact, one of the first processes you need to initiate after finding a job is the pet transportation process. This process takes approximately 3 months and cannot be expedited. Therefore, it is crucial to start it immediately. Below, I have listed the step-by-step points you need to pay attention to.

    1. Getting a microchip: If your cat or dog doesn't already have a microchip, this should be your first step. While it is now legally mandatory and most people already have it done, there's a chance you may have forgotten or if you've recently adopted a pet, you may not be aware of it. It's important to pay attention to this. You can obtain a microchip from a veterinarian or the district agriculture and forestry directorate. Fortunately, it's not an expensive procedure.
    2. Creation of pet passports: We have already taken care of this by getting a microchip for our pet. Make sure to register your pet with the proper organization. Additionally, provide accurate information about the breed, color, and age of your pet. Inaccurate information can cause issues during future inspections.
    3. Getting a rabies vaccine: After getting the microchip, it is important to get the rabies vaccine immediately. Waiting for this step can significantly prolong and complicate the process.
    4. Taking a blood sample and sending it to Ankara: Approximately one month after receiving the vaccine, we take our pets to the veterinarian to collect blood samples for the titration test. These samples are then sent to Ankara, along with the relevant form, for testing. Your veterinarian will handle these procedures on your behalf. It is worth noting that this vaccine and sending process can be somewhat expensive. Although I am unsure of the current cost, when we underwent the process, it was around 2,000 TL per cat.
    5. Receiving test results by mail from Ankara: Test results with information indicating the success of the vaccine arrive at your specified address within approximately 1-2 months.
    6. Buying a plane ticket and making a reservation: After receiving the test results, our pet is almost ready to board the plane. However, it's important to note that you can't simply buy a plane ticket for yourself and bring your pet along. Before purchasing your ticket, you need to check if there is availability for pets on the desired flight. There is a limit of 3 pets per cabin on each flight, and they can also be accommodated in a special section in the baggage compartment. Therefore, I recommend confirming the availability for your pet on the plane before buying your ticket. To secure a reservation for your pet, you will need to make a phone call, which incurs an additional cost of approximately $70-80. Additionally, there are specific criteria for transporting pets on the plane. Please check the airline's website for these criteria and also confirm them by phone. One crucial aspect is the carrier you will use, so it's important to ensure it has appropriate dimensions.
    7. Appointment with the Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry: After purchasing your plane ticket and completing the reservation, it is time to schedule your examination appointment. To do this, you will need to make an appointment for the exit control at a nearby district agriculture and forestry directorate. Remember to do this within 48 hours before your flight, so it is recommended to schedule it 1-2 days prior. Prior to the appointment, ensure that all of your cat's immunizations, except for the rabies vaccine, are up to date. This includes the combination vaccine, parasite vaccines, and having them recorded in the passport by a veterinarian. It is best to have these completed 1-2 weeks in advance of the appointment. When attending the appointment, don't forget to bring your passport, all vaccine-related documents, and any other necessary paperwork. You will be required to fill out some forms and provide copies of your passport and other documents. Additionally, there will be an examination fee to be paid. In our case, it was approximately 1500 TL for two cats. Once all the procedures are completed, you will be provided with a set of documents confirming your eligibility to leave the country.
    8. Documents and flight with your pet and arrival in the Netherlands: They may examine the strollers your pets are in at the airport entrance to prevent anything illegal from being transported. We experienced this firsthand when they looked inside our strollers. After passing the entrance controls, proceed to the section where you deliver your luggage and hand over the necessary documents for your cats (exit eligibility certificate, passports, and any other relevant documents obtained up to that day) to the official. The official will then check the documents and weigh the cats with their strollers. Please note that for carrying cats in the cabin, they must not exceed 8 kg with the stroller. Once all the checks are completed, you will be ready to board. No additional questions about your pets will be asked until you board the plane. Upon arrival in the Netherlands, they may also conduct similar checks on the documents and cats if desired. However, in our case, no such checks were performed, and we smoothly entered the country with our cats. During the flight, if you are carrying your cats in the cabin, remember to sit near the window. Take note of this when making your seat reservation. Additionally, it is recommended to reduce or withhold food and water from your cat before the flight, as it may be difficult for you to clean up if they need to use the bathroom during the flight. Once you have safely entered the country and retrieved your luggage, you can comfortably proceed home.

    Utilities and Money

    How to Transfer Money Abroad, How to Open a Bank Account Abroad

    I opened a bank account with ABN Amro. However, there is a more practical and easier method available. First, let me explain my method. Afterward, I will share the other option.

    I scheduled an appointment at ABN Amro's branch to open an account. During the appointment, I brought my passport and employment contract. After completing various forms and receiving information, the process was finished. I received my bank card in approximately 3 weeks. I activated internet banking and contactless payment, and started using the account.

    There is one important thing to note here, which is the tax number. At the time of opening the account, my tax number had not been issued yet. As a temporary solution, they used my tax number from Turkey. They informed me that if I didn't enter my tax number within 8 weeks, the account would be blocked. Once I received my BSN number, I updated it through internet banking.

    Another option is to open an account through a fintech company that you can use as a bank, such as bunq.com. Technically, you can use it as a bank account. They also send you a bank card by mail. Of course, entering your personal information (tax number, etc.) is important to continue using the account. You can use it without a tax number for the first month. You can make contactless payments with the card they send you, or you can add it to Apple Wallet.

    Assuming you have an account now, there are several ways to transfer money from Turkey to your foreign accounts.

    1. Swift: It allows you to transfer money from your existing bank account to your foreign bank account quickly. However, commission fees are quite expensive. Because both your TR bank and your bank in the Netherlands charge a commission for this transaction. I had to use it a few times anyway.
    2. Western Union: It is not a method I have experienced. It is cheaper than Swift, but has a relatively slower process. It can be preferred if you are not in a hurry.
    3. Wise: As far as I know, we can also send money through Wise. It is claimed to be the cheapest method. You can check the details here. You can also get price information from this site.

    Finally, let me mention using ATMs abroad. Not every bank has its own ATM in the Netherlands. Major banks collaborate and use central locations called yellow ATMs. You can withdraw and deposit money through these ATMs. However, please note that these transactions have much higher commissions compared to what we are used to in Turkey. You can access detailed information here.

    How to Open Electricity, Water, Natural Gas, and Internet Abroad

    Electricity: In the Netherlands, you have the freedom to choose and sign a contract with any electricity company that suits your needs. You can select the company that offers the best price and performance for your address. A helpful website is available for comparing options and prices. Once you have chosen your package, you can sign the contract over the phone if you speak Dutch or if the company has an English phone line. Alternatively, you can visit sales offices located in city centers. It's important to note that you will need a bank account to complete the contract.

    After signing the contract, electricity will be provided without the need for additional visits or processes, thanks to remotely readable meters. There are two ways to make these contracts. The first option is to agree on a fixed monthly price and settle any differences with the company at the end of the year. If you have consumed more electricity than expected, you will pay extra; if you have consumed less, the company will reimburse you. The second option is to calculate the bill based on a variable price, similar to the system used in Turkey. The choice is yours, but I personally recommend the variable price option as it allows you to adjust your usage during cheaper hours, which can be seen on the application.

    Water: Similar to electricity, you can choose a water company that serves your address by conducting research. However, there are fewer options available for water compared to electricity in the Netherlands. The number of water providers is limited. For more detailed information, you can visit this website. If available, you can sign the contract via phone or at the sales offices. It is important to have a Dutch bank account. When it comes to water contracts, you can make an agreement based on a fixed monthly fee and settle with the company at the end of the year.

    Natural Gas: There are many companies in the Netherlands that provide combined natural gas and electricity services. Opting for both services from the same company can offer a more optimal solution. Alternatively, you can choose to get them from different companies, as we did. Similar to electricity, you can compare gas prices on the same website, even including both in the calculation. You can sign the contract over the phone or at sales offices, if available. It is also important to have a Dutch bank account. As far as I know, you can agree on either a fixed or variable price. Natural gas prices have significantly increased, and fixed prices in new contracts are quite high. Contact the companies, obtain their offers, and decide accordingly.

    Internet: In the Netherlands, there are several internet service providers to choose from. The most well-known and commonly used ones are companies like KPN and Ziggo. Luckily, there is a website where you can compare internet packages in detail. You can select the one that suits you best and contact the provider through here.

    Once you have chosen an internet package, you can sign the contract over the phone if you speak Dutch or if the company has an English phone line. Alternatively, you can visit the sales offices in city centers. Please note that you will need to have a bank account for the contract. Internet contracts in the Netherlands typically operate on a fixed fee basis, similar to those in Turkey.

    How to Open a Phone Line Abroad

    Most internet providers also offer phone services. You can obtain a line from their sales offices. Another option is to use Lebara. When we moved, they were offering it for free at the Expat Center, in the Free Bags section. Once you have it, you can start using it by loading it with money and selecting a package. Additionally, various markets sell ready-to-use SIM cards like these, which you can acquire as soon as you arrive.

    If your company will provide a phone line, waiting for it can also be an option.

    For Turkish Citizens: I recommend checking if your current line in Turkey is open for international use. You will need it until you obtain your new line abroad. This policy varies among operators, but as far as I know, Turkcell already allows international use with a daily fee of around 100 TL. However, please note that this information may change over time, so it is advisable to verify it.

    How to Obtain and Use a Public Transportation Card

    The Ov-chipkaart is used in the Netherlands. You can obtain these cards from yellow machines located at the airport train station upon arrival. These machines also allow you to load balance onto the card. You can pay for loading balance and purchasing the card using your credit card or coins. The purchased ov-chipkaart can be used on all transportation vehicles, including trains, buses, and trams.

    The usage process is quite simple. First, you scan the card when boarding the vehicle, and then scan it again when you disembark. You are charged based on the distance you travel. It is important to note your balance. While the minimum limit is low for buses and trams, if your balance is below 20 euros when boarding the train, you will not be able to board. This is because balance control is conducted based on the longest distance.

    Additionally, there is the NS Business Card, which is provided by your workplace. It is a card given for commuting to work. You do not have to pay anything out of pocket and can board any transportation vehicle you desire.

    How to Get Health Insurance Abroad, How to Benefit from Health Services

    Expats coming to the Netherlands are required to have health insurance in accordance with certain laws. It is mandatory to obtain this insurance within 4 months of receiving your residence permit. You have the freedom to choose the company you want to work with for insurance, just like you choose for invoices. There is a website, where you can compare different options.

    Once you have selected a company from this website, you can complete the necessary steps for obtaining insurance through the company's own website.

    Insurance payments are made on a monthly basis, depending on the package you choose. Additionally, you are usually responsible for paying the first 385 euros of expenses. Once this limit is exceeded, the insurance covers the remaining costs. Naturally, the services included in your package are covered in this manner. Packages vary based on individual needs. For example, you can opt to include dental treatments and physiotherapy, although this will increase your monthly payments. It is important to understand the costs involved and analyze the offers from different companies in order to choose a reasonably priced package. We initially started with a package that was affordable in terms of price.

    Which Websites Can I Shop From Abroad?

    After moving, there are many small needs for the house. Since most stores in the Netherlands close early, there isn't much time left for shopping after work. Therefore, online shopping platforms are very useful. Below, you can find a list of shopping sites organized by subject. Making payments with the ideal payment method on these sites is quite easy. Once you open a bank account and install the internet banking application, the sites will guide you based on your chosen bank, allowing you to make quick payments.

    Socializing

    How to Adapt to Culture, How to Socialize in a Foreign Country

    If you're an introvert, this process will be smoother since you don't need many people in your life. However, if you're an extrovert, it will be harder, especially in the Netherlands where people are not as open as in southern countries.

    Another important aspect is where you come from and where you have landed. If the cultures of both countries are similar, you're lucky and won't face many challenges. But if they are different, you will need to observe and learn.

    I'm still in the process of adapting, but I have discovered a few effective ways to adapt to a new culture:

    1. Make Local Friends: This is the fastest way to learn about the culture and adapt quickly. Local friends can help you understand many small but important things while having fun at pubs or coffee shops, for example.
    2. Join Whatsapp Groups: There are usually Whatsapp groups for immigrants who support each other. While you may not learn about the local culture at a faster pace, you won't feel alone. At least, you will have people to share your life with.
    3. Join Local Classes or Courses: For instance, if you enjoy dancing, join a dance class. Meeting people who share common interests is a great way to build connections.
    4. Attend Concerts, Festivals, and Events: Do a bit of research and go to places where local people go. This could be concerts, pubs, festivals, or other unique events. By doing so, you can observe their activities and understand the reasons behind them.

    That's all for now, but I will expand on this section as I experience new things as an expat.

    Contact

    Also, you can get in touch with me for questions about moving to Netherlands via info@gorkemgumustekin.com.

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