Got a headache? Paracetamol. Sleepless nights? Paracetamol. Broken leg? Hmm, maybe try a paracetamol. Or two, that’ll do it.
This, ladies and gents, might as well be a recorded conversation between a Dutch doctor and their patient.
Why? Because the Dutch are known to rely on paracetamol as a cure-all to a ridiculous extent.
What is it?
So, there is this rumour that the Dutch prescribe paracetamol for everything. We might not have any statistics on it, but isn’t there a grain of truth to every stereotype?
Speaking from lived experience, if you have a headache and ask any Dutchie if they have paracetamol, they will pull a pill package out of their pocket.
The latest data report from the Foundation for Pharmaceutical Key Figures (SFK) even notes that the use of medicine dispensed by public pharmacies is steadily decreasing among Dutch people.
A side effect of their love for the lighter paracetamol, perhaps?
Why do they do it?
For one, while in other countries you can only get paracetamol in the pharmacy, the Dutch can buy the magic pills prescription-free in any supermarket, drugstore or even gas station.
Naturally, this makes it an easy fix. Why go home because of a headache if pain relief is a ten-minute supermarket trip away (instead of a hospital visit)?
In Netherlands, one get Ice cream with #Paracetamol (500mg). When you have a Headache, you don’t need to go a pharmacy, instead just take a bowl of Ice cream.#fwdpic.twitter.com/8IBERFKgEq
Another reason for the Dutch paracetamol affinity might be their healthcare system. Before being referred to any specialist, you’ll first have to visit your Dutch GP (huisarts).
And before you have convinced your general practitioner of the seriousness of your illness, you’ll have to penetrate the Dutch no-nonsense attitude.
Want to know just how much the Dutch like their paracetamol? This music video about two hungover guys singing how paracetamol will help them drink even more tonight might give you an idea.
🎶 Where, where, where, where
Where is the paracetamol?
I have a hangover
Because of the alcohol
Where is the paracetamol? 🎶
Should you join in?
This is really up to you!
If your Dutch GP is giving you trouble, don’t be afraid to put your foot down and tell them that you’d rather be referred to a specialist than wait it out with a pack of paracetamols.
What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!
Moving to a new country is stressful enough, but doing so with school-age children raises the stakes considerably.
Thankfully, The British School of Amsterdam has been helping international families find their footing in the Netherlands since 1978.
Founded by expats who needed a familiar, high-quality education for their children in Amsterdam, The BSA has spent nearly five decades building a school that offers world-class education.
But what is it about The British School of Amsterdam that makes it a good option for your child? Let’s talk about it.
It’s a school with roots (and a really nice building)
The BSA is housed in a beautifully re-engineered monumental building in Amsterdam Oud-Zuid, one of Amsterdam’s most elegant and leafy neighbourhoods. Think green spaces, proximity to Vondelpark, and architecture that blends old with new.
It’s also well-connected across the city and the wider region, making the morning commute considerably less of a logistical headache.
Inside, The BSA boasts a sports hall, theatre, science labs, music rooms, and bright classrooms designed to actually make children want to be there.
Each school section also has its own dedicated wing, purpose-built to appeal to that age group.
It fosters a truly international community
Home to over 1,000 students from more than 70 cultures, and with over 40 languages spoken across its community, The British School of Amsterdam is about as international as it gets.
The British School of Amsterdam is home to a truly international community. Image: The British School of Amsterdam/Supplied
But it’s more than just impressive statistics. Inclusivity and international-mindedness are embedded in the school’s ethos, not merely printed in a brochure and forgotten about.
According to the Principal, Ciaran Harrington, The BSA is really a school for everyone.
With so many nationalities and backgrounds represented, diversity simply becomes the norm. Students at The BSA don’t “see differences” because being part of a richly varied community is just their everyday reality.
For children who’ve moved countries multiple times and are starting over yet again, that kind of environment offers something valuable: familiar ground in an unfamiliar city.
It educates children all the way from ages 3 to 18
One of The BSA’s most practical advantages is its all-through school structure.
Children can join from age three in Early Years and stay right through to age 18 in the Senior School, with:
The Early Years School for children aged 3 to 6,
Junior School for children aged 6 to 11, and
Senior School for children aged 11 to 18.
That continuity matters more than it might initially seem. Children build relationships, habits, and an academic mindset over years, not months, without the disruption of switching schools every time the family’s circumstances change.
Each stage is tailored to where students are developmentally, socially, and emotionally, and crucially, transitions between stages happen within the same community.
Good to know: For children with additional needs, Learning Support Coordinators are present in every school section. EAL (English as an Additional Language) support is also available for students who are new to English.
The BSA also places great value on connection to local roots. The Dutch language is integrated into the curriculum, and the school celebrates local holidays, reflecting its commitment to helping students embrace and understand the local language and culture.
It teaches a world-class British curriculum with global reach
Continuity aside, The British School of Amsterdam follows the National curriculum used in England through to IGCSE/GCSE and A-Levels.
These are globally recognised qualifications that open doors to universities across the world, not just in the UK.
Students who receive an education at The BSA can gain access to top universities across the world. Image: The British School of Amsterdam/Supplied
The numbers speak for themselves. BSA graduates go on to study at top institutions across the Netherlands (50%), the UK (29%), and internationally (21%), including Russell Group universities and leading Dutch research universities.
And it’s not just the GCSE results that shine. The BSA’s SAT results at Key Stage 2 (Junior School level) consistently sit above national averages.
The Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13) offers up to five A-Level subjects alongside the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and a wide electives programme, giving older students the breadth and depth that top universities are looking for.
It offers life beyond the classroom
A good school isn’t just about what happens in lessons, and The British School of Amsterdam clearly takes that seriously. Over 100 extracurricular activities are offered each term, spanning sports, arts, music, debate, STEM, language clubs, and more.
Senior School students can get involved with Model UN, Orchestra, Rowing, the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, TEDx events, and various student leadership roles.
Meanwhile, Junior School students can join the School Council, the Eco Squad, or become Prefects in Year 6, all meaningful responsibilities that build confidence and a sense of belonging.
It ensures that the whole family belongs
Relocating to Amsterdam affects the entire household, not just the children. The British School of Amsterdam’s active Parents’ Organisation runs a dedicated committee that organises regular events and meet-ups throughout the year.
At The BSA, the whole family is made to feel at home. Image: The British School of Amsterdam/Supplied
The organisation often hosts cultural and interest groups, helping the whole family feel settled, not just the students.
For younger children, after-school care is available through Majest Global for ages 3 to 12, taking at least one scheduling puzzle off your plate.
It’s this kind of support structure that makes a real difference when your family is adjusting to a new country and needs some stability. Think this may be the school for your child? Learn more.
Are you weighing up international school options in Amsterdam, or have you already made the move to The BSA? Share your experience in the comments below!
If you’ve been eyeing weight-loss jabs and wondering what they’ll do to your bank balance, the short answer is that you’ll likely be paying yourself, somewhere between €150 and €400 a month, depending on the medication.
Weight-loss medication has gone from niche to nearly impossible to avoid in conversations about, sorry for repeating myself, losing weight.
But there’s a big gap between hearing about these treatments and knowing what they’ll actually cost you here in the Netherlands. So let’s break it down.
First, what exactly are “weight-loss drugs”?
The “weight-loss jabs” everyone means are GLP-1 receptor agonists. They mimic a hormone your body releases after eating, the one that tells your brain you’re full. Less hunger, less eating, and often weight loss.
They were developed for type 2 diabetes a good few years ago, now there are many others which have been specifically developed to lose that weight.
The same medication can be fully covered or entirely out of pocket, depending on why and when you’re taking it.
The big question: will my insurance cover it?
For most people using GLP-1 medication purely to lose weight, the answer in 2026 is probably no.
With a type 2 diabetes diagnosis, all eight major Dutch insurers cover it through the basic insurance (basisverzekering), and you’ll only pay your eigen risico — the €385 deductible.
Without that diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, you’re usually paying for the weight-loss drugs yourself.
When weight-loss medication is covered by Dutch insurance
But there is a chance that health insurance covers the costs for weight-loss drugs, the GLP1 medication could be covered if you have:
a BMI of 35-plus with a related condition (or 40-plus on its own),
a year on a recognised lifestyle programme (a Gecombineerde Leefstijlinterventie; it’s also great for winning Dutch Scrabble) without enough result,
and a doctor’s prescription.
So yeah, if you’re reading this, you probably tried a ton of lifestyle changes already but not the official recognised lifestyle programme. Which means that your doctor won’t prescribe it and thus, like many other Dutch folks in 2026, you have no other option then paying for it yourself.
And even if you get it covered by health insurance, you pay your €385 deductible first (or more, if you like to live dangerously and have a higher deductible sum)
Will insurance cover weight-loss drugs? Well… it depends. Image: Magnific
What do weight-loss drugs cost out of pocket?
If you don’t qualify for coverage, here’s roughly what you’re looking at per month in 2026. These are indicative figures, since prices shift with dosage and pharmacy:
An injection option developed for weight loss: roughly €250 to €550 (the dose matters too quite often!)
A dual-hormone treatment (it mimics a second hormone for a potentially stronger effect): around €400
These aren’t one-off costs, either. GLP-1 treatment is typically ongoing, so the monthly figure is the one that matters.
Looking for support (with a private and personal touch) with weight-loss medication in the Netherlands? Wellis offers fully online consultations with BIG-registered doctors, discreet home delivery, and ongoing medical and nutritional guidance throughout your treatment.Start your consultation here.
Why isn’t this just covered already?
Fair question, especially when CBS reports that half of Dutch adults had excess weight in 2024, with 16% in the obesity category.
The honest answer is cost and scale. Covering these medications for everyone who wants them would put enormous pressure on the healthcare budget, so the line sits at medical necessity rather than general weight loss.
Many factors go into coverage for weight-loss medication. Image: Magnific
Whether that line moves is an open question. Some weight-loss medication could be added to basic insurance later in 2026, but nothing is locked in yet.
How can internationals actually access it?
If you don’t qualify for coverage but still want to explore GLP-1 treatment, you’ve got two routes.
The first is your huisarts (GP), who can check whether you meet the conditions and point you toward a lifestyle programme if it fits.
The second is a private clinic or online platform. You complete a health questionnaire, a BIG-registered doctor reviews your eligibility, and if approved, treatment is prescribed and delivered.
It’s a more personalised route, with the trade-off that you cover the cost yourself.
Have you looked into weight-loss medication while living in the Netherlands, or been surprised by what your insurance does and doesn’t cover? Tell us in the comments below.
Thanks to a technical failure in Britain’s air traffic control system, multiple flights from Schiphol have now been grounded, with more potential delays and cancellations to come.
The issue arose early Tuesday afternoon, with NATS (the British National Air Traffic Service) reporting “a technical issue which is causing some disruption to flight departures”.
Helaas, due to a “complex recovery” creating a backlog of cancelled flights, there’s a decent chance your upcoming flight may also be affected. Here’s what to know.
Up to 58 Schiphol flights cancelled so far
As relayed by news agency ANP, a Schiphol spokesperson has confirmed that at least 58 flights between the airport and the UK have been cancelled.
NATS notes that it will “take time to recover” from the technical error, so experts aren’t ruling out the possibility of more delays and cancellations.
Altogether, more than 1,300 flights have been cancelled across the UK and Ireland, with London-Heathrow being one of the hardest-hit airports.
All told, 1300 flights were canceled to/from airports in the UK on Tuesday.
177 flights have been canceled so far on Wednesday, nearly all at London-Heathrow. pic.twitter.com/LWdZcDp36i
According to NATS, the disruption hit its flight processing system, the tool used to safely coordinate aircraft. This led to a drop in capacity, as NATS needed to limit the number of planes that could safely use British airspace.
Given that the fault mainly affects departing planes, scheduled flights couldn’t take off, leading to a backlog. And with British airports at capacity, arriving flights are also being limited, reports NOS.
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It’ll soon be autumn in the Netherlands, which means it’s time for everything cosy. So why not go apple picking? 🍏
Throughout the year, in different parts of the country, many farms and orchards let you pick your own fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
From late September to October, you can pick your own apples. Some farms even have pear trees, too!
Why go apple picking?
There’s something so fun about searching high and low throughout rows of trees to find that one perfect apple. If you have a favourite kind of apple, most orchards have their rows labelled, so you can find exactly what you’re looking for.
This is also a great way to discover new kinds of apples. Besides, it makes for a great day out!
Many places don’t charge an admission fee, and you only pay for what you pick.
The best part is that it’s usually no more than €3.50 for a kilogram, so you can get a lot of fruit for a great price, especially if you’re one of those people who can’t stop picking.
Remember, though, you might have to bring your own bag, use a basket or push a wheelbarrow to collect your fruits.
Many of these family farms also have a small country market with locally-made goods such as jams, juices, baked goods, and, of course, fruits and vegetables.
Perfect if you love trying new goodies or supporting local businesses!
What will you do with all these apples?
Besides just munching on them, the possibilities are endless. You can make spiced apple cider by boiling the fruits with spices such as star anise or cinnamon sticks, and then use the leftover fruit pulp, called pomace, to bake cookies, muffins or cakes. 🥮
Another drinkable option is using a juicer to make your own freshly pressed apple juice. And, of course, with a great nod to Dutch cuisine, you can always make an appeltaart (apple pie).
Afterwards, you can boil the apple skins in water to make a delicious, naturally pink-coloured tea. There are many great recipes for any of these ideas online, or you can come up with your own!
Where can you go apple picking?
Below you’ll find a list of places to go apple picking in the Netherlands. Are none of these places near you? Try searching on Google for “appels zelf-plukken”, which means “pick apples yourself” in Dutch.
🍏 Landgoed de Olmenhorst (between Amsterdam & The Hague)
You can pick apples at Landgoed de Olmenhorst from September 5 to October 25. It’s open for picking on Wednesdays from 1 PM to 5 PM, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 5 PM. During the autumn break from October 10 to 25, you can pick apples any day.
The cost per kilogram for apples and pears here is €3.50. Kiosks with food and drinks are available as well.
If you’ve planned your apple picking as a fun weekend activity, remember that you’ll need to make an online reservation and the parking costs €6. If you’re picking on weekdays, you don’t need a reservation.
Live in Zwolle? Fruittuin Verbeek is open from Wednesday to Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM — with apples, plums, and flowers available for you to pick. Bring your own bag, or buy their linen bags (cost just €1.50) and pick apples for €1 per kilo.
There’s no need to make a reservation, and you can check what apples they have each week, as they have an ever-changing variety.
Live in the north? Geen problem (no problem). You can pick apples at Landwinkel Oldiek on September 12 and 19, from 9:30 AM to 5 PM.
But here’s the kicker: They’re open year-round! So if you want to pick something that’s not apples, check what they have on their website and take your pick (no pun intended).
There’s also a terrace and country shop on-site, in case you don’t feel like going through the effort of making your own apple pie. 😉
Fruitwekerij ‘T Keetje is open Monday to Friday 9 AM to 5:30 PM (and Saturdays 9 AM to 5 PM). Fancy some farm-fresh produce? The farm shop on site is also worth a visit.
This cutesy orchard and shop really prioritises sustainability and small buyers over massive growth. And the best part is that they don’t throw away any fruits that don’t get picked: they make jams, cakes and juices out of them – and feed the fruit skins to their local pigs!
Moving to the Netherlands means getting a BSN. It’s your golden ticket to Dutch life — from opening a bank account to signing a lease.
Sounds bureaucratic? It is. But it’s also simpler than you think.
When I moved to the Netherlands four years ago, I didn’t know that “registering in the Netherlands” meant getting your BSN (burgerservicenummer).
But after a long lecture from the municipality’s clerk and a rocky start to life in the Netherlands, here’s what I have learned.
What is a BSN and what does it mean?
BSN stands for burgerservicenummer, which translates to citizen service number. Think of it as the Dutch version of a Social Security Number in the US or a National Insurance Number in the UK.
It’s a nine-digit number that stays with you for life.
Move to Rotterdam, then Amsterdam, and then return home to your home country for a few years before relocating again to the Netherlands? Same BSN. It never changes.
This is what my BSN letter looked like. With the details blocked out, of course! Image: DutchReview
Before 2007, this number was referred to as a “Sofi” or Sofi-Fiscal number. The name changed, but the concept didn’t. It’s still the first bureaucratic hurdle every expat faces.
And yes, it’s non-negotiable.
Why you need a BSN in the Netherlands
Without a BSN, life in the Netherlands is virtually impossible.
Real talk: I once tried opening a bank account before getting my BSN. The bank politely laughed me out the door. Without this number, you’re invisible to the Dutch system.
One important note: having a BSN doesn’t automatically mean you can work here. Non-EU citizens still need a work permit. The BSN just lets you exist legally.
Who needs a BSN in the Netherlands?
Pretty much everyone who is staying in the Netherlands for more than four months needs a BSN.
EU citizens planning to settle here need one, and so do non-EU folks with residence permits.
There are more than 1.5 million foreign nationals residing in the Netherlands! Image: DepositPhotos.com
Whether you are an international student, a highly skilled migrant, or a remote worker living here, the rule of thumb is clear: Stay more than four months? The BSN is a non-negotiable.
Even if you’re only staying for a few months but planning to work or study, you’ll need a BSN. More on that later.
How to get your BSN in the Netherlands: Step by step
Step 1: Secure your address
You can’t register in the Netherlands without proof of where you’re living. A rental contract works just fine, as does a purchase deed if you’ve bought property.
If you’re still searching for a place, no need to fret! In the meantime, you can register at a briefadres (a correspondence address), which is essentially someone else’s address where you can legally receive mail. It’s a temporary solution, but it definitely works to get your BSN sorted.
One thing to watch out for: some landlords refuse to let tenants register at their property to dodge taxes.
This might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it creates a serious problem for you. Without a valid address, you can’t get a BSN. So if a landlord won’t let you register, walk away.
Step 2: Gather your required documents
Here’s what you’ll need:
A valid passport.
Proof of address (your rental contract or deed).
Your original birth certificate. If it’s not in Dutch, English, French, or German, you’ll need it translated. Some documents also need to be apostilled. See the requirements for your country.
Your residence permit or MVV visa (for non-EU citizens)
You might also need to bring:
An employment contract if you’re a non-EU citizen whose right to stay is tied to your job. EU citizens generally don’t need this, but it’s worth checking with your specific gemeente (municipality) beforehand.
Proof of university enrollment if you’re in the Netherlands to study.
Marriage, registered partnership, or divorce certificates, if you have them. These help the municipality record your civil status accurately in the BRP database — it’s less about legal recognition and more about making sure your personal records are correct from day one.
TIP: When I was trying to get my BSN, I didn’t have my residence permit yet — and this happens more often than you think. Luckily, I could use the Immigration and Naturalisation Service’s (IND) Letter of Approval instead.
Step 3: Book an appointment at your municipality
Find your local municipality (gemeente) online. If you’re in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, or Utrecht, book well ahead. These can often have waiting times between two and six weeks.
The Amsterdam gemeente recommends booking an appointment well before you arrive in the Netherlands, as slots fill up fast.
You need to ensure that you are registered within five days of your arrival in the Netherlands. If you fail to do so, you might face a penalty of €325 or more.
Tip: If your appointment is scheduled more than five days after your arrival, don’t panic. Ask your municipality if they can backdate your registration to the day you booked the appointment.
Step 4: Attend your BSN registration appointment
The appointment itself lasts about 10 minutes.
A clerk checks your documents and asks you to verify certain details. If you have all your documents in order, it’s a breeze!
You’ll get your BSN either on the spot or by post within a week. It can take up to four weeks if there are delays.
If your registration gets rejected, it’s probably because you’re missing some documents. Go back with what’s needed and reschedule.
As easy as 1, 2, 3! Image: DutchReview
How to get a BSN if you’re staying less than four months
Short-term workers and students staying under four months don’t register in the BRP (Basisregistratie Personen, or Personal Records Database). Instead, they register in the RNI (Non-residents Records Database).
An Italian friend of mine thought she could move to Amsterdam for a couple of months to live with her boyfriend and pick up some work.
She learned the hard way that even as an EU citizen, you’re absolutely not allowed to work in the Netherlands (even short-term) without registering and getting an RNI first.
How long does it take to get your BSN?
How long it takes to get your BSN depends entirely on your municipality.
Some will hand you your inschrijvingsbewijs (registration confirmation letter containing your BSN) on the spot. Others will post it to you, which can take anywhere from a few days to two weeks.
If you’re registering in Amsterdam or Amstelveen, hoera! They are known to hand out BSNs right after your appointment. Anywhere else, check with your local gemeente beforehand.
A gemeente is the local government, and a stadsloket is the physical office where you actually go to access their services. The more you know! Image: Dreamstime
The bigger issue is getting an appointment at all. In Amsterdam, waiting times can stretch to six to eight weeks. Book your appointment the second you have a confirmed address. Don’t wait too long!
Fast-track options for getting your BSN quickly
Needed your BSN yesterday? If you’re a highly skilled migrant, researcher, or Blue Card holder, your employer can request registration through IN Amsterdam when submitting your visa application.
Around four weeks later, you’ll attend a single appointment where your residence permit and BSN are sorted in one go. Easy peasy — but only if your employer wills it.
Roughly 40% of this semiconductor giant’s employees are non-Dutch! Image: DepositPhotos.com
Depending on your situation, their services can cost your employer anywhere between €25 and €400.
Some municipalities also offer same-day services for students during peak registration periods.
When I moved to the Netherlands to study at the University of Amsterdam, the municipality near the student flats in Diemen was registering students and handing out their BSN numbers on the spot.
Special cases and exceptions when getting a BSN
Not everyone goes through the standard route.
Applying for a Dutch state pension from abroad? The SVB (Social Insurance Bank) handles your RNI registration and BSN remotely. No need to fly to the Netherlands.
Need a BSN for inheritance tax? The Tax Administration can issue one.
Benefit partners living abroad can also get BSNs through a tax administration form. The same goes for children.
Caribbean residents (Bonaire, Saba, Sint Eustatius) studying in the Netherlands? You can get a BSN through DUO when applying for student finance.
Already in the Netherlands but unregistered? Head to your local gemeente ASAP.
Where to find your BSN once you have it
Your BSN appears on several documents:
Your registration confirmation letter from the gemeente
Tax letters from the Belastingdienst
Payslips
Your DigiD account under MijnOverheid
Lost the letter? Log in to DigiD and check there.
TIP: From employers to banks, you’ll need your BSN constantly. To avoid the scramble, I saved mine as a contact in my phone, and it’s saved me so much time.
If you don’t have DigiD yet, dig through old documents. Payslips, tax correspondence, residence permits — your BSN is probably hiding somewhere.
Still nothing? Contact your gemeente with your ID and proof of address. They’ll reissue your confirmation letter.
You can’t get a new BSN, though. The number stays the same forever.
The difference between a BSN and a DigiD in the Netherlands
Your BSN is a number. DigiD is a login.
Think of DigiD as your digital key to Dutch government services. You use it to file taxes, check your health insurance, and access official portals.
But you need a BSN before you can apply for DigiD. One unlocks the other.
Having a working DigiD will make your life in the Netherlands so much easier. Image: DutchReview
Tips for a smooth BSN registration in the Netherlands
Book your appointment as soon as you have an address. Waiting lists fill fast.
Bring originals and copies of all documents. Some municipalities keep copies; others just check and hand them back.
Double-check apostille requirements for your country. The Netherlands is strict about document legalisation.
Keep your BSN somewhere accessible but safe. You’ll use it constantly.
Never share your BSN except with official institutions like banks, employers, or the tax office.
Getting a BSN might feel like jumping through hoops, but it’s a one-time hassle that opens every door in the Netherlands. Once you’ve got it, you’re golden.
Got questions about getting your BSN number or registering in the Netherlands? Drop them in the comments, and we’ll help you out.
Frequently asked questions about BSNs in the Netherlands
Do I need a BSN to open a Dutch bank account?
Yes — every Dutch bank requires a BSN number before they’ll open an account for you. Without it, you simply can’t access banking services in the Netherlands, which makes getting your BSN one of the very first things you should do after registering.
Can I legally work in the Netherlands without a BSN?
No, you cannot legally work in the Netherlands without a BSN number. Your employer needs your BSN for tax and payroll purposes, so you’ll need to get your burgerservicenummer sorted before your first day on the job.
Does a BSN expire?
No, a BSN number does not expire. It’s valid for life, and it stays the same even if you leave the Netherlands and return years later. Once assigned, your burgerservicenummer is yours permanently.
Is my BSN the same as my Dutch residence permit number?
No, these are two separate numbers. Your BSN number (burgerservicenummer) is your citizen service number used across all government and administrative services, while your residence permit number is specific to your immigration status.
Can I use a BSN from a previous stay in the Netherlands?
Yes, you can — and you must. Because your BSN number never changes, you’ll use the same burgerservicenummer from any previous registration in the Netherlands. Make sure to look it up before starting a new registration process.
Do I need a BSN if I’m just visiting the Netherlands?
No. The citizen service number is only required if you’re registering as a resident, starting work, studying, or accessing public services in the Netherlands. As long as you are a tourist, you’re off the hook!
Do children need their own BSN in the Netherlands?
Yes, every child living in the Netherlands needs their own individual BSN number. Children are registered alongside their parents at the gemeente, and each receives their own unique burgerservicenummer.
Is there a fee for getting a BSN in the Netherlands?
No, there is no fee for getting a BSN number. Registering at your local gemeente and receiving your burgerservicenummer is completely free of charge.
Can I apply for a BSN before arriving in the Netherlands?
Generally, no. You need to be physically present in the Netherlands to register for a BSN number, as the gemeente will need to verify your documents in person. The only exception is through specific remote routes, such as via the SVB for pension applicants.
What if my partner and I live at different addresses in the Netherlands?
No problem — you each register at your respective municipalities and receive your BSN numbers independently. Living at different addresses is perfectly normal in the Dutch registration system.
Bad news if you rely on public transport to get anywhere: on Wednesday, September 9, trains, trams, buses, and metros across the Netherlands are set to stop running for a full day.
The nationwide OV (public transport) strike has been called by the FNV, the country’s largest trade union. It’s a 24-hour action affecting pretty much every way of getting around without a bike or a car.
So before you show up at the station on Wednesday morning wondering where your train went, here’s what’s actually happening during the strike in the Netherlands and how to plan around it.
What’s shutting down (and what isn’t)
Let’s start with the big one: trains. According to NS, no NS trains will run anywhere in the Netherlands all day.
For NS train staff, the walkout runs from 2 AM on Wednesday to 2 AM on Thursday. The railway operator actually asked the union to shift the timing so that Thursday’s service could get back to normal as quickly as possible.
There’s one exception to the shutdown. The Airport Sprinter between Amsterdam Centraal, Schiphol, and Hoofddorp will still run four times an hour, so at least a flight isn’t automatically a lost cause.
International trains are largely off, too. EuroCity, Eurocity Direct, Eurostar, ICE, and Nightjet services won’t run in the Netherlands, and neither will the regional Roosendaal to Antwerp line or the Drielandentrein (three-country train) between Liège and Aachen.
If you’ve booked an international ticket for that day, check the rebooking and cancellation terms directly with NS International before you travel.
It’s not just the trains
Here’s where it gets messy for daily commuters. This is a full public transport strike, so city and regional networks are hit as well.
In Amsterdam, GVB metros, trams, and buses stop from 4 AM on Wednesday, and the pont (ferry) services across the IJ and the North Sea Canal won’t sail either. Normal service returns from 4 AM on Thursday, September 10.
In The Hague, HTM trams and buses don’t run from 4 AM on Wednesday until 4 AM on Thursday. In Rotterdam, RET buses, trams, and metros are out all day, and every metro station will be closed.
Regional operators like Arriva, Qbuzz, Keolis, and U-OV are a patchier picture. Many of their trains won’t run at all, while some bus routes depend on whether drivers turn up, so nothing is guaranteed.
The safest move is to check your specific journey in the 9292 journey planner shortly before you leave, since operators are updating their info as the day approaches.
One bright spot near Rotterdam
If you’re in the Rotterdam or Drechtsteden region, the Waterbus is your friend. It’s due to sail on its normal timetable throughout the strike, making it one of the few reliable options that day.
Not much comfort if you’re in Groningen, admittedly. But it’s something.
Don’t count on the taxi refund
In the past, if a train strike forced you into an expensive alternative, you could claim up to €25 from NS towards the cost.
Not anymore. As RTL Nieuws reported, NS has scrapped that compensation scheme, calling it complicated, labour-intensive, and easy to abuse.
The numbers help explain why. After June 2025 strikes, NS received around 180,000 compensation claims worth roughly €4 million, of which it approved about €2.8 million.
So for the September 9 strike, there’s no €25 waiting for you. If you can dust off the bike instead, this is the day to do it.
Why is the public transport strike happening?
This isn’t really a dispute with NS or the transport companies at all. It’s aimed at the government.
FNV members are protesting against cabinet plans to cut back social security, including a higher pension age, lower severance pay, and changes to unemployment and disability benefits (the WW and WIA). The government argues the reforms are needed to keep benefits affordable, but unions say they gut the safety net that every worker relies on when illness or job loss strikes.
The government argues the reforms are needed to keep benefits affordable, but unions say they gut the safety net that every worker relies on when illness or job loss strikes.
Interestingly, the leaked government budget suggests the cuts will be smaller than first feared. The FNV is pressing ahead anyway, arguing that around 70% of the planned cuts are still on the table.
As FNV board member Henri Janssen put it when the strike was announced, the plans undermine the livelihoods of millions of workers and their families, which, the union stresses, includes passengers too.
And this may not be the last of it. The FNV has warned that if the government doesn’t back down, more strikes could follow across sectors like waste processing, the ports, and cleaning.
How to get around during the September 9 strike
The short version: assume public transport isn’t an option and plan accordingly.
Work from home if you can, cycle if it’s realistic, or arrange a lift. If you absolutely must travel, check 9292 or the NS app right before you set off, because the situation with regional buses in particular could shift.
NS expects normal service to resume on Thursday, September 10, but it’s worth checking the journey planner before you head out that morning, just to be safe.
Will you be swapping the train for two wheels on Wednesday, or have you managed to dodge the chaos entirely? Let us know in the comments how you’re getting around.
The Netherlands Philharmonic is kicking off its new season with a bang, featuring an orchestral extravaganza, a red-carpet-style welcome, and even a chance to win an “adventure seat” right in the middle of the orchestra.
Classical concerts often have a reputation; they tend to be refined, formal affairs, and can be a tad intimidating if you don’t know your Bach from your Beethoven.
This concert, however, promises to blow all that stuffiness out the window.
Trading the red carpet for a purple one, you can strut your way in and enjoy a delicious cocktail before settling in for the Netherlands Philharmonic’s opening show. Need a shot of yourself for the ‘gram? That’s all part of the package, friends.
And, best of all: you could even win a seat onstage, right in the middle of the orchestra.
Curious what the Netherlands Philharmonic is all about? Here’s a quick recap of their previous season 👇🏼
So, what’s on the programme?
Once you’ve found your seat and taken a sip of your welcome cocktail, you’re in for the real treat: the Netherlands Philharmonic’s sweeping programme.
The whole evening kicks off with the gentle tunes of Wagner’s Vorspiel, the prelude to his opera Parsifal.
Next up is Sibelius’ Violin Concerto, masterfully brought to life by talented soloist Clara-Jumi Kang.
Originally composed in 1904 and revised following an unsuccessful premiere, the piece begins with a hushed melody, evoking images of Finland’s vast, wintry landscapes. Across its three movements, moments of stillness and tension ebb and flow into each other, creating an experience that’s at times intimate, at others intensely dramatic.
After the interval, the mood shifts entirely with Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, under the skilful baton of the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra’s chief conductor, Adam Hickox.
Inspired by drawings and watercolours by artist Viktor Hartmann, each of Mussorgsky’s movements paints a different scene, taking you from a mediaeval castle to the Paris catacombs, and more.
Of course, words can only paint half the picture. If you’re trying to decide whether the programme’s up your alley, have a listen to the Netherlands Philharmonic’s playlist in advance:
When and where?
Opening night is a little under a month away, on Saturday, September 19, at 8:15 PM in the Concertgebouw’s Grote Zaal.
Tickets run from €29 to €78, depending on your seat of choice, and can be booked via the Netherlands Philharmonic’s website. Apply the code WELCOMEXNEDPHIL to get a discount! (Let op: they’re selling out fast, so run — don’t walk! — if you want to make opening night.)
Do you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of opening night (or did you miss out on getting tickets)? The same programme returns on Monday, September 21, at 8:15 PM.
Tickets are a little cheaper for this show, running from €21 to €65, depending on your seat of choice. As with opening night, you can book your tickets on the Netherlands Philharmonic’s official website.
Are you dressing up for opening night, or would you rather hit Monday’s show? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Choosing the right bank as an expat in the Netherlands isn’t just about having a place to put your money; it can shape your finances and even your day-to-day life.
A good bank can make money management faster and more reliable, keep your hard-earned cash safe, and, in the meantime, make your life easier.
With a reputation for being one of the most expat-friendly Dutch banks in the Netherlands, ING is an excellent choice for anyone looking to make their financial life easier. Here’s why.
1. All your financial products in one place
Let’s start with the basics: ING makes managing your finances easy by being your one-stop shop for all things finance.
From your daily spending and saving to long-term goals like investing, getting a mortgage, or protecting what matters with insurance, ING has it all under one roof.
From paying for brunch with your friends to updating your investment portfolio, ING’s banking app is an excellent asset. Image: Magnific
Even better, you can manage your money and policies easily through ING’s highly-rated banking app, meaning you no longer have to juggle apps, logins, or confusing paperwork across providers. Win-win-win!
2. Flexible payment solutions for everyday spending
If you’ve spent any time in the Netherlands, you have probably already discovered that using your foreign bank card isn’t quite as easy as you had imagined. The simplest option? Getting a Dutch bank account.
Named the best Dutch private bank of 2025 at the Global Private Banking Awards, ING has you covered with a variety of credit and debit card options, all of which work seamlessly across the Netherlands.
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee or booking a flight home, ING makes it easy for you with solutions like contactless payments, easy cash withdrawals, and a points system that rewards you as you spend.
3. High-tech tools to take your savings to the next level
No matter where you are in life, you’re always saving up for something — whether that’s a car, a home, or your retirement.
But saving isn’t always the easiest thing in the world, especially with the high cost of living and temptation everywhere we look.
Saving up for a mortgage on a house? ING’s savings tools simplify the process. Image: Dreamstime
That’s why ING helps customers make saving effortless, with heaps of features to help you reach your goals faster, for example:
Round up and save: Rounds up every purchase you make to the nearest euro and transfers the difference into your savings account.
Savings goals: Allows you to create individual savings accounts for each of your financial targets, and helps keep track of your progress.
Look ahead: Helps you be prepared for the month ahead and avoid unexpected expensesby analysing past transactions and forecasting your future expenses.
Financial insights: Analyses your transactions and gives you a detailed breakdown of your spending habits.
Fancy an extra €100 in your savings? With ING’s latest welcome bonus, new customers are rewarded for saving at least €250 and making 5 payments within 8 weeks.
4. A bank that meets you where you’re at
Life is a wild ride, and one of the last things you want to worry about is switching banks once your old one no longer fits your life. Well, no matter where your life takes you, ING’s offer is designed to grow with you.
From your child’s first savings account to managing a business, ING offers tailored solutions for every stage.
Students can enjoy free accounts and low-fee insurance, expats get English-language support and international-friendly banking, and couples can open joint accounts to manage shared finances.
Business owner? Or thinking of becoming one? Or looking to buy a home? ING offers expert advice on mortgages, business banking, and much more, along with all the best tools to help you manage them.
5. High-level security you can trust
Your hard-earned euros deserve top-notch protection, so how does ING deliver?
Easy: With advanced security features like two-factor authentication (2FA), secure PIN codes, and in-app confirmation for sensitive transactions, your account (and money) stays safe.
Security is the name of the game, with ING offering a range of safety features. Image: Magnific
Plus, ING encourages smart banking habits with tools like Check het gesprek. This feature lets you double-check if you’re really talking to an ING representative before sharing any personal details.
If something looks fishy, ING is also always available to help you, with dedicated support and fraud reporting options ready to help.
6. Easy-to-use digital banking
Natuurlijk, ING is up-to-date with the latest developments in our digital world, so their mobile app is highly intuitive and easy to use.
The result? Managing your finances is as easy as checking your phone with ING.
Whether you’re opening an account, moving money between accounts, tracking your spending, managing savings, applying for a personal loan, or exploring investment options, it’s all just a few taps away.
7. Top-notch customer service (in English!)
What’s one thing a non-Dutch-speaking expat needs? To have control over your finances in a language you actually understand. After all, finances alone can be pretty tricky.
Forget wrangling the intricacies of banking jargon in Dutch, because ING’s top-notch customer service speaks English. Image: Magnific
Luckily, ING offers fantastic support that’s not just responsive, but also available in English.
If you need to speak with someone, whether to open an account, report an issue, or ask a quick question, help is just a message or call away.
After years of struggling with Dutch bureaucracy (we can all relate), the European Aviation Authority (EASA) has finally given Dutch company Pal-Vthe green light to produce flying cars.
And believe it or not, the first round of flying cars may take to the skies as early as 2028.
Sounds like the future all those sci-fi movies promised us (instead of the reality we currently face), so let’s embrace it a bit and explore how exactly these flying cars will work.
People are already ordering them
The cars not only sound like something out of the future, but they look like it too.
Speaking with NOS, Robert Dingemanse, General Director of Pal-V, explains that the cars are intended to transport people, “for example, emergency services that need to get quickly to a hard-to-reach area.”
The cars are expected to help emergency services. Image: Pal-V/Press Release
Indeed, Dingemanse says that emergency services make up half of the first 250 orders. Among those emergency services is the Dutch fire brigade; however, many orders also come from abroad.
Aviation expert Joris Melkert also spoke with the NOS, explaining that “in the Netherlands, we have a good road network, but that is not the case everywhere. In Norway, for example, it is sometimes impossible to get to the other side of a fjord quickly.”
And what about the rest of the orders? According to Dingemanse, “the rest are from specialists who need to be on site quickly for their work, such as maintenance personnel. And there are a few orders for private use.”
The cars will cost between €299,000 and €499,000.
Will they really be ready in 1.5 years?
Pal-V has been seeking approval for its flying cars since 2020. Since then, the Netherlands Vehicle Registration Authority (RDW) has given permission for the cars to be on the road.
The company hoped to launch its first vehicle in 2021, but this was then postponed to 2025, then 2026. However, Pal-V now has the approval of the EASA.
According to Dingemanse, this means they just have to complete one more test to demonstrate again that they comply with guidelines — which will take 1.5 years.
So flying cars are just going to be… on the road?
If you’re struggling to picture it, you’re not alone.
The flying cars have three wheels and two rotors, which fold in while driving. And yes, they can fit on a road alongside your car.
Aviation professor Jacco Hoekstra tells NOS that “the major advantage is that they are also allowed on the road. Due to the design, little space is needed for take-off and landing.”
However, as you can imagine, flying car owners won’t be able to just shoot off into the air when the traffic gets bad.
“You can’t just fly anywhere,” Hoekstra says, “and Dutch airspace is quite crowded. Other companies are running into this as well, for example, those that want to have packages delivered by drones.”
For example, take-offs and landings can only occur on dedicated airstrips in the Netherlands — and there are only about 20 of such strips across the country. So, what would this mean for flying cars?
According to NOS, Pal-V is already considering installing airstrips next to gas stations.
