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A new euro cryptocurrency is launching in 2026 β€” and these Dutch banks are helping build it

Liana Risseeuw πŸ‡±πŸ‡°
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A new euro cryptocurrency is launching in 2026 β€” and these Dutch banks are helping build it

Three of the Netherlands’ biggest banks, including ING, ABN Amro, and Rabobank, are backing a new European cryptocurrency, set to launch later this year.

The project is called Qivalis, and it’s built around a stablecoin, which is a type of digital currency designed to hold a steady value by being pegged to a real one (in this case, the euro).

ABN AMRO and Rabobank joined the consortium earlier this week as part of a wave of 25 new banks announced, while ING was one of the founding members.

What exactly are stablecoins (and Qivalis)?

Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, whose values can vary wildly from one day to the next, a stablecoin is a form of cryptocurrency backed by collateral β€” like euros, dollars, gold, or copper.

According to De Nederlandsche Bank, this collateral makes the value of stablecoins far more reliable than regular cryptocurrency.

READ MORE | Banking in the Netherlands: the complete guide

In practice, they’re increasingly used by businesses to move money across borders quickly and settle financial transactions, without the time and cost factors of traditional banking.

However, the downside is that almost all stablecoins run on US dollars, which creates friction for European companies that want to transact in euros.

This is exactly the niche that Amsterdam-based Qivalis is trying to fill. Currently backed by 37 banks across 15 countries, the Dutch company wants to issue a euro-pegged alternative to the current stablecoins on the market.

“With over 25 additional banks joining, Qivalis is evolving into a genuinely shared European effort,” says Geert Wijnhoven, CTO of ING Wholesale Banking.

In his words, the project’s goal is to create a “common infrastructure that empowers clients to move value instantly, automate processes and operate seamlessly across borders in a more efficient way.”

Why are Dutch banks suddenly into crypto?

It’s a valid concern as, not too long ago, the Netherlands’ biggest banks wanted nothing to do with digital currencies.

ABN AMRO shelved a crypto wallet pilot “Wallie” in 2018, and Rabobank dropped a similar project (“Rabobit”) the year after. Now, they’re joining forces to help build a shared digital coin.

As reported by the FD, the sudden shift has a great deal to do with the situation in the US, where “dominant digital dollars” are being used to strengthen the “hegemony of American currency.”

READ MORE | Dutch savings accounts: Best interest rates in the Netherlands in August 2026

Currently, almost 98% of the global stablecoin market runs on US dollars, controlled by American companies. And, as more assets (such as bonds and property) start being traded digitally, Dutch banks want to be the ones building these projects, not watching the US do it.

According to Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, “Europe must respond by promoting euro-denominated stablecoins of its own”, or else it’ll face “a future of digital dollarisation and a loss of monetary sovereignty.”

Needless to say, the more banks that participate, the more useful a euro coin becomes, with more liquidity, broader reach, and a greater chance it actually gets used beyond a European experiment.

The good news is that Qivalis is gaining real momentum within the EU, with the project going from 12 founding members to 37 in under eight months.

So, when can you actually use this euro stablecoin?

Qivalis is targeting a launch in the second half of 2026, but first needs approval from De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) to operate as a licensed electronic money provider.

So, if you’ve got an account at ING, ABN AMRO, or Rabobank, you aren’t likely to see any updates yet.

Should the project launch this year, it could eventually mean faster, cheaper cross-border payments and a more reliable way to hold digital euros.

However, not everyone’s convinced of the need for an EU-regulated cryptocurrency. ECB president Christine Lagarde recently argued that “the case for promoting euro-denominated stablecoins is far weaker than it appears.”

But with 37 banks now committed and a DNB licence application in progress, Qivalis is pushing ahead regardless.

Would you use a euro stablecoin from your Dutch bank, or does crypto still feel too uncertain for you? Let us know in the comments!

What documents do you need to open a Dutch bank account?

Liana Risseeuw πŸ‡±πŸ‡°
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What documents do you need to open a Dutch bank account?

Opening a Dutch bank account requires a handful of key documents, and knowing exactly which ones before booking an appointment or opening your new banking app will save you a lot of hassle.

Getting a Dutch bank account is one of the first things you’ll want to tick off when settling in the Netherlands. 

The process is quite straightforward once you’ve got your paperwork sorted, but showing up without the right documents would be a waste of time.

Who can open a Dutch bank account?

Most people legally residing in the Netherlands can open a Dutch bank account.

However, before you walk away with a shiny new Dutch IBAN (bank account number), you’ll need to prove a couple of things: who you are, where you live, and proof of your legal status.

group-of-internationals-in-the-netherlands-using-foreign-bank-cards-to-pay-for-coffee
While all legal residents of the Netherlands can open a bank account, the exact list of requirements will depend on whether you’re from the EU/EEA or not. Image: Freepik

While the exact documents will depend on where you’re from, the basics are fairly universal.

Beyond that, eligibility largely comes down to which bank you choose and where you’re from. EU/EEA nationals generally have the smoothest ride, while Non-EU/EEA residents may need to bring a bit more paperwork to the table.

As an international-friendly bank, ING’s sign-up process is refreshingly straightforward. You can apply online or via their mobile app, upload your documents digitally, and get set up without even setting foot in a bank office.

Learn more

Essential documents you’ll need to open a Dutch bank account

Regardless of your nationality, Dutch banks will require the following before you can open an account:

  • A valid passport or ID card to verify your identity.
  • Valid proof of address, such as utility bills, a rental agreement, or an extract from your municipality’s BRP (Personal Records Database).
  • Your BSN (Burger Service Nummer), also known as your citizen service number. Every legal resident of the Netherlands receives a BSN after registering at their municipality (gemeente).

TIP: If you’ve just landed in the Netherlands, it may take days or weeks to receive your BSN. Due to this, many expat-friendly banks may offer you a grace period to submit your BSN β€” typically around 90 days.

international-student-in-the-netherlands-using-debit-card-and-free-student-ban-account-to-pay-at-cafe
With a grace period to submit your BSN, you can access Dutch bank services β€” even if you haven’t received your BSN yet. Image: Magnific

Additional requirements for non-EU/EEA residents

If you’re not an EU or EEA resident, you can expect a few extra steps.

Most Dutch banks will require a valid Dutch residence permit (verblijfsvergunning), as this will indicate that you have the legal right to live in the Netherlands.

Are you opening a business bank account? You may be asked to provide financial ties to the Netherlands, usually via an employment contract, employer letter, or recent payslips.

READ MORE | Do I need a Dutch IBAN to get paid in the Netherlands?

If you’re self-employed, you should expect to be asked for your registration number at the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK).

international-in-the-netherlands-looking-through-tax-requirements-for-opening-bank-account-in-the-netherlands-on-his-laptop
Let op: there are often stricter requirements for non-EU-EEA citizens. Image: Magnific

Americans may face additional complications due to FATCA (the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act), which requires Dutch banks to report the accounts of US citizens to the IRS. If you’re American, you may have to complete a W-9 form confirming your US tax status.

International students, meanwhile, will need to confirm their student status. This can be done by selecting that you are a student during the application process or by uploading proof of enrolment from your university or school.

Opening a Dutch bank account for the first time? We’d love to hear how it went, so drop your experience in the comments.

Disclaimer: Document requirements and eligibility criteria may change and can differ per bank, product, and individual situation. Banks are required by law to perform customer due diligence and may request additional information.

This article was sponsored by ING and written by DutchReview.

Your Dutch mortgage is about to get more expensive, and rates are still rising

DutchReview Crew
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Your Dutch mortgage is about to get more expensive, and rates are still rising

Dutch mortgage rates are rising sharply, with around 15 increases already scheduled by major lenders. Experts say there’s no sign it will stop soon.

The jump is driven by turbulence in capital markets stemming from the ongoing crisis in Iran, reports De Telegraaf. 

Mortgage applications actually jumped 50% in a single day as people rushed to lock in existing rates before they climbed even further.

Why are rates going up now?

According to De Telegraaf, turmoil in the Strait of Hormuz has rattled markets, sparking fears of high prices and renewed inflation.

READ MORE | Dutch gas prices surge amid Iran conflict: What does it mean for your energy bill? 

And that fear is now affecting the capital markets, with yields on 10-year Dutch government bonds hitting 3.316% on Tuesday β€” the highest level since 2011.Β 

Lenders use these yields as their pricing reference for mortgage rates. So, when bond yields rise, your home loan gets more expensive.

Which lenders are raising rates?

De Hypotheekshop, a Dutch mortgage advisory firm, confirmed to De Telegraaf that the big three (ING, ABN AMRO, and Rabobank) are among those raising rates. 

Martin Hagedoorn, a manager at the firm, told De Telegraaf the pace of change is striking. Rabobank, for example, typically adjusts its rates on Mondays, but updated them this Wednesday due to the extreme volatility in the market.

READ MORE | How much deposit do I need for a house in the Netherlands?

With around 15 increases from various lenders lined up in the coming days, the message is clear: this is a broad market shift, not a one-off.

@dutchreview

This one’s for those trying to buy their first Dutch house. Word to the wise: get a mortgage advisor!! 😘

♬ original sound – DutchReview

By how much have rates actually risen?

As reported by De Telegraaf, the average rate for a ten-year home loan with the NHG (Nationale Hypotheek Garantie, the Dutch national mortgage guarantee scheme) hit 4% β€” up from 3.7% before the latest escalation in West Asia.

Experts like ING economist Sander Burgers point out that increases are likely to continue for another week or two, as lenders haven’t yet fully absorbed the rise in capital markets, making further hikes likely.

However, there’s some optimism in the mix: Burgers noted that the current move is modest compared to the 2022 surge, when rates climbed from around 1.5% to over 4% following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

What does this mean for house prices?

Dutch house prices were already cooling in the first quarter of 2026, with demand softening amid global economic uncertainty. The current rate spike is unlikely to help.

Higher borrowing costs eat into what buyers can actually pay, which typically puts downward pressure on property values. 

However, Burgers says the bank expects house prices to remain broadly stable by year-end, with affordability constraints among the reasons.Β 

Burgers said in his research that experts foresee β€œslightly fewer sales and downward pressure on prices this year, but that this dampening effect will fade over time.”

Clearly, the dust hasn’t settled, but thankfully, experts aren’t predicting a repeat of 2022.

How is this week’s rate spike affecting you? Let us know in the comments.

Netherlands summons Israeli ambassador over degrading treatment of Gaza flotilla activists

Abuzer van Leeuwen πŸ‡³πŸ‡±
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Netherlands summons Israeli ambassador over degrading treatment of Gaza flotilla activists

The Netherlands and several other countries have rounded on Israel over footage showing detained Gaza flotilla activists being forced to the ground, hands bound, while a senior Israeli minister laughed and waved a flag.

The scenes emerged after Israel illegally intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla in international waters near Cyprus on Monday.

The convoy of vessels, carrying aid to relieve Gaza and around 428 activists, was boarded by Israeli forces and escorted to the Israeli port of Ashdod. Among those detained are six Dutch nationals, NOS reports.

The video that sparked fury

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir shared footage on X of his visit to the detained activists, and the backlash was swift.

In the video, a woman with her hands bound is roughly forced to the ground after shouting “Free, free Palestine.” Ben-Gvir is then seen grinning and waving an Israeli flag.

Elsewhere in the footage, dozens of activists are shown kneeling face-down, hands tied behind their backs, with the Israeli national anthem playing in the background.

Meanwhile, Israeli Transport Minister Miri Regev also posted a video of herself with the detainees, describing the scene as the consequence of “coming to break the blockade of Gaza.”

Dutch government summons Israeli ambassador

Dutch Prime Minister Jetten called the treatmentΒ mensonterendΒ (degrading) on social media, saying it “goes beyond all limits.”

As confirmed in a post on X, he raised the matter directly with Israeli President Herzog.

Foreign Minister Berendsen went further, describing both the treatment of the activists and Ben-Gvir’s behaviour as “completely unacceptable.”

He contacted his Israeli counterpart and summoned the Israeli ambassador to the Netherlands for an explanation. Both Berendsen and members of parliament are demanding an apology from Israel.

“They must be treated with dignity,” Berendsen said of the six Dutch detainees. “Based on these images, we have serious concerns about that.”

He also called on Israel to fully cooperate in ensuring their safe and prompt return to the Netherlands.

Netanyahu distances himself (but only so far)

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledged in a statement that Ben-Gvir’s conduct did not reflect “the norms and values of Israel.”

However, he stood behind the decision to intercept the flotilla and ordered the activists deported “as soon as possible,” referring to them as “provocateurs.”

The Netherlands wasn’t alone in its condemnation. Italy and France also summoned their Israeli ambassadors.

Italian Prime Minister Meloni, not the most liberal leader in Europe, shall we say, called the treatment of detainees, many of them Italian nationals, “unacceptable” and a violation of human dignity, demanding their immediate release.

Canada, Portugal, Spain, and Ireland also added their voices to the criticism, with Ireland’s foreign minister stating the activists had been detained illegally.

The Netherlands has been steadily hardening its position on Israel in recent months, fromΒ pushing for an EU investigationΒ to calling for a suspension of EU–Israel trade ties. This latest diplomatic confrontation is unlikely to ease that trajectory.

Do you think the Dutch government’s response goes far enough? Let us know in the comments.

Bought nuts at ALDI or Albert Heijn? Your snacks might contain metal particles, supermarkets warn

Liana Risseeuw πŸ‡±πŸ‡°
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Bought nuts at ALDI or Albert Heijn? Your snacks might contain metal particles, supermarkets warn

Two of the Netherlands’ most popular supermarkets are recalling certain nut products over fears they may contain metal particles.

Both Albert Heijn and ALDI have issued urgent safety warnings, pulling specific batches of their products from sale.

If you’ve bought nuts from either supermarket in the past week, it’s time to check your kitchen cupboard.

Which products are affected?

At ALDI, the product in question is Trader Joe’s Cashewnoten ongezouten (unsalted cashew nuts) in a 170g pack, with the EAN-code 2003020120930.

aldi-cashewnuts-recalled-due-to-possible-metal-fragments
The cashew nuts in question. Image: Aldi

Only the batch with the best-before date September 23, 2026, is affected; ALDI says all other batches are fine.

The recall is being carried out on behalf of supplier Snack Connection B.V., following a production error that may have introduced metal particles into the product.

Meanwhile, at Albert Heijn, it’s the AH Pinda’s extra groot gezouten (an extra large tub of salted peanuts), with the best-before date November 4, 2026. Again, all other batches are not affected.

albert-heijn-extra-large-peanuts-recalled-due-to-possible-metal-fragments
The peanuts in question. Image: Albert Heijn

Both supermarkets warn that consuming the recalled products could be dangerous to your health, with ALDI specifically flagging the risk of injury.

What should you do?

Needless to say, don’t eat the nuts.

Take them back to the store instead, opened or unopened. Both retailers will give you a full refund.

If you bought the Albert Heijn peanuts online, you can also request a refund by filling in this form or by contacting AH’s customer service page.

ALDI customers with questions can get in touch through the ALDI contact form.

Have you bought either of these products? Let us know in the comments, and please do pass this warning on to any snack-loving friends who might have stocked up.

Flying from the Netherlands is now €400 pricier than taking the train

Liana Risseeuw πŸ‡±πŸ‡°
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Flying from the Netherlands is now €400 pricier than taking the train

Flying from the Netherlands this summer just got pricier, with new research showing that the gap between plane and train tickets has never been wider for families.

A study by savings platform Raisin compared return journeys across ten popular European destinations for a family of four, and the results are… a tad horrifying for your wallet.

On average, flight prices soared 13.1% compared to last year, while train fares stayed almost flat.

Here’s what the price hike means for you

In practice, that 13.1% spike means that an average return flight for two adults and two children now costs around €914. That’s up from €808 in 2025, before you’ve even added baggage charges.

Now, let’s break down how much your luggage costs will add to the overall sum. KLM charges between €20 and €70 per bag per leg within Europe, so three checked bags for a family could tack on anywhere from €120 to over €400 per return flight.

READ MORE | Wait, what? HEMA is now selling train tickets to Berlin for just €48

Train tickets, meanwhile, crept up just 2.5%, from €500 to €513 on average β€” putting the price difference at €401 in favour of the train.

London was the only exception

However, if your family has its heart set on a trip to London, flying actually works in your favour.

british-airways-flight-arriving-at-schiphol-airport-netherlands
If you’re heading to London, flying is typically much cheaper than taking the train. Image: Depositphotos

The Eurostar route through the Channel Tunnel comes in at €652 return for a family of four, compared to €554 by plane, making it the only destination in the study where the train is the pricier option.

So, how can you keep travel costs down?

According to Raisin researcher Jasper Berkhout, when you’re “dependent on high-speed lines to France or the UK, costs rise sharply.”

His practical advice is to book trains early to catch Deutsche Bahn’s Sparpreis (discounted early-booking fares). Meanwhile, for flights, you’ll want to check nearby airports like Weeze, Frankfurt, and Brussels rather than defaulting to Schiphol.

The good news is that with more train routes running directly from the Netherlands (including new night train connections to Switzerland and Italy), rail is an increasingly attractive alternative to flying.

Are you flying or taking the train for your summer holiday this year? Let us know in the comments below!

7 things you didn’t know you should insure in your Dutch home

Lyna Meyrer πŸ‡±πŸ‡Ί
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7 things you didn’t know you should insure in your Dutch home

Moving into a new home in the Netherlands brings plenty of excitement, but tracking the actual value of your stuff often gets lost in the chaos of navigating contracts and utility bills.

Replacing your belongings after a fire, flood, or break-in can cost thousands of euros, even if you think you don’t own that much. 

That’s where inboedelverzekering (home contents insurance) comes in. It’s surprisingly affordable, but it can save you lots of tears (and, most importantly, cash) if disaster strikes.

Here are seven things you should think about insuring in your Dutch home.

This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement.

1. Your bike (yes, even when parked outside)

Living in the Netherlands means a big piece of metal is now one of your most prized possessions, a.k.a. your fiets (bike). But you’re not the only one who appreciates your bike; thieves do too. So, what can you do? Insure your bike. 

In the Netherlands, many inboedelverzekering policies cover your bike if it’s stolen from inside your home or shed (yes, it happens).

READ MORE | Everything you need to know about bike insurance in the Netherlands [2026 guide]

If, on top of that, you want to be protected against theft from the street, you should consider getting a policy that includes outdoor coverage or a separate bicycle insurance policy.

Good to know: The Netherlands has a number of providers that offer comprehensive coverage for your bicycle, including UnivΓ©, Allianz, and Laka.

2. Your expensive electronics

You don’t have to be a tech-junkie for your electronics to make up a pricey part of your belongings in the Netherlands.

Between your laptop, smartphone and flat screen TV, you’ve probably poured thousands of euros into your electronics β€” so let’s make sure they’re insured.

woman making a call and using a laptop
Trust me, you’ll want those electronics replaced ASAP. Image: Depositphotos

In the Netherlands, most home contents insurance policies cover electronics in the event of fire, water damage, or theft. 

Some even offer additional coverage for accidental damage, like if you drop your phone in the toilet or pour coffee over your laptop. 

3. Your furniture (it was more expensive than you remember)

That second-hand IKEA sofa? The designer dining chairs you bought during a moment of weakness? Your bed frame and mattress? The value of all the furniture in your home quickly adds up.

READ MORE | Is home contents insurance mandatory in the Netherlands?

And while this cost often seems very one-and-done, having to replace all your furniture at once is a very pricey affair. This could happen in case of a fire or flood, for example, so it’s a great idea to have your furniture insured under home contents insurance. 

Good to know: Dutch home contents insurance typically covers all your household items and personal belongings, protecting them from damage and theft.

You can either take out a policy from an insurer like UnivΓ© or through a bank like ABN Amro.

4. Your kitchen appliances

​​Whether you own your home or rent, chances are your kitchen is home to more than just a kettle and a crusty frying pan.

Your toaster, coffee machine, blender, and that high-tech rice cooker you have stored somewhere in the back of your cupboard? These small appliances easily fly under the radar until they have to be replaced. Luckily, home contents insurance covers these kinds of gadgets.

Of course, as a homeowner, you also have to think about the big appliances, like your fridge, oven, stovetop, and dishwasher. These usually fall under opstalverzekering (building insurance), which covers the permanent parts of your home.

5. Your jewellery and watches (even if it’s “just” sentimental value)

Even if the monetary value of your jewellery isn’t sky-high, the emotional toll of losing a cherished item can be brutal.

While home contents insurance won’t bring back the memories, it can at least help you replace or repair what’s lost.

photo-of-woman-putting-on-earrings-in-mirror
Protect what you love. Image: Depositphotos

Most standard insurance policies cover theft, fire, and water damage, from your grandma’s gold necklace to that sleek new smartwatch. However, it’s important to know that many policies will only cover the costs up to a certain amount (often around €2,500).

If you own anything pricier than that, you’ll need to declare it separately to make sure it’s fully covered. Just let your insurer know, and be ready to show a receipt or valuation. 

6. Your clothing and shoes (especially if you have expensive taste)

If you’ve ever splurged on a winter jacket or own more than one pair of leather shoes, it’s time to start thinking about getting insurance for your wardrobe. 

Fire, flood, or even mould (especially in those damp Dutch homes) can quickly ruin clothing. If this ever happens to you, a solid home contents policy ensures that you won’t be stuck rebuilding your closet from scratch. 

7. Your art, musical instruments, and sports equipment

Got a violin? A mountain bike? Or a nice painting you treated yourself to? These kinds of personal items don’t always get the attention they deserve… until something happens to them.

medium-shot-musician-practicing-drums-at-home
Instruments are expensive; protect them. Image: Freepik

Whether you just have lots of hobbies or you’re a semi-pro, these belongings can carry more value than you realise.

Most inboedelverzekeringen will cover them, but if you’ve got high-end equipment β€” like a professional racing bike, a grand piano, or rare artwork β€” you might need to take out extra coverage or declare them separately to make sure they’re fully insured.

Why home contents insurance matters

Now that you know what to insure, let’s talk about why it’s worth doing so.

Home contents insurance covers the things you’ve bought to live your daily life. If they’re damaged or lost due to fire, theft, water damage, or even storm damage, this insurance helps you replace or repair them.

READ MORE | What does home contents insurance cover in the Netherlands?

These risks are more common than many people think, especially in older buildings or apartments with shared infrastructure. Without coverage, replacing everything out of pocket can become very expensive, very quickly.

Luckily, inboedelverzekering is usually quite affordable, often costing just a few euros per month.

Many insurers also offer the option to bundle it with liability insurance (aansprakelijkheidsverzekering), which covers you if you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property.

Do you have home contents insurance in the Netherlands? Share your thoughts in the comments.

OPINION: Why the Dutch government (really) wants fewer internationals in the Netherlands

Ellen Ranebo
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OPINION: Why the Dutch government (really) wants fewer internationals in the Netherlands

Too much tourism, too much English on trams, and now too many students from abroad? As internationals, sometimes it’s hard not to adopt a growing sense that the Dutch government doesn’t like us very much. πŸ₯²

Since voting to cut down on international students in 2019, the House of Representatives has been continually striving to keep non-Dutch citizens out of the Netherlands.

So far, any efforts by the Dutch government to do so have gone in vain. Much to their dismay, the country is brimming with internationals.

In fact, there’s even more of us

In 2023 alone, there was a 1,200 increase in non-EU applicants compared to the previous year. (And remember, this is something EU internationals don’t have to submit. πŸ‘€)

The Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) β€” i.e. the people tasked with handling non-EU student applications β€” say that sifting through additional forms is β€œdaunting”. 

The latest development in this de-internationalisation saga is the University of Amsterdam (UvA) demanding a €100 down payment for applications, purely to frighten off international students. 😳

@uneflaneuse on a quest to befriend the dutchies ❀️ #netherlands #dutchtiktok #amsterdam #utrecht #fyp ♬ Funny Song – Mas Gombal

But why would the regering (government) want to exclude a group of people that enrich, diversify, and even fund their lives? (Think of those deliciously huge student fees for non-EU internationals.) πŸ’°

I’m not necessarily saying the thwarting of immigration is a case of β€œbiting the hand that feeds you”, but it’s also… not… not that? πŸ‘€

The β€œreasons” they’ve provided

So what does the House of Representatives have to say for itself?

Here are the reasons both the government and Dutch universities have given to justify their decision, and here’s my hot take on their responses.Β 

The Dutch accommodation shortage

One reason that gets cited over and over again is the ongoing and persistently unpleasant accommodation shortage. 

You know, the one that has students scraping together an average of €715 a month? (If they’re lucky enough to find a room in the first place, that is.) 

Supposedly, by saying, β€œDon’t come here”, the government is just looking out for internationals, wanting to save them from the clutches of homelessness. 

READ MORE | The student housing nightmare: a tale of discrimination, fraud, and protest

After all, it seems that for them, this is the only viable option: limit the universities’ international student intake, as opposed to, say, building more student accommodation or imposing a price ceiling for money-grabbing landlords that capitalise on students’ desperation. 

Pff, that would be insane! πŸ™ƒ

Too much work for university lecturers

Another complaint that can apparently be traced back to international students is the workload of university lecturers, who claim the excessive swarm of internationals with extra exams and papers to grade has them swamped.  

students-sitting-in-empty-university-amphitheatre-looking-bored-scaled
The turnout once you scrap internationals. Image: Freepik

And let’s not forget the sweaty, stuffy lecture halls crammed full of promising young internationals who are apparently overly eager to learn the ways of the world. 

As a professor, it must be hard to know such an unreasonable number of people are interested in hearing what you have to say. πŸ˜ͺ

Are internationals inherently less valuable? 

Do you believe these are the sole reasons why internationals are being encouraged to stay away? That’s up to you to decide. 

But riddle me this: If there were an overflow of Dutch students as opposed to internationals, would the government instruct them to take a hike as well? Would they put a halt to the education of their own citizens?Β 

Or maybe the House of Representatives would come to find that the room capacity and professorial workload suddenly weren’t such a big deal after all. πŸ€”

In fact, last year, the UvA attempted to set a quota ensuring that, while internationals were being excluded from their popular political science and psychology programmes, Dutchies wouldn’t be kicked out as well. 

@driplist I laugh now but i cried back thenπŸ˜…#livinginthenetherlands #lifeinamsterdam #housingproblems #bluemonday #learningdutch #facebookgroupsbelike ♬ Emotional Damage vs Pompeii – William Li

See, they didn’t want to lose their budding Dutch uni babies along with internationals. Are you thinking what I’m thinking? Yep, that’s a well-aimed slap in the face of foreigners. 

Now, I’m not saying every native of this country is on board with some kind of β€œMake the Netherlands Dutch again” scheme β€” after all, plenty of nationals are more than willing to help out internationals. 

READ MORE | Why are the Dutch so good at speaking English?

But after the recent campaigning to ban English announcements on public transportβ€” courtesy of the Language Defence Foundation β€”Β  and the outgoing minister for education threatening to do away with English-taught courses, an icky feeling has surfaced in the pit of my stomach.

It’s almost suggesting there’s a β€œthem” versus β€œus” β€” us being the competitors, space occupiers, accommodation snatchers, and alienated β€œothers”. 

How do the Dutch really feel about the influx of internationals? 

If I didn’t know any better, I would say it seems like a significant portion of government and university staff alike don’t find some people’s overseas origins favourable. 

And if I really didn’t know any better, I would say a good few don’t think internationals are welcome.  

Could the driving force be patriotic pride? Concerns about the Dutch language and culture being lost to the looming peril of anglicisation? 

READ MORE | β€˜No internationals’: A tale of exclusion in the Dutch housing market

Or are the reasons a bit like the ones behind the β€œno internationals” policy liberally applied all over accommodation listings by discriminating Dutch landlords β€” that is, they just don’t like us that much? 

We ain’t budgin’ 

You can run, but you can’t hide. The Netherlands has become a multicultural hub with internationals (like yours truly) lurking at every turn. πŸ™Š

And frankly, this didn’t happen by accident either; Amsterdam has welcomed tourists with outstretched, mercenary arms for literal centuries β€” up until the last few years, at least.  

READ MORE | 19 super annoying things internationals do in the Netherlands

Not only that, but according to the Universities of the Netherlands (UNL) spokesperson Gijs Kooistra, Dutch university attendees would also benefit from a diverse, multicultural student body. 

Kooistra also notes that the presence of English-taught courses in Dutch academia helps yield β€œthe best academic staff” from overseas *cough*…but you didn’t hear it from us. πŸ‘‰πŸ‘ˆ

While these opinions aren’t intended to stir the pot or create an even larger divide between pro and anti-internationals, maybe they will serve as food for thought. 🧐

How do you feel about the Dutch government and universities’ action to reduce the intake of students from abroad? Share your thoughts in the comments below! 

The Netherlands is ditching its famous monthly sirens (but not everyone’s happy)

Liana Risseeuw πŸ‡±πŸ‡°
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The Netherlands is ditching its famous monthly sirens (but not everyone’s happy)

The Netherlands is finally saying “doei” to its iconic monthly air raid sirens; the luchtalarm (air raid alarm) network will be switched off for good in 2028.

If you’ve lived in the Netherlands for longer than a few weeks, you’re likely no stranger to that ear-splitting wail on the first Monday of every month. However, as of May 20, 2026, the luchtalarm’s days are numbered.

Justice and Security Minister David van Weel (VVD) wrote in to parliament this week to confirm that the country’s network of roughly 4,200 siren poles will be phased out from January 1, 2028.

Why is the luchtalarm disappearing?

Sadly, age isn’t just a number β€” as NOS reports, the cabinet had long been weighing plans for a modern replacement siren network.

READ MORE | Monthly alarm sirens in the Netherlands: what you need to know

Rather than pour money into maintaining ageing infrastructure indefinitely, van Weel has decided the phase-out will go ahead as previously planned.

“Right now it’s quite a dumb device β€” you press a button and a siren goes off,” van Weel tells NOS. “What you want is to be able to give people much more targeted information.”

So, what will be replacing the air raid sirens?

Look no further than the humble NL Alert, which sends emergency alerts straight to your Dutch mobile device.

As of 2026, this emergency notification system reaches around 92% of the population (a figure that has been stable for several years) and can deliver targeted messages explaining exactly what is happening and what to do, rather than just sounding a generic alarm.

@santanamath

POV: it’s once again the first monday of the month and you are scared of the luchtalarm! #nederlandπŸ‡³πŸ‡± Β #luchtalarm #livinginthenetherlands

♬ oryginalny dΕΊwiΔ™k – lk777 – lk777

However, not everyone’s convinced

Several MPs pushed back after Van Weel’s letter, pointing out that mobile networks can fail, which is exactly the kind of scenario where a backup alarm matters most.

As Rijnmond reports, local politicians in the Rotterdam region have also raised concerns, warning that dropping the physical sirens makes crisis communication more vulnerable, not less.

Meanwhile, experts have previously flagged that people who are non-Dutch-speaking or have low literacy may be harder to reach through text-only alerts.

Van Weel acknowledges these concerns, confirming that the Justice Ministry and the Defence Ministry are already working on a “minimal civil-military warning chain” as a fallback. What that looks like in practice, unfortunately, is still unclear.

Will you miss the monthly sirens, or are you happy to see them go? Let us know in the comments.

Islands of the Netherlands: a guide to the Wadden Islands

Jesse Rintoul
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Islands of the Netherlands: a guide to the Wadden Islands

Before you think about sunbathing, scuba diving, and sipping cocktails on Dutch islands in the Caribbean, let us draw your attention to the Wadden Islands.

They make a belt off the bight of mainland Germany and the Netherlands, in an area known as the Wadden Sea, and you don’t want to miss them.

Never heard of the Wadden Islands before? Well, they’re actually old news. The first inhabitants were recorded as early as 800 AD!

So, what do these islands look like today, and what more can we learn about their history?

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πŸ–οΈ Texel: the largest Wadden Island

The beautiful island (the Frisian word is phonetically pronounced “Tessel”) has nearly 14,000 inhabitants.

A quarter of this large island is a protected nature reserve, attracting the hundreds of thousands of tourists who visit the island each year. Tessel is wonderful for long bike tours and its stunning beaches.

Red-lighthouse-with-village-in-the-dunes-from-Texel-islands-of-the-netherlands-dutch-islands-wadden-islands
Doesn’t this just look like a fairy tale? Image: Depositphotos

The island is known for the high number of birds that live there and the endless dunes in the area. Do you love forest trails, endless fields of sand, and 19th-century lighthouses? Well, this is the place to be.

READ MORE | 17 adventurous things to do in Texel in 2026

And the cherry on top: you can visit the lovely Ecomare nature museum, aquarium and wildlife sanctuary for seals and birds. But let op! Your heart may melt when you “sea” the seals poking their faces out of the water.

πŸͺ– Vlieland: a Dutch island with a military history

The next island in line is Vlieland. This one is quite a lot smaller than Texel, with little more than a thousand inhabitants.

photo-of-dutch-wadden-island-vlieland-from-dune-overlooking-village-and-sea-islands-of-the-netherlands-dutch-island
With views like this, it’s easy to forget Vlieland’s history. Image: Depositphotos

During World War II, Nazi Germany utilised the island as part of the German Atlantic Wall project. At one point, there were more soldiers than locals occupying the island!

READ MORE | 8 unmissable movies about the Netherlands in WWII

Make sure to check out Vlieland’s lighthouse for some great views. After that, catch a free open-air film screening at Podium Vlieland or go horseback riding before settling into some beach yoga.

🌾 Terschelling: a touristic and agricultural island

Between Vlieland and Ameland sits Terschelling. This particular Dutch island has quite a dense and intense history, particularly a bloody past that goes back much further than WWII.

Dutch-village-with-lighthouse-at-island-Terschelling-dutch-wadden-island-in-the-netherlands
Who needs the South of France when you have Terschelling? Image: Unsplash

In 1666, the Brits were hellbent on disrupting Dutch trade routes and narrowing the competition in European trade. So, how did they go about ridding the Dutch of their dominance in global trade?

By bombarding them at Terschelling, annihilating 150 Dutch ships, raiding, and burning the island.

READ MORE | What was the VOC? The Dutch East India Company explained

The island was consumed in such a blaze that it would be known as “Holmes’ Bonfire” after the British general Sir Robert Holmes. One year later, the Dutch retaliated and defeated the Brits in the ‘Battle of Chatham’, ending their disputes.

Today, Terschelling survives on tourism and a bit of agriculture. There is much to do and see β€” you can learn about the Netherlands’ history with the British, drive a Land Rover on the beach, or visit the shipwreck museum.

🌊 Ameland: a quiet beach getaway

Just 3,500 people live in Ameland, fondly referred to as Amelanders. Hollum, Ballum, Nes, and Buren are the largest villages left on Ameland. There were others, but sadly, the ocean has reclaimed them over time.

photo-of-dunes-and-the-ocean-on-dutch-beach-on-Ameland-island-in-the-netherlands-dutch-wadden-island
It’s enough to make your brain go quiet. Image: Unsplash

This island, too, has a rich history. In 1813, the Dutch Royal Family incorporated Ameland into its constitution as part of Friesland, and it has since been recognised as an official part of the Netherlands.

READ MORE | 10 hidden gems in the Netherlands: unique places you wouldn’t think to visit

More than a century later, in 1940, the German military shipped troops out to Ameland, where they took control of the island.

The Allies never engaged in combat with the German troops on Ameland. This may be why these stranded Nazi troops surrendered only a full month after Nazi Germany fell β€” they were hard to contact.

Today, Ameland has an airport and a bus route, making it easy to take in its unique flora and fauna. It’s also a great place for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies β€” ever tried kite surfing?

☘️ Schiermonnikoog: Dutch biodiversity at its finest

Getting out to Schiermonnikoog is always a great idea. The widest beach in Europe is right here, and so are opportunities for mudflat walking because most of the sandbank is covered in shallow (walkable) waters.

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The mudflats look almost like clouds on Earth. Image: Depositphotos

Situated between Rottumerplaat and Ameland, Schiermonnikoog is often considered a Dutch national park. Around 1640, the aristocratic Stachouwer family bought Schiermonnikoog and used it as their private property for centuries.

READ MORE | Wadlopen in 2026: your guide to mudflat walking in the Netherlands

Since then, it’s been passed from owner to owner several times.

After the people of Schiermonnikoog revolted against Maria Stachouwer in the 18th century, before the Napoleonic Wars, the island was passed to the Dutch poet John Eric Banck from 1858 to 1893.

sunny-day-lighthouse-and-houses-on-Schiermonnikoog-Wadden-Islands-the-Netherlands
The charming island of Schiermonnikoog today has plenty of relaxing activities for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Image: Depositphotos

Bank improved this land’s agriculture by planting a hardy grass species that would withstand future conditions. At the end of his run, heΒ sold the island to a German count, Hartwig Arthur von Bernstorff-Wehningen.

Finally, at the end of World War II, Schiermonnikoog was confiscated by the Dutch State under Article III of the Decree on Enemy Assets.

READ MORE | World War II: the Georgian uprising on Texel

Today, it’s a beautiful island, perfect for nature lovers β€” whether you love hiking, walking along the coastline, or getting your adrenaline pumping with water sports.

πŸŒ… Mudflats behind the Dutch Islands

Behind the Dutch islands is a large stretch of semi-solid ground known as the mudflats. They stretch between the Wadden Islands and the mainland of Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands.

man-walking-on-mudflat-while-sun-is-setting-in-the-wadden-islands
Mudflat walking in the Netherlands. Image: Pixabay

You’ll feel just like Jesus walking on water, but maybe a bit more stable. This is where you can really see the true beauty of the Netherlands in all its flatness. Breathe in, breathe out, and enjoy the massively wide open space.

If you want to walk with a purpose, there are plenty of guided tours to take here. What are you waiting for?

How many Dutch islands have you been to? Tell us in the comments below!

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