After a long counting session, Amsterdam has proven yet again that it always falls to the left.
GroenLinks has topped Amsterdam’s gemeenteraadsverkiezingen (city council elections), securing ten seats in the 45-seat council.
Held on March 18, the election saw nearly 47% of all eligible voters in Amsterdam cast their vote. According to Het Parool, this is only a slight uptick from the 46.6% turnout in 2022.
With all ballots counted at the party level, Amsterdam Gemeente has published the results.
Who were in the top three?
GroenLinks took 17.9% of the vote, translating to ten seats in Amsterdam’s city council. This comes as a gain of two seats compared to the last election.
D66 came second winning 16.1% of voters and eight seats: one up from 2022.
Meanwhile, the PvdA finished third at 14.1% with seven seats, dropping two from the last municipal election.
Despite PvdA’s little dip, the top three parties have governed Amsterdam for the past four years.
Now, they collectively hold 25 seats, which is enough to maintain a working majority in the city council.
Party time
While GroenLinks and PvdA ran jointly as GroenLinks-PvdA in some municipalities, they ran separately in Amsterdam.
Combined, the two parties hold 17 seats in the capital.
Supporters of both parties had gathered at Skatecafé in Amsterdam-Noord to await the results on Wednesday night.
According to Het Parool, Zita Pels of GroenLinks declared: “Amsterdam was left, is left and will remain left.”
Leading up to election day, Pels ran a campaign against landlords in Amsterdam who charge too much rent, refuse to return deposits, and fail to carry out maintenance.
The party even opened a hotline for residents paying too much rent.
Where the rest of the council stands
The centre-right liberal party, VVD, stands as the biggest opposition party with six seats.
Partij voor de Dieren (Party for the Animals) held onto its three seats. Among smaller parties, JA21, Volt, and Denk each retained their two seats.
Meanwhile, the far-right party Forum voor Democratie (FvD) kept one seat on the city council. So did the centrist party Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA).
A full candidate-level count follows on March 21, with the definitive official result due on March 27. Stay tuned!
Did you vote in Amsterdam’s city council elections? Let us know what you think of the results.
Prime Minister Jetten has offered quite a reward to the electorate: if this year’s municipal elections see a higher turnout, he will abseil down the Rotterdam Euromast with the Mayor of Rotterdam, Carola Schouten.
And this from a man who’s afraid of heights!
After Mayor Schouten initially promised to make this daring descent if turnout in Rotterdam is higher this year, Jetten has vowed to join her, reports BD.nl.
The price is higher, though: the nationwide turnout must be higher, not just Rotterdam’s. He is the incoming prime minister, after all!
Will they do it?
It’s been confirmed: turnout nationwide has reached 54.1%, more than 3% higher than in 2022, reports NOS. In Rotterdam, turnout is also higher, at 40.7%, according to Nu.nl.
Asked again today, both Schouten and Jetten have made it clear that they will be making good on their promises!
“I have a terrible fear of heights” Jetten admits to BD.nl, “but I’m a huge fan of Feyenoord, so going down the Euromast with Mayor Schouten and a beautiful view of the city, we should be able to manage that.”
Now that’s what we call a Flying Dutchman (and woman).
They’re not alone
It seems there is a Dutch political trend of whimsical, brave acts for the sake of appeasing voters.
The Mayor of Voorne aan Zee, Arno Scheepers, also promised to swim across the Haringvliet if turnout in the city exceeded 50%, reports Rijnmond.
At 50.6%, he too will have to make good on this deal.
So, even if you’re disappointed by the election results this year, you get a consolation prize: seeing your local and national politicians screech for your sake.
Do you think Jetten will truly make the jump? Let us know in the comments!
The results of the 18 March gemeenteraadsverkiezingen (municipal council elections) have been rolling in across the country.
A few clear trends are already emerging: local parties won big, and one man in The Hague is having a very good week.
Here’s what you need to know.
1. Local parties win big (again)
Among the big winners this year was the sprawling category of lokale partijen — parties that exist only in one municipality and focus entirely on local issues.
According to NOS, they took the largest share of council seats nationwide by a considerable margin.
Increasingly, migration and plans for (or better said, against) asielzoekerscentra (asylum seeker centres, or AZCs) featured heavily in these local campaigns.
2. In The Hague: De Mos is back, and voters have made their feelings clear
Richard de Mos and his party Hart voor Den Haag (Heart for The Hague) surged to a commanding victory, according to the NOS liveblog, landing 16 seats on the 45-seat city council.
That result carries extra weight given De Mos’s recent history.
After a lengthy corruption case that had shadowed him for years, he was acquitted of bribery in 2023, and the appeals court largely cleared him again in June 2024 (though he did receive a suspended fine of €2,000 for breaching official secrecy). The prosecution service decided not to pursue the case further.
Voters, it seems, were not particularly troubled by any of that. It’s a reminder that personal recognition and local credibility can matter far more in municipal politics than whatever story is circulating at a national level.
3. Big cities paint very different stories
Zoom into the major cities, and the national picture fragments quickly.
Utrecht: Groenlinks-PvdA and D66 remain triumphant
The GroenLinks–PvdA and D66 combination, which has run the city for the past four years, picked up enough seats between them to govern without needing anyone else at the table, according to RTV Utrecht.
Rotterdam: a more politically divided picture
Rotterdam’s results tell a different story entirely.
GroenLinks–PvdA and Leefbaar Rotterdam both finished with 11 seats, according to NOS, making coalition talks anything but straightforward. The city remains one of the most politically divided in the country.
Amsterdam: GroenLinks, D66, and PvdA win big
Amsterdam has now finished counting its results. According to the municipality, GroenLinks proved to be the most popular party, winning 10 seats with 17.9% of the votes.
However, they were followed closely by D66, who won 8 seats with 16.1% of votes, and PvdA who earned 7 seats with 14.1%
4. Forum voor Democratie expands locally and across the country
One of the more striking national developments is the growth of the extreme-right Forum voor Democratie at the municipal level.
The party ran in roughly twice as many municipalities as it did four years ago, and NOS reports that its total vote count quadrupled to around 300,000 across the country — making it the biggest climber of the night among national parties.
The catch: in several municipalities, other parties have already ruled out forming a coalition with FvD, citing candidates with links to far-right extremist groups.
The party’s parliamentary faction leader called that reasoning “an excuse.” Either way, winning seats and actually ending up in local government are two very different things.
5. Some of the left lost ground, some rose triumphant
Not every party had a good night. The SP and ChristenUnie lost ground across many municipalities, with seats shifting towards local parties.
The national governing parties, however, came through relatively unscathed.
According to NOS, D66 actually posted a slight gain, VVD picked up more seats, and CDA suffered only minor losses.
This is notable given the controversy surrounding recent decisions in the national coalition, including plans to raise the retirement age faster and cut unemployment benefit duration. No major backlash, at least not here.
GroenLinks–PvdA looks set to be the largest national party overall, with around 13% of the vote — though that’s down from nearly 16% in 2022.
6. Turnout rose (slightly)
Nationally, voter engagement ticked upward. NOS puts turnout at just over 54%, up from 51% four years ago — modest progress, but progress nonetheless.
Rotterdam’s mayor Carola Schouten, and even Prime Minister Jetten, who reportedly both promised to abseil down the Euromast if turnout went up, may want to start stretching.
7. Now, it’s time for coalition talks, Dutch-style
Now begins the part the Netherlands arguably does best: formeren — building coalitions out of fragmented results.
Across hundreds of municipalities, negotiations will kick off to turn these results into workable local governments.
These talks tend to move faster than at a national level, but they can still throw up surprising combinations.
Parties that wouldn’t share a table in The Hague routinely end up governing together at a municipal level.
Did you vote in Wednesday’s elections? Whether you went full local party or stuck with a national name, tell us in the comments who got your vote and why.
So, you’ve landed in the Netherlands, navigated the supermarket without panic, and maybe even braved a Dutch birthday party (circle of chairs and all).
Not sure what that is or how to pass it without drowning in Dutch grammar books? No worries — we’ve got the lowdown on the inburgering exam in 2026, and the easiest way to prep for it without stress.
What is the inburgering exam — and do you need to take it?
The inburgeringsexamen is the Dutch civic integration exam. If you’re a non-EU citizen, or here on a family reunification or asylum permit, there’s a good chance you’re required to complete the integration process.
Why? Because passing the inburgering exam is often mandatory for permanent residency or Dutch citizenship.
Dutch life is great, until you realise there’s a raft of exams waiting for you. Image: Freepik
It’s the government’s way of making sure you’ve got a solid grip on Dutch language, society, and work culture so you can integrate into society more smoothly.
Even if you’re not required to take it, some people still choose to — especially if they plan to stay in the Netherlands long-term or want to improve their Dutch skills.
What does the inburgering exam look like in 2026?
The inburgering exam in 2026 is made up of a few key parts:
Dutch language: reading, writing, listening, and speaking
Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM): think of this as Dutch culture 101
Orientation on the Dutch Labour Market (ONA): a portfolio focused on work and job-seeking in the Netherlands
Here’s where it gets a little more technical: depending on your integration path, you’ll either be tested at A2 or B1 language level.
A2 is easier and still accepted in some rare cases — but the Dutch government has been shifting some people towards B1, which is a bit more advanced. The level you need to complete depends on your situation.
The easiest way to prepare: online, flexible, and stress-free
Let’s be honest: not everyone has the time or energy to sit in a classroom after a full day of work (or parenting, or dealing with Dutch bureaucracy). Traditional courses can be expensive, inflexible, and — dare we say — a little boring.
This self-paced online platform helps you prepare for every part of the inburgering exam — on your schedule, in your own space, and with way less stress.
Study online and completely in your own time. Image: Freepik
Why InburgeringOnline.nl works
InburgeringOnline isn’t just another Dutch course with dusty grammar books and rigid lesson plans. It’s a fully online, flexible, and supportive learning platform that helps you prep for the inburgering exam — no matter your Dutch level, lifestyle, or schedule.
So what makes it so effective?
🖥️ Everything’s online — No classrooms. No textbooks. No stressful commutes. Just log in and start learning from wherever you are.
🕒 Study anytime, anywhere — Early riser? Night owl? Got a quiet 20 minutes while your toddler naps? The course works around your life.
🎯 Real exam practice — You won’t walk into the exam blind. The platform includes tons of sample questions and mock exams that reflect the real thing — so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
💸 Affordable, all-in-one packages — No need to pay hundreds for live lessons or books. InburgeringOnline offers cost-effective bundles that include everything you need.
🧘 Zero stress, total flexibility — There are no fixed deadlines or appointments. You can pause, repeat, or fast-forward as needed.
But the real magic of InburgeringOnline is in how well it adapts to you.
Whether you’re a total beginner just starting out, a professional juggling work and study, or a parent squeezing in lessons between naptime and dinner, this platform is built to fit your needs.
You won’t need to chase down teachers or attend fixed classes. Instead, you’ll have access to clear, step-by-step lessons, practical tips, and real exam prep, all designed to help you feel fully prepared when exam day comes.
Need to focus on just one part of the exam, like KNM? There’s a course for that. Want the full package with everything included? Sorted. Every course is carefully structured, regularly updated, and gets straight to what matters — helping you pass the inburgeringexam with ease.
In short: if you’re serious about getting it done in 2026, this is the smartest, easiest way to do it.
Make 2026 the year you pass the inburgering exam — the easy way
The inburgering exam doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right preparation, you can tick it off your list and move one step closer to permanent residency, citizenship, or just feeling confident in Dutch society.
So if you’re ready to crush the exam zonder stress, check out InburgeringOnline and find the course that fits your life
Are you preparing to take the Dutch integration exam in 2026? Share your experience in the comments below!
Since its proposal, the Balanced Internationalisation Bill (Wet internationalisering in balans, Wib)has been debated and adjusted, redebated and readjusted by multiple Dutch cabinets.
Jetten’s cabinet, however, is aiming for ‘balance.’
According to the Government of the Netherlands, the bill’s initial intent, when proposed by then-Minister of Education Robbert Dijkgraaf, was to ensure that higher education remained accessible to Dutch students amid high numbers of international students.
In 2022, up to 33% of first-year students were from outside the country, coming to the Netherlands to pursue English-taught university programs, according to the NRC.
In the years that followed, cabinets made multiple plans to reduce these numbers.
What did past cabinets say?
The most recent cabinet, led by then-Prime Minister Dick Schoof, was notably strict in its approach to the bill.
For the Minister of Education under Schoof, Eppo Bruins, the language of instruction was a major issue.
In a 2024 letter to parliament, Bruins argued that maintaining Dutch as the language of instruction was essential to keeping students connected to Dutch society and the workforce.
His efforts were intended to make existing measures stricter. For instance, he minimised the possibility of exemptions for the toets anderstalig onderwijs (test for foreign-language education) for Dutch university programs.
This ‘test’ allows the Minister of Education to assess and determine whether existing or proposed English-language programs can justifiably be taught in English.
Due to his lack of exemptions, many programs that appealed to internationals were under threat.
The idea was to protect Dutch as the primary language of instruction, not just to manage student numbers. This was not surprising given the general rhetoric of political leadership in the Netherlands under the Schoof cabinet.
The significant influence of the PVV and other right-leaning parties brought nationalist sentiments to the forefront. And international students were, in some ways, an easy target: keep Dutch universities Dutch.
A lighter approach
However, when Geert Wilders withdrew his party from the coalition in 2025 over immigration concerns, the Schoof cabinet collapsed. And with it, so did their plans on the Wib policy.
Jetten’s cabinet is taking a different approach. While they recognise the need to safeguard opportunities for their young Dutch students, they also see the value in internationals coming here.
Universities are breathing a sigh of relief: under Jetten, the ‘test’ for English-language programs is planned to be entirely scrapped.
English-taught programs at some universities that were set to be cancelled are now back from the brink.
As D66 MP Ilana Rooderkerk tells the NRC, “We need international talent for the future of our country.”
It’s also worth mentioning that in recent years, the number of international students enrolling at Dutch universities has declined.
However, some measures will still be brought in
While the Jetten cabinet is sure to be lighter in its implementation of the Wib, there is still a need to balance international enrollment with admission of Dutch students.
Some measures are still planned, reports NRC. For instance, the numerus fixus plan, which caps the number of students added to a program from outside the EEA (European Economic Area), will still be included.
Similarly, an ‘emergency fixus’ cap is also planned, which allows last-minute maximums for English-taught programs when application numbers are too high.
The biggest change, however, remains the removal of the foreign-language ‘test.’
Scrapping this element means that existing programmes can continue, and new English-taught programmes can be set up without ministerial sign-off on the language of instruction.
In other words, if you’re an international student, you can be cautiously optimistic that Dutch uni life is in your future!
What do you think of the Jetten cabinet’s approach? Let us know in the comments!
So, you’ve decided to make the big move to this small country? Wat leuk!Before you get carried away by the excitement of coming to the Netherlands, there’s some serious prep work to be done.
As someone who wasn’t ready at all when they came here, trust me when I say this: Being prepared will make your move much smoother and leave you with more time to enjoy the fun stuff once you arrive.
As one of the most international-friendly Dutch banks, ING is the perfect choice for anyone coming to settle in the Netherlands. Plus, with their accessible banking app and handy money-management features, you’ll get a boost in financial health right from the start. 💸
1. Make sure all visas and permits are in order
First things first: paperwork. I know, not the most thrilling part of your adventure, but probably the most crucial.
Before planning your physical relocation to the Netherlands, you’ll need to get the nitty-gritty in order and make sure you’re actually allowed to live and work here.
The conditions for this will depend on where you’re moving to the Netherlands from.
If you’re an EU citizen: You don’t need a visa to travel to the Netherlands and need no residence permit or work permit to stay.
If you’re from a non-Schengen country: You’ll need a permit to stay in the Netherlands for over 90 days. While some nationalities can apply for their residence permit at the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) upon arrival in the Netherlands, others will have to do it at the Dutch embassy or consulate in their country of residence before they leave.
All the necessary forms for your residence permit application can be found on IND’s website. Image: Freepik
Make sure you’ve double and triple-checked off all the necessary boxes so you can avoid any unexpected hiccups upon arrival. After all, you don’t want to be stuck at immigration when you could be sampling poffertjes instead!
2. Make an appointment for your registration
Once you’ve landed in the Dutch city of your choice, one of your first stops should be at the municipality to register and get your BSN (burgerservicenummer).
But it’s not always that simple; sometimes, even just scoring an appointment can take weeks. This can significantly delay the start of your new chapter, considering you need a BSN for things like getting health insurance and registering with a doctor.
How do we work around this? You got it: by being organised like the Dutch and booking an afspraak (appointment) ahead of time.
💡 Your burgerservicenummer (BSN) is a nine-digit Dutch personal identification number. Every resident has one, and you’ll need it for all sorts of official business.
3. Set up your Dutch bank account
Money makes the world go round, and it certainly makes life easier when you’re settling into a new country. That’s why setting up a Dutch bank account should be high on your to-do list.
Not only will it make managing your daily expenses easier, but you’ll also need it to receive your salary, pay your rent, and handle other essential transactions.
Debit card is king in the Netherlands, so make sure you have a local one! Image: Freepik
The good news is that the Netherlands has many great banks, so you should start researching them ahead of time so you can hit the ground running.
But the bad news? Opening an account can sometimes take a bit of time — especially if it’s with a bank that wants you to have a BSN beforehand — so it’s smart to get a jump on this one.
If you’re looking for a bank that’ll let you open an account before you get a BSN, then your best choice is ING.
As an established Dutch bank, you can trust ING with all your money matters, from savings to mortgages and insurance.
Phone charger? Check. Toothbrush? Check. Birth certificate? Erm… Exactly, in the hustle and bustle of preparing for an international move, it’s easy to overlook some of the less exciting yet essential documents.
Don’t be that person frantically calling your parents to express mail you your birth certificate on the day you need it.
Instead, make a checklist of all the necessary paperwork you could ever need, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, vaccination records, and even a medication passport.
These documents might not be something you’ll need right away, but when the time comes, you’ll be relieved to have them easily accessible.
5. Arrange the move of your belongings
Getting yourself to the Netherlands is one thing, but you also have to consider transporting your belongings (and, if you have any, your pets).
Whether you’re hiring a relocation company or going the DIY route, this process takes some serious planning, so it’s good to arrange it early.
An international move might mean you have to get rid of some of your belongings. Image: Depositphotos
Start by deciding what you need to bring with you (hint: it’s not as much as you think), like certain pieces of furniture and your personal items.
Then, figure out the logistics of getting everything from point A to point B. You got this!
6. Join local Facebook groups
One of the best ways to get a feel for your new home is to connect with those who already live there.
How can you do that? By joining local Facebook groups, of course!
These groups are packed with valuable tips and advice from expats and locals alike, whether you’re looking for recommendations on the best local coffee spots or advice on navigating Dutch bureaucracy.
And who knows? You might just make some lifelong friends before you’ve even packed your moving boxes.
7. Secure a place to live
If there’s one thing you should know about the Dutch housing market, it’s that it can be intense (to say the least).
Especially in major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht, finding a place to live can feel like an impossible feat.
Ready for your own charming Dutch house? Image: Depositphotos
That’s why it is important to start your house hunt as early as possible — whether you’re looking for a cosy canal-side apartment or a room in a shared house.
8. Get your health insurance sorted
Health insurance is mandatory in the Netherlands, and it’s best to arrange it as soon as possible when you arrive.
The good news is that the Dutch healthcare system is excellent, but the bad news is that navigating insurance options can be tricky, especially if you don’t speak Dutch.
Take some time before your move to research different providers and plans, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and hit the ground running when you get here.
9. Pack everything orange that you own
King’s Day? Orange. Liberation Day? Orange. Football match? Orange. Eurovision Song Contest? ORANGE.
Wanna blend in with the locals? Get your orange on! Image: Depositphotos
Orange isn’t just a colour in the Netherlands; it’s a national symbol. And when these national events come (and trust me, they sneak up on you), you’ll want to blend with the locals without having to panic-buy that ugly shirt from your local Action.
So, pack that orange shirt, those orange socks, and maybe even that orange hat. Will it look questionable? Maybe. But that won’t matter when you’re six beers deep. You’ll thank us later.
10. Stock up on your favourite products from home
No matter how much you’re looking forward to your new life in the Netherlands, there are likely some (many!) things from home you’ll miss.
Certain products you love from your home country might be hard or impossible to find in the Netherlands — whether it’s your favourite snacks, beauty products, or even a specific brand of coffee.
Yes, the Netherlands has its own great products, but to avoid homesickness (or at least minimise it), it’s a good idea to stock up on all your faves before you move.
11. Say your goodbyes
In the chaos of preparing for your big move, it can be easy to overlook one of the most important steps: saying goodbye to your family and friends.
Leaving your home country is a big deal, and it deserves to be treated as such. One way of doing so is by spending quality time with your loved ones, whether that means hosting a farewell party or having one-on-one dinners.
You’ll see everyone again soon. ❤️🩹 Image: Freepik
This step may be the hardest, but the bright side is that you can always visit your home country. Also, you’ll live in a place so beautiful that others will surely want to come and visit you as well! 😉
Did you write all these down? 📝
With this checklist in hand, your big international move will be much less stressful — but still just as exciting. We wish you all the best!
Can you think of other things you should do before moving to the Netherlands? Share them in the comments!
Let’s face it, learning Dutch is not always easy. Apparently, it takes more than just knowing how to say lekker and mooi (who knew?)
Thankfully, there’s a plethora of apps to learn Dutch available — but with all those options out there, how are you supposed to know which one is best for you?
When I first arrived in the Netherlands, I wanted to learn Dutch, but I was immediately hit with decision fatigue. I’ve tried, tested, and compared the best apps to learn Dutch. Here are the best!
How we tested the best apps to learn Dutch
No, we didn’t just scroll the App Store and pick the first seven logos that looked friendly (though that might’ve been a lot easier).
Each app had to offer a Dutch course, support beginners, and have an active user base.
We tested them on language level coverage, speaking practice, grammar clarity, price, ease of use, reviews and — most importantly — real-life practicality.
Best apps to learn Dutch
There’s no single “perfect” app — but a few consistently stand out. These are the strongest options for learning Dutch in 2026.
Babbel: The best paid app for learning Dutch
Learn best with Babbel! Image: DutchReview
Babbel is our choice for the top paid app to learn Dutch because it balances speaking practice, vocabulary building, and clear grammar explanations in one structured course.
When I had been living in the Netherlands for a few months, I recognised plenty of Dutch but struggled to form my own sentences. Babbel helped bridge that gap.
Instead of just drilling words, it focuses on building usable sentences and understanding Dutch word order, which can feel unfamiliar at first.
The dialogues are practical and based on everyday situations like ordering food or making plans, making it especially useful if you already live in the Netherlands.
It’s less flashy than apps like Duolingo, but that’s part of the appeal. If you want Dutch to start making sense, not just sound familiar, Babbel is a logical next step.
Duolingo: Best free app for learning Dutch
Don’t forget to keep Duo happy! Image: DutchReview
Duolingo is one of the easiest ways to begin learning Dutch. You don’t need prior knowledge of grammar or vocabulary — you simply open the app and start.
When I first moved to the Netherlands (with zero Dutch contacts, mind you) this was the app I downloaded. It helped me build basic vocabulary, simple sentence patterns, and get used to Dutch pronunciation without feeling overwhelmed.
However, after a few weeks, I outgrew it. While the vocabulary practice is solid, Duolingo offers limited grammar depth and minimal speaking practice. For real-life conversations in the Netherlands, I needed more structure and active output.
Still, as a free Dutch learning app, Duolingo is hard to beat. It’s accessible, gamified, and ideal for absolute beginners testing the waters before committing to a more comprehensive course.
Busuu: Best app if you want to practise speaking
Busuu’s got your back! Image: DutchReview
Busuu stands out because it pushes you to speak early. Instead of relying on endless multiple choice, you record short spoken answers, which other users – often native Dutch speakers – can correct.
In testing, this felt more realistic than passive exercises but still safe enough to make mistakes. You’re actively producing Dutch, not just recognising it, which makes it one of the better apps for improving speaking skills.
The free version is limited, and full lessons with detailed corrections require a premium subscription. Feedback quality can vary, and if you’re shy about recording yourself, there’s a small confidence hurdle at first.
Compared to apps like Duolingo or Drops, Busuu focuses more on active output. It also pushes you into real interaction sooner than many traditional course-style apps
Drops: Best app for busy people
Stay consistent with Drops! Image: DutchReview
All the apps above have their strengths, but the one thing Drops does exceptionally well is keep it short.
In the age of endless scrolling and diminishing attention spans, Drops respects that you won’t be able to sit for twenty minutes at a time repeating “Hoe gaat het?” over and over.
The five-minute sessions offered by this app are focused on vocabulary and feel much more manageable.
While that might sound basic, a stronger word bank makes everything vocab-related easier, from listening to speaking and reading.
When you’re tired or having a rushed day, this app makes staying consistent feel like more of a molehill than a mountain.
Clozemaster: Best app for grammar and sentence structure
Keep it simple with Clozemaster! Image: DutchReview
Fair warning, Clozemaster doesn’t look flashy. There are no cartoon owls. No streak celebrations that feel like you’ve just won the Olympics.
It’s a little more… serious. And that’s exactly why it works so well for certain learners.
Clozemaster is built around context: instead of teaching you isolated words, it drops you straight into full sentences. You fill in missing words and see how vocabulary behaves in real Dutch.
This matters because language isn’t a list of nouns — it’s patterns, such as word order or verb placement.
So if you’re past the beginner stage and want to get better at writing, reading, and sentence composition more generally, Clozemaster is a very useful app.
LingQ: Best app for learning through listening and reading
Listen and learn with LingQ! Image: DutchReview
If you’ve got hungry eyes and ears, this app is for you.
LingQ does two things really well: it ups your comprehension, plus it gives you real content through articles, podcasts, and natural speech.
Not only does LingQ’s exposure train your ear, but it also allows you to learn about things you actually find interesting in a Dutch context.
No more listening to audios of inane conversations about groceries — now you can learn about Dutch culture through TV shows and podcasts that are relevant in the here and now.
Memrise: Best app for vocabulary and listening practice
Sharpen your vocab with Memrise! Image: DutchReview
Memrise is a strong choice if you want to build Dutch vocabulary and get better at understanding spoken Dutch at normal speed.
Its biggest advantage is the use of short video clips of native speakers, so you hear real pronunciation and natural rhythm rather than scripted audio.
In my testing, this made a noticeable difference when adjusting to how Dutch actually sounds in everyday conversations.
The app uses spaced repetition to help words stick, and it now includes AI chat tools like MemBot for brief dialogue practice. That said, it remains far more focused on vocabulary than grammar.
There’s a limited free version, while the paid subscription is priced similarly to other premium Dutch learning apps such as Babbel and Busuu.
Jumpspeak: best app for fast, AI-style speaking drills
Use AI to get to your goals with Jumpspeak! Image: DutchReview
Jumpspeak is built around one clear goal: helping you speak Dutch from day one.
The app uses AI-powered conversations rather than simple word repetition. You respond to prompts in simulated real-life situations, which pushes you to think quickly and speak more naturally.
When testing it, I found this helpful for breaking the “I understand it but can’t say it” barrier.
That said, Jumpspeak is one of the more expensive Dutch learning apps, and the interaction is still AI-based rather than with real tutors. Grammar explanations are also fairly light.
If your priority is building speaking confidence fast, Jumpspeak delivers. Just don’t rely on it as your only structured Dutch course.
Comparing the best Dutch learning apps at a glance
Different apps solve different problems. Some build habits, others build confidence, and still more build comprehension.
Here’s a quick and easy breakdown of each app’s strengths:
App
Price
Level
Speaking practice
Best for
Duolingo
€
Beginner (A0–A1)
Low
Starting out, building a habit
Babbel
€€
Beginner–Intermediate
Medium
Grammar clarity and structure
Busuu
€€
Beginner–Intermediate
High
Speaking with feedback
Drops
€€
Beginner
Low
Quick vocabulary sessions
Clozemaster
€
Intermediate
Medium
Sentence structure and context
LingQ
€€€
Intermediate–Advanced
Medium
Listening and reading immersion
Memrise
€€
Beginner–Intermediate
Low–Medium
Vocabulary retention with audio
Jumpspeak
€€€
Beginner–Intermediate
High
AI-based speaking drills
Price guide:
€ = Free or low cost
€€ = Mid-range subscription
€€€ = Higher-priced subscription
How to choose the best Dutch learning app for you
There isn’t one “best” app. There’s the best app for your situation.
Your first step is to figure out what you need. If you’re starting from scratch, this broader guide to learning Dutch helps frame the bigger picture.
Start with your level. For example, if you’re A0, you need repetition and confidence more than grammar theory.
If you’re A1, A2 or B1, however, you likely understand more than you can say. That means you need output, not more mindless tapping exercises.
Then, look at your goal. Are you learning Dutch for work? For friends? For the inburgering exam? Or just to stop smiling blankly when people start Dutching it up around you?
Finally, be honest about your time. Here’s where I got overambitious. Thankfully, apps saved my bacon.
If you’re like me and don’t have the energy (or money) for evening classes three times a week, apps fit great because they slide into the gaps — transport, queues, long bike rides, and more!
Why learning Dutch with an app actually works
The main strength of apps is that they reduce friction.
Practice can be done privately, awkwardly, and as many times as you might need, which makes the whole process of language-learning far less daunting.
And, best of all, you can combine this awkward practice with your adventures in the real Dutch world.
For internationals, this is perfect. Good Dutch matters in the long term, especially for internationals trying to settle here.
Best free vs paid apps to learn Dutch
So, there are lots of apps available — but should you be paying for an app when there are free options? That’s a great question!
Fully free apps like Duolingo are excellent for habit-building, and the free aspect certainly removes room for excuses.
If you want something more advanced (or if you need to spend money to make sure you’ll follow through), though, there’s nothing wrong with that.
A good middle ground is freemiums. Freemium apps let you test before committing. That’s helpful if you’re unsure about your learning style or how much a paid version of the app can help you.
Overall, paid apps definitely add structure and guide progression more clearly. If you struggle with consistency, that can be helpful. They also tend to handle speaking and grammar more seriously.
Once again, though, it ultimately depends on your goal. Can’t swing the price? Don’t fret, there are plenty of free options that work just fine!
Can you really learn Dutch using only an app? Tips and tricks
Short answer: no. Longer answer: Apps are a strong foundation.
I, too, wish it were as simple as opening an app every day and then — poof! —- being suddenly fluent.
In reality, apps are a great help, but progress requires more. Speaking. Listening. Daily exposure. Combine apps with real life. Order that coffee in Dutch (even if they reply in English).
It sounds hard (trust me, I know), but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. It just means consistency matters more. Here’s where apps are amazing: if you get discouraged, they allow you to pick up and try again!
It also helps to bake your app-learning into your social life. Motivation grows when language connects to people. Even flirting works — these steps to flirt in Dutch might help. 😉
The best app if you’re busy and short on time is Drops, which suits short daily sessions.
Why do Dutch people switch to English when I try to speak Dutch?
Dutch people switch to English when you try to speak Dutch because they can. It’s a habit, not a judgement.
Should I combine Dutch learning apps with classes or real-life practice?
Yes, you should definitely combine Dutch learning apps with classes or real-life practice for the best results. Real conversations accelerate progress.
As an international in the Netherlands, you might think some things the Dutch do are annoying, but have you taken a look in the mirror? We hate to break it to you guys, but sometimes we’re the problem.
Let’s face it, there are some things that internationals in the Netherlands do that we all know are annoying, and not just for Dutchies.
Thankfully, we’re not afraid of calling ourselves out. With the help of our readers, we put a list together of some of the most annoying things internationals do.
As an international in the Netherlands, something you do could be annoying enough to get this look. Image: Depositphotos
So if you’re looking for a guide on what not to do, or how to really grind your Dutch housemate’s gears, listen up.
1. Walk or stand on cycle paths
You’ll often see Dutch cyclists zooming past on their bikes, so you can imagine that when people (ahem, usually tourists 👀) walk on cycle paths, it can be dang frustrating.
Another way that internationals can really grind a Dutchie’s gears is when they’re on bicycles themselves and abruptly turn.
No hand signal?! No care in the world!? No consideration for the people behind you!? Yes, you are the main character, but how is everyone supposed to know where you’re going?
Signalling when you’re about to turn is essential if you want to survive cycling in the Netherlands. Image: Depositphotos
While you may be self-reflecting on how far you’ve come, navigating the bike path as you cruise home, if you don’t use hand signals, you’ve got a far way to go, honey.
As you swan along, you now have some very annoyed people screeching to a halt to prevent the formation of a bike heap. Luckily, we aren’t the only ones who find this annoying; it can even get you a fine.
3. Move at normal speed while bagging groceries
It can be hard to adjust to the cashiers who scan your groceries at warp speed. Being mere mortals, we can’t keep up that same tempo while bagging our hagelslag.
Even though you’re going as fast as you can, you still won’t be fast enough for the Dutchie next in line who’s glaring at you. 😬
4. Try to pay with their international bank card when it’s not accepted
Another canon event that is sure to annoy the Dutch is when you delay everyone standing in line at the supermarket (hmm… a pattern seems to be emerging 🤔).
Why? You’re trying to use bank cards that aren’t accepted in the Netherlands, babe.
To avoid the Dutchies’ scorn, make sure you’re using the right type of card to pay at a Dutch supermarket. Image: Freepik
Dutchies are left waiting and wondering why you would want to use a credit card (“no, it’s a VISA debit!”), and you’re wondering why the machine won’t just take it.
5. Pay less tax than Dutch people
Heard of the 30% ruling? Well, Dutchies have, and they’re not fans.
What is the 30% ruling?
It’s a policy that allows highly skilled migrants in the Netherlands to receive up to 30% of their income tax-free!
Internationals find the tax ruling helpful when moving to the Netherlands, so they can, you know, afford rent and survive.
But, the Dutch are a bit jelly because they can’t get it — and we understand.
With the cost-of-living crisis looming large, we could all benefit from this ruling. So, hey, if you’re a recipient, maybe don’t brag.
6. Make food too spicy… or use any spice at all
After living in the Netherlands for a while, you’ll inevitably notice that Dutch food can be a bit, ahem, bland.
If you make food for a Dutchie and it has a spicy aroma, or even just a sprinkle of paprika, you may notice your maatje (buddy) turning beet red. 🥵 Whoops!
If you’re not accustomed to spicy food, the explosion of actual flavour — we mean burning heat! — can be quite intense.
Listen, we can understand why this might be irritating for the Dutch, but we’re just looking for something that will register with our taste buds.
7. Fail to learn any Dutch
Picture this: you’re out with your international friend when the two of you decide to order a coffee. You’ve both been living here for five years, and yet your friend proceeds to talk to the barista in English.
Why? They don’t know how to order in Dutch! Echt!?
In your home country, people may be more laid back about their plans. Well, we hate to break it to you, but that isn’t the way things work in the Netherlands.
Get-togethers are planned out well in advance. If you make plans, don’t be rude — show up on time, Dutch style.
9. Refer to “the Netherlands” as “Holland”
For those of you who don’t know, Holland is a term for two provinces in the Netherlands — it is not a second name for the Netherlands.
Not only do Dutchies get irked by this, but also. Why are you spending your time comparing the Netherlands to other countries you left to come here?
Yes, it rains a lot, and there are a lot of bikes that almost run you over. But in the words of the Dutch, “If you don’t like it, leave.” 🤷♂️
11. Complain about the head on their biertje
If you’ve ever had a Dutch beer, you may have noticed that most of your biertje (beer) is actually foam.
This is just the way Dutch beer is made, but internationals tend to complain about these groot heads of foam — and we have to admit we feel their pain.
Believe me, this is an average dutch beer. One of the reasons why i love England.. much beer, less foam. In Holland.. half beer, half foam
You’re busy, and they won’t get to the point of why they’re standing in front of you. Tiresome, right? That’s how Dutchies feel, too!
The Dutch don’t need you to beat around the bush. Just come straight out and ask, they won’t bite (even if their directness can 👀).
13. Do not say gefeliciteerd to everyone at a birthday
Going to a Dutch birthday party and not congratulating every Tom, Dick, and Harry who is loosely related to the birthday star might land you in some hot water.
It’s what everyone does, so doe normaal and memorise how to say “gefeliciteerd”, so you don’t look like a fool.
14. Fail to bring cake to the office on their own birthday
It’s your birthday, and you might expect your office friends to buy you a birthday cake. 🎂
Well, you’re gonna get a big fat surprise when you have some hungry Dutchies instead because you didn’t bring treats to the office.
Ahh the birthday fantasy that won’t come true if you work in the Netherlands. Image: Depositphotos
Nope, it’s not your day to get spoilt, it’s your day to spoil others!
15. Show up at houses unannounced
*Ding dong* “Who could that be? I don’t have anyone set to visit me according to my agenda.” 🤔
This is what we imagine the thought process is like before a Dutchie opens their front door to see you at their home unannounced. Not even a text beforehand.
Would you chatter loudly and eat your croissant from a crinkly plastic bag in the library? Nee?
Then, stop doing that in the designated shush compartment or be ready to be shushed.
How can you tell whether you’re in a stiltecoupé (silent carriage)?
There are signs on the windows of the train that say “silence/stilte”. There are also symbols at the carriage entrance identifying it as a silent carriage.
19. Talk badly about local football teams
Have you experienced the over-the-top shenanigans that happen with certain football celebrations? Well, it’s not only the celebrations that can be over-the-top.
The Dutch can be very loyal and supportive of their cities’ football teams, so join the club, don’t share your complaints, or avoid crazy football fans (if you can 😅).
It’s true, internationals can be annoying, knowingly or unknowingly. However, in a country where people embrace being direct, don’t worry, you’ll find out what makes you irritating pretty soon.
If you find yourself in a situation where a Dutchie finds you exasperating, just laugh it off because you’re not the only one. 👀
Have you ever done any of these annoying things? Or experienced someone else doing them? Tell us about it in the comments!
All humans have a tendency to be quite revolting sometimes — but we’re only here to point out some of the common gross things you’ve probably witnessed (or done yourself) in the Netherlands.
This article is not an attempt to call EVERY Dutchie gross or to generalise Dutch culture, but we’ve witnessed these actions often enough for them to earn a solid place on this comedic list. 💁
Fair warning ⚠️— we don’t recommend reading this list while eating your stamppot. 🤢
1. Spit everywhere
Oh, all the spitting I’ve seen. It happens quickly and when you least expect it.
During a stroll along a beautiful Amsterdam canal, at a train station where a group of jongeren practice their aim on the tracks, or as soon as the person in front of you gets off the bus. 💧
In short: check for mucus before you decide to romanticise your life and sit on a picturesque Dutch street.
I’ve been warned by children on the internet who hate it and noticed that the Dutch have a variety of drops sold in the market, but isn’t the idea of salty black liquorice scary enough?
Well, Dutchies love drop — as a matter of fact, they love it so much that we’ve made a whole guide to Dutch drop, so it’s as important as it is odd.
3. Pick their nose in public
A Dutch sport practised by royals while attending the Olympics — ahem — King Willem-Alexander.
A 2007 hygiene survey on the popularity of this habit in the Netherlands showed that 90% of Dutch people pick their noses from time to time, and 10% eat what they’ve found! 🤮
4. Never wash their ties
You may have heard of Dutch frats being particularly…eccentric.
Dutch frat boys tend to be pretty easy to spot (or smell). Image: Dreamstime
While it may have started as hazing, this nasty tradition continues well into membership. Perhaps it’s for luck, perhaps it for shock and awe: either way, it’s more than a little gross.
They’re curved in shape, made of iron or stone, and are raised just enough for you to make shameful eye contact with the user while seeing (and smelling) as their pee splashes on the floor below — enough said, but here’s a photo anyway.
Never make eye contact with a man inside an Amsterdam urinal. Image: Depositphotos
6. Inspect their poep
Speaking of Dutch bathrooms, have you noticed a shelf in your toilet? This is called an inspection shelf, an examination shelf, or a plateau toilet — it goes by different names.
The design dates back to many moons ago, where, in theory, the short shelf in the bowl allows for the examination of any (ahem) abnormalities in your 💩 before flushing. Useful, I guess…
Traditionally, after being salted and dipped in onion, the herring is held by the tail, hung over the mouth, and munched from below.
FYI, there’s also a herring ice cream flavour in the Netherlands — we felt you should know. 🍨
8. Lick their fingers and utensils
Even KFC dropped its Finger-Lickin’ Good cheer due to the pandemic, but the Dutchies sure haven’t.
Finger licking, followed by a spoon lick (maybe even a flessenlikker lick), then back into the family-sized pindakaas jar. Shared saliva, lekker. 😍
9. Eat filet Americain
This Dutch delicacy, in a nutshell, is an unappealing raw-meat spread that goes on bread or crackers, or can be combined with raw onions and/or boiled egg.
Suspicious raw meat spread with a lethal reputation. Source: Takeaway/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0
You may encounter this monstrosity of a dish at a Dutch lunch or as a party appetiser. 🍞
10. Wash your hands? Never heard of it
Goes hand in hand with the finger-licking — no pun intended.
Even during the pandemic, the Dutch were stubborn on this one.
Dutchies not washing their hands is also, unfortunately, associated with visiting a particular room or space. 🚾
11. Wear outside shoes inside the house
Clogs or no-clogs, I think we can all agree on the foul things that can hang from the bottom of outside shoes — yet the Dutch don’t really differentiate between outside and inside shoes at all.
Concepts such as taking off your shoes when visiting a guest or switching to inside slippers when returning home are simply non-existent in the Dutch cultural dictionary. 👞
And those are all of the gooey, green, and gross habits the Dutch do. 🤢 At least we hope that’s all…
Got any other gross Dutch habits? Tell us in the comments below!
After several customers complained to the store about finding dead muizen(mice) in their bags of frozen green beans, Jumbo is removing the product from its shelves.
Imagine this: you’ve had a long day at work, and now that you’re home, you just want to make a quick, easy, healthy dinner for yourself before you crash face-first onto your pillow.
You open your delicious bag of green beans (your favourite veggie), pour them into the boiling pot, and — what’s that cold fuzzy thing floating in the middle?
A mouse!?
Just like that, Jumbo’s ruined your evening (and your appetite).
What happened?
Multiple customers, from Limburg to Rotterdam, called in and reported finding dead mice in the in-house brand of frozen green beans from Jumbo, reports NU.nl.
An affected couple in Rotterdam told AD that the experience made them “incredibly nauseous.” No kidding!
The mice were found in bags purchased in the last few weeks; as a precaution, Jumbo is removing all frozen green beans from its stores.
What can be done?
If you’ve purchased these green beans from Jumbo in recent weeks and have concerns, you can return the bags to the store for a full refund.
For now, it’s unclear how the mice got into the bags in the first place. Jumbo is working with the supplier for their private brand to investigate this gross mystery, reports NU.nl.
Let’s hope the future holds nothing but squeaky-clean (pun intended) bags of green beans. 😉
Have you been affected by the mouse-in-green-bean fiasco? Let us know in the comments!
