Analysis by Greenpeace has revealed that the amount of PFAS (also known as forever chemicals) in North and South Holland’s tap water is at an unacceptable level.
What counts as unacceptable? According to the RIVM, anything above 4.4 nanograms of PFAS per litre of water.
And just how much was found in our tap water? Well, in places like IJmuiden and Zaandam, that number is as high as 14.2 nanograms.
Wait, what are PFAS?
PFAS are a number of manmade chemicals that are very difficult to breakdown, hence the name “forever chemicals.”
They’re often used to make surfaces grease and waterproof, which means they’re found in a lot of everyday items such as your raincoat or your non-stick cookware.
The unfortunate thing is, they’re associated with health problems, such as increased risk of cancer.
Now, it’s important to know that in Europe, the legal maximum amount of PFAS is actually 100 nanograms per litre.
However, according to the RIVM, this number should actually be lowered to 4.4 nanograms per litre. It’s the typical health expert versus politician problem.
Although, to be fair, Dutch politicians agree with the RIVM that the amount of PFAs in Dutch drinking water should be lowered. Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management, Vincent Karremans, tells Nu.nl that he is working to tackle PFAS pollution.
So, just how much am I drinking?
If you live in North or South Holland, we can at least say we’ve won something. It’s just not a good trophy.
In North Holland, tap water in Amsterdam contains 9.3 nanograms of PFAS per litre. Around Alkmaar and Den Helder, it rises to 11.6 nanograms of PFAS per litre, according to Nu.nl.
Meanwhile, in South Holland, the numbers are slightly lower with the Rijnmond region has tap water containing 6.6 nanograms of PFAS per litre. Living around The Hague? Then you’re ingesting 8.3 to 8.7 nanograms of PFAS per litre.
But the tap water is safe to drink
While this may sound alarming, Greenpeace and the RIVM emphasise that the tap water is still safe to drink.
“It is not dangerous to drink that water,” an RIVM spokesperson tells Nu.nl. “You do see health effects, but that also depends on the level of exposure, age, overall health, and how much other PFAS you ingest.”
In fact, if you really want to worry about PFAS, then you should really look at the food you’re eating and the packaging you’re using. According to the RIVM, people ingest three times as much PFAS through their food than through drinking tap water.
So yes, don’t worry too much about the tap water, you have bigger problems.
Is it your first visit to the Netherlands? Or you’ve just moved here? Either way, here are some things that you might find both shocking and charming!
There’s nothing like a good love-hate relationship. So, let’s talk about it. 👇
1. Whirring bicycles from all directions
At first, I didn’t realise what exactly it was: love or hate. And then it hit me. No, literally — I was hit by a cyclist. 🚲
My friends from the Netherlands told me that when you’re an international in Amsterdam (and throughout the entire country), the chances of being in an accident involving a bicycle are considerably high.
You always hear that Dutch people like to bike their way to… well, everywhere, but still you are never prepared for the chaos of so many cyclists going in so many directions.
You’re used to watching out for the cars on the road, but something might just come and hit you from the other side. Bike paths are equally as important (and scary) as roads in the Netherlands! 👀
On my first visit to the Netherlands, I was impressed by the cycling skills of the Dutch and thought it must be great to travel safely by bike.
At the same time, though, I felt extremely annoyed because I wasn’t yet used to how organised everything was. I was under the impression that bikes keep coming randomly from all over the place to mess with my mind. 🤪
2. Ah, the Dutch weather!
Rain, rain and… of course, rain. Unpredictable and constantly shifting from crazy wind to rain to snow and some sun here and there if we’re lucky. That’s the Netherlands for you. Even the Dutchies complain about it all the time as well!
In Romania, the temperature can drop to -24 degrees Celsius in cold winters, but I never felt as frozen as during my first visit to the Dutch kingdom. 🥶
I’m used to the rain; we have it in our country, and it’s almost always present in the UK. But that wind in the Netherlands is something that enters your soul and doesn’t leave till you’re safe and sound inside. 💨
The weather in the Netherlands is less than ideal, with constant wind and rain. Image: DepositPhotos.com
Oh, but when you manage to catch a beautiful, sunny day, everything changes.
Life is better, coffee is sweeter, cyclists are your new best friends, and the sights are breathtaking: canals, charming houses, world-famous museums, lively art galleries, and colourful markets.
3. Dutch people’s directness
Speaking your mind is something that I value. But filtering is another action I’m fond of. If you have ever dealt with Dutch people, you’ll most likely want to tell them to filter their thoughts before they speak.
But Dutchies will never fail to tell you exactly what they think or feel. Their directness is something that may truly shock you at first.
Their genuine straightforwardness is something that might first appear as being rude, too honest, just too much. 😤
One piece of advice that I think will come in handy is to make sure you are good at standing up for yourself. Otherwise, you can easily become the victim in a conflict.
Over time, you learn to live with this, and sometimes, when you don’t get their blunt opinion on something, you may even start wondering what’s wrong. 🤷♀️
What are your favourite and least favourite parts about living in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below! 💬
Museum MORE is here to redefine your concept of a “museum trip” completely. Not only is this museum the largest museum of modern realism in Europe, but it also has two incredible, unique locations (one of which is in an actual castle!).
With two locations welcoming around 200,000 visitors between them each year, Museum MORE is a popular yet understated option for all you art lovers out there.
The two locations are in Gelderland: an architecturally stunning purpose-built museum in Gorssel and a genuine 16th-century castle full of history and art in Ruurlo.
So, what exactly is modern realism?
Modern realism is art that uses visible reality as its anchor: think paintings, drawings, and sculptures that look recognisably like the world around us.
Not abstract, not conceptual, but grounded in what the eye actually sees.
Museum MORE offers a mix of historic pieces and more recent modern realism. Image: MuseumMORE
Museum MORE describes its collection as “top figurative art from the 20th century to the present, with an emphasis on the 1920s and 1930s.”
Important names include Carel Willink, Jan Mankes, Charley Toorop, and Pyke Koch. These renowned artists worked in the Dutch tradition of precise, psychologically charged realism.
But MORE Museum isn’t just about looking back. Its mission is to bring realistic art to life by exploring the boundaries of reality itself. The result is a museum that feels alive rather than archival.
An education in duality
The collection at Museum MORE combines a strong Dutch core with an international context. Both locations feature permanent collection presentations alongside temporary exhibitions, bringing in artists from the Netherlands and abroad.
And that’s kind of the point. As MORE puts it, they want to showcase art that “seduces, moves, convinces, and stimulates,” art that brings “beauty, joy, doubt, and daring.”
The Museum MORE Gorssel location may not be a castle, but that doesn’t make it any less stunning.
This light-filled beauty of a building was designed by renowned museum architect Hans van Heeswijk, whose credits include the Mauritshuis in The Hague and the new entrance of the Van Gogh Museum.
The building was once the old village hall of Gorssel, dating from 1914, with contemporary pavilion-style extensions built around the original monument.
Each location may offer a different energy, but the one thing they have in common is high-calibre modern realistic art. Image: MuseumMORE
The atmosphere here is one of renewal and discovery: international, open, and a little playful. You’ll find a broad presentation of the permanent collection alongside two temporary exhibitions and a smaller rotating presentation.
Hans van Heeswijk took his talents from Gorssel to Ruurlo as well, making contemporary design feel at home in a building that has stood since the 1500s.
The atmosphere here is stately, enchanting, and deeply narrative. The permanent presentation centres on Carel Willink, one of the great Dutch magical realists, tracing the development of an artist who went from restless experimenter to unmatched master.
One exhibition rotates on the upper floor at any given time, so it’s worth checking the Ruurlo website for the most up-to-date information.
Practical information for your trip
Keen as a bean to check out Museum MORE? Here’s everything you need to know, from opening times and ticket prices to accessibility.
Gorssel
The museum Gorssel, located in a small but charming town in Gelderland, is easily reachable by car and public transport.
The museum is also fully wheelchair-accessible, with a dedicated entrance to the right of the main revolving door, a lift, loaner wheelchairs (free of charge, bookable up to 3 days in advance), and a wheelchair-accessible toilet on the ground floor.
Museum MORE’s Gorssel location is a stunning, light-filled architectural feat of imagination. And it’s full of art, too! Image: MuseumMORE
And don’t worry, you can bring the kids along! Children under 12 always get in free. The museum also has Kunsthuisjes: creative activity corners in the entrance hall where young visitors can draw, search, colour, and build their own still lifes.
During school holidays, there are extra activities, family days, and interactive tours. A digital family audio tour is available year-round. Perfect for the summer break!
The museum’s own Café MORE serves coffee and lunch, and is open even without a museum ticket.
💰 Price: Adults pay €19.50, children 12 to 18 pay €8.50, and kids under 12 enter for free. Museumkaart holders also enter for free
⏰ Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM
Kasteel Ruurlo
Also located in Gelderland, Kasteel Ruurlo is easily accessed by car. In terms of accessibility, the castle has a lift and welcomes visitors with mobility needs, but it’s worth knowing what to expect before you arrive.
As a historic building, it has some quirks, such as heavy doors and raised thresholds. Some rooms can still be accessed despite obstacles like these by alternative routes.
Yep, that’s a real-life castle. Kasteel Ruurlo seamlessly mixes regal history with a wealth of culture and art. Image: MuseumMORE
On the practical side, there’s a lift, a disabled toilet, a free loaner wheelchair, and reserved parking in the main car park. Bear in mind that the entrance to the castle is a short walk from where you park.
Families are very welcome, and children under 12 enter for free. The sprawling castle grounds are a paradise to explore. What’s more, just next door to this location is the largest hedge maze (heggendoolhof) in the world!
Within the castle grounds, the Oranjerie Ruurlo serves lunch with views over the castle and its English landscape garden, with no museum ticket required.
Ever wondered how New Amsterdam became New York? That’s because the Dutch once bought New York. The price tag? A measly $24.
The Dutch are known for being frugal — and that stinginess may have landed them one of history’s greatest deals.
They grabbed a piece of land now worth $1.7 trillion for mere pocket change. Or at least, that’s how the story goes. But how did the Dutch actually pull off such a steal?
The first settlers
Before the Dutch arrived in North America, the area where New York lies today was inhabited by Native Americans.
In 1624, the first Dutch settlers sailing under the Dutch West India Company arrived at the Hudson River and based themselves on what is now known as Governor’s Island.
With that, they essentially created the first permanent European settlement in the continental US — Fort Orange. Some time passed in the newly founded colony, and the tiny island soon started to become too small for the new inhabitants.
One year later, the Dutch established the colony of New Amsterdamon the southern part of Manhattan Island — a piece of land which, at that time, still belonged to the Native Americans.
Was it really a steal?
To fully legalise this settlement, Peter Minuit, the Dutch colonial governor of New Amsterdam at the time, needed to step in.
He offered the Natives trinkets and glass beads worth, in today’s money, around 24 bucks, in exchange for ownership of the land.
The famous Peter Minuit supposedly bought Manhattan for 24 dollars. Image: Unknown author/Wikimedia Commons/Public domain
This shameless deal sounds almost too good to be true. Why? Well, because it is.
Peter Schaghen — a representative of the Dutch West India Company — was the first one to mention this purchase of Manhattan Island in a letter to the other company’s representatives.
According to his letter, the Dutch actually bought Manhattan for the value of 60 Dutch guilders.
Some argue that these 60 guilders are equivalent to today’s 24 dollars. Yet this is also not entirely accurate.
This number was calculated by historians in the 19th century, but as we all know, the value of a currency can change a lot over the decades.
This means that the more accurate price for Manhattan in today’s money is around 1000 dollars! Perhaps a bit less of a steal now, but still pretty good if you think about New York’s property prices today. 😉
The fading new colony
Despite this successful purchase, the Netherlands and the West India Company had little interest in permanently colonising and developing the area of New Amsterdam.
Instead, they focused their attention on trade(particularly in fur and tobacco), which contributed to the general expansion of the Dutch empire.
The way the governance of the new colony was organised also didn’t really help the cause. The governors appointed by the Dutch West India Company were autocratic, ruthless, and not very popular with the colony’s inhabitants.
Why would the Dutch let such a precious piece of land fade away? The most likely reason for their lack of interest is the stability and prosperity of the Dutch Republic at that time.
With the absence of religious and political feuds, Dutchies back in Europe had no incentive to go chase their dreams in the newly established colony overseas.
Into the hands of the English
The lack of incoming migrants from the Netherlands, low investments, and despotic leadership eventually cost the Dutch their colony. In 1664, the English naval force sailed into the harbour and took over New Amsterdam without firing a single shot.
The governor of the time, Peter Stuyvesant, tried to resist the English takeover. However, this was ultimately unsuccessful because the inhabitants of New Netherland refused to help him.
The colony of 7,000 people accepted the English rule peacefully. Charles II of England gave the territory to his brother James II of England — the Duke of York — in whose honour it was later renamed New York.
The new governor appointed by James II treated the Dutch inhabitants well, allowing them to keep their land, language, and religion. However, peace didn’t last very long after this takeover.
Exchanging New York for Suriname
In 1672, the Third Anglo-Dutch War broke out. During this naval conflict between the Dutch Republic and the alliance of England and France, the Dutch seized New York again in 1673.
The seizure was short and sweet, as a year later, the Dutch signed a peace treaty with the English, which returned New York to the hands of the English.
As part of the same treaty, the Dutch were able to keep Suriname, which they’d captured a few years prior in South America.
Even though, at that point, the Dutch influence over New York’s future development diminished significantly, signs of their presence are still visible in the city today.
Some of the famous names, such as Haarlem or Brooklyn, come from their Dutch equivalents —Haarlem and Breukelen.
New York’s history is rich and fascinating. The role of the Dutch is just a speck, albeit an important one, in the city’s hundreds of years of existence.
Do you think the Dutch got a bargain with New York? What surprised you the most about this story? Let us know in the comments below!
Whether it’s hot tips on saving money or getting furniture up those narrow staircases, the Dutch are constantly coming up with innovative life hacks.
But what clever things are particularly Dutch? Here are just a few of the smart things Dutch people do — with a little help from our readers.
1. Be ready for rain on any occasion
If you live in a country that gets as much rain as the Netherlands, you should always be prepared.
Whether it’s constantly checking Buienradar (the Dutch rainfall app) before they leave the house, or carrying rain trousers just in case of an unexpected shower, the Dutch are masters at managing all things precipitation.
A little rain won’t stop a Dutch person from biking. Image: Magnific
Luckily, the Dutch have already considered this possibility. Some cities have conveniently placed large round rubbish bins along the cycle paths!
It stops littering and makes you feel like you’re playing some kind of Olympic sport, in which the Dutch would come out on top 🥇.
Go for a ride and a shoot when you need a small win and want to feel like Michael Jordan.
3. Make a country by building dikes
As an old saying goes, “God created Earth, but the Dutch created the Netherlands.” And okay, this is something the Dutch did a long time ago, but it’s still pretty “dam” impressive (pun intended 😉).
As a quick explanation, the Dutch reclaimed land from the sea by building many dikes and barriers to hold back water.
This practice began in the Middle Ages and increased tenfold during the Dutch Golden Age, when Dutch hydraulic engineers honed their skills.
4. Teach languages from a young age
You may have already twigged that the Dutch are the best non-native English speakers in the world since they seamlessly switch to English at the drop of a hat.
But how do they become so good at languages? Well, that’s because they start learning new languages in preschool.
It’s common in the Netherlands for children to attend bilingual (or even trilingual) kindergartens. This is smart to do while children are young and their brains are more adept at learning languages.
So don’t be surprised if a Dutch child starts talking to you in perfect English — they’re super evolved.
5. Master using a bike as a moving and delivery system
While we’re on bike-based multitasking, the Dutch balance as much as humanly possible on the back of a bike.
Have you seen Dutchies towing suitcases, sofas, and even fridges between bikes? Yes, it is both as mad and impressive as it sounds.
Dutchies also transport Christmas trees by bike in a holiday rendition of this skill. 🎄
6. Hang a birthday calendar in the toilet
While it may seem slightly strange to think about your family and friends’ birthdays in the same room that you *ahem* “attend to business”, it’s pants-droppingly clever.
How else will you remember to get your Aunt Inge her 50th birthday card if you’re not reminded every time you pee?
You also might’ve been tempted to add your name to an unsuspecting family calendar after a few too many biertjes.
7. Hoist furniture into a house using an external building hook
Since the canal houses in the Netherlands are so narrow, you need a way to get furniture up those deadly staircases. That’s where the hoisting hook comes in.
The hook is not just for decoration, it turns out! Image: DepositPhotos.com
Don’t worry, it’s not as morbid as it sounds.
You may have seen these large hooks hanging outside old Dutch houses. They’re used to pull furniture up by a rope pulley system, which most Dutch van rentals offer for just a few euros nowadays.
These wild gardens encourage bees to pollinate the flowers and increase the city’s biodiversity. Who said you can’t save the bees and look gorgeous simultaneously? 💁♀️
9. Have a jar scraper for that last bit of peanut butter
No one likes waste, especially not the Dutch. So, of course, they invented the flessenlikker.
This Dutch device translates to “bottle licker,” which ensures you get every bottle’s last drop of sauce.
It was introduced in the 60s, when manufacturers began packaging more food in glass containers. It’s now a staple of Dutch homes, so don’t be offended if they ask you to grab their flessenlikker.
10. Having the iDeal alternative to credit cards
When discussing smart apps, we must mention iDeal: the online payment system that links to your Dutch bank account.
No more typing in that long credit card number, which you’ll find yourself doing less since some sites only take iDeal payments.
The danger is that it makes spending far too easy, but at least you won’t rack up a hefty credit card bill, given that most Dutch people prefer to use debit cards or prepaid bank cards.
If you’ve been in the Netherlands for over a minute, you’ll have heard of Tikkie. The Dutch app makes it incredibly easy to send people money.
Going Dutch means paying your way. Image: DutchReview
Yes, you will get messages asking you for €0.50, but you’ll find yourself saying, “I’ll send you a Tikkie,” in no time.
You’ll never have to argue about splitting the bill again — you get to be the hero and still get paid back when you send your hungover Tikkies the next day.
12. Give fish doorbells so they can migrate through canals
Okay, it’s not a doorbell in the traditional sense.
Instead, underwater cameras at the Weerdsluis show how many fish are waiting at the lock. People watching online can press the doorbell when they see fish in the queue.
Utrecht’s canals are home to many different kinds of fish. Image: DepositPhotos.com
This might sound like something out of a Monty Python sketch, but it has been integral to helping fish migrate between water depths and to prevent predators from preying on the waiting fish en masse.
The native fish need to be in deeper water over the winter to keep warm and in shallower water in the spring to breed.
Ding dong! Who’s there? Innovation!
13. Build wildlife bridges for animals to cross highways
Have you spotted those beautiful bridges carved out of nature? As well as being stunning structures, ecoducts are a smart invention.
There are over 600 ecoducts spread across the country to let wild boar, deer, and other furry friends cross highways.
14. Openly talk about taboo topics
The Netherlands has a reputation for being progressive when it comes to sex and drugs.
Tourists flock to the country for many reasons, including visiting coffee shops and the Red Light District. But these progressive attitudes are more than just a tourist trap.
When debating with the Dutch, no topics are off the table.
Openly discussing sexuality and gender politics led to the Netherlands being the first country to legalise gay marriage. Of course, there is still progress to be made on many fronts, but the Dutch are at least open to discussing the big topics.
Unless it’s about having anything other than a sandwich for lunch. Trust us when we say there’s no room for debate there.🥪
15. Have two Christmas Days
Because why have one when you can have two? The more festivities, the better.
Now, we’re not talking about Sinterklaas — that’s a whole other kettle of fish.
We’re talking about the fact that the Dutch do all the feasting and present opening on Christmas day with one side of the family, then do it all again the next day with the other side.
So that’s two Christmas dinners, two lots of presents, and twice as many confused relatives when you explain what you “actually” do for work.
You’ll never have to argue about whose folks you’re going to, but you will be exhausted after two days of small talk and family politics.
What smart things have we left off the list? Tell us in the comments below!
Riot police broke up a far-right demonstration at The Hague’s Malieveld on Saturday after it turned violent, using a water cannon and pepper spray to clear the crowd.
They arrested 24 people and declared an emergency order for part of the city, all a year on from near-identical scenes at the same spot.
The protest was organised by a far-right group calling itself Wij Zijn Het Volk (We Are The People). A few hundred people turned up, many dressed in black, and things didn’t stay calm for long.
What happened on the Malieveld?
The city first banned a planned march through the centre, pointing to violence against police, general disorder, and demonstrators who refused to remove face coverings.
A linked rally was allowed to go ahead on the Malieveld, The Hague’s usual protest ground and one more used to hosting enormous but peaceful crowds. This time, though, the mood stayed tense.
When demonstrators kept hurling fireworks, sticks, and smoke bombs at police, the Mobiele Eenheid (riot police) moved in, NOS reports.
They turned a water cannon on the crowd and pushed it towards Den Haag Centraal station, cutting off routes into the centre. A noodbevel (emergency order) was declared, letting police remove anyone adding to the chaos.
Some protesters carried banners with racist slogans, alongside White Pride flags and Prinsenvlaggen, an old orange-white-blue Dutch flag now flown as a far-right symbol. Hitler salutes and antisemitic chants were also heard.
Journalists threatened and shoved into the water
Three journalists have since reported being threatened, filing complaints with PersVeilig, a Dutch organisation for press safety. Two say demonstrators intimidated them physically and verbally: one was shoved off a bench, the other deliberately tripped.
The third was a Spanish photographer who ended up in the water after a shove from an officer, camera and all, despite wearing his press pass. He says no one checked on him and that other photographers pulled him out, and he plans to file a complaint.
Police called it an unfortunate incident and say they’ve contacted both him and the Dutch journalists’ union.
Those detained were held on suspicion of carrying illegal weapons, such as knives or brass knuckles, and ignoring the emergency order, with reporters at the scene noting that minors were among them.
By Sunday, all 24 had been released, most of them the same day, though police say they’ll still have to answer for their actions later.
Justice Minister Van Weel called the footage “disgusting” and pushed for a firm crackdown, while Prime Minister Rob Jetten condemned the “excessive violence” against police and the antisemitism on display.
The Hague’s deputy mayor praised officers for stopping the trouble from spilling into the centre.
The timing was hard to miss. It came a year after the far-right “Els Rechts” riots on the very same field, when police cars were set alight and the office of party D66 was damaged. That day eventually led to 51 convictions.
Have Dutch protests felt more tense to you lately? Share your take in the comments below
Anyone who has taken any flight in recent years is used to hearing the following announcement: “The use or charging of power banks is not permitted onboard.” But hey, if you’re a former KLM director, the rules don’t apply.
At least, this is what former KLM director and former CDA politician Camiel Eurlings apparently thought.
According to Nu.nl, Eurlings was on a KLM flight from Amsterdam to Curaçao when his power bank exploded.
Fell asleep while it was charging
Despite the fact that warnings about the use of power banks were announced multiple times throughout the flight, it seems that the former director forgot that they also applied to him.
Sources tell Nu.nl that Eurling fell asleep while charging his power bank in business class. It then exploded with a loud crash.
However, a KLM spokesperson speaking with Nu.nl refused to confirm whether it was Eurling, who is also the current director of investment fund Knighthood Capital Partners — and serves on the Supervisory Board of Bonaire International Airport.
They did confirm that the man involved sustained burns.
Staff acted quickly
Thankfully, while the former director may have forgotten protocol, staff members certainly didn’t.
A fire broke out on board the flight, however, the crew extinguished it quickly. The flight then turned around and returned to Amsterdam.
Moving to the Netherlands, as exciting as it is, comes with many unexpected hurdles. One of them is opening a bank account before you have a BSN.
Your BSN (Burgerservicenummer) is your Dutch social security number, used for various administrative and governmental purposes.
You receive this crucial nine-digit number when you register at your local municipality, but there’s a catch. During busy times, like when many international students arrive in the Netherlands, getting an appointment for that BSN can take weeks.
This inevitably slows down tasks like opening a bank account, which delays finding a job, securing an apartment, or simply starting your new life.
Why does it matter?
In the Netherlands, having a Dutch bank account is crucial for many everyday tasks. Whether you’re signing up for a gym membership, shopping at your local supermarket, or getting a Dutch SIM card, a local bank account makes life much easier.
On top of that, companies or housing corporations may require you to have a Dutch bank account to receive your salary or pay your rent.
Once you get a local bank account, your new Dutch life can truly start. Image: Freepik
There’s just one small issue: To get a bank account with most traditional banks, you’ll have to provide your BSN (AKA, a little number that can sometimes take weeks to get).
To make things even more frustrating, international cards sometimes don’t work in the Netherlands, and when they do, you might face unfavourable conversion rates, high FX fees, and charges for withdrawing cash.
That’s where ING comes in.
How to open an ING account without a BSN
So, how do you go about opening your ING account before you have a BSN? It’s simple!
You can open an ING bank account without a BSN, the same way as if you had a BSN. The only difference is that you provide your BSN number within 90 days of opening the account.
Online
Do you like to do things from the comfort of your couch? Open your brand-new Dutch bank account with just a few taps on your phone! Here’s how:
Provide a valid form of identification, i.e. a European ID card, a resident permit, or a passport, and supply some basic personal details.
Note: If you are onboarding with your international passport from a non-EEA country, you may have to upload your MVV document.
Choose your payment package, either the normal Orange Package or the Orange Package with a discount.
Get banking! You can start using your account right away, and you’ll have your debit card sent to your home within five business days.
Opening a bank account has never been easier! Image: Freepik
In person
If you prefer to handle your finances in person or can’t be helped from a distance, going to an ING branch is your best bet. Here’s how:
Find an ING branch in your area using ING’s branch locator tool, if you haven’t already come across one while exploring your new home. Simply type in your postcode, and you’re good to go.
💡 Tip: Make sure you’re looking for an “ING kantoor” (office), not a service desk!
Make an appointment with ING using the online chat function or by contacting customer support by phone. You can call ING at 020 22 888 88 (on weekdays between 8.30 AM and 5 PM).
Prepare the necessary documents to take to the branch with you. You’ll need valid proof of identity, proof that you live, work, or study in the Netherlands, and (if applicable) an MVV document.
Head to your appointment and let ING’s experts help you set up your account.
You can inform ING of your BSN as soon as you receive it, but you’ll have a generous 90-day window to do so.
If you fail to provide your BSN in the given timeframe, your account will, unfortunately, have to be blocked. But don’t worry, 90 days should be able time to get your municipality appointment sorted and receive that shiny new BSN.
Once you have those nine digits in hand, you can provide them to ING by simply heading to the personal information tab in your ING app.
Thanks to ING’s new feature, there’s no more waiting for bureaucracy to drag on and on. Instead, you can get a head start on your Dutch finances — and your new life in the Netherlands. ✨
Do you already have your BSN in the Netherlands? How long did you wait for it? Share your experience in the comments.
Dutch savings accounts have increased their interest rates in recent years, but to get the best interest rate for your savings, you need to know where to look.
We regularly search and uncover the best rates so you can find the best savings accounts in the Netherlands.
Currently, Trade Republic offers some of the best interest rates in the Netherlands, with 3% interest on your savings for new customers. Even better? With a Dutch IBAN, zero subscription fees, and a plethora of investment opportunities, it’s our top pick for an all-in-one financial app.
Here are the Dutch banks with the best interest rates.
This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement.
The best savings accounts in the Netherlands
We’ve found the highest interest rates, best banks, and best accounts to earn interest on your money.
Offering up to a generous 3% interest on savings of up to €100,000 and a Dutch IBAN, Trade Republic is a stellar banking platform for the financially savvy in the Netherlands.
With zero account fees, interest paid monthly, and the ability to freely withdraw your funds whenever you please, Trade Republic is ideal for anyone who wants an all-in-one financial platform.
📈 Current rate: 2.25% (3% for new customers) 💶 Withdrawals: Yes, free 🇬🇧 Available in English: Yes
Thanks to Revolut’s Instant Access Savings account, you can get up to a whopping 2.5% interest on your money, with daily interest payments and no minimum deposit requirements.
Plus, their speedy, fee-free withdrawals give you full control over where your money goes, while their special round-up feature helps you save spare change — supercharging your savings goals.
📈 Current rate: 2.5% 💶 Withdrawals: Yes 🇬🇧 Available in English: Yes
The Netherlands’ very own neobank, bunq, offers up to 3.01% on personal savings accounts of up to €100,000. Want to save in USD or GBP instead? That’ll net you the same rate!
Interest is paid weekly, and the account is completely free! Best of all, you can open an account and start earning interest in just five minutes.
📈 Current rate: 3.01% 💶 Withdrawals: Yes, two per month 🇬🇧 Available in English: Yes
Santander offers a reliable home for your money, with a generous 2.10% interest. It’s ideal for those who want the security of a major global bank while still beating the low rates of traditional Dutch banks.
With no account fees, interest paid out monthly, and a welcome rate of 3.01% for new customers, it’s a great option for giving your savings a boost.
📈 Current rate: 2.10% (up to 3.01% promo for six months) 💶 Withdrawals: Yes, daily access 🇬🇧 Available in English: No (Dutch website/app)
Raisin isn’t a bank; instead, it’s a platform that offers various accounts from European banks, enabling you to access the best rates on the continent. Raisin continues to offer many ever-changing offers on its site, and it’s best to check these yourself.
One account with Raisin gets you the best rates in Europe, where savings account interest rates can be as high as 3.05%!
📈 Current rate: 2.35% (EuroExtra) 💶 Withdrawals: Yes 🇬🇧 Available in English: Yes
With rates up to 1.45%, ABN AMRO might not have the highest interest rates for savings in the Netherlands, but it offers all the reliability of a brick-and-mortar bank.
Got some spare cash you’d like to put away for a rainy day? ABN Amro’s fixed deposits can net you up to 2.7%, though you’ll need to make a minimum deposit of €500 for several years.
📈 Current rate: Up to 1.45% 💶 Withdrawals: Yes 🇬🇧 Available in English: Yes
What to know about savings accounts in the Netherlands
Interest rates on savings in the Netherlands
Now, let’s talk about interest rates. The Dutch have a saying: “Don’t count your tulips before they bloom.” That applies to savings rates, too. In recent years, rates have been on the lower side, even threatening to go into the negatives for a while.
Luckily, they’ve since taken a turn for the better, and now it’s really worth putting your money into a Dutch savings account.
To get the best possible rates on savings, it’s often worth looking for financial platforms like Trade Republic and Raisin (or neobanks like bunq and Revolut) to earn the highest interest rates in Europe.
The Netherlands also has a very beneficial tax situation for investing in your pension, with platforms like Brand New Day offering great options.
Safety of Dutch savings accounts
The Netherlands is known for its impressive banking system.
The Dutch Central Bank regulates the banks here, so you can rest easy knowing your hard-earned cash is in safe hands. Just make sure to choose a bank that’s as solid as the Dutch dikes!
When it comes to safety, European banks, in general, are solid. Thanks to the Deposit Guarantee Scheme (DGS), your savings are protected up to €100,000 per person, per bank.
Even if your bank decides to do the unthinkable and go belly-up, the DGS will swoop in and save the day.
Banking and finances CAN be stress-free! Image: Magnific
Before you start socking away your euros, keep in mind that some savings accounts in the Netherlands might have a few rules.
They can be as strict as not eating cheese with your hands (which, let’s be honest, is impossible) or as reasonable as limiting the number of withdrawals you can make in a specific period.
Just make sure to read the fine print and choose an account that fits your needs, like a well-fitted pair of wooden clogs.
History of Dutch interest rates and savings
Now, let’s talk history. Did you know that the Dutch have been saving money since before bicycles were cool? It’s true! The Netherlands has a long tradition of frugality and financial prudence.
Perhaps it’s because they want to save up for endless amounts of cheese and stroopwafels. Whatever the reason, the Dutch know a thing or two about growing their savings like tulips in a sun-drenched field.
Taxes on Dutch savings accounts
Now, when it comes to taxes, the Dutch take it seriously. You don’t want to end up in a fiscal maze, do you? Consult a tax advisor or financial pro to understand your obligations and make sure you’re not caught off guard.
Trust us, you don’t want to experience the wrath of the Dutch taxman.
In a nutshell, Dutch savings accounts are as reliable as tulips popping up in spring. Do your research, compare rates, and find a bank that makes you feel like you’re floating through a canal of financial bliss.
With a bit of Dutch determination and a pinch of cheese-loving frugality, you’ll master the art of saving money in the Netherlands — and earning some extra cash on it too. 😉
Do you have any money-saving tips? Tell us in the comments!
Disclaimer: This article offers general financial advice. If you are looking for more specific and personal advice, we suggest checking in with a financial expert (or just turning to your mattress stuffed with cash).
Frequently asked questions: Dutch savings accounts with the best interest rates
Can I open a savings account in Europe outside of the EU country where I live?
Yes. You can do this as long as you have legal residence or citizenship from an EU country.
What is a fixed-rate savings account?
A fixed-rate savings account stashes your money away for a set period of time at a set interest rate — sometimes, you’ll be able to choose how long your money is “locked” away for and sometimes, this is set by the bank beforehand.
Interest rates for a fixed-rate account can be higher compared to standard savings accounts, but if you access your savings account before the end of the term, you may have to pay a fee.
Different banks have different policies about duration, interest rates, and depositing/withdrawing money from the accounts, so it’s best to check your options before putting your eggs into one basket. 🥚
What does it mean if a savings account is freely withdrawable?
A freely withdrawable savings account means you can withdraw as much money as you want, whenever you want, free of charge. This feature is especially useful if you want some flexibility with your savings.
When moving to a new country, there are a lot of things you may not think about at first — even though they will greatly affect you. An example? The local employment laws.
We’re sorry for coming at you with such Dutch directness, but it’s true: the intricacies of Dutch labour law aren’t always easy to wrap your head around (especially as non-Dutch-speaking expats like us 😉).
That’s why I asked the experts! From sick leave to dismissal and from obligations to rights, I sat down with GMW lawyers to discuss the most important things to know as an international working in the Netherlands.
Meet the experts
Founded in 1989, GMW lawyers is a law firm based in The Hague offering various legal services.
I had the pleasure of meeting two of their best employment lawyers, Godelijn Boonman and Seliz Demirci, at their charming office to chat about Dutch labour law.
I asked all the most burning questions. Image: DutchReview
Having worked in employment law for more than 33 years, Godelijn tells me that she “enjoy[s] working with internationals because it always brings me to another country.”
After all, “employment law is employment law,” she smiles, “but it’s the people with whom I work that make all the difference.”
Seliz, who also specialises in employment law, agrees: “Working with internationals is refreshing. It’s nice to get an international perspective on how we do things here in the Netherlands.”
Now, the question is: How do they do things here in the Netherlands? What do expats need to know? What should we be wary of? I asked all the questions; here’s what Seliz and Godelijn had to say. 👇
So, what do internationals need to know about working in the Netherlands?
Naturally, working conditions, culture, and employment law vary greatly per country. That’s why it’s a great idea to read up on the local legislation before accepting a job abroad.
When it comes to the Netherlands, you’ll be happy to hear that your working conditions will most likely be similar — or better! — than those in your home country.
“Overall, we have a very strong protection of employees in the Netherlands”, says Godelijn, “not like in the US and the UK, for example. Internationals are usually happily surprised.”
☝️ In the Netherlands, your employer can’t fire you ‘just because’
Firstly, you should know that you can’t get fired in the Netherlands just because your boss’s cat got sick in their bed that morning. Your boss must provide a solid case for why you should be let go.
In almost all cases, your boss first has to give you the opportunity to improve. Image: DepositPhotos.com
“What makes a big difference in the Netherlands is our closed dismissal system,” Seliz explains. “We have nine legal grounds stipulated in law — and an employer needs to stand on at least one of them (or a combination of them) to be able to let someone go.”
Each of these legal grounds also comes with specific obligations for the employer. “For example, if an employee underperforms, the employer has to give them a chance to improve.”
“That means you cannot fire someone just because you don’t like them”, she tells us.
In general, employees in the Netherlands aren’t fired willy-nilly, and if you have a permanent contract and don’t agree with the dismissal proposed by your employer, then the only way you can be let go is in court.
The only exception to this rule is if you are a statutory director, in which case the shareholders can dismiss you without first going to court.
🤧 You can get sick pay for a very long time
Another important aspect of your work rights in the Netherlands is your right to sick leave (ziekteverlof in Dutch).
“The internationals I speak to are always surprised by this,” says Seliz.
Why? Well, in the Netherlands, your employer is obligated to pay you a whopping two years of sick leave if you fall ill and cannot do your job.
Feeling sick or burnt out? As part of your employee rights in the Netherlands, you will still receive a salary. Image: DepositPhotos.com
By law, your Dutch employer must continue paying at least 70% of your salary (up to a maximum monthly wage, which is now €6,617.44 gross) — and many employers even choose to pay the full amount during the first year of illness.
Also good to know: In the first year you are sick, you are entitled to at least the minimum wage, even if this is more than 70% of your salary.
In the second year of illness, your sick leave pay may be less than the minimum wage.
Dutch labour law is elaborate and complex — but it’s good to know that, in most cases, the law is on the employee’s side. 😉 Got any questions about Dutch law or a specific situation you’d like to discuss? Geen probleem!
👩💻 Working from home is not a right in the Netherlands
I’ll be honest: For the longest time, I was convinced that the right to remote work was legally prescribed in the Netherlands — but it’s not.
Yup, although the Netherlands is often dubbed the “WFH capital of Europe”, and almost 75% of employees in the Netherlands work remotely at least some of the time, “it is not a legal right to work from home in the Netherlands”, says Godelijn.
This one may come as a surprise, but your Dutch employment rights do not include the right to work from anywhere. Image: DepositPhotos.com
That being said, there’s no need to worry. Especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, most employers in the Netherlands allow their workers to work from home on at least a part-time basis.
Let op: working from home means working from home, as the lawyers tell me — unfortunately, you can’t just bog off to Thailand for 8 months and work from there (sorry!).
The Dutch government had previously proposed a “working from anywhere” law, but this was rejected.
Good to know: If working from home is not the norm in your company, you can simply make a request to work remotely with your employer. This request must be made in writing two months ahead of time, and your employer can only reject it for valid business-related reasons.
🇳🇱 Cultural differences will affect you in the workplace
It’s no myth that the Dutch are famously direct. “That’s the first thing internationals have to be aware of when working in the Netherlands”, Godelijn laughs. At the same time, Dutch work culture is very non-hierarchical.
In the workplace, this combination can be lethal — or, well, it can end in conflict. Godelijn explains: “A lot of Dutch people need to learn that their jokes can harm people, even if they think it’s just a joke.”
“A Dutch employer once called me about a joke that was made on the work floor. A person had made fun of an Asian employee for not being able to pronounce the English “r”-sound.”
She adds: “The Dutch person just didn’t understand how that was a problem. To him, it was ‘just a joke’.” That’s how cultures can clash and situations can get sticky.
“Especially Christmas parties seem to have a bad reputation.” Image: DutchReview
Seliz agrees: “Internationals often say that Dutch people make a lot of silly jokes. We want to keep things gezellig — but in other countries, jokes aren’t made that freely, especially not at work”.
At the same time, Seliz and Godelijn agree that “internationals can sometimes be a little sensitive sometimes, too.”
“Yes, sometimes things should be done differently,” Godelijn says, “but a lot of the time, it’s not as serious as internationals make it out to be. Both sides need to adjust to each other.”
Did you know: Conflicts like these don’t always require a legal battle. Instead, it may be a good option to talk to a mediator or to make an internal complaint. “My tip for internationals,” says Seliz: “always communicate openly with your employer”.
📑 If your one-year contract doesn’t get extended, your employee rights are limited
Although, in most ways, the Netherlands is a true haven when it comes to employment law, one big issue still affects many international employees in the Netherlands: temporary contracts.
Especially for internationals who have moved their whole life to a different country, not knowing for how long they will be employed can be a very stressful situation.
Contract up? You may just have to pack your things. Image: DepositPhotos.com
But why are temporary contracts such a big thing here?
“It’s probably because of the many employee-friendly clauses in Dutch employment law”, Godelijn thinks. “Because employees are protected in such a high way, employers are often wary when starting with new employees.”
She explains: “Legally, companies can offer three one-year contracts before someone has to be given a permanent contract, but decent employers usually don’t wait out the three years. They should do one year and then move onto the permanent contract.”
The bad news? If a one-year contract runs out, “there are no legal obligations because the contract ends by operation of law.”
That means there will be no severance pay other than the statutory one, which amounts to 1/3rd of a month’s salary per worked year. Even if you are sick, your employer can simply let your contract run out.
What is your experience with the Dutch job market? Share your thoughts in the comments!
