Should I rent short-stay first?

Many newcomers rent a furnished short-stay home for the first months while they look for something long term. Check that you can register at a short-stay address, because you need a registration for your BSN.

Does my employer help with housing?

Some employers offer relocation support or temporary housing. Ask early; it can make your first months much easier.

Do I need a Dutch bank account to rent?

Not always, but many landlords prefer rent paid from a Dutch or SEPA account. You usually need a BSN to open a Dutch account.

Expat and international worker renting checklist

Moving to the Netherlands for work means arranging a home, registration and paperwork in a short time. This checklist puts the steps in the order that usually works.

Last reviewed 12 November 2026. General information, not legal advice.

Before you move

Ask your employer about relocation support or temporary housing.
Book a furnished short-stay home for the first weeks or months if you need time to search, and check that you can register there.
Collect your documents: passport, employment contract, payslips, and legalised civil documents if your municipality needs them.

In your first weeks

Register at the municipality and get your BSN. See address registration.
Open a Dutch bank account and arrange Dutch health insurance if it applies to you.
Start your long-term search and set up alerts for the cities you are considering.

Signing a long-term lease

Read the contract type, notice period and costs. See rental contracts and deposit and costs.
Pay only after viewing and signing, to an account in the name of the landlord or agency.
Make an inspection report with photos when you get the keys.

Frequently asked questions

Should I rent short-stay first?: Many newcomers rent a furnished short-stay home for the first months while they look for something long term. Check that you can register at a short-stay address, because you need a registration for your BSN.
Does my employer help with housing?: Some employers offer relocation support or temporary housing. Ask early; it can make your first months much easier.
Do I need a Dutch bank account to rent?: Not always, but many landlords prefer rent paid from a Dutch or SEPA account. You usually need a BSN to open a Dutch account.