Working and living in the Netherlands?
Do you have questions about your job, housing or healthcare? Or do you have a problem and don’t know what to do? We are here to help. The Work in NL information point helps migrant workers with free information and personal support. You can visit us, call or Whatssapp us or meet us at your workplace.
We speak: English, Polish, Romanian, Bulgarian, Dutch. You can change the language of this page with the buttons below.
Work in NL
When you move to the Netherlands for work, there is a lot to arrange. The website workinnl.nl explains your rights and outlines the essential steps to take, such as arranging healthcare, accommodation, and registration. This information helps you live and work in the Netherlands in a safe, healthy, and fair way.
Visit Work in NL website
Useful information
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Problems or questions?
Do you have a problem in your work or living situation? Do you know your rights? Or do you have questions? The FairWork Foundation offers free information and support.
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Navigating Dutch Healthcare
How does the Dutch healthcare system work? Visit the healthcare guide in the link below to find out. And ask your healthcare related questions via an e-consult at this online general practice.
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Local support
Do you have a problem such as homelessness or addiction? The Barka Foundation can provide you with the opportunity to reconnect and socially reintegrate in the Netherlands.
Register in the Netherlands
The first step you need to take when you arrive in the Netherlands is to register with the Dutch authorities. You will receive a (temporary) BSN number, which you will need to arrange you healthcare, accommodation, and more.
Staying for four months or less
If you are staying in the Netherlands for less than four months, you officially don't need to register with the municipality. However, if you want to work or access services like healthcare, you require a citizen service number (BSN). To receive a BSN you need to register for a short stay in the Netherlands. Learn more about RNI registration on this website of the city of Utrecht (in English).
Instructions in English
- Choose a product: select ‘Burgerzaken’ and choose 'RNI inschrijving (RNI registration)' .
- Choose location: select ‘Publiekszaken’.
- Choose a date and time: to have your appointment.
- Your details: provide your personal details: first name, last name, date of birth and email address and confirm your email address.
- Submit: agree with the privacy policy, submit your application and wait for the confirmation email.
What to bring
- A valid proof of identity.
- A completed registration form (available in 15 languages) - click here to download the form.
- If applicable, a proof of legal residence in the Netherlands (residence permit, provisional residence permit (MVV) or a proof of application for such a permit).
Staying for longer than four months
If you are staying in the Netherlands for longer than four months, you need to register with the municipality. You need to make an appointment within five days of your arrival. If you are going to live in Utrecht, Amersfoort, Woerden or Oudewater you can register at the International Welcome Centre Utrecht Region via the link below. If you are living in another city or town, please content them to make an appointment.
Instructions in English
- Choose a product: select ‘Utrecht International Center’ and indicate how many people will come to the appointment.
- Choose location: select ‘Publiekszaken’.
- Choose a date and time: to have your appointment.
- Your details: provide your personal details: first name, last name, date of birth and email address and confirm your email address.
- Submit: agree with the privacy policy, submit your application and wait for the confirmation email.
What to bring
- A valid proof of identity.
- A valid contract of purchase or lease of your home, or your proprietor’s permission; ask your proprietor to complete this form.
- If applicable, a proof of legal residence in the Netherlands (residence permit, provisional residence permit (MVV) or a proof of application for such a permit).
Contact
Visit us on weekdays
You can visit us every Tuesday from 17:00 to 19:00 at the Utrecht International Center, second floor of the Stadskantoor (Stadsplateau 1).
Contact us by telephone/WhatsApp
Please contact us and make an appointment +31 6 18773781 telephone/WhatsApp.
Legal Help Desk
From Tuesday 12 May until 3 August 2026, two legal advisors from the Legal Help Desk for labour migrants will be available every Tuesday from 5:00–7:00 PM at the WIN Information Point in Utrecht.
Visit the Work in NL website
Do you have other questions about living and working in the Netherlands? All the information you need to get off to a good start in the Netherlands can be found on Work in NL.
Brought to you by
The Utrecht International Center. We provide a warm welcome to all internationals living, working and studying in Utrecht Region.
More info about our free services
