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Safety and Legal

International students in the Netherlands must prioritise their safety and legal considerations. With low crime rates, the country has a reputation for being one of the safest in Europe. However, it is critical to keep knowledgeable about local rules and regulations, particularly those pertaining to visas, residency permits, and healthcare. The Dutch legal system is fair and reasonable, but understanding your rights and obligations is critical. Furthermore, students should always carry documentation, such as a passport or residence permit, and get familiar with emergency contact numbers and local authorities. You can enjoy your Dutch trip with confidence and peace of mind if you follow the rules and remain cautious.

Biking in the City

Cycling Laws

Understanding bike laws in the Netherlands is vital for international students, as cycling is a popular and eco-friendly mode of transportation. Dutch cities are renowned for their bike-friendly infrastructure, but it's essential to adhere to traffic regulations. Always use designated bike lanes when available, signal your turns with hand gestures, and ensure your bike has proper lights for nighttime riding. Helmet use is not mandatory for adults, but it's highly recommended, especially for safety. Be mindful of pedestrians, and remember that running red lights or using a phone while cycling can result in fines. By familiarizing yourself with these bike laws, you can enjoy the Dutch cycling experience safely and responsibly.

Drinking Wine

Drinking

When it comes to drinking regulations in the Netherlands, students should be aware that the legal drinking age is 18 years old. Alcohol is widely available in pubs, restaurants, and shops, however purchasing or consuming alcoholic beverages when under the age of 18 is forbidden. These rules are taken seriously by Dutch authorities, and penalties for underage drinking can be harsh. Furthermore, public intoxication and disruptive behaviour can result in fines or even arrest. It is best to use alcohol safely and in moderation, and to always have a valid form of identification on hand when purchasing alcohol. Understanding and following these laws will ensure a safe and enjoyable study experience in the Netherlands.

Smoking

Smoking

It is critical for students in the Netherlands to understand the country's specific perspective on marijuana use. While the possession and sale of limited amounts of cannabis in licenced "coffee shops" is permitted, it is critical to understand the restrictions and limitations in place. Minors (those under the age of 18) are not permitted to purchase or consume cannabis, and smoking in public places or near schools is prohibited. When participating in such activities, international students should use caution and moderation and follow local legislation. To navigate the Netherlands' lenient approach to marijuana use while ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay, it is critical to stay aware and responsible.

Stone Road

Street Safety

In the Netherlands, which is famed for its safety and low crime rates, staying safe on the streets, even at night, is generally not a major issue. Nonetheless, common sense safeguards should be taken. Stick to well-lit places, especially when strolling alone, and if you're out late, use dependable transportation choices like taxis or dedicated night buses. Keep an eye on your stuff and avoid openly exhibiting valuables. While the Netherlands is a secure country, you should always be cautious of your surroundings and heed your instincts, just as you would in any other country.

Cooking

House Parties

When hosting or attending home parties in the Netherlands, it is critical to keep safety and legal factors in mind. While Dutch society encourages social gatherings, excessive noise and interruptions might result in legal problems. Learn about local noise restrictions, which differ by city, and always respect your neighbours. In addition, make sure you have adequate liability insurance in case of an accident. In terms of alcohol use, the legal drinking age in the Netherlands is 18, and public intoxication can result in penalties or legal issues. To enjoy the dynamic Dutch social scene responsibly, stay knowledgeable about local laws and ordinances, talk honestly with housemates and neighbours, and prioritise safety.

Finding a job in The Netherlands

Navigating the Dutch employment market as an international student might be difficult, but not impossible. When looking for work in the Netherlands, it's critical to establish an online presence through platforms like LinkedIn, maintain a professional social media presence, and adapt your CV and cover letter to the position you're going for. Work eligibility in the Netherlands normally requires a single permit, as well as having Dutch health insurance, a Burgerservicenummer (BSN), and conforming to time limits on working hours. After finishing your studies, you can apply for a residence permit for highly skilled migrants or look into the Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar) to look for work.


​Part-time, full-time, internships, traineeships, and remote work are all available in the Netherlands, each with its own set of time obligations and responsibilities. Furthermore, different organisation types—startups, scale-ups, and corporate firms—provide a variety of work experiences. Accounting, customer service, data science, design, education, engineering, finance, hospitality, human resources, IT, legal, logistics, marketing, public relations, sales, and more disciplines are available to you. You can use job aggregators, career fairs, universities, professional networks, open days, recruitment agencies, and firm career pages to find job listings and employment prospects.

Students considering studying in the Netherlands must be financially prepared. Begin saving while still in school to create a financial safety net for post-graduation job hunting. Banking alternatives range from conventional behemoths like ABN AMRO, ING Group, and Rabobank to innovative mobile banks like Bunq, N26, and Revolut. To navigate Dutch-only websites, simply right-click and select 'translate to English' in Google Chrome.

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Opening a Dutch bank account during your stay provides several benefits, such as paying for health insurance if you work in the Netherlands, receiving allowances, subscribing to services such as cell phone plans, and gaining access to cultural discounts. Most banks provide student account packages designed to students aged 18 to 30, including transaction, debit card payments, ATM withdrawals, transfers, and mobile banking.

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A valid evidence of identity (passport or ID card), proof of your Dutch address (housing contract), and, for non-EU/EEA students, registration with the Foreign Police and a residence permit are usually required to register an account. While cashless transactions are becoming more common, keep in mind that not all stores take cards. Learn about iDEAL, the most popular online payment option in the Netherlands, and about local and international money transfers through platforms such as Tikkie and Transferwise.

Banking Locally and Internationally in The Netherlands

Financial Aid for Housing Allowance and Insurance

Students studying in the Netherlands have access to a variety of financial aid and support alternatives. Huurtoeslag, or housing allowance, is based on rent, age, and household composition, and eligibility requirements include Dutch nationality, a valid residence permit, or EU/EEA citizenship, as well as registration with your municipality and an independent living space.

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Zorgtoeslag pays up to €104 for individuals and €199 for partners for healthcare expenses, depending on income and toeslagpartner status. Being 18 or older, having Dutch health insurance, and satisfying income and capital limitations are all requirements. Kinderopvangtoeslag, or childcare stipend, assists working parents or those in certified training with nursery fees, with amounts ranging according to income and hours worked.

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The kindgebonden budget covers child-rearing expenses and is automatically granted if you get Sociale Verzekeringsbank child benefit and meet Netherlands allowance rules. These allowances can be applied for via DigiD on the Belastingdienst website, and timely applications are critical to minimise delays. Consider student loans, scholarships, self-funding, private loans, jobs, and other financial alternatives to help you pay for your studies and living expenses.

In addition to student loans, overseas students in the Netherlands can apply for scholarships, which are financial rewards that do not have to be repaid. Scholarships are often awarded based on certain criteria, such as academic performance or special characteristics, and they might cover tuition fees or offer a stipend for other expenses.

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Scholarships in the Netherlands are available to a wide spectrum of students, including non-EU citizens. Students from Neso nations such as Brazil and Vietnam, for example, can apply for the Orange Tulip Scholarship Programme. The MENA Scholarship Programme is intended for those from the Middle East and North Africa who want to take short courses in subjects such as arts or economics. Furthermore, the Holland Scholarship is open to non-EEA students studying Bachelor's or Master's degrees and provides a grant of €5,000, with various academic institutions around the Netherlands participating. Explore the Nuffic scholarship search engine or visit the Study in Holland website for a comprehensive list of scholarships in the Netherlands, including those for non-EU students.

Applying for a Scholarship

Housing Contracts and Agreements

When living in student housing in the Netherlands, your rental contract contains important information for a smooth stay. These contracts often specify your semester dates as well as liability clauses for potential room damage. Regardless, every rental agreement should include important information such as tenant and landlord names, agreed monthly rent and payment method, property address, start and end dates, provisions for contract extension, house rules (including smoking and pet policies), utility arrangements (inclusive or exclusive of energy, water, and internet), and the landlord's responsibilities for repairs and maintenance.

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Rental contracts are classified into two types: fixed and indeterminate. Unless both parties mutually agree differently, fixed contracts require you to stay until the expiration date. Indefinite contracts provide greater flexibility, but can be cancelled by the landlord for valid legal reasons. Subletting, or allowing someone else to occupy your apartment and pay rent via you, is an option, but landlord authorization is required. Without a valid subletting contract, legal ramifications may occur. Furthermore, low-income students may be eligible for a monthly housing subsidy supplied by the Dutch government, and your deposit is usually guaranteed, unless you have unpaid rent, unreported damages, or fail to return the property in an acceptable state. Plan ahead of time to ensure a seamless deposit return process.

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