The Netherlands has become one of the go-to destinations for UK professionals and families relocating to Europe. The English-language infrastructure, the density of international employers in Amsterdam and The Hague, and the quality of life in cities like Rotterdam and Utrecht make it an obvious choice for many. The move, however, requires more preparation than it did before Brexit.
1. The customs process
Like all UK–EU moves post-Brexit, a removal from the UK to the Netherlands requires full customs documentation on both sides. On the UK side, this means an export declaration. On the Dutch side, goods arrive under a T1 transit document and are subject to import customs processing by the Dutch authorities (Douane). If you’re establishing permanent residence in the Netherlands and bringing your personal belongings from outside the EU, you can apply for Transfer of Residence Relief (Verhuisboedelvrijstelling in Dutch) — which allows duty-free and VAT-free import of household goods. The application goes to Dutch customs and must be submitted before your goods arrive. Timing matters.tination.
2. Registration: what to do first
On arrival, your first priority is registering with the municipality (gemeente) where you’ll be living. This gives you a BSN (Burger Service Nummer) — the Dutch equivalent of a National Insurance number, needed for everything from opening a bank account to registering with a GP. Some municipalities have dedicated expat desks that handle English-language registration. Book the appointment before you arrive if you can; waiting times in Amsterdam and Rotterdam can run to several weeks.
3. Healthcare
The Dutch health system requires residents to take out Dutch health insurance (zorgverzekering) within four months of registering. There are multiple providers, premiums are broadly similar across the market, and some international employers subsidise coverage. The government healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag) may apply
depending on your income.
4. What to tell your removal company
Mention early if you’ll be moving to a city-centre apartment — particularly in Amsterdam, where canal houses have narrow staircases and furniture often needs to be hoisted through windows. This is common and manageable, but it affects how the move is planned and priced.
Ask specifically about Transfer of Residence Relief and whether the company handles he Douane application or expects you to manage it separately. Companies with regular UK–Netherlands experience will have a straightforward process for this.
If you’re planning a family move from the UK to Europe and want to talk through the logistics – timelines, packing, pet transport, customs – get in touch. We’ve moved a lot of families, with a lot of dogs, and we’re happy to help you think it through before you commit to anything.
JCL Transport Group offers door-to-door international removals from the UK to Europe. We handle customs clearance in-house and work with families relocating to Spain, France, Poland, the Netherlands and beyond.
