The Dutch housing market has long been a subject of intrigue, especially for expats looking to make the Netherlands their home. Recently, some distinct shifts in Dutch house prices have been observed in the market, painting an interesting picture for potential homeowners. The Numbers According to recent reports from Statistics Netherlands (CBS), there has been a 2.3% decrease in house prices compared to the previous year. In a surprising twist, however, there was a minor uptick of 0.7% in house prices in October compared to September 2023. This minor increase is part of a larger narrative tha ..read more

So you’ve navigated the pitfalls of the market and found your Dutch dream home! Congratulations! You have many years of happy, gezellig living ahead of you. But before you get carried away with plans for a housewarming, there’s one more thing to contend with. Like most countries, the Netherlands charges a property transfer tax. Expats from places like the US or Ireland might not initially think that’s a huge deal. But the Netherlands has a higher potential rate than those places. Internationals need to plan for paying transfers as part of their acquisition. At a time when so much of your life ..read more

When you think of Amsterdam, what pops into your mind? There’s a reason Amsterdam is sometimes called the Venice of the North. It’s renowned for its canals! So, it makes sense that one of the best ways to explore the charm of Amsterdam is by renting a boat. But where to start? In this article, we explain how to rent a boat in Amsterdam, with essential tips and suggestions on where to start. So, grab your life jacket and climb aboard! Why Rent a Boat in Amsterdam? Why not?! Imagine exploring one of Europe’s most iconic cities by water, navigating through its winding canals and waterways. Or, i ..read more

The holiday season is on the horizon. It’s time to plan your journey back home, where beloved family and friends await. You know how happy they will be to welcome you back. But imagine seeing the joy in their eyes grow even brighter when you gift them a slice of your Dutch life. What a heartwarming feeling! But what should you bring? We’ll answer this question with 8 Dutch gift ideas for your nearest and dearest. A Pair of Wooden Clogs Bring home a charming symbol of Dutch heritage and ancient tradition. The traditional wooden shoe has deep roots in Dutch culture since the early 13th century ..read more

As an expat, life is busy and constantly changing. Yet, amidst them all, it is essential not to overlook your dental health! Navigating a foreign healthcare system can be challenging. However, with the right choices, you’ll show off those pearly whites in no time. In this article, we’ve compiled seven valuable tips for finding the right dentist in the Netherlands. Ready to get your teeth into our list? Read on! 1. Understand the Dutch Healthcare System & Health Insurance Before diving into your search for a dentist in the Netherlands, you must understand the Dutch healthcare system. This ..read more

Curious about news in the Netherlands but worried about the language barrier? Fret not! This comprehensive guide is your key to unlocking Dutch news without becoming a language expert first. Discover the vibrant media landscape of the Netherlands with ease. Understanding the Dutch Media Landscape The Netherlands offers a rich array of news sources ranging from traditional newspapers and TV channels to digital platforms. As an expat, you’ll find a blend of Dutch and English options to stay informed and connected. But remember, it’s not just about the news in the Netherlands but also about unde ..read more

For expats living in the Netherlands, the landscape around dual citizenship could be on the brink of change. Two influential Dutch political parties, the centrist D66 and the left-leaning coalition of GroenLinks-PvdA, are renewing their efforts to modernize the nation’s dual citizenship laws. The parties have updated their original 2016 proposal and are pushing for it to become a bill, slated for debate after the November 22 national elections. Current State of Dual Citizenship in the Netherlands The Dutch stance on dual nationality is among Europe’s most restrictive. Presently, Dutch citizen ..read more

Attention, expats: a recent report may hold particular significance, especially for those concerned about sustainability and environmental degradation. The Statistical Overview Statistics Netherlands (CBS) released its latest Internationalisation Monitor, revealing that the Netherlands is the European Union’s largest importer of goods outside the EU associated with deforestation and land degradation. Among the key commodities in question are soy, palm oil, and cocoa. This data comes in the wake of new rules adopted by the European Council in May to curtail consumption and trade activities wit ..read more

The Netherlands is well-known for many things. Think stroopwafels, windmills, and armies of cyclists. But did you know that the Netherlands is also renowned for the quality of its drinking water? As an expat, you might need to get used to being able to drink straight from the tap in your home country. In the Netherlands, it’s a different story! Read on to discover why Dutch tap water is exceptionally pure and safe. Plus, we give an overview of what you should consider if you prefer bottled water. So, are you ready for some much-needed hydration? Tap Water in the Netherlands – What’s the Deal ..read more

Dutch snacks, Europe’s best-kept secret. They might not have the global fame of Italian or French cuisine, yet, they are delightful, exciting, and packed with history. They offer a flavorful range of experiences, from the crunch of savory bites to the sweet, creamy desserts that’ll make your taste buds dance. Expat Republic is here to guide you through the 10 must-try Dutch snacks waiting to be explored. 1. Patat (Fries) Our journey begins with the Dutch version of fries, known as “patat.” But these aren’t just any fries; they are thick, golden, and irresistibly crispy. These fries are usuall ..read more