The Netherlands beyond clogs and tulips

The Netherlands is a modern, open minded, multicultural country and very welcoming to skilled immigrants. The weather is moderate and despite being over populated, the flat country is attractive to cyclists, ice-skaters and beach lovers. English is widely spoken and information about most services can be easily found on the internet, from tax forms to jobs and accommodations databases. The healthcare and the social services are among the best in the world, particularly for pensioners and the elderly.

The hardest part is getting in. Immigration policies have been made stricter in recent years. Like citizens of other EU member countries, many Dutch people are concerned about immigration floods and that their national identity will be compromised. The government has, therefore, taken reactionary measures to control immigration and require civil integration. People who do not respect the Dutch values of tolerance and religious and sexual freedom are not welcomed. Those who choose to make the Netherlands their new home can expect much respect for their cultural backgrounds, but they will also be expected to eventually learn Dutch and integrate culturally.


The Netherlands is...
A country below sea level | This is one of the most fascinating geographical and historical facts about the Netherlands and the Dutch people, who have claimed their land from the sea, using windmills and dykes.

Sex and drugs | The Netherlands is famous for its open-minded approach to soft drugs and prostitution. Legalising the two, rather than turning a blind eye to, has been taken as a sign of the Dutch progressive and independent thinking.

The heart of Europe | The Netherlands is located at the very heart of Europe. The Dutch approach has made the small country, and Amsterdam in particular, into an international, multi-lingual centre for all European countries.