Expat Mortgages and Moving to the Netherlands: Beginners Guide

Moving to the Netherlands often starts with excitement and ambition — and quickly turns into a crash course in paperwork, housing shortages, and unfamiliar financial rules. One moment you’re packing boxes and saying goodbye to friends, the next you’re searching online for “expat mortgages in the Netherlands” and wondering what you’ve gotten yourself into.

If that sounds familiar, this guide is for you.

This page brings together everything expats need to know about moving to the Netherlands and arranging a mortgage, from first doubts to final approval — without the confusion.

Moving to the Netherlands as an Expat: What to Expect

Relocating to a new country is a leap of faith. New language, new systems, new expectations. While Dutch life is well organised, the housing market can feel overwhelming — even for locals.

Many expats are surprised by:

• High competition for homes

• Strict mortgage rules

• Extensive documentation requirements

It’s usually at this point that expats encounter the term “expat mortgage” — and realise that buying a home here works differently than back home.

What Is an Expat Mortgage in the Netherlands?

An expat mortgage is a Dutch home loan specifically designed for people who live and work in the Netherlands but do not (yet) have Dutch nationality.

Compared to standard mortgages, lenders take additional factors into account, such as:

• Residence permits

• International employment history

• Fixed-term or international contracts

• Income paid in foreign structures

Because of this, the process may require more preparation — but expats can and do buy homes successfully in the Netherlands every day.

Why Expat Mortgages Feel Complicated (At First)

Let’s be honest: applying for a mortgage can feel intimidating anywhere. In a new country, with unfamiliar rules and terminology, it can feel even worse.

Dutch house prices are high, banks are cautious, and affordability calculations are strict. Guesswork simply isn’t an option. Understanding:

• how much you can borrow

• what your monthly payments will be

• and what costs to expect

is essential before you start viewing properties.

This is where an expat mortgage calculator and guidance from a specialised mortgage advisor make all the difference.

The Paperwork: What Expats Need to Prepare

Almost every expat is surprised by the amount of documentation required. Expect to gather:

• A valid passport

• Employment contract

• Recent payslips

• Bank statements

• Tax returns (sometimes from multiple countries)

If you’ve lived and worked abroad, this can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Fortunately, mortgage advisors who specialise in expats know exactly what banks require — and help you prepare everything correctly from the start.

Step-by-Step: How Expats Get a Mortgage in the Netherlands

Although every situation is unique, the process usually follows these steps:

1. Check affordability using an expat mortgage calculator

2. Collect documents early to avoid delays

3. Speak with an expat mortgage advisor

4. Start house hunting with a realistic budget

5. Apply for the mortgage after agreeing on a purchase price

6. Finalise the mortgage and notary process

With the right preparation, what first feels overwhelming becomes structured and manageable.

Where Do Expats Choose to Live?

Choosing the right location is just as important as arranging your mortgage. The Netherlands offers a wide variety of lifestyles.

• Amsterdam
  International, vibrant, and full of opportunities — but also competitive and expensive.

• Haarlem
  Popular with expats who want charm, space, and proximity to the coast while staying close to Amsterdam.

• Utrecht
  A historic city with a relaxed atmosphere, excellent transport connections, and a strong expat community.

Whether you prefer city life or something quieter, there is almost always a neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Life After Getting the Keys

Buying a home is a major milestone — but it’s not the final step. After completion, expats still need to arrange:

• Home and life insurance

• Utilities and municipal registrations

• Dutch tax filings

While it can feel like a marathon, each step brings you closer to feeling truly settled in the Netherlands.

Final Thoughts: An Adventure Worth Taking

Moving to the Netherlands and buying a home as an expat isn’t always easy — but it is absolutely achievable. With proper guidance, realistic expectations, and the right tools, the process becomes far less stressful.

For many expats, it’s not just about buying a house — it’s about building a future.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re considering buying a home in the Netherlands, start with clarity.

Use an expat mortgage calculator or speak with a specialist to understand your options before you commit. Your first consultation with us is always free and non-binding.