Mortgages for Expats: Possible Under Certain Conditions
The number of international professionals in the Netherlands continues to grow rapidly. According to Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek (CBS), the number of international knowledge workers increased by 73% over the past 13 years, with expats now making up 4.2% of the Dutch workforce.
As a result, more expats are considering buying a home in the Netherlands — not just as a place to live, but also as a long-term investment. The good news? Getting a mortgage as an expat is absolutely possible, provided certain conditions are met.
Can Expats Get a Mortgage in the Netherlands?
Mortgage approval for expats depends on factors such as:
Nationality and residence status
Employment type and income stability
Length of stay in the Netherlands
The relationship between the mortgage amount and property value
Understanding these conditions early can significantly improve your chances of approval.
Nationality and Residence Status Matter
Mortgage providers assess risk partly based on where you are from.
EU citizens generally find it easier to obtain a mortgage
Non-EU citizens must usually hold a residence permit for a non-temporary purpose
In addition, lenders want reassurance that you intend to stay in the Netherlands long enough to meet your mortgage obligations.
Employment Conditions for Expats
Permanent Employment Contract
A permanent (indefinite) employment contract is strongly preferred by lenders and offers the widest range of mortgage options.
Temporary Contract
Expats with a temporary contract can still qualify, but typically need:
A letter of intent from their employer confirming continuation of employment
Self-Employed Expats
Some lenders do offer mortgages to self-employed expats, provided they can demonstrate:
At least 3 years of proven net income
Annual accounts that support income stability
In many cases, an initial assessment can already be made based on recent financial statements. The business must also be registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK).
How Much Can You Borrow?
Mortgage providers carefully assess the loan-to-value ratio — the relationship between the mortgage amount and the market value of the home.
In addition, lenders typically want confirmation that you have:
Been living and working in the Netherlands for at least 6 months (more often than not, this is not a hard requirement)
A stable income and financial history
This reduces the perceived risk that an expat might leave the country shortly after purchasing a property.
Buying a Home as an Expat: The Right Guidance Matters
Buying a house in the Netherlands as an expat is certainly possible — but it’s rarely straightforward. Rules vary by lender, and expat-specific situations require careful positioning.
That’s why working with a mortgage advisor who specialises in expat mortgages is so important. An experienced advisor knows:
Which lenders are most flexible
How to structure your application
How to maximise your borrowing potential
With the right guidance, the process becomes clearer, faster, and far less stressful.
Key Takeaways
Expats can obtain mortgages in the Netherlands under specific conditions
EU citizens generally have easier access than non-EU citizens
Permanent contracts offer the most options, but alternatives exist
Self-employed expats can qualify with sufficient income history
Lenders want reassurance that you will remain in the Netherlands
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you’re considering buying a home in the Netherlands as an expat, professional guidance makes all the difference.
Contact us for a personalised mortgage assessment and discover what’s possible in your situation.
