About the Expatcenter

A successful venture

The Expatcenter first opened in June 2008 as a joint initiative of the municipalities of Amsterdam, Amstelveen and the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). In February 2010, the muncipalities of Almere and Haarlemmermeer joined the Expatcenter, allowing companies in their region the possibility of using the Expatcenter’s services for their expat employees.

Since its opening, the Expatcenter has proved to be a great success. Over 750 international companies have made use of the center’s streamlined procedures.

In 2009, an average of 350 new expats visited the Expatcenter each month to process their paper work. Some 100 expats also contacted the center montlyh for informational requests.

Simplifying the process

With the creation of the Expatcenter, a new process was developed whereby an employer can now initiate the registration procedure for a residence permit prior to the new employee’s arrival in the country. Once in the Netherlands, the employee can then collect a national residence permit and complete municipal registration procedures in a single visit to the Expatcenter. They will also receive a citizen service number (BSN) shortly after their appointment. For more detailed information on the procedure please see: The Expatcenter Procedure and How to Apply.

A unique service for expatriates

The Expatcenter is a joint initiative of the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), and the four participating municipalities. Its goal is to improve immigration and knowledge migrant procedures in the Amsterdam area, as well as act as a valuable information sources for all expatriates living in the Amsterdam Area.

With simplified processes and applications, the Expatcenter aims to better meet the needs of international companies and their expatriate employees.

Open for business

All companies based in Amsterdam, Amstelveen, Almere and Haarlemmermeer who are eligible for the IND’s highly skilled migrant ruling can make use of the Expatcenter’s streamlined procedures. Regular informational meetings are organised by the Expatcenter for interested companies to learn more about the centre and its procedures. Further information on the highly skilled migrant ruling can be found on the IND website.

At your service

Expatriates living in Amsterdam can now visit the Expatcenter for help with other government and expat related issues. The Expatcenter staff is ready and able to answer questions, provide information and offer advice on a wide range of topics.

Furthermore, a wealth of information is available throughout the Living section of this website, with detailed articles ranging from residence permits to finding a job, childcare, or an apartment.

Please see Contact Us for the Expatcenter’s contact details, as well as a detailed route description to our office.