I amsterdam - Expatcenter: one-stop shop for foreign employees in the Amsterdam region

One-stop shop

The Expatcenter test phase can begin thanks to the joint efforts of the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (the IND) and the Cities of Amsterdam and Amstelveen in coordinating their procedures for foreign employees. With this initiative, the IND aims to give a powerful impulse to preparations for a modern migration policy. The three parties have developed a working method, whereby the employer can initiate the procedure for a residence permit four weeks before the arrival of the employee. When the employee arrives in Amsterdam, his or her visit to the Expatcenter is already planned. There, the procedures enabling the employee to work can be concluded in one go. 

Virtual office

The start-up of the Expatcenter coincides with the launch of the English-language website, www.iamsterdam.com/expatcenter. The website makes it easier for expats and their families to find their feet in the Amsterdam region. It combines all the useful municipal information with tips on those important topics requiring fast action. In the long run, expats may be able to get started on the process of coming to work in the Netherlands by simply filling in a digital form in their own country.

International companies taking part

There is great interest in the Expatcenter’s one-stop service. In a series of meetings held in preparation for the Expatcenter, representatives of companies with foreign employees voiced their wishes concerning procedures and information. For the Expatcenter test period, a limited number of companies have been invited to participate. They are: Tata Consultancy Services, Amro/Global Expat Centre, ING Bank, IBM Nederland NV, LogicaCMG BV, Canon Europe NV, Optiver Holding BV, Credit Europe Bank NV, Wieden + Kennedy Inc., GarantiBank International NV, Philips, Yacht, Mitsubishi Nederland BV, Everaert Advocaten, PWC, and KPMG. The test phase is starting with knowledge migrants. In September, the service will be extended to more companies.

Adding to the Amsterdam region’s attractions

With this initiative, Amsterdam, Amstelveen and the IND are meeting the requirements of international companies and their employees for simplified procedures for working in the Netherlands. Since finding and retaining high-calibre employees is of great importance for companies, a high level of hospitality must be extended to such employees and their families. The Expatcenter will fulfil an important function.

For further information, contact Pauline Genee, director, Expatcenter. During office hours, she can be reached on (020) 2547 999