The Nexxxt Step: Helping internationals settle into life in the Amsterdam Area

Feel at home – and do it in good company

Moving to a new country comes with paperwork and practicalities involving migration, housing, healthcare, banking, work, school and more. But once the logistics are taken care of, how do you actually start to feel at home?

This is where The Nexxxt Step comes in. Designed for internationals living and working in the Amsterdam Area, the initiative tackles what many find to be the most challenging part of settling in: connecting with the people around them.

Move beyond onboarding towards belonging

On Thursday, 28 May, The Nexxxt Step brings together international professionals and their accompanying partners for a half-day dedicated to making meaningful personal connections.

Beyond relocation coordination and onboarding, this event gives employers a – very human – way to help international staff and their families feel more at home in the Amsterdam Area. Within just a few hours, participants explore local culture and history, get practical Dutch language tips, learn about volunteering opportunities and discover more ways to engage in their communities.

Employers can participate by registering their company and inviting employees to attend. Individuals are welcome to sign up directly by emailing welcome@amsterdam.nl.

Turn newcomers into neighbours

This event follows a successful pilot in which dozens of participants from around the world got to know each other, hear talks, share in interactive sessions and jointly plan the next step they would take to keep connected.

For a programme preview, watch this clip from the pilot.

The initiative is organised with IN Amsterdam partners committed to helping newcomers tap into social and cultural life in the Netherlands. Koentact is a Dutch-language school that emphasises learning by having fun and getting to know locals. The Story of the NL teaches Dutch history and culture through the perspective of comedian Luuk van der Vaart. Serve the City is part of a global movement connecting volunteers with activities that support people and environments in need of care.

More information and registration details are available on The Nexxxt Step’s event page.