Here are some practical tips we've picked up after living in the Netherlands for a while!
Small things that can save you time, stress and money as a student
Before arriving in NL
- Learn how the Dutch student housing market works
- Prepare required documents (ID, enrollment proof, guarantor/income)
- Understand deposits, contracts, and registration rules
- Know how to recognize and avoid housing scams
Essential housing tips
Looking for housing in The Netherlands can be confusing. Especially if you're doing it from abroad.
Never pay before viewing a house 💵
If someone asks you for a deposit before you (or someone you trust) has seen the place in person, thats a red flag. Many scams rely on urgency and distance.
Photos are not enough! 📸
Listings often look very different in real life. Always confirm: the address exists, the landlord or agency is real and the room matches the description
Be ready to move fast 🏃🏽♀️
Good listings can disappear within hours.
Have your documents ready: ID / passport, proof of enrolment, and a short introduction about yourself
English helps. Dutch helps more 🇳🇱🗣️
Many landlords communicate in Dutch only. Short, polite messages work best.
Trust your gut 👈🏽
If something feels off, it usually is. Pressure, vague answers, or “special deals if you pay today” are warning signs.
Always read the contract carefully 🔎
Before agreeing to anything, check: start and end dates, notice period and what’s included (utilities, internet, registration). If something isn’t written down, don’t assume it’s included.
Check if registration is allowed ®
In the Netherlands, you usually need to register at the address with the municipality (BSN number). Some rooms don't allow this, which can cause problems later. Always ask before committing.
Verify neighbourhood and commute 🗺️
A room can look great but be far from campus or poorly connected at night.
Check: travel time to your university, public transport options, and nearby supermarkets and services. A quick map check can save you months of frustration.
Avoiding scams
- Always do a viewing (be there, send a friend, or Tulip Flat)
- Verify the address/owner (Google Maps)
- Subletting? Get written permission/confirmation f rom the landlord (via the tenant).
- Get a deposit receipt, always.
- Do a move-in inspection with the landlord and document existing defects.
Housing platforms to look into 🏡
Kamernet
One of the most used platforms for student rooms and shared housing
High competition, but many real listings.
Pararius
More professional listings, often agencies.
Usually higher rent, but fewer outright scams
Huurzone
A rental search engine that aggregates listings from thousands of Dutch housing sites in one place. You can set filters and email alerts for new listings, helping you react quickly in a competitive market.
RoomHub
A platform with a wide selection of rooms, studios, and apartments across major Dutch cities.
Designed for students, expats, and starters, and all listings are searchable with filters
Facebook groups
Search for: “Student housing + city name” Useful, but be extra careful; scams are common.
University housing pages
Some universities offer reserved housing or trusted links.
Availability is limited, but risk is lower.
Money & Cost of Living
Groceries: Lidl/Aldi are cheaper than Albert Heijn. Markets are usually the cheapest!
Student discounts exist, but you often have to ask.
Toeslagen (allowances): Rent and health allowances can help a lot. (You need a BSN number for this)
Part-time work rules for non-EU students (permits & hour limits).
Saving / earning money
Use student discounts & budget supermarkets
Buy second-hand bikes and furniture
Work part-time (within legal limits)
Open a Dutch bank account early
Double-check what’s included in your rent
Grants and fines
Register with the municipality (BSN) as soon as you arrive
Check if you’re eligible for student finance or allowances (DUO)
Always pay public transport and avoid fare evasion fines
Follow biking rules (lights at night, phone use, right of way)
Open and check your Dutch mail: fines are sent by post
transportation & Biking Life 🚲
Learn biking rules (lights at night, right of way).
Buy a second-hand bike (new ones get stolen more).
Register your bike & use good locks (two locks is normal).
OV-chipkaart tips: subscriptions can save money if you commute.
Weather & Mental Health 🌧️
Invest in a good rain jacket (not umbrellas).
Winters can feel long, light lamps and routines help.
Homesickness is normal, especially after the “honeymoon phase.”
Practical survival tips
Register with the municipality (BSN) ASAP – many things depend on it.
Get a DigiD early, needed for government, healthcare, and taxes.
Health insurance is mandatory (and fines are real if you delay).
Bank account: Dutch IBANs make life easier (rent, salary, subscriptions).
Housing scams: Never pay before seeing a place or getting keys.
