Moving to Rotterdam: A Complete Guide for Expats
Moving to Rotterdam can be an exciting step, whether you're relocating for work, starting a new job or joining a company as an international employee. Rotterdam is international, modern and well connected, with a large expat community and plenty of opportunities for professionals.
But moving to a new country also comes with practical questions. Where should you live? How does housing work? What should you arrange before arriving?
This guide covers the essentials for expats moving to Rotterdam.
Why Move to Rotterdam?
Rotterdam is one of the most international cities in the Netherlands and is home to professionals from all over the world.
The city is particularly attractive for people working in:
Maritime and logistics
Engineering
Technology
Finance
Energy
Construction
Consultancy
Compared with Amsterdam, Rotterdam also offers a different pace and atmosphere, with modern architecture, a strong international business community and excellent connections to the rest of the Netherlands.
Finding a Place to Live in Rotterdam
Housing is usually one of the biggest challenges when moving to the Netherlands.
Rotterdam has many different neighbourhoods, each with its own character. Popular areas include Kralingen, Kop van Zuid, the city centre, Blijdorp and Delfshaven.
When choosing where to live, consider:
Your commute
Public transport connections
Local shops and restaurants
Your budget
Whether you want a lively or quieter neighbourhood
For many expats, finding permanent housing takes time. This is why temporary housing in Rotterdam can be a useful first step.
Temporary Housing for Expats
You don't necessarily need to find your permanent home before moving to Rotterdam.
Many international employees initially stay in a fully furnished apartment while looking for a long-term rental.
This gives you time to:
Explore different neighbourhoods
Attend property viewings
Understand the Dutch housing market
Settle into your new job
Decide where you actually want to live
A serviced apartment can provide everything you need from the moment you arrive, including furniture, kitchen facilities and Wi-Fi.
Getting Around Rotterdam
Rotterdam has an extensive public transport network, including trains, trams, metro lines and buses. Cycling is also a major part of everyday life in the Netherlands. Depending on where you live and work, you may be able to cycle to your workplace or use public transport.
Rotterdam Centraal is an important transport hub, with direct train connections to cities throughout the Netherlands and international connections.
Choosing accommodation close to public transport can therefore make a significant difference to your daily routine.
What Should You Arrange Before Moving?
Before moving to Rotterdam, it's worth preparing the basics.
Depending on your situation, you may need to arrange:
Accommodation
Employment documents
Health insurance
Bank account
Municipal registration
BSN (citizen service number)
Transport
Mobile phone and internet
The exact requirements depend on your nationality and personal circumstances.
Getting Settled in Rotterdam
Once you've arrived, give yourself some time to get to know the city. Explore your neighbourhood, try local restaurants, find your nearest supermarket and figure out your commute.
Rotterdam has a large international community, so you'll also find plenty of opportunities to meet other expats and international professionals.
The city is also close to Amsterdam, The Hague, Utrecht and other Dutch cities, making it easy to explore the Netherlands during your free time.
Moving to Rotterdam for Work?
If you're relocating to Rotterdam for a new job or temporary assignment, your accommodation doesn't have to be permanent from day one.
SolsBury offers fully furnished short-stay accommodation in Rotterdam, making it easier for international professionals to settle in while they look for a more permanent home. You can arrive with your suitcase, move into a comfortable apartment and focus on starting your new life in Rotterdam.
Ready to Move to Rotterdam?
Moving to a new country involves a lot of planning, but you don't have to arrange everything at once.
Start with a comfortable place to stay, get to know Rotterdam and give yourself time to find the right permanent home.
For many expats, temporary furnished accommodation is the easiest way to make the transition to life in Rotterdam smoother and more flexible.
Email us for more information at info@solsburyprimerentals.com
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