Returning to the Netherlands
There are a number of internationals that may choose to leave the Netherlands (for example, after they graduate), but eventually find themselves wanting to return. Although these returning internationals usually already have some experience with what living here in the Netherlands is like in terms of daily life, Dutch culture, and Dutch language, there are some important practicalities that need to be taken care of when you come back.
For first-time arrivals, one of the most important things to take care of is to register for your BSN (Citizen Service Number). However, what if you already have a BSN from the first time you lived here? What about your DigiD - does it still work? What else should you consider when returning to the Netherlands? Take a look below for some advice on what to steps to take upon your return.
Book a 'Hervestiging' Appointment
The first time that you arrived and registered in the Netherlands, you received a BSN. This a number that is unique to each person, and so your BSN will always stay the same - regardless of how long you leave the Netherlands for. This means that if you return, you will have to make a different appointment, which will inform the Dutch government that you are now a resident again. You will still need to provide proof of an address to register at, and a proof of identity, but the process itself is swifter because you already have a BSN. This 'return' appointment is referred to as a 'hervestiging' appointment in Dutch, and if you are moving to Leiden then you can book this appointment on Leiden municipality's 'Moving to the Netherlands' page.
Check your DigiD
Your DigiD is one of the most important practical things to take care of when you first move to the Netherlands - and therefore it is also one of the most important things to check on once you move back. Your DigiD is a secure digital identification process that is linked to your BSN, and it allows you to access a variety of government services in the Netherlands (including tax returns, visa applications, study applications, and more).
Your DigiD will stay active for 3 years after the last time that you use it, so if you plan on returning to the Netherlands but have not used your DigiD in over 3 years, then you will need to re-apply for it. You can re-apply through DigiD's official website.
Fill out the M-Form
The m-form (migration-form) is a tax form that you should fill out when you move to, or leave, the Netherlands. This form provides the Dutch government with more information about the time that you were living outside of the Netherlands during the tax year. Most internationals will receive a refund on their taxes because they may have paid too much income tax in the Netherlands, so it is also often beneficial to fill out this form. Although it used to only be possible to fill out this form on paper, it has recently become available digitally too - however it is still only publicly available in Dutch. You can learn more about what exactly the m-form is in our partner TaxSavers' article 'How to File the M-form?'
Become Reacquainted with the Netherlands!
Although you may have lived in the Netherlands before, there may be certain parts that have changed since you last lived here. Perhaps you are moving to the Leiden region this time, but you used to live in Amsterdam or Groningen, or maybe the first time around you were a student and now you are going to be working full-time. Regardless of your exact situation, making sure you're up-to-date on the practicalities of living here is an important step to take.
If you'd like to learn more about living in the Leiden region, then don't forget to check out our Living Here page! This page provides many resources for internationals in the region, from events and daily life to more about Dutch language and culture. Leiden International Centre also has a Helpdesk which is always there to assist you with any questions you may have about moving to, and living in, the Leiden region. Feel free to contact us!