Why More Internationals Are Choosing to Learn Dutch
Although many people in the Netherlands speak excellent English, more and more internationals are discovering the benefits of learning Dutch. Beyond the practical advantages of everyday communication, speaking the local language can make it easier to build social connections, understand Dutch culture and feel at home in a new environment.
For many expats, life in the Netherlands initially takes place in an international bubble where English is sufficient for work and day-to-day activities. However, after living here for some time, many find that learning Dutch opens doors that would otherwise remain closed. Whether it is chatting with neighbours, joining a local sports club, understanding conversations at work or communicating with a child’s teacher, even a basic knowledge of Dutch can make a significant difference.
Research and experience from language schools indicate that interest in Dutch language courses has increased steadily in recent years. At Taalthuis, a language school specialising in Dutch for internationals, this trend is reflected in enrolment figures. Participation in online Dutch courses increased from 1,168 students in 2023 to 1,435 in 2025, while face-to-face course enrolments grew from 670 to 1,032 during the same period. The increased demand has recently led to the opening of additional teaching locations in Amstelveen and Rotterdam.
Flexibility also appears to play an important role in encouraging people to start learning Dutch. Many internationals combine language classes with full-time jobs and family commitments, making hybrid and online learning options increasingly popular. At the same time, there remains a strong demand for classroom-based courses, where students can practise speaking and meet others in similar situations.
Sophie, an international who completed a beginners’ Dutch course earlier this year, explains what motivated her: “I wanted to feel more connected to the country where I live. Learning Dutch has helped me understand the culture better and made everyday interactions much easier. It has also given me more confidence to speak with people outside of work.”
Language learning is about more than grammar and vocabulary. For many newcomers, it is an important step towards participating more actively in Dutch society and building a sense of belonging. As the Netherlands continues to attract international talent, the growing interest in Dutch language education suggests that many expats are looking not only to live and work here, but also to become part of the local community.
About Taalthuis
Taalthuis is a Dutch language school based in Haarlem, offering courses for internationals, expats and professionals. In addition to its locations in Amstelveen, Amsterdam, Den Bosch, Den Haag, Eindhoven, Haarlem (head office), Hilversum, Leiden, Rotterdam and Utrecht, the school has a strong online presence, enabling students throughout the Netherlands and beyond to learn Dutch. With multiple locations across the Netherlands, Taalthuis focuses on practical language skills, cultural understanding and flexible learning formats. In addition to group and individual courses, Taalthuis also provides in-company language training for organisations looking to support international employees in learning Dutch. If you have any questions about our Dutch courses, feel free to get in touch.