Essential info for the Netherlands
Time: The local time in the Netherlands is GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).
Electricity: Electrical current in the Netherlands is 230 Volts, 50Hz. Two-pin round European-style plugs are used.
Language: The official language in the Netherlands is Dutch, but English is widely understood and spoken in business. Fries is also spoken by the people of Friesland province.
Language: The official language in the Netherlands is Dutch, but English is widely understood and spoken in business. Fries is also spoken by the people of Friesland province.
Safety: Expats who relocate to the Netherlands will be relieved to know that the crime rate is relatively low, though they should exercise caution when walking along empty streets at night, as petty crime such as pick-pocketing is common in cities like Amsterdam and at Central Station. Be wary, too, when arriving from Schiphol Airport, as thieves can target new arrivals or anyone who looks vaguely unfamiliar in their new surroundings, so only accept help from trusted sources.
Local customs: In Holland, expats should note that the use of cannabis is legal, and specially designated 'coffee shops' in major cities sell the drug freely. However, it is illegal to be in possession of it for production and this offence carries a heavy fine.
Business: Expats who relocate to the Netherlands should note that business is conducted in a formal manner with particular attention to punctuality. Regular business attire for men is formal, with suits and ties being the norm, and expats should make sure that their business cards are exchanged at some point during the meeting. Expats from English-speaking countries will be relieved that most Dutch people speak excellent English. Business hours are from 8.30am to 5pm.
Communications: The international dialling code for the Netherlands is +31. Expats living in the Netherlands wanting to dial out of the country will need to dial the outgoing code 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City/area codes are in use throughout the country, with (0)20 being Amsterdam’s code. There are five mobile phone operators, and the Netherlands is well covered when it comes to cellular communications with GSM 900 and 1800 networks. Internet cafés are widely available and high speed broadband Internet is standard.
