Moving to Netherlands Checklist: Everything Americans Need to Know

Last Updated: January 8, 2026

Affordability

Healthcare

Taxes

Safety

Stability

Relative Ratings versus the United States

TL;DR

The Netherlands is top choice for American entrepreneurs thanks to the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT). DAFT visa requires €4,500 minimum investment in Dutch business bank account. Highly Skilled Migrant Visa available for those employed by recognized sponsors (includes 30% tax advantage). Eliminate ~€800/month car costs via cycling and rail infrastructure. Healthcare 40-50% cheaper than US plans with mandatory private insurance.

What Makes the Netherlands Special for Americans?

The Netherlands is the top choice for American entrepreneurs and freelancers in 2026, thanks to a unique 1956 agreement called the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT). Beyond the ease of entry, the country appeals to Americans seeking a "post-car" lifestyle. With the highest English-language proficiency in the non-English speaking world and a world-class "15-minute city" model, the Netherlands offers a seamless cultural transition for those who value efficiency and social progress.

The Dutch philosophy of "Gezelligheid" (coziness/social connection) and their direct communication style provide a refreshing change for Americans accustomed to high-stress corporate environments.

What Visa Options Are Available for Americans?

The Netherlands offers one of the most accessible paths to Europe for self-employed Americans.

Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT): Allows Americans to obtain a residency permit to operate a business. The primary requirement is a minimum investment of just €4,500 in a Dutch business bank account.
Highly Skilled Migrant Visa: For those employed by a Dutch company that is an "ind-recognized sponsor." This visa often comes with the "30% ruling," a significant tax advantage for foreign experts.

Available Visa Pathways:

Education
Work
Entrepreneurship
Study
Other (DAFT)

What Is the Cost of Living Like Compared to USA Cities?

While rent in Amsterdam is comparable to Chicago or San Francisco, you can often eliminate the $800/month cost of car ownership due to the country's world-leading cycling and rail infrastructure.

How Does Healthcare Work for Americans?

Healthcare in the Netherlands is a private insurance model with mandatory participation; it is more expensive than the rest of the EU but roughly 40-50% cheaper than comparable U.S. plans, with far more transparent pricing.

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At Bring Me Abroad, we synthesize official government data, local legal requirements, and real expat experiences to create our relocation guides. Our goal is to simplify the complex process of moving abroad for US citizens.

About Aaron

Aaron is a seasoned designer and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience building digital products for the SaaS and hospitality industries. In 2023, he navigated the complex journey of relocating from the U.S. to the Netherlands—a process that revealed a fragmented landscape of outdated visa blogs and "browser tab overload." After successfully launching a design studio in the Netherlands, Aaron co-founded Bring Me Abroad to solve the "Day 1" information gap. His mission is to democratize relocation by replacing expensive consultants with high-utility, data-driven reports that help early-stage explorers get situated quickly. When he isn't decoding immigration logistics, Aaron can be found cycling through the Dutch rain in search of the perfect apple pie or navigating the nuances of the Dutch language.