Moving to a new country can be quite an adventure, but it also comes with its own set of concerns. No need to worry; we’ve got your back with this list of essential apps to help you adjust to life in the Netherlands. Each app is linked below for easy access, so you can focus on getting settled and enjoying life in the Netherlands. Whether you need assistance with transportation, finding local attractions, or even learning the local language, these essential apps have got you covered, and you’ll feel right at home in no time.
Language Learning and Communication
Duolingo: Duolingo is a comprehensive linguistic training platform that employs engaging exercises and interactive games to make the learning process enjoyable. And it’s free.
Administration
DigiD: DigiD is a Dutch government-issued app that allows citizens to securely access a wide range of online services and government platforms, simplifying authentication and information retrieval processes.
MijnGegevens: This government app holds information such as identification documents, financial records, medical history, educational certificates, insurance details, and various other essential documents and data.
Transportation and Travel
9292: A comprehensive public transport app that provides real-time travel information, including train, bus, and tram schedules, as well as walking and cycling routes.
NS (Dutch Railways): The NS app is an indispensable guide for train services in the Netherlands, speeding up the ticketing and journey planning processes.
Uber: The company’s services are available through its mobile app, which allows users to request a ride, track their driver, and pay for the ride using their mobile device.
Snappcar: A car sharing app that allows you to book vehicles from people in your neighbourhood.
ANWB Onderweg: ANWB Onderweg is a comprehensive app that provides real-time traffic information, including traffic jams, roadworks, and accidents, as well as parking information and fuel prices.
Finance and Banking
ABN AMRO: ABN AMRO provides individuals with comprehensive financial services, encompassing banking, investments, mortgages, and insurance, tailored to meet personal financial needs.
Wise: For swift international money transfers, Wise is a cost-efficient and reliable service.
N26: N26 bank offers digital banking services with a user-friendly mobile app, including online accounts, debit cards, savings, and convenient financial management tools.
bunq: bunq bank is a digital bank that provides innovative and user-friendly financial services, including mobile banking, accounts, cards, savings, and eco-conscious banking options.
Housing and Property Search
Funda: Funda is a comprehensive resource for searching for properties to buy or rent, finding estate and letting agents, and understanding property jargon, with an accurate picture of property prices across the Netherlands.
Pararius: Pararius serves as another trusted tool in your property search, adeptly guiding you through Dutch rental property listings.
Kamernet: The Kamernet app helps people find roommates, rooms for rent, and sublets in the Netherlands.
Food Delivery Platforms
Thuisbezorgd: Thuisbezorgd is a personal delivery champion, delivering a diverse range of food options right to your door.
Uber Eats: Find the best restaurants that deliver. Get contactless delivery for restaurant takeaways, food shopping and more.
HelloFresh: HelloFresh provides meal kits and delivers fresh meals directly to customers’ doorsteps, with a focus on providing easy-to-make, chef-curated recipes and high-quality ingredients.
Picnic: Picnic is an online grocery shopping app that offers a wide range of products, efficient and eco-friendly home delivery, with easy app management and customer-friendly services.
Community and Social
Welcome app: Welcome app connects you to the right information, activities and people around you whenever you need them.
Meetup: Meetup, a social networking platform, offers a wide selection of online and in-person organisations and events to encourage relationships across global and local communities.
Expatica: Expatica is an online news and information portal that provides expats with up-to-date news, features, and practical information about living in the Netherlands.
Environment-Centric Platforms
Too Good To Go: Too Good To Go is an app dedicated to waste reduction, connecting users with sources of surplus food and unwanted goods, offering a responsible and sustainable approach to enjoying quality meals and reducing waste.
Olio: Olio is dedicated to waste reduction, connecting users with sources of unwanted goods, offering a responsible and sustainable approach to reducing waste.
HappyCow: HappyCow assists individuals in finding vegan and vegetarian-friendly dining options globally, promoting ethical and plant-based eating choices.
Weather and News
Buienradar: Buienradar is a weather app that provides accurate and up-to-date weather forecasts for the Netherlands.
NOS: NOS is a Dutch news app that provides reliable updates on national and international events.
Exploring Local Culture
Holland.com: Holland.com is another resource for exploring local culture in the Netherlands, providing information on iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and local festivals.
I amsterdam: I amsterdam is the city’s official guide to everything. Find everything that you need to plan the perfect trip, look up important information about living, studying, and working in the Amsterdam area, and learn how to start a business.
Healthcare Access
ZorgDomein: ZorgDomein is an app that simplifies healthcare navigation by providing easy access to medical records and prescription ordering, streamlining the process for users.
Service Apotheek: Service Apotheek is a reputable Dutch network of community pharmacies dedicated to providing personalised healthcare services, medication dispensing, health advice, and home care products to local communities.
Explore these essential apps to make the most of your time in the Netherlands. With the right technology at your fingertips, moving to the Netherlands becomes a less daunting idea and offers you an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture smoothly. These comprehensive, user-friendly apps provide an essential guide to help you navigate the ins and outs of daily life, from mastering the language, commuting, property hunting, food deliveries, to staying connected with your community. So, whether you’re planning your move or already settling into your new Dutch home, make sure not to miss out on these valuable resources. Happy exploring and welcome to the Netherlands!
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