Dutch language and culture

English proficiency in the Netherlands is among the highest in the world. The Dutch will often switch to English to make life easier for newcomers. Most services are available in English. At the same time, learning Dutch is invaluable if you want to settle here. Knowing the local language will help you navigate your daily life and expand your network as you make easier social connections with colleagues, neighbours or join local community and professional clubs. 

Learning the language and culture will also greatly benefit your career, as it shows you intent to stay, making you a more attractive candidate for future employers. 

Learn Dutch 

There are many options to learn the language, wherever you may live in the Netherlands. Your options range from local language schools, online courses to conversational practice groups. Whether you're looking for an intensive course to pick up the language as quickly as possible, prefer a sociable style that includes interesting lessons on Dutch culture, or tailor-made lessons for professionals, your options are endless. In The Hague, Rotterdam, Delft, and Leiden, you will find many schools where internationals learn Dutch. Universities offer intensive language and culture courses, and employers may pay for lessons during or after work. 

Many municipalities and libraries offer free or low-cost courses. The Taalhuis in The Hague, Rotterdam, Delft or Leiden will guide you to better read, write and speak Dutch. Libraries across the country organise language cafés where learners meet in groups with Dutch-speaking volunteers. These events are social, friendly, and a great way to improve your Dutch.  

You can practise Dutch for free in daily life. Speak the language when shopping, ordering coffee or chatting with neighbours. Join a Taalcafé, local club or volunteer groups for social learning. Download online learning apps or switch your phone or Netflix language settings to Dutch. Listening to Dutch radio and regional news also helps you understand everyday language. The key is to practise often, whether with the bus driver or at the grocery store. Start small, build confidence, and it will soon feel easier. 

The Dutch government developed an examination system known as the NT2, which will give you an officially recognised diploma and proves that you have a good command of the Dutch language. Some residence permits require you to pass a minimum A2 level language exam as part of the the civic integration or inburgering. You also need to pass this exam if you want to obtain permanent residence or the Dutch nationality. 

Dutch culture

Next to the language, you probably want to learn more about Dutch culture and communicating with the Dutch. The Dutch describe their character as progressive, liberal, open and free-spirited. They strive to protect and promote human rights, such as equality, non-discrimination, freedom of speech and freedom of sexual orientation, both at home and abroad. 

The Dutch are known for fairness and their directness (or brutal honesty), and it is one of the first things internationals tend to notice. Communication is open and straight to the point, with honesty valued over 'being nice'. The Dutch prefer to address differences of opinion openly and early, and do not fear that this will damage a relationship. This openness extends to the workplace, where the hierarchy tends to be relatively flat and employees can question or push back on a manager's view. At the same time, modesty matters: flamboyant behaviour is not appreciated, and the Dutch typically play down wealth and avoid bragging about possessions or accomplishments. The Dutch dub this Hollandse nuchterheid, which roughly translates to soberness and may stem from the Dutch Calvinist protestant history.

Social life has its own rhythms, too. As long as it is gezellig. A difficult to translate term which could be considered to capture the heart of the Dutch culture, often described with as cozy, inviting, fun, socialable or togetherness. The best way to experience it is with a local borrel with bitterballen. The Dutch are time-conscious and organised, and dropping by unannounced is not common. It might sound a bit ungenerous, but in the Netherlands, we believe in paying our own way. When meeting someone for the first time, the custom is to shake hands and introduce yourself by name. Birthdays follow their own logic: it is the birthday person who hosts, serves and pays, and guests sit in a circle in the living room. Building friendships can take time, but volunteering or joining a community or a sports club is often a good way in, as the Dutch generally enjoy a social and healthy lifestyle.