Moving from India to the Netherlands

1. Can I Import My Personal Items To The Netherlands?
2. How Do I Bring My Vehicle To The Netherlands?
3. Help Is Available When You Need It

It’s easy to see that India and the Netherlands are very different. India is an exotic culture rich in tradition. The Netherlands is best known for its quality of life and its reputation as the happiest country in the world. Moving from India to the Netherlands is more than just moving your stuff – it’s moving your life.

You probably have a lot of questions, and we don’t blame you. It will be a big change! You will need to take a civic integration exam, (het inburgeringsexamen), which tests your understanding of Dutch culture and language. This “inburgering” process can take place entirely online, and is a requirement for a Dutch residency permit. You will need to acquire some basic competencies in the Dutch language and learn some fundamentals of being a Dutch citizen.

This guide is intended to help answer some of your questions about importing your household goods to the Netherlands.

Can I Import my Personal Items to the Netherlands?

Your personal goods will be subject to close inspection and will be duty-free as long as you meet the following requirements.

• You have lived outside of the Netherlands for at least a year.
• You are transferring your primary residence.
• You have owned the imported goods for at least a year prior to your move.
• The goods must not be sold or lent for at least 12 months (six months if previous residence was within the European Union) after importation.
• And one weird rule: Your household goods must be in accordance with your social status.

You will need to provide the following documentation to customs:

• Passport Copy including photo page and Police Entry stamp
• Valid Visa
• Bill of Lading/Air Waybill
• Certificate of Residence
• Proof of Residence in the Netherlands (this could be a rental agreement or purchase contract)
• Comprehensive Inventory – make sure you have 5 signed copies
• Application for Exemption from import duties

Very Important! When applying for an Import Permit, you must include ALL anticipated shipments (including vehicles) in your original petition. Import Permits are only granted once, so you will need to plan ahead and make sure you have your inventory complete before applying.

How Do I Bring my Vehicle to the Netherlands?

Your vehicle will need to pass through inward clearance by customs upon its arrival. Customs will check your vehicle to see if it meets the requirements for the removal goods tax exemption, such as:

• The vehicle is being imported as part of your personal effects.
• You intend to use the vehicle in the country.
• You bought and used the vehicle at least six months prior to your move to the Netherlands.
• You lived in another country at least 12 months before you moved to the Netherlands.

If you meet the requirements for the removal goods tax exemption, you will receive a certificate of clearance. If you are not eligible, you will be required to pay the BPM tax before you may leave with your vehicle.

Driving a car in the Netherlands with appropriate registration and insurance is illegal. Having a carrier that specializes in importing cars to the Netherlands handle the arrangements will ensure that meet all the requirements to get on the road legally.

All vehicles in the Netherlands are required to have fog lights installed on the rear of the vehicle. As most vehicles outside of the Netherlands do not have these installed by the manufacturer, you will need to arrange for this modification to be made to your vehicle. You can then arrange for an inspection to ensure compliance with all technical and safety requirements.

Help is Available When You Need It

A1 Auto Transport specializes in international and domestic shipping, with a staff well versed in import and export regulations. Our team of international shipping experts can provide you with a seamless moving experience. We can help with every step of the process, from shipping logistics to paperwork. Contact us today for your free, no-obligation shipping quote.