Amsterdam Municipality

Municipality Amsterdam explained

The Amsterdam Municipality serves as the administrative authority for the city, overseeing its infrastructure, public services, and community initiatives. It is crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of the city and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. For expatriates, the municipality provides a range of services and assistance designed to facilitate their acclimatization and integration into the local community.

Amsterdam Municipality: Services for Expats

The Amsterdam Municipality provides a wide range of services and support for expats. Here's a brief overview of what you can do at the municipality:

1. Registration

• Purpose: Registering at the municipality is mandatory for anyone planning to stay in Amsterdam for more than 4 months.
• Process: Make an appointment online, bring necessary documents (passport, proof of address), and register in the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP)

2. Residence Permits

• Who Needs It: Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals staying longer than 90 days.
• Process: Often initiated before arrival, finalized with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) and the municipality.

3. BSN (Citizen Service Number)

• Purpose: A BSN number is required for working, opening a bank account, and accessing healthcare.
• Process: Issued upon BRP registration.

4. Driving Licenses

• Exchange: Expats can exchange their foreign driving license for a Dutch one, if eligible.
• Process: Visit a city district office with your current license and required documents.

5. Marriage and Partnerships

• Services: Register a marriage or partnership, both for Dutch citizens and internationals.
• Process: Make an appointment and provide necessary documentation.

6. Birth Registration

• Newborns: Register the birth of a child within 3 days.
• Process: Visit the municipality with a valid ID and a birth declaration from the hospital.

7. Housing and Permits

• Rental Permits: Assistance with rental permits and regulations.
• Renovation Permits: Guidance on obtaining necessary permits for home renovations.

8. Expat Support Services

• Information: Provide information and support on living, working, and integrating in Amsterdam.
• Resources: Access to the Expat Center Amsterdam for personalized assistance.

Municipality Office Locations

To register in Amsterdam, you'll need to schedule an appointment with the Amsterdam municipality at one of the offices below. You can schedule for such an appointment online. It is not necessary to go to the city office in the district that you live in, you can go to any city office that is convenient for you. 

- Stadsloket Centrum: Amstel 1, 1011 PN Amsterdam
- Stadsloket West: Bos en Lommerplein, 1055 EK Amsterdam
- Stadsloket Nieuw-West: Osdorpplein 946, 1068 TD Amsterdam
- Stadsloket Zuid: President Kennedylaan 923, 1079 MZ Amsterdam
- Stadsloket Noord: Buikslotermeerlaan 2000, 1025 XL Amsterdam
- Stadsloket Zuidoost: Anton de Komplein 150, 1102 CW Amsterdam
- Stadsloket Oost: Oranje-Vrijstaatplein 2, 1093 NG Amsterdam

The city offices are open Monday - Friday: 09:00 - 17:00 and Thursday open until 20:00
You can also call to the general Amsterdam municipally at: 14020.
Or if you are calling from abroad: +31206241111 (Monday - Friday: between 08:00 and 18:00). 

Conclusion

The Amsterdam Municipality plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition for expatriates moving to the city by providing essential services and support. From registration and housing assistance to integration programs and legal advice, the municipality's services are designed to facilitate expats' acclimatization and enhance their quality of life. These efforts not only help expatriates settle into their new environment but also contribute to the diverse and vibrant community of Amsterdam.

For more detailed guides and support, join Your Expat Social Club and connect with other like-minded individuals navigating life in Amsterdam.