How to survive in Amsterdam without speaking Dutch - Learn Dutch Online (2024)

FAQs

Is it possible to live in Amsterdam without speaking Dutch? ›

This is absolutely no problem. You can stay here for as long as your tourist visa lasts without having to learn Dutch. And if you speak English, you will find that many Netherlanders speak English as a second language. But if you want to live in the Netherlands, you must learn Dutch.

As with a lot of European countries, a majority of people in the Netherlands speak English, having learned it in school from a young age. So, to study and live in Amsterdam, you do not need to be speak Dutch.

It is easy to find a job in the Netherlands without knowing the local language when you compare it to other countries. But it also depends on your skills and experience and what kind of a job you are looking for.

Even if you don't speak a word of Dutch, Amsterdam is a cosmopolitan and diverse city where English is spoken fluently. You'll find it easy to get around and communicate with locals. While you won't find any language barriers with English, it's always a good idea to learn some basic Dutch phrases.

If a person is not a national of an EU country, Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland or Switzerland, they can live in the Netherlands provided they meet certain conditions. And they need to hold a residence permit.

Free Dutch courses and computer classes

Some Amsterdammers with residence permits can follow free Dutch courses. There are special courses for people who have difficulties with reading or writing in their own language. You can also learn to use a computer, tablet or phone.

The Dutch hello = hallo is pronounced just as you think. The intonation is just slightly different than in English. If you want to say “Hi in Dutch,” which is more informal, you can say casually “Hoi,” but Hallo works just as well. Those are interchangeable.

English will enough to get around and you will most likely not find any language barriers. If you purpose of stay is working in the Netherlands, it is advisable to learn Dutch. This will allow you to find even more jobs in the market that require an understanding of the language.

General Requirements for Dutch Citizenship

Be at least 18 years or older. Prove your identity and nationality with valid documents. Have lived in the Kingdom of the Netherlands for at least 5 consecutive years with a valid residence permit.

The Netherlands's business landscape is saturated with professionals, so the competition can be tough. However, if you know how to present yourself and can speak a few languages (Dutch, German, or French are helpful, in addition to English), you have a good chance.

Is Netherlands friendly to foreigners? ›

Dutch people are very direct and open in their communication style. People from other countries and cultures may interpret this directness as being rude. But that's far from being true. Most Dutch people are actually extremely humble, welcoming, and friendly towards foreigners.

3. How hard is it to learn? Dutch is probably the easiest language to learn for English speakers as it positions itself somewhere between German and English.

At Langua, you can access the 1,500 most common Dutch words, together with translations and audio, for free. Within three months, most students have developed enough language to discuss their personal background, describe their family, order food, and complete basic transactions.

The overall appeal of Amsterdam has attracted many expats to the city, which makes it very international. There are plenty of expat groups, special events, and meetups for anyone who wishes to make friends here. Cashiers, waiters, and bartenders speak fluent English as well as many workers of government institutions.

While the official language of the Netherlands is Dutch, the Netherlands is one of the most English-friendly countries in the world. With more than 90% of their population speaking English, you'll have no trouble communicating in Amsterdam without being able to speak Dutch.

And if you are wondering whether you'll be able to find a job without speaking Dutch, the answer is yes. However, it would be a lot easier if you at least learn the basics before applying to jobs, and most will require that. So, no, you do not need to learn the local Dutch language as long as you speak English.

Applying for a residence permit yourself

This type of application is known as an admission and residence application (TEV). If you only need a residence permit, you can apply to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) for this permit once you have arrived in the Netherlands.