New to Amsterdam? Here is what you need to know to get settled quickly in the Dutch capital.
Book an appointment with the City of Amsterdam (Gemeente Amsterdam) as early as possible. Wait times can stretch to weeks. Bring your passport, birth certificate, and proof of address.
Read the full guide →Amsterdam GP practices fill up fast. Register with one near your home immediately after getting your BSN. You need a referral from your GP to see a specialist.
Read the full guide →The OV-chipkaart is your pass for all public transport. GVB runs trams, buses, and the metro in Amsterdam. Load it up and tap in and out on every ride.
Read the full guide →Always verify a listing on the MVA (Makelaarsvereniging Amsterdam) site. Rental scams are common. Never pay a deposit before viewing a property in person.
Read the full guide →
Dutch government websites remain offline following a critical security vulnerability in the PHP programming language. Meanwhile, the city celebrates as the Amsterdam Dance Event returns for another year of music and festivities.
Dutch rap icon Frenna has been crowned the 2026 Greatest Man by JFK magazine during a star-studded ceremony in Amsterdam. The award recognizes the influential artist for his cultural impact and continued success in the music industry.
An Amsterdam judge has ruled that Fons Vitae Lyceum acted correctly by refusing to promote a student who failed to meet academic requirements. The student's mother had argued that the school failed to provide adequate support for his language challenges.
The body of 29-year-old Hajar was discovered in Amsterdam following a disappearance that sparked controversy over police inaction. Family members claim desperate pleas for help were initially dismissed as non-urgent.
Mayor Femke Halsema has authorized emergency camera surveillance in the Floradorp neighborhood after violent unrest broke out over a denied New Year's Eve bonfire permit. Residents frustrated by the ban have engaged in multiple clashes with police, prompting an increased security presence through early January.
Dutch health insurer DSW has announced its premium rates for the coming year, marking the start of the annual healthcare cost reveal. Meanwhile, Amsterdam transforms into a global electronic music hub as the Amsterdam Dance Event kicks off today.
The main suspect in the death of 29-year-old Hajar was arrested in North Holland after a violent incident involving his former foster father. Police had initially questioned the 23-year-old man as a witness before identifying him as a primary suspect in the investigation.
Police have apprehended a 23-year-old man in connection with the death of 29-year-old Hajar, who was discovered in a suitcase in the Amstel river. The suspect was identified following an extensive investigation into her disappearance earlier this month.
Residents of the Floradorp neighborhood in Amsterdam North are clashing with police after the mayor rejected plans for a traditional New Year bonfire. The unrest has led to arrests and concerns from local residents about safety and the erosion of neighborhood traditions.
Police have arrested two individuals following another night of disturbances in the Floradorp neighborhood of Amsterdam North. The unrest stems from a municipal ban on traditional New Year's Eve bonfires, which has triggered ongoing protests and clashes with authorities.
Rioting broke out again in the Floradorp neighborhood after city officials denied permission for a modified New Year bonfire. Police arrested two individuals as protesters hurled stones and bottles at officers.
Authorities are searching for answers following the discovery of 29-year-old Hazjar in a suitcase along an Amsterdam canal. Investigators have issued an urgent appeal to the public for any information regarding the crime.