The expat is literally an outsider. The term “expat” is often used to refer to someone who lives and works in a country other than their country of origin. In the Netherlands, the knowledge economy is central, and by definition, many expats live here.
Number of expats in the Netherlands
The exact number of expats in the Netherlands is unknown, but estimates point to a number between 150.000 and 300.000. The number of expats has increased in recent years, and this trend is likely to continue.
Some estimates:
- CBS: According to Statistics Netherlands (CBS), there were in 2021 over 39,000 High-paid foreign workers in the Netherlands. This number has increased by 601 TP3T compared to 2021. Statistics Netherlands emphasizes that this figure does not include all expats, as it only applies to high-paid workers from outside the EU.
- Expat Register: According to the Expatregister, a platform for expats in the Netherlands, there were in 2022 more than 200,000 expats living in the Netherlands. However, the Expatregister is a commercial database and it is unclear how many people actually register.
- Other sources: Other sources estimate the number of expats in the Netherlands between 150.000 and 300.000.
Useful sources of information for expats are:
- Nuffic: https://www.nuffic.nl/en
- Civic Integration Service (IND): https://ind.nl/nl
- SOVESO: https://www.dictionary.com/browse/seveso
- Expat Community Netherlands: https://www.internations.org/netherlands-expats
- RWIJK GYM: https://www.rwijkgym.nl
Personal guidance for expats at RWIJK GYM
The term “expat” is often used to refer to someone who lives and works in a country that is not their country of origin.
Although there are many benefits to expat life, it can also bring a number of challenges. Expats can sometimes feel like outsiders for various reasons:
Cultural differences: expats find themselves in a new environment with different norms, values, and customs. This can lead to feelings of confusion, isolation, and even loneliness.
Language barrier: Language can be a major barrier for expats. Even if they have a basic command of the country's language, it can be difficult to understand nuances and communicate fluently. This can lead to misunderstandings and frustration.
Social integration: It can be difficult for expats to make social contacts and build a new network, especially if they do not speak the language fluently. Dutch culture can be perceived as reserved, and it can take time costs to form deeper relationships.
Discrimination: Although the Netherlands is a tolerant country, expats may face discrimination based on their origin, religion, or other factors. This can lead to feelings of isolation and exclusion.
Homesickness: Expats often miss their family, friends, and familiar surroundings from home. This can lead to feelings of homesickness and sadness.
Identity crisis: By living in two different cultures, expats may struggle to define their identity. They may not feel completely at home in their home country or in their new country.
These challenges can cause expats to feel like outsiders. However, it is important to remember that they are not alone. There are many other expats struggling with the same problems. For the lifestyle coaches at RWIJK GYM, this is certainly reason enough to dedicate themselves to the Guidance for expats to delve into the issues faced by expats and to make room for this in the programs.
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