Relocating to Brainport Eindhoven
Relocating to the Brainport Eindhoven region is an exciting step, both professionally and personally. Alongside starting a new job, you'll also be preparing for life in a new country, from practical arrangements to settling into a new community.
This page is here to help you get started, so you know what to expect before, during and after your move.
Brainport as your guide
Brainport helps you understand the key steps involved in relocating to the region. While we do not arrange visas, provide relocation services or offer housing, we can help you understand what to expect, which topics to prepare for and where to find reliable information as you plan your move.
This page gives you an overview of the practical subjects that often matter most when moving for work, including permits, housing, family life and settling into the region. It is designed as a starting point, so you can prepare your questions, explore your options and take your next steps with more confidence.
What to know before relocating to Brainport Eindhoven
Moving to another country is an exciting step, but it also requires careful planning. Alongside starting a new job, you'll need to think about practical matters such as your visa or residence permit, finding a place to live, arranging healthcare, registering with your local municipality and, if you're moving with your family, preparing for your partner's career and your children's education.
The exact steps depend on your personal situation. Your nationality, employment contract and whether you are relocating on your own or with your family can all influence what you need to arrange before and after your arrival in the Netherlands.
The following sections provide an overview of the main topics to consider when relocating to Brainport Eindhoven. They will help you prepare for your move and point you towards reliable sources of information where you can learn more.
Visas, permits and eligibility
Whether you need a visa or work permit to relocate to the Brainport region depends on your personal situation. Your nationality, employer, employment contract and family circumstances all influence which immigration rules apply. Because requirements vary from person to person, it is important to understand which steps are relevant before you move.
Brainport Eindhoven does not provide immigration advice, but understanding the different routes can help you prepare for your relocation. For the latest information about visas, residence permits and eligibility, always consult your employer and the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) before making travel or relocation arrangements.
Do you need a work visa or permit?
The visa or work permit you need depends on your nationality, employment and reason for moving. Requirements differ for EU and non-EU nationals, so make sure you understand which rules apply to your situation.
Are you relocating as a highly skilled migrant?
Many international professionals relocate through the highly skilled migrant permit. If your Dutch employer is a recognised sponsor, this may be the right route for you.
Moving with your partner or family?
Immigration requirements don't just apply to you. If your partner or children are joining you, they may also need visas or residence permits before moving to the Netherlands.
Living in the Brainport Eindhoven region
The Brainport Eindhoven region offers a variety of places to live, from the vibrant city centre of Eindhoven to quieter towns and villages surrounded by green spaces. The region includes 21 municipalities, each with its own character, amenities and sense of community.
Where you choose to live depends on what matters most to you. You may prefer to be close to your workplace, enjoy the energy of city life or look for more space for your family. Thanks to the region's excellent cycling routes, public transport and road network, commuting between municipalities is often straightforward.
Finding a home in Brainport Eindhoven
Finding a home is one of the most important steps when relocating to Brainport. As the region continues to grow, demand for housing is high, so it is a good idea to start your search as early as possible.
Whether you are looking for temporary accommodation while you settle in or a long-term home, there are different options available across the region. While many internationals initially focus on Eindhoven, nearby municipalities can also offer a wide range of housing opportunities, often with excellent connections to major employers and the city centre.
Before signing a rental agreement or buying a property, take time to explore the different locations, consider your commuting options and think about what best suits your lifestyle and budget.
Looking for practical information about housing?Relocating with your partner or family
Relocating is more than starting a new job. If you're moving with your partner or family, there are additional practical considerations to keep in mind, from finding the right school to exploring career opportunities for your partner.
Supporting your partner
For many accompanying partners, building a professional network or finding meaningful work is an important part of settling into a new country. Organisations such as the Expat Spouses Initiative support accompanying partners through networking, career development and community programmes.
If your partner is interested in education, Internationals voor de Klas offers a pathway for international professionals with a STEM background to explore a role in Dutch secondary education.
International professionals interested in working in childcare or healthcare can also find specialised training programmes through Summa, a vocational education and training provider.
Education for your children
Choosing the right school is an important part of preparing your move. Depending on your family's preferences, you may choose an international school or the Dutch education system. Insidr offers practical information about education in the Netherlands, helping parents understand the different options and what to expect when raising children in Brainport Eindhoven.
The Netherlands is also recognised as one of the best places in the world to grow up. According to UNICEF, Dutch children consistently rank among the happiest in the world, reflecting the country's strong focus on children's wellbeing, education and quality of life.
Explore more
Whether you're still exploring your options or already preparing your move, Brainport Eindhoven offers a range of resources to help you take the next step. Explore career opportunities, discover what it's like to live in the region and find practical information to support your relocation.
