Housing for expats

Finding a place to live in Amsterdam can be difficult. The housing market is tight, prices are high, and competition is strong. Expats often face additional challenges such as language barriers and unfamiliar rental rules. This guide will help you understand your options, your rights as a tenant, and the most common scams to avoid.

Housing options

Most expats rent in the private sector. These properties are more expensive but widely available compared to social housing, which is income-restricted and has long waiting lists. Some choose to share apartments, especially students and young professionals. Short-stay rentals (like Airbnb) are heavily regulated and usually not available for long-term living.

• Private sector rentals tend to be more expensive but widely available
• Shared apartments are common for students or professionals
• Social housing has strict eligibility and long waiting lists
• Short-stay rentals (Airbnb, etc.) are heavily regulated and often unsuitable for long-term stays

Your rights as a tenant

A rental contract should always be in writing. Deposits are usually one to two months’ rent and must be returned when you leave, unless there are damages. If your rent is below a certain amount, you can ask the Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) to check if the price is fair. Landlords are responsible for major repairs, while tenants handle minor maintenance. Notice periods are usually at least one month, and landlords cannot evict you without proper legal notice.

• Always get a written rental contract
• Deposits (1–2 months’ rent) must be returned after lease, unless damages
• Under certain rent thresholds, you can request a rent check via Huurcommissie
• Landlords are responsible for major repairs; tenants for minor maintenance
• Typical notice period is one month; landlords cannot evict illegally

Common scams

Housing scams are common, especially online. Be careful with listings that look too good to be true. Never pay rent or a deposit in cash, and never transfer money before you have a signed contract and have viewed the property. Avoid landlords who refuse to give you a written agreement. Always check if you can officially register at the address, as you need this for work, healthcare, and taxes.

• Listings that seem too cheap for the area
• Requests for upfront payments before seeing the property or signing a contract
• Landlords who refuse to provide a written agreement
• Inability to register at the address — essential for BSN, healthcare, etc.

Finding housing

Reliable websites include Pararius, Funda, and Kamernet for room rentals. Some employers assist new hires in finding housing, and expat forums or Facebook groups can be useful for leads, though you must be cautious of scams. Starting your search early increases your chances.

• Use trustworthy platforms: Pararius, Funda, Kamernet
• Ask your employer, some companies help new hires with housing
• Join expat groups and forums (but verify before engaging)
• Start your search well in advance, competition is stiff

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it difficult for expats to find housing in Amsterdam?

The market is very competitive, with high demand and limited supply. Start your search early and be ready to act quickly.

How much is rent in Amsterdam?

A one-bedroom apartment in the city center often costs between €1,300 and €1,800 per month. Outside the center, prices are slightly lower.

Do I need a written rental contract?

Yes. Always request a signed written contract. It protects your rights and allows you to register at the address.

Can I register at any rental address?

Not always. Some landlords don’t allow registration, but you need it for your BSN, healthcare, and taxes. Always check before renting.

What are the most common rental scams in Amsterdam?

Scams include fake listings, requests for upfront cash, and landlords who refuse to provide contracts. Never pay before viewing and signing.

How much deposit do landlords usually ask for?

Most ask for one or two months’ rent as a deposit. This should be returned when you leave, unless there is damage.

Can I get help if my rent is too high?

Yes. The Huurcommissie (Rent Tribunal) can review and adjust rent if it’s below a certain threshold.

Where should I search for housing?

Reliable platforms include Pararius, Funda, and Kamernet. Facebook groups can help, but scams are more common there.