Expat mortgage in the Netherlands: independent advice in English

Yes, in most cases. You do not need a Dutch passport or a permanent contract. What matters is how a lender counts your income and residence status, and that differs a lot between lenders. These are the situations we see most often:

• Residence permit: most lenders accept EU citizens and holders of a valid Dutch residence permit. Check the Dutch mortgage eligibility rules.

• Temporary contract: often possible with an intention declaration (intentieverklaring) from your employer. Read about a mortgage with a temporary contract.

• 30% ruling: it does not stop you from getting a mortgage, but lenders treat the tax-free part of your salary differently. See the 30% ruling and your Dutch mortgage.

• Salary in another currency: some lenders accept it, usually with a lower income calculation. Read about a mortgage with a foreign income.

• Self-employed (ZZP): possible with your annual figures; lenders differ in how many years they ask for. See the mortgage requirements for self-employed.

Several lenders that are more flexible for expats only work through an independent advisor. That is why we compare more than 40 lenders, not just the big banks.

1. Free call. We check whether you qualify and roughly what you can borrow, based on your residence status, income, savings and debts.

2. Personal mortgage report. You get your maximum mortgage, monthly costs after tax and buying costs in English, in our online mortgage system.

3. Offer on a home. With your numbers ready, you can bid with confidence. If you need an estate agent (makelaar) or notary, we can recommend one from our network; the choice is always yours.

4. Application. Once your offer is accepted, we compare lenders and their current mortgage rates, prepare your file and submit it. Lender approval typically takes 4 to 7 days, depending on how busy the lender is.

5. Notary. We go through the mortgage offer with you and coordinate with the notary until the day you get your keys.

Prepare your mortgage application documents early to avoid delays, or read the full step-by-step home buying journey.

Can I get a mortgage in the Netherlands without a permanent contract?

Yes. With a temporary contract, many lenders accept an intention declaration from your employer that your contract will be extended if work stays the same. If your employer will not give one, other options can exist depending on your work history. An advisor knows which lenders fit your situation.

How much can I borrow as an expat?

The same national lending rules apply to expats and Dutch buyers: your maximum depends on your gross income, your debts, the interest rate and the energy label of the home. Use our mortgage calculator for a first estimate, then book a free call for a figure that reflects how lenders treat your specific income.

Why use an independent mortgage advisor instead of my bank?

A bank can only offer its own mortgages. An independent advisor compares lenders, including lenders that only work through advisors, and knows which ones accept your permit, contract or foreign income. Read more about independent mortgage advice.