What to Always Carry in the Netherlands

17.06.26

What you should always have with you if you work in the Netherlands through DB Work

When you start a job in the Netherlands, it is normal to have many questions about your new workplace, as well as about documents, health insurance, transport, or the papers you may need in everyday life.

Many DB Work professionals say that the first few weeks are much easier when you know in advance what you should keep close at hand. Some items are necessary at work, while others are useful when you visit a doctor, use public transport, or deal with administrative matters.

Fortunately, the DB Work team supports you during the integration process and provides the necessary information from the beginning. In addition, through the benefits package included in your employment contract, DB Work takes care of some of the concerns that come with starting a new job in a foreign country.

However, it is useful to know which items you are advised to always carry with you in the Netherlands.

1. A valid identity document

In the Netherlands, it is important to be able to prove your identity when necessary. Therefore, it is recommended to carry a valid identity document with you.

You can use:

  • your identity card;

  • your passport.

Many DB Work professionals choose to carry their identity card every day and keep their passport in a safe place at their accommodation.

2. BSN – your identification number in the Netherlands

The BSN, or Burgerservicenummer, is one of the most important numbers you will receive after registering in the Netherlands.

You will need it for:

  • your employment contract;

  • health insurance;

  • opening a bank account;

  • various administrative procedures.

You do not need to carry the physical document every day, but it is recommended to keep a copy or a photo saved on your phone.

3. Your health insurance card

Health insurance is mandatory in the Netherlands. After your insurance is activated, you will receive a health insurance card, which you will use when visiting a doctor, pharmacy, or hospital.

One advantage for DB Work professionals is that basic health insurance is included in the employment contract, while the support team helps with the necessary formalities.

4. Your bank card and banking app

The Netherlands is one of the European countries where card payments are widely used. Therefore, most people use a bank card or their phone for shopping and everyday payments.

It is recommended to have:

  • your bank card;

  • your bank’s app installed on your phone.

Once you start working in the Netherlands, you can use your bank account to receive your salary. It is recommended to open this account in your home country before departure. You can also use it for your regular payments.

5. Your mobile phone

Your phone has become one of the most important tools for people working abroad.

Besides communicating with family and colleagues, it helps you:

  • access Plan4Flex, the app for DB Work professionals where you can check your work schedule and receive important job-related information;

  • use maps and transport apps;

  • stay in touch with your accommodation colleagues, family, or friends back home.

Many DB Work professionals also use their phones to store digital copies of important documents.

6. Your driving licence if you use a car

If you have a driving licence and drive one of the cars provided by DB Work for local transport, it is important to always carry your licence with you.

A driving licence issued by a European Union member state is recognized in the Netherlands.

7. Work and protective equipment

Depending on the field in which you work, you will need the appropriate work and protective equipment.

For DB Work professionals, the necessary equipment is provided according to the requirements of the project and may include:

  • safety boots;

  • a reflective vest;

  • a safety helmet;

  • gloves;

  • safety glasses.

Following safety rules is very important in the Netherlands, especially in the naval, industrial, logistics, and construction sectors.

What is better left at your accommodation

It is not recommended to carry the following items every day:

  • large amounts of cash;

  • original documents that you do not need;

  • important papers that could be lost or damaged.

Many DB Work professionals choose to keep these documents in a safe place at their accommodation and only carry what they need for their daily activities.

Conclusion

When you work in the Netherlands through DB Work, a few simple items can make your life much easier: a valid identity document, your bank card, your mobile phone, and important documents related to your job and health insurance.

You also benefit from the support of the DB Work team throughout the integration process and receive the information you need to adapt more easily to life and work in the Netherlands. This allows you to focus on what matters most: your professional activity and your future plans.

Learn more about working in the Netherlands through DB Work

And if you have experience in the naval, industrial, logistics, or construction field and want to work in the Netherlands in 2026, send your CV to job@dbwork.com. At DB Work, we offer you a Dutch employment contract and a full benefits package, from accommodation with utilities included to local transport and health insurance.