Moving to Rotterdam with children: Practical guide for expat families

Why Rotterdam Works So Well for Expat Families

Rotterdam is home to more than 180 nationalities, a distinctive feature that shapes the whole feel of the city. Your children will benefit from the opportunity to meet peers from every corner of the world. The city is also refreshingly affordable compared to Amsterdam, with shorter commutes, more space, and a pace of life that gives families room to breathe.

English is spoken widely and fluently, which greatly reduces the language barrier for newcomers. Menus, signs, and school communications are often available in both Dutch and English, and most residents are happy to switch languages without a second thought.

Neighbourhoods Worth Knowing

Where you live plays an important role in your family's daily experience, so it is worth taking time over this decision. In Rotterdam, there are a few areas that are particularly popular with international families – and within cycling distance.

• Hillegersberg is a leafy, residential neighbourhood in the north of the city. It has a village feel, good transport links, and is close to international schools.
• Kralingen sits alongside a large recreational lake and park. It is popular with young families and has a relaxed, green atmosphere.
• Kop van Zuid is a modern riverside district with stunning architecture and easy access to the city centre. Families who want urban energy with good amenities tend to love it here.
• Blijdorp is calm, well-connected, and sits near the famous Rotterdam Zoo. It appeals to families who want a quieter base without being far from anything.

The rental market in Rotterdam moves quickly. Apartments in popular areas are often rented within two to three days of listing, so it pays to start your search early and have your documents ready.

Getting Around the City

Rotterdam has one of the best public transport networks in the Netherlands. The RET train, waterbus, metro, tram, and bus system covers the city well, and an OV-chipkaart gives you seamless travel across all modes. Since 2025, contactless payment with a debit card is also accepted, which makes life easier when you first arrive and have not yet sorted your Dutch OV-chipkaart.

Cycling is a beloved part of daily life in Rotterdam. The city has hundreds of kilometres of dedicated bike paths, and most school-age children cycle independently once they are settled. If you are arriving from a country without a strong cycling culture, taking a little time to practise routes with your children can help them build confidence before they go solo.

To get to school, many international school families cycle, take public transport, or carpool. If you can, try connecting with other parents in your area early on, both for practical support and for building community.

Choosing the Right School in Rotterdam

This is usually the first question families ask, and rightly so. Your children's school will set the tone for how quickly and happily they settle in.

Rotterdam has a strong state school system taught in Dutch, as well as a number of international schools that teach in English and follow internationally recognised curricula. If you expect to move again, or if your children need continuity of curriculum, an international school is usually the better fit.

Nord Anglia International School Rotterdam (NAISR) is one of the city's most established international schools, welcoming children from age 3 to 18. Teaching is in English, and the school uses a curriculum designed to develop confident, curious learners and critical thinkers. At Upper Secondary level, students can choose the IB Diploma Programme or the IB Career-related Programme, two respected qualifications that are recognised by universities worldwide.

If you are new to international schooling and not sure what to look for, our article on what to look for in an international school in Rotterdam walks you through the key questions worth asking at any open day or school visit.

Helping Your Children Settle In

The transition to a new country is an adventure, but it takes time. Fortunately, most children adapt more quickly than their parents expect, particularly in a city as culturally open as Rotterdam. Nonetheless, a few gentle steps can make a real difference in those first months.

• Introduce your child to a local activity. Football clubs, swimming, music lessons, or dance classes give children a social anchor outside of school and help them build friendships with Dutch peers. This is one of the best things you can do. International school by day, local club by afternoon is a combination that works well for many expat families.
• Learn a little Dutch together. Children pick up languages at remarkable speed. Even a few words at home signals to them that it is worth trying.
• Connect with other expat families early. Rotterdam has a well-established international community and plenty of informal networks. School parent groups (PTSA), local Facebook groups, and expat platforms are all good starting points.

Practical Steps Before You Arrive

Preparing a few key things before your move date will make your arrival much smoother.

• Register with the municipality (Gemeente Rotterdam) or the very efficient Rotterdam International Center as soon as you arrive. This gives you access to a range of services and is required for most bureaucratic processes.
• Contact schools early, before you have a confirmed arrival date if possible. Good international schools often have waiting lists, and the earlier you are in conversation with admissions, the better.
• Open a Dutch bank account promptly. Many services, including school fees and utility payments, require a Dutch IBAN.
• If you are eligible for the 30% ruling, explore this with your employer before you arrive. It allows qualifying employees to receive a portion of their salary tax-free for up to five years and can make a meaningful difference to your family finances. If you qualify for the 30% tax ruling in the Netherlands, you may then also exchange your foreign driver's license for a Dutch one. This spares you from taking the rigorous Dutch driving tests.

Ready to Find Out More About NAISR?

You want to move forward as a family but without your child losing their foothold. There are many things in flux – and you want your child to feel safe – a school to be the anchor point of the changing circumstances. 

We welcome families throughout the school year, at every stage of the moving process, from early research to a confirmed relocation date. Our admissions team is happy to allay your concerns, answer difficult questions, arrange a school visit, or simply point you in the right direction.

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