20 Best Ways to Make Friends as an Expat in the Netherlands (Updated 2025)
Moving to the Netherlands as an expat can be exciting but also challenging, especially when it comes to building a social circle. Where do you start? How do you meet new people? Making friends is essential for feeling at home in your new country. Luckily, connecting with others doesn’t have to be difficult! Here are 20 effective ways to make friends as an expat in the Netherlands.
1. Join a Sports Club
Engage in physical activities to bond with others over shared interests. Sports are a great way to meet people and develop long-lasting friendships.
2. Attend Meetup Events
Use platforms like Meetup.com to find social gatherings based on your hobbies and interests. Meeting in real life (IRL) makes connections more meaningful!
3. Explore Facebook Events
Stay updated on local gatherings, networking events, and social activities to meet like-minded people.
4. Start Your Own Club
Take the initiative by organizing a club around your passions, whether it's book discussions, hiking, or photography.
5. Take Hobby Classes
Join a cooking, dance, or art class to learn new skills while meeting people outside your usual circles.
6. Engage in Expat Groups
Join expat communities like Internations, Expat Republic, or local Facebook groups to connect with fellow expats.
7. Learn Dutch
Language courses help you integrate into Dutch society and connect with both locals and fellow learners.
8. Build Workplace Friendships
Socializing with colleagues outside of work can strengthen bonds and create lasting friendships.
9. Plan Social Outings in Advance
The Dutch love to schedule! Plan meetups ahead of time to ensure everyone can attend.
10. Embrace Direct Communication
Dutch people appreciate honesty and directness—be open and genuine in your conversations.
11. Ask for Introductions
Expand your social circle by asking mutual friends for introductions to like-minded people.
12. Use Friendship Apps
Try apps like Bumble BFF or an alternative like After5Alike for curated meetups with like-minded individuals.
13. Meet Other Couples
If you're in a relationship, connect with other couples through your partner’s social circle.
14. Attend Borrels (Social Drinks)
Dutch social drinks, or "borrels," are great for mingling with both locals and fellow expats in a relaxed setting.
15. Join a Study Association
If you’re a student, take part in academic and social events organized by university associations.
16. Explore Student Organizations
Student clubs and organizations offer excellent opportunities to engage with peers who share your interests.
17. Participate in International Women’s Communities
Join global communities for women working and traveling abroad to connect with like-minded female expats.
18. Volunteer
Giving back to the community through volunteering is an excellent way to meet compassionate, like-minded individuals.
19. Connect via Online Communities
Join Reddit, Discord, or other online platforms to discuss shared interests and arrange meetups.
20. Meet Like-Minded Women with After5
Take your seat with After5 and meet ambitious, like-minded women in your city. For one-on-one meetups, try After5Alike!
By following these tips, you’ll build a supportive social network and enrich your experience as an expat in the Netherlands. Cheers to new friendships and exciting adventures!
*image via Pinterest