June 2024: Vital Updates for Expats in the Netherlands
As June arrives, we bid farewell to spring and welcome the onset of summer. Along with the anticipation of warmer weather, here are nine significant updates expats in the Netherlands should be aware of this month:
1. New Dutch Government Formation
After numerous rounds of negotiations within the Dutch right-wing coalition and several Prime Minister nominations, the political landscape in the Netherlands is set to change. Dick Schoof has been named as the candidate for Prime Minister, and the new Dutch cabinet is expected to be in place by the end of June.
2. EU Elections on June 6
European elections will be held in the Netherlands on June 6, 2024. EU citizens aged 18 and above can vote if they registered before April 23. Dutch citizens do not need to register and will have received a voting pass at their home address.
3. Speed Cameras in Amsterdam for New Speed Limits
Starting June 1, four fixed speed cameras on Stadhouderskade in Amsterdam will enforce a 30 km/h speed limit. Additionally, flex speed cameras will be operational on Postjesweg, Kattenburgerstraat, and Oostenburgergracht. This follows the introduction of a 30 km/h speed limit in Amsterdam last year, and the cameras are part of a pilot to assess the effectiveness of this enforcement method.
4. Updated Vehicle Registration Cards
If you’re purchasing a car in June, expect to receive an updated registration card. The new cards feature a refreshed design, contact chip, and enhanced safety features. Cars registered with the Netherlands Vehicle Authority (RDW) from mid-June will receive these new cards, but previously issued cards remain valid.
5. Eurostar Trains to London to Stop in Brussels
Plans to halt Eurostar services between the Netherlands and London have been revised. From June 14, trains will include a 48-minute stopover in Brussels for passport control, temporarily relocated from Amsterdam Centraal. This change won’t affect overall journey time as passengers no longer need to arrive excessively early at Amsterdam Centraal.
6. New HBO Max Version and Price Increases
In June, Discovery+ will be merged into an updated version of HBO Max. This new version will offer additional features and a broader range of entertainment, including select Discovery content. Consequently, the price of the standard HBO Max subscription will rise from €59.99 per year to €99.99 per year.
7. Launch of Wero Online Payment System
Wero, a new online payment system, will launch across Europe this month. Developed by the European Payments Initiative (EPI) and incorporating iDEAL, Wero aims to compete with services like Apple Pay, PayPal, Mastercard, and Visa. Dutch banks such as ABN AMRO, ING, and Rabobank are participating, with plans to fully integrate iDEAL into Wero by 2025.
8. UEFA Euro 2024
The UEFA European Football Championships will take place in Germany this June. The tournament begins with Germany vs. Scotland in Munich on June 14. The Netherlands will play their first match against Poland on June 16 in Hamburg. Additional group games for the Dutch team include matches against France on June 21 and Austria on June 25.
9. Arrival of Summer in the Netherlands
Despite the unpredictable Dutch weather, the summer season is approaching, with the longest day of the year—the summer solstice—on June 20. While sunny weather isn’t guaranteed, numerous events and festivals are planned to keep the summer spirit alive throughout the month.
As June unfolds, these updates provide a snapshot of what’s ahead for expats navigating life in the Netherlands.
