Frequently Asked Questions
Living and Working in the U.S.
Procedures
Temporary
Information on staying temporarily in the U.S. can be obtained from the Non Immigrant Visa Section of the Consulate General in Amsterdam.
Staying Permanently
The Immigrant Visa Section of the Consulate General in Amsterdam gives out information on procedures and admission conditions for immigration to the U.S.
- Language Test
Every foreigner who is going to work in the U.S. should pass a TOEFL test (Test of English as a Foreign Language). In the Netherlands you can do this via the CITO in Arnhem.
Finding Work in the U.S.
- The American Chamber of Commerce publishes the Netherlands American Trade Directory, with a listing of American companies in the Netherlands and Dutch companies in the U.S.
- The U.S. Department of Labor publishes the Occupational Outlook Handbook, an overview of most professions, with desciptions, future perspectives and current salaries.
- In the Netherlands, one can contact one's professional association. Some organizations have lists of potential employers in the U.S.
Comparing Diplomas
The Informatie Beheer Groep in Groningen is the organization that provides information on comparing diplomas. Telephone: 050-599 8036.
Wages
The minimum wage in the U.S. is currently $5.15. Additional information on wages can be found in the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Cost of Living
This differs from city to city and from region to region. Information can be obtained from the Local U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Moving and Living
Information on moving abroad and specialized moving firms can be found on the website of "Erkende Verhuizers." The Electronic Relocation Guide has information on several states and cities.
Socializing
- Nearly every state has a Dutch Society, where one can meet Dutch people.
Dutch Representation in the U.S.
- Royal Netherlands Embassy in the United States.
Education
- Primary and secundary education in the U.S. is organized by State, and is supervised by the State Board of Education.
Taxes
Taxes are raised on a local, state and federal level. Information can be found on the website of the Internal Revenue Service.
Social Services
Every State organizes its social services in a different way. Many insurances must be taken out individually and not collectively.
- Information on federal social services can be found at the Social Security Administration.
- Medicare is a federal medical insurance.
- Medicaid is a health insurance for people with a minimal income.