Looking to change career, buy a house, rent a bike, find volunteer work, or just meet like-minded folk? You can do all this and more under one roof, at the IamExpat Fair in The Hague in November.

In total, some 80 exhibitors will be at the 16th edition of the fair, showcasing how they can help you get the most out of your life in the Netherlands.

“We have a lot of exhibitors and they meet a lot of the international community’s needs,” says Claire Leunissen, event manager for the IamExpat Fairs in The Hague and Amsterdam.

This year, for example, Doctors without Borders will feature in the careers section, because they are looking for employees. Not a doctor? “Unicef and Engineers without Borders are also with us and they are looking for volunteers,” says Claire.

This year’s IamExpat Fair in The Hague is once again being held at the Grote Kerk, one of the oldest buildings in the city with a distinctive spire that dominates the surroundings.

The church will host an array of stands covering everything from childcare to tax and a rent-a-bike service, plus an impressive line-up of speakers in the workshop agenda.

The big advantage in attending the fair rather than searching the internet for answers is that you get to talk to people face to face. “Lots of our exhibitors are offering free consultations,” says Claire. “And of course, you can ask the experts your questions at the end of the workshops.”

Nothing beats being able to go to a physical place and “shop around”, she says. “It’s a great opportunity to be able to get answers to all your questions on one day, under one roof. And focus on your own, specific situation.”

One of the most popular aspects of the event is the focus on housing and several mortgage advisors will also be on hand, as well as renovation experts and public utility advisors.

“It is so valuable to be able to consult professionals in person, such as about getting a mortgage,” Claire says. “If you want to move from renting to home ownership, there will be lots of housing webinars running throughout the day.”

Careers and things to watch out for when signing an employment contract will also come on board in the workshops, as will tips and tricks for adapting to Dutch workplace culture.

“It’s all about helping you live a good life in the Netherlands,” she says. “After all, that is what we are all looking for when we move here.”

The full workshop line-up will be online as of October 1, 2024.

There are a limited number of free tickets available, so book yours now. Once the free ticket allocation has been used up, entry will cost €5 per person, or €10 at the door. Get your tickets today!