Get started with your life in the North

Welcome to the Northern Netherlands! Discover everything you need to know to make this beautiful region your new home.

Opening hours
Monday till Thursday from 9:30 – 12:00 & 13:00 – 16:30

Discover our beautiful region

Groningen

Find out why nothing tops Groningen: a province of culture, history and higher education.
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Friesland

With their rich history and their own unique language, Friesland or Fryslân is a special place in the North.
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Drenthe

Explore the natural beauty and innovative business sectors in the province of Drenthe.
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Vacancy

Social Media Content Creator

The International Welcome Center North is looking for a new Social Media Coordinator. Read all about it here and make sure to send in your application and portfolio before April 8.

New events every week

Join our events!

Whether you're interested in cycling, cultural activities, social clubs, family-friendly outings, or informative events, we've got you covered.

News from the North

Looking for a delicious bite? Try these restaurants tested by foodies in Friesland, Drenthe, and Groningen

Northern Netherlands, renowned for its scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, also boasts a thriving culinary scene. From quaint cafes to elegant fine-dining establishments, the region offers a diverse array of dining experiences to tantalize your taste buds. Here are some top restaurants in Friesland, Drenthe, and Groningen that have been meticulously tested […]

Top 10 things to do in Groningen

Groningen was sometimes overlooked when it comes to tourists, as many opt for cities like Amsterdam, but more and more people realise how much the city actually has to offer and how pretty it is around here.  While places like Amsterdam are overcome with the amount of tourists, and the many tourist traps that come […]

“Kennismigrant” scheme: Outdated, open to fraud, and luring non-specialists

The Dutch government’s program for attracting highly-skilled migrants, known as the “Kennismigrant” scheme, is riddled with flaws, according to a new report by the Labor Inspectorate (Inspectie SZW). The report highlights concerns about outdated regulations, lack of supervision, and the potential for abuse. Rits de Boer, head of the Labor Inspectorate, criticizes the current system’s […]

About us

About Us

Feel at home in the North in just a few steps

We understand there are many things to take care of when getting settled in a new country.

That’s why it’s our mission to provide a welcoming space where you can take care of everything at one convenient location.

20+

Years of experience

3

Great provinces

35,000+

Internationals helped

We helped 35,000+ international people

“I have lived in several countries (USA, Germany, Russia, Egypt) but I have to say that I have had the best experience at the Welcome Center in Groningen. Thank you again!”

Muhamed Amin
Saudi Arabia

“How happy it makes me to learn that the flowers got there and that they brightened up everyone’s day! This was my goal.
You guys work hard, and I wanted to make sure you guys know that your work is meaningful and very well appreciated in the city.”

Kervin Zamora
Honduras

“I would recommend the IWCN for new Internationals, who would like help finding their feet, but also for those who have been in the Northern Netherlands, as the information on offer is very extensive!”

Siddharta Omar
India

“The idea to have such an office to welcome foreigners is a formidable one and this is a good tangible result. I wish there had been such an office, and people like you, 13 years ago when we arrived. It would probably have made our lives so much better, especially the first years!”

Valerio Cugia
Italy

Founders and Supporters of IWCN

We are here to help

Still have questions? Don't worry, our team is happy to help!