Frequently asked questions

What is Expat Info Almere?

Expat Info Almere is a non-profit initiative that centralizes essential information for international newcomers to Almere. We gather scattered information from various websites and official sources, presenting it all in one easily accessible place.

Why was Expat Info Almere created?

Moving to a new country is overwhelming enough without having to hunt through dozens of different platforms just to find basic information. We experienced this frustration ourselves and realized that Almere's international community needed a single, reliable source that complement official government resources for all the practical information newcomers require.

What makes EIA different from other expat resources?

Centralised Approach

Unlike scattered Facebook groups and WhatsApp chats, we bring all essential information to one platform.

Official Sources Only

All our information comes from verified government websites, authorised municipal resources, and established community organisations.

Time-Efficient

No more jumping between multiple platforms. Find what you need quickly and get back to settling into your new life.

Community-Driven

Built by internationals who understand the challenges, for internationals facing the same journey.

Who can use this resource?

Our resource is designed for:

• New arrivals planning their move to Almere

• Recent arrivals navigating their first months

• Established internationals looking for specific information

• Families with children needing school and community information

• Professionals seeking work-related guidance

• Anyone who wants reliable, up-to-date information about life in Almere

What topics are covered?

We provide comprehensive information on:

• Registration & Legal Requirements (BSN, DigiD, municipal registration)

• Housing & Neighbourhoods (finding housing, area guides, moving procedures)

• Healthcare & Insurance (mandatory insurance, finding doctors, emergency care)

• Banking & Finance (opening accounts, tax obligations, financial services)

• Education (international schools, Dutch education system, language learning)

• Transportation (public transport, cycling, car registration)

• Language & Cultural Integration (expat groups, cultural activities, language cafes)

• Daily Life (shopping, utilities, cultural norms)

• Employment (work permits, job searching, business registration)

EIA Sources

Verified Sources. We only use information from:

• Official Dutch government websites

• Almere municipality official resources

• Authorised community organisations

• Verified international support networks

Regular Updates

EIA continuously reviews and updates content to ensure accuracy and relevance.

No Commercial Bias

EIA does not promote specific businesses or services.

Is this service free?

Yes, completely free. This is a 100% non-profit initiative funded entirely by our founding team. EIA has no commercial interests or hidden fees.

What is your current status?

We are currently in active development phase:

• Information gathering from official sources

• Building comprehensive FAQ sections

• Developing user-friendly platform

• Planning community feedback integration

• Working toward legal establishment as a stichting (foundation)

Are you officially registered?

Not yet. We are currently operating as a non-profit initiative while working toward establishing ourselves as a stichting (Dutch foundation). This legal structure will ensure long-term sustainability and official recognition.

How can I contact you?

You can reach us through info@expatinfoalmere.com for:

• Information corrections or updates

• Topic suggestions

• Community feedback

• Partnership inquiries

Or fill in our contact form.

Does EIA work with official organisations?

EIA uses information from official channels and works toward establishing partnerships with:

• Almere municipality

• Local community channels

• Educational institutions

• Healthcare providers

How can I contribute or help?

EIA values community input. You can contact us and:

• Suggest missing topics that should be covered

• Report outdated information for updates

• Share this resource with other internationals

• Provide feedback on user experience

• Recommend reliable sources for additional information

How do you fund this initiative?

Currently, this project is 100% self-funded.

Current Funding (2025)

• 100% founder-funded; No external influence on content or recommendations

Future Sustainable Funding Options

• Small community grants from non-commercial organisations

• Municipal support programs for community initiatives

• Voluntary community donations from users who find value in our service

• Partnership opportunities with established non-commercial international support organisations

Potential Ethical Advertising (Future Consideration)

EIA may consider limited, highly ethical advertising with strict safeguards:

EIA's Advertising Principles:

• Editorial firewall: Advertisers will never influence our content or recommendations

• Clear separation: All ads clearly labeled and completely separated from editorial content

• Benefit-related: EIA would only accept ads from verified services that genuinely help internationals

• Full transparency: All advertising relationships would be publicly disclosed

• Comprehensive coverage: EIA would always provide complete information, not just advertiser options

• Multiple alternatives: Both free and paid options always included in recommendations

Examples of acceptable advertising:

• Verified immigration lawyers and legal services

• Accredited language schools and integration courses

• Licensed international moving companies

• Qualified expat-focused insurance brokers

• Legitimate cultural orientation services

What we have no interest to do:

• ❌ Recommend services based on advertising payments

• ❌ Accept payment for favourable coverage

• ❌ Hide any business relationships

• ❌ Allow ads to influence factual, government-sourced information

• ❌ Compromise our editorial independence

What is EIA's commitment?

Independence

EIA maintains complete independence from commercial interests, ensuring unbiased information.

Transparency

EIA's sources are identified and verifiable.

People First

Every decision prioritises the needs of newcomers above all other considerations.

Long-term Vision

EIA is committed to building this website as a valuable resource providing useful and reliable information for the residents of Almere.

Because finding your way in a new country should be straightforward, not stressful.

Expat Info Almere