Emigrating to the United States

Last updated: March 5, 2026

Emigrating to the United States: A Practical Guide for Dutch Citizens

Emigrating to the United States is a complex process involving visas, paperwork, and preparations. This guide provides a straightforward overview of the main steps, costs, and practical tips to help Dutch citizens make a smooth transition.

Visa Types and Application Procedures

1. Choose the Appropriate Visa

The U.S. does not have a single “immigration visa.” You must first determine the appropriate visa category:

Family-Based Immigrant Visa: For those with close family members who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Employment-Based Immigrant Visa: For those with job offers or exceptional skills.
Diversity Visa Lottery: Limited program; check eligibility annually.
Non-Immigrant Visas: For temporary stays (e.g., work, study, tourism).

Most Dutch citizens moving permanently to the U.S. apply for immigrant visas through family or employment categories.

2. Petition and Approval

The process generally starts with a U.S. sponsor (family or employer) filing a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Processing times vary from 7 months to several years depending on the category.

3. Visa Application at the U.S. Embassy in The Hague

Once USCIS approves the petition, the case moves to the National Visa Center, then to the U.S. Embassy for consular processing.
You must complete Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Electronic Application).
Schedule and attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy in The Hague.

4. Medical Examination and Background Checks

A medical exam by an approved physician is mandatory.
Police clearance certificates and background checks are required.

Costs and Fees

Visa-Related Fees (Approximate)

USCIS Petition Fee: USD 535 (Form I-130 family petition) or USD 700+ for employment petitions.
Immigrant Visa Application Fee: USD 325 per person.
Affidavit of Support Fee: USD 120 (if applicable).
Medical Examination: €250–€400 depending on provider.
SEVIS Fee (for students): USD 350 (if applicable).
USCIS Immigrant Fee: USD 220 (paid after visa issuance, before entering the U.S.).

Other Costs

Travel expenses to the U.S.
Initial accommodation and living costs.
Health insurance (mandatory in the U.S., often costly).

Practical Steps Before Departure

1. Documentation and Records

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date.
Collect birth certificates, marriage certificates, police certificates, and academic records.
Obtain certified translations if documents are not in English.

2. Health Insurance

The U.S. does not provide universal healthcare.
Research private health insurance options before arrival.
Consider short-term insurance for the first months.

3. Finances

Open an international bank account or arrange transfer of funds.
Notify Dutch bank of your move.
Budget for initial expenses: housing deposit, furniture, transportation.

4. Housing

Research housing options in your destination city.
Consider temporary accommodation initially (Airbnb, short-term rentals).

5. Social Security Number (SSN)

Apply for an SSN after arrival; essential for employment, taxes, and benefits.

6. Driver’s License

Depending on the state, you may need to get a local driver’s license within 30-90 days.
Check rules with the state’s DMV.

Upon Arrival in the United States

Present your immigrant visa packet at the port of entry.
Pay the USCIS immigrant fee online before entry.
Attend any follow-up appointments if required.
Apply for SSN and state ID/driver’s license promptly.
Register with your country’s embassy or consulate.

Official Resources

U.S. Embassy in The Hague: nl.usembassy.gov
USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services): uscis.gov
Department of State Visa Information: travel.state.gov
Diversity Visa Lottery: dvprogram.state.gov

Common Mistakes

Underestimating Processing Times: Visa petitions can take months or years; plan accordingly.
Ignoring Documentation Requirements: Incomplete or incorrect paperwork causes delays.
Not Budgeting for Healthcare: U.S. healthcare is expensive; lack of insurance can lead to high costs.
Skipping the Medical Exam or Interview: These are mandatory steps; skipping them means rejection.
Failing to Notify Dutch Authorities: Inform the municipality of your move to deregister and avoid future tax or social security complications.
Overlooking State-Specific Rules: Each U.S. state has different regulations for licenses, taxes, and registration.
Assuming Visa Guarantees Entry: Final admission is at the discretion of border officers.

Emigrating to the United States requires careful planning and adherence to strict procedures. Use official sources, prepare your documents meticulously, and budget realistically for your move. This approach will help minimize surprises and facilitate a successful transition.

Emigrating to the United States