One of the most common questions expats ask before relocating is whether it is possible to rent a home in the Netherlands before arriving. 

The answer is: yes, it is possible. Many internationals successfully secure rental housing before moving to the Netherlands. However, it is important to understand that renting from abroad is usually much harder than simply responding to online listings. 

In the Dutch rental market, landlords and rental agents often prefer candidates who can attend a viewing in person. If you are still abroad and cannot view the property, you may not be considered at all. In a competitive market, this can mean that your chances are very limitedbefore the application process even starts. 

This is where professional housing support can make a real difference. 

Can you rent before arriving in the Netherlands? 

Yes, many expats rent a house or apartment before they arrive. Whether this is possible depends on your employment situation, income, documentation, budget, preferred location and the requirements of the landlord or rental agency. 

A signed employment contract can be a strong advantage, because it helps show financial stability. But even with a good profile, landlords usually receive multiple applications. They often choose candidates who are well prepared, quick to respond and able to attend a viewing. If you are abroad and cannot attend the viewing yourself, this can become a serious disadvantage. 

Why viewings are so important 

For many rental properties in the Netherlands, a viewing is not just a chance to see the home. It is often also an important step in being accepted as a serious candidate. Landlords and rental agents usually want to know who is applying. If you cannot attend because you are still abroad, they may simply move on to another candidate who is available. 

In many cases, however, a professional housing consultant can attend the viewing on your behalf. The consultant can inspect the property, ask questions, check important details and let you join via FaceTime or video call. 

This gives you the opportunity to view the property remotely, while the landlord still has a professional and reliable contact on-site. 

Why professional housing support helps 

For expats, hiring a housing professional may initially feel like an extra cost. In practice, it can often increase your chances significantly. 

A good housing professional knows the local rental market, understands what landlords and rental agents expect, and can respond quickly when suitable properties become available. In many cases, a landlord or agent is more willing to accept a viewing when a professional party attends on behalf of the tenant. 

It also sends an important signal: you are serious. The landlord knows you have invested in professional support and that your application will be handled properly. This can make the difference between having no chance because you are abroad and still being considered as a strong candidate. 

What documents do landlords usually request? 

Landlords usually ask for documents that show whether you can meet the rental obligations. Common documents include: 

• Passport or identification document 
• Employment contract 
• Proof of income or salary information 
• Employer information 
• Residence permit documentation, if available 

Having these documents ready before the search starts is important. In a competitive rental market, delays can easily mean losing the property to another candidate. 

Can you view rental properties remotely?

Sometimes, yes. Some landlords and rental agencies offer video viewings or virtual tours. However, this is not always the case. 

In practice, many landlords still prefer a physical viewing. That does not always mean you personally need to be there, but it often helps if someone reliable attends on your behalf. 

With a professional housing consultant at the viewing, you can join by video call, ask questions and get a better impression of the property than you would from photos alone. 

Is short stay accommodation a good alternative? 

Short-stay accommodation can be a practical solution if you cannot secure long-term housing before arrival. It allows you to move to the Netherlands, start work and continue your search locally. 

However, short stay is often more expensive than a regular rental home. That is why arranging a long-term rental before arrival can be valuable, especially if professional support helps you access viewings and submit a strong application while you are still abroad. 

Frequently asked questions

Can I rent a house in the Netherlands before arriving?

Yes, this is possible in many cases. However, your chances are usually better if you can attend viewings or have a professional housing consultant attend on your behalf. 

Do I need to attend a viewing in person?

Not always, but physical attendance is often preferred. If you are still abroad, a housing professional may be able to attend the viewing for you while you join via video call. 

Can I view properties by FaceTime or video call?

Yes, this is often possible when a professional housing consultant attends the viewing on your behalf. Not all landlords offer remote viewings themselves, but many are more open to this when a professional party is present. 

Is it worth hiring a housing professional?

For expats who are still abroad, professional support can be very valuable. It can help you access viewings, respond quickly, present a stronger application and potentially secure housing before arrival. 

Conclusion 

Renting a house in the Netherlands before moving is possible, but it can be difficult if you are not physically present. In many cases, not being able to attend a viewing means you have little or no chance of being selected. 

A professional housing consultant can bridge that gap by attending viewings on your behalf, allowing you to join remotely and helping you submit a strong application. 

At Xpat Housing Solutions, we help internationals search for rental housing before or shortly after arrival in the Netherlands. By combining local market knowledge, professional representation and practical support, we help expats improve their chances of finding a suitable home and starting their relocation with more confidence.