Life on the DAFT Residence Permit: Integrating without Built-in Connections

By Darien Wilson Most American immigrants come to the Netherlands for love, school, or work. Those routes create a built-in bridge to community and connection to the Netherlands. In comparison, Americans who come on the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) residence permit can face unique challenges when it comes to integrating into Dutch society.

A bridge in Weesp, Netherlands

While online discussions can make it seem like many Americans are emigrating to the Netherlands on the DAFT residence permit, in reality, fewer than 700 people per year emigrate via DAFT, and only about half renew their residence permits (per data compiled by Aaron at Global Approach Advising). As a result, many people living in the Netherlands - from neighbors to potential landlords - have no idea what DAFT is. Personally, I often find myself explaining DAFT to people who are encountering the term for the first time - including other Americans.

Without the built-in connections one gets when emigrating for school, love, or work, life on DAFT can be isolating. Emigrating is always overwhelming, but DAFT immigrants don’t have a built-in person help translate cultural disconnects. This creates additional barriers to integration for DAFTers, and can add additional time and frustration to the process. Even something as practical as understanding the Dutch school system can become a time-consuming hurdle - or something we need to pay a professional to help us navigate.

Integration on DAFT: Learning the Language

If you're an American who moves to the Netherlands on DAFT, chances are good that you don't know Dutch. Learning Dutch creates opportunities for connection and is one of the best ways to integrate into the culture. I am grateful to my Dutch friends who have been patient with me while I learn. People who make an effort to help immigrants learn their language are some of the most welcoming and wonderful people to know. Additionally, language classes are a natural place to make new friends.

But learning a new language requires significant time and effort - something many people may not have factored into plans when envisioning a new life abroad, perhaps with a better work-life balance.

Rebuilding Personal Networks

Americans who have moved around within the U.S. know that it takes a few years to feel at home in a new community. With an international move, building community is even more complex. Without family, classmates, or coworkers in the Netherlands, rebuilding personal networks is extra challenging for DAFTers. Attending networking events, going to coffees and on dates, and finding the right book club or sports team for the kids takes time. For extroverts, this might feel like a fun adventure, but for introverts, rebuilding a personal network can be an added challenge, especially while simultaneously learning to navigate a new city, language, and culture.

Even within the American community in the Netherlands, DAFT immigrants may feel somewhat different. Americans who arrived in the Netherlands decades ago or had ready-made support systems often had very different integration experiences, which may make it harder to find common ground.

Feeling a sense of community during a fun choir trip to Rotterdam

Integration Is Worth the Effort

After four years in the Netherlands, this is my home. I've rebuilt my personal network, found sports teams for my child and friendships with other parents, found an international women's choir, connected with neighbors, and met interesting people through Dutch classes. But I experienced real loneliness in my first few years here, and I'm still building my professional network here.

If you're new to the Netherlands on DAFT, and you're feeling lonely or isolated, you're not alone. Gently push yourelf out of your comfort zone and invest in building community. It may take a little extra effort for those of us on DAFT, but if you hope to be among the DAFTers who renew their residence permit or maybe even apply for permanent residency someday, the work of integrating will be well worth the effort.

Moving Soon?

If you’re preparing for your own move to the Netherlands — or you just landed — check out my Values & Vision Worksheet or book a strategy session with me. I help Americans in the sandwich years make intentional, successful international moves — with fewer surprises and more joy.

© 2025 ​Darien Wilson All Rights Reserved

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal, immigration, financial, tax, or medical advice. Laws, regulations, and personal circumstances vary, and the content here may not apply to your specific situation. Before making any decisions, you should consult with qualified professionals such as an attorney, immigration advisor, financial planner, tax consultant, or healthcare provider. The author makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided and accepts no liability for any actions taken or outcomes resulting from its use.