The Hague International Centre Celebrates 10 Years of Expat Service

This month, The Hague International Centre celebrates its 10 year anniversary. Though unable to celebrate in person, it has moved its celebrations online in recognition of the support gained since its start. Such support has come via partners, stakeholders, and, of course, the people who make up the organization.

The History

Such support has come in many forms since 2010, when the name “The Hague International Centre” was adopted. Since 2002, though, the organization operated under the name “the International Corner”. Th next year, it became “The Hague Hospitality Centre”. This initiative was the result of Department of International Affairs at the Municipality of The Hague member Willem Post. After a trip to the US, Post sought to set-up a welcome desk offering information on the city to international media, diplomats, and visitors. By 2006, it became known as “Xpat Desk” and occupied the current The Hague International Centre space. By then, international residents were growing considerably.

This, then, brings us to 29 November, 2010. On this date, the official launch of The Hague International Centre occurred. With the integration of the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) desk a more streamlined approach to help a smooth registration for expats and internationals became a major milestone. Following in 2013, 2014, and 2016, the continued expansion of internationals beyond The Municipality resulted in Delft and Leidschendam-Voorburg, Rijswijk, and Wassenaar began employing the centre’s services. The rest, as they say, is history! Over 50,000 international newcomers have been welcomed through The Hague International Centre.

The Celebration

For even more information, check out the video below featuring a special message from The Hague Mayor Jan van Zanen. Keep a lookout on The Hague International Centre social accounts and online to be a part of the celebration.

The Hague International Centre offers many events for international to become more acclimated with The Hague region. These include their general “Welcome to The Hague” and well as more specified CONNECT events. The next Welcome to the Hague occurs on 26 November 2020. On 28 January, 2021, will be a CONNECT webinar: Language & Communication. Then, on 18 February will be CONNECT webinar: Taxes & Finance.