1. Determine your level and goal first
Before you start learning, it's smart to know where you stand and where you want to go. Do you want to integrate civically, work at higher education level, or simply communicate better with neighbours and colleagues? That determines which level (A2, B1, B2...) you need and how much time you should invest.
🎯 Not sure what your level is?
Take the free level test →Without a clear goal, it's easy to spend too much time on parts you don't need, or too little on the skills that matter most. Also read my article on the CEFR levels to understand what each level actually involves.
2. Speak from day one, mistakes and all
The biggest mistake I see: people wait until they "know enough" before they dare to speak. That moment never comes. Students who speak from the start — mistakes and all — demonstrably progress faster than students who want to understand everything perfectly first.
💡 Tip: Making mistakes isn't failing, it's how you learn. Every time you get a mistake corrected, you remember that correction better than if you'd only read the rule.
3. Actively ask to practise Dutch
Many Dutch people kindly switch to English as soon as they notice you're struggling. It's well-intentioned, but it slows your progress enormously. Explicitly indicate that you want to practise Dutch: "Could I keep trying in Dutch? I'm learning." Most people actually appreciate that and are happy to help.
4. Build Dutch into your daily routine
Consistency beats intensity. Twenty minutes a day pays off more in the long run than three hours once a week. Practical ways to fit Dutch into your day:
- Listen to a Dutch podcast while commuting or cooking
- Watch a Dutch series with Dutch subtitles
- Read a short news article, for example on nos.nl
- Do your shopping and actively address staff in Dutch
- Set your phone and social media to Dutch
5. Work with a method, not scattered apps
Scattered apps and random YouTube videos feel accessible, but without structure you learn disconnected fragments of language that are hard to link together. A proven method (such as the BOOM NT2 series) builds grammar, vocabulary and speaking skills logically — from simple to complex. Apps are a great supplement, but not a replacement for structure.
Want to know more about how I use methods per level? Read my article on my proven NT2 approach.
6. Have your writing reviewed
Writing is the skill where mistakes repeat themselves most easily without you noticing — there's no one correcting you on the spot, like in a conversation. So have writing assignments reviewed regularly by a teacher. This surfaces persistent mistakes (for example with word order or cases) so you can tackle them in a focused way.
7. Find a consistent, personal teacher
In a group lesson you often wait for others and the material isn't always relevant to your situation. A consistent teacher who knows your level, goal and background can fully tailor material and pace to you — whether you work in healthcare, tech, or are preparing for civic integration.
💡 Why this works: Private lessons offer much more speaking time, direct feedback and an approach that matches your pace. That's the difference between slow progress and truly becoming fluent.
My approach at Dutch Together
These 7 tips form the basis of how I teach. At Dutch Together you get:
- A clear assessment of your level and goal at the start
- Maximum speaking time — every lesson, from the very first one
- Teaching material based on a proven method, supplemented with tailored material
- Writing feedback outside lesson time, so every lesson goes to speaking and practice
- Guidance via email or WhatsApp between lessons
- Lessons in Dutch, English or Spanish
Ready to start, or want to determine your level first? Discuss it in a free 20-minute trial lesson.
Frequently asked questions
How do I learn Dutch fastest as an expat?
Combine structured lessons with daily exposure to the language: speak as much as possible, practise outside the lesson with podcasts and series, and aim for consistency rather than intensive but sporadic study sessions.
Can I learn Dutch without taking lessons?
You can get quite far with self-study, but without feedback from a teacher you often repeat the same mistakes and lack structure. Guidance speeds up the process considerably, especially for speaking skills.
How much time does it take to learn Dutch as an expat?
That depends on your starting level, native language and study intensity. With regular lessons and daily practice outside the lesson, B1 is often achievable within 12 to 24 months.
Why is it hard to practise Dutch as an expat in the Netherlands?
Many Dutch people quickly switch to English as soon as they notice you're struggling. It's well-intentioned, but it slows your progress. Actively indicating that you want to practise in Dutch helps with this.
What is the best first step to learning Dutch?
First determine your current level with a level test, then choose focused learning material and a teacher that fits your goal — civic integration, work, study or daily life.
Dutch Together · Tips for Expats
Ready to learn Dutch faster?
Book a free 20-minute trial lesson. We'll discuss your level, goals and the best approach for your situation as an expat.
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