Mobile Phone Service in Holland
Expats newly arriving in the Netherlands will want to sort out their mobile phone service as soon as possible, to avoid making high-cost calls or incurring substantial data roaming charges when using a foreign phone.
MOBILE PHONE SERVICE IN NETHERLANDS
A mobile service contract (referred to as an ‘abonnement‘) in Netherlands commonly runs for 1 or 2 years. The monthly cost will vary based on the selected plan and if a phone is being purchased.
Some plans may be weighted will be more toward talking minutes while others are more generous with data. Those who use their phone to stream entertainment will definitely want to choose a package with ample data allotment.
Mobile phones can be purchased by themselves, but the price drops substantially when purchasing it in conjunction with a service contract. The cost of the phone can be paid up front or divided over the length of the service contract.
To lower the monthly installment amount, you can pay a lump sum up front. Additionally, you will have the option to return the phone at the end of the contract. This can also lower your monthly installment cost.
A mobile phone manufacturer’s warranty covers operational defects over a specific period (usually 2 years). The mobile service provider selling the phone will typically offer an optional insurance plan (by a third party) that covers loss, theft or damage to the phone. Payment for this extended insurance policy can be done yearly or in quarterly installments.
Some companies offer mobile phone leasing options. The contract typically covers any repairs needed, loss and damage insurance, and free upgrade to a newer model should one become available every 6 or 12 months. Samsung Netherlands offers such a mobile phone leasing program.
NETHERLANDS LARGEST MOBILE SERVICE PROVIDERS
The three biggest mobile service providers in the Netherlands are Odido (formerly T-mobile Nederland) with 30-35% market share, KPN and Vodafone/Ziggo (each with 20-30% market share).
Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO’s), companies that do not have their own mobile wireless infrastructure but rather use that of larger MNO’s for a fee, account for 10-15% total market share. Popular MVNO’s in Netherlands include Ben, Lebara, Simpel, Simyo and Youfone.
GETTING DUTCH MOBILE SERVICE
To open an account with a Dutch mobile service provider, you will need the following:
- Proof of identity (most phone shops require a valid passport)
- Local bank account details and/or Dutch bank PIN card
- Proof of address
A credit check may also be run before a new service contract is approved. Newly arrived expats in the Netherlands from non-EU countries who want to open a mobile service account may be charged a deposit or even refused service completely.
It is also possible to get a pay-as-you-go (prepaid) system when purchasing a mobile phone in Holland.
MOBILE PHONE NUMBERS IN NETHERLANDS
Dutch mobile phone numbers are 10 digits in length and always begin with the prefix 06 followed by the remaining eight digits.
A consumer who already has a Dutch mobile phone number has the right to continue using the number even if they change to a different service provider. Such a transfer, referred to as ‘porting’, is handled directly between the two service providers. The new provider will let you know when the transfer is complete (usually 24-48 hours).
There is no discernible standard way people in Holland write their mobile number. Expats can expect to see Dutch mobile numbers written in any of these formats:
- 06- XX XX XX XX
- 06- XXXX XXXX
- 06- XXXXXXXX
USING A FOREIGN MOBILE PHONE
A foreign mobile phone will work in the Netherlands as long as it is GSM compatible, the current service provider allows international calls and/or data roaming, and the data roaming button on the phone is turned on.
If international calling and data roaming are not included in your service plan, the cost to operate it can be significant. It is best to keep calls short and turn off data roaming unless connected to WiFi.
If the SIM card is not locked on the foreign mobile phone, it is possible to purchase a prepaid SIM card which will make local calling significantly cheaper. Such prepaid cards can be purchased at supermarket checkout counters, mobile phone shops and electronics stores.
Note: Holding a mobile phone while driving or cycling in Netherlands is illegal and can result in a fine if caught.
LOST OR STOLEN MOBILE PHONE
All mobile phones have a unique IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) code assigned to it. The number provides protection if a phone is lost or stolen. The IMEI code is shown on the original purchase paperwork. Make note of it and keep it separate from the phone itself, as it will need to be provided when reporting a lost or stolen phone.
An IMEI number can also be obtained by entering: * # 0 6 # on the keypad.
A SIM card holds the telephone number and memory and is necessary for a mobile phone to operate. Access can be protected by personalizing the card with a 4-digit PIN number.
A lost or stolen mobile phone should be reported to the service provider as soon as possible. They will then suspend service and block the SIM card from making calls. The owner is responsible for payment of any calls made until the SIM is blocked unless they have taken out insurance with the supplier.
Was the phone stolen? A report should be filed with the local police department. A copy of the police report will need to be filed with any insurance claim. The phone’s IMEI number must be supplied.
Some phones are equipped with a geo-locator sensor. If the sensor was activated by the owner it can help locate the phone. Most phone thieves are aware and will usually disengage this feature immediately.
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