Helping internationals navigate cross-border tax matters
For many internationals, moving to the Maastricht Region is an exciting opportunity. Whether arriving for a new job, starting a business or planning a long-term future in the Netherlands, there is much to organise. Housing, healthcare, schools, banking and social networks often take priority, while tax matters can seem less urgent. However, according to Line Thielemann, Tax Adviser at BAAT, addressing tax and financial questions early can make the transition much smoother.
As one of Expat Centre Maastricht Region’s Expert Partners, BAAT supports internationals, entrepreneurs and cross-border workers with practical advice on taxation, social security and financial administration. With offices across Limburg and in Belgium, BAAT’s strong focus on cross-border matters is well placed to help people navigate life in one of the European Union’s (EU) most international border regions.
Understanding life across borders
Line Thielemann specialises in local and international tax advice, with particular expertise in cross-border employment and entrepreneurship. Her professional focus is closely linked to her own experience. Originally from Germany, she moved to the Netherlands and understands many of the challenges that come with settling in a new country.
'Moving across a border involves so many aspects,' she says. 'You're finding housing, potentially starting a new job, building new friendships and dealing with a great deal of bureaucracy.'
For many internationals, tax matters can feel like just one more item on an already overwhelming list. Yet overlooking them can sometimes lead to unexpected financial consequences later. The good news, according to Thielemann, is that most tax issues can be managed successfully when they are addressed early and with the right guidance.
Changing perceptions of tax advice
One of the most common misconceptions Line Thielemann encounters is the belief that dealing with tax authorities is an adversarial process. Many people arrive in the Netherlands with experiences from other countries where tax systems may feel difficult to navigate or where communication with authorities can be challenging. In her experience, the Dutch approach is often more collaborative.
'Many people have a negative perception of tax matters and tax authorities. They often see it as the taxpayer versus the authorities,' she explains. 'In the Netherlands, the tax authorities are generally very cooperative. They work with taxpayers to find solutions to problems.'
This is particularly important for internationals dealing with complex situations involving multiple countries, pension arrangements or social security systems. While the rules can be complicated, solutions are often available when questions are raised in time.
Why cross-border expertise matters
The Maastricht Region occupies a unique position at the meeting point of the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. Thousands of people cross borders every day for work, study or business. As a result, many residents have financial and legal obligations in more than one country. Some live in the Netherlands and work abroad. Others own businesses across borders, receive pensions from another country or maintain investments overseas.
These situations can create uncertainty about where taxes should be paid, how social security contributions are calculated and which country has taxation rights over different types of income. Fortunately, international agreements help provide clarity. 'The Netherlands actually have agreements, tax treaties, with most countries across the globe,' says Thielemann. These treaties are designed to prevent double taxation and establish which country may tax certain income or assets. They also help determine where individuals may qualify for deductions, exemptions or special tax facilities. Even so, understanding how these rules apply to an individual situation often requires specialist knowledge.
Supporting internationals at every stage
BAAT provides much more than tax advice alone. The organisation brings together tax advisers, accountants, legal specialists and corporate finance professionals in multidisciplinary teams. This allows clients to access a broad range of expertise under one roof. The firm supports individuals, entrepreneurs and companies of all sizes. For internationals, this may involve assistance with migration, business structures, tax returns, social security matters or financial administration. One area that often creates challenges is the year of relocation itself. When someone moves to the Netherlands, both the country they leave and the Netherlands may have taxation rights during part of that year. Determining which country can tax which income requires careful calculations and documentation. Many people are surprised by the amount of administration involved. For this reason, BAAT encourages clients to seek advice before major changes take place rather than after problems have already emerged.
Looking ahead
Line Thielemann also highlights the importance of staying informed about developments in Dutch tax legislation. One area currently receiving significant attention is Box 3, the part of the tax system in the Netherlands that relates to savings, investments and certain assets. Following criticism of the current system, further reforms are planned in the coming years. These developments may affect both Dutch residents and individuals living abroad who own assets in the Netherlands, such as real estate. While the details will continue to evolve, the message is clear: keeping up to date with tax changes is becoming increasingly important.
Prevention is the best solution
When asked about the most valuable advice she can offer newcomers, Thielemann returns to a simple principle. 'Often, taxpayers come to us when they already have a problem or a concern. Our aim is to break those worries down, tackle them step by step and relieve the burden.' However, she believes the best approach is prevention. 'Ideally, people would seek advice before making major decisions because it is easier to avoid problems than to solve them afterwards.'
She also recommends keeping important documents organised, including previous tax returns, bank statements and immigration documents. Having accurate records readily available can save considerable time when dealing with tax matters in a new country. For many internationals, understanding schemes such as the 30% ruling can also provide valuable opportunities, making early advice especially worthwhile.
Finding balance in the Maastricht Region
Outside her professional life, Line Thielemann enjoys exploring one of Maastricht’s most popular natural areas: Sint-Pietersberg. Long walks through the landscape, combined with a stop for coffee at one of the local cafés, offer a welcome contrast to the complexities of international taxation. It is perhaps a fitting reflection of her approach to work as well: taking something that can seem complicated and helping people navigate it with confidence. For internationals building a life in the Maastricht Region, expert support can make all the difference. Through its combination of local knowledge, cross-border expertise and practical advice, BAAT helps individuals and businesses focus less on administrative concerns and more on making the most of their new opportunities in the Netherlands.
