Registering in the Netherlands: arranging BSN, BRP and DigiD
- Step 1
- Appointment + register in BRP at your municipality
- Step 2
- BSN follows automatically from registration
- Step 3
- Apply for DigiD with BSN + address
- DigiD code
- By post, usually within 3 to 5 working days
Why is registering so important?
Registering with the municipality is the key to almost everything you want to arrange officially in the Netherlands. Without registration there is no BSN, and without a BSN you cannot work, properly arrange banking, get DigiD or apply for benefits. So it is the first thing you arrange once you have an address.
Registration links you to an address in the Personal Records Database (BRP). That is why the municipality often asks for your tenancy contract: it proves you live at that address. So check before signing whether you may register at the room.
What is the difference between BSN, BRP and DigiD?
These three belong together but are not the same. Once you know the difference, the fixed order makes sense.
- •BRP (Personal Records Database): the government register of your personal and address details. 'Registering' means being entered in this register.
- •BSN (citizen service number): your unique 9-digit personal number, issued automatically on registration. For dealings with government, employer, bank and healthcare.
- •DigiD: your digital login for government websites. You apply for it with your BSN, after you have registered.
Staying shorter than 4 months? Then it works differently
If you come for temporary work or study and stay shorter than 4 months, you do not register as a resident but as a non-resident (RNI) at a municipality with an RNI counter. You still get a BSN, so you can work and pay tax.
If you end up staying longer, register as a resident at your home address after all. That keeps your address details correct and lets you use every service you are entitled to.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for DigiD without a BSN?
No. For DigiD you need a citizen service number (BSN) and an address registered in the Netherlands. So register with the municipality first; then apply for DigiD at digid.nl.
How long before my DigiD works?
After your application, DigiD sends an activation code by post to your registered address, usually within 3 to 5 working days. You activate your account with that code.
Which documents do I need to register?
At least a valid ID. Municipalities often also ask for your tenancy contract or proof of address, and sometimes a legalised birth certificate. Check your municipality's website in advance for the exact requirements.
Is there a deadline to register?
Yes. If you come from abroad and stay longer than 4 months, you must register within 5 days of arrival at the municipality of your home address.
What if my landlord does not allow registration?
That is a major drawback: without registration you get no BSN and cannot work officially. Always ask before signing whether you may register. If not, consider a different address.
Does my BSN stay valid if I leave again?
Yes. A BSN is valid indefinitely. Even if you later live abroad, your BSN remains yours.
Official sources
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Start free with alertsPuck van Dalen is editor-in-chief at KamerSnipe and writes about the Dutch rental market, tenants' rights and searching smartly for a room or apartment.