Practical essentials for the Netherlands
A BSN is your personal identification number for dealing with Dutch authorities, your employer, your health insurer, and your bank. You will need it for payroll and many everyday administrative tasks. It does not, however, replace a work permit or proof of your right to live in the Netherlands.
What is a BSN, and what is it used for?
Your BSN (Burgerservicenummer), or citizen service number, is a unique number assigned when you are entered in the Dutch population records. It helps the authorities link tax, insurance, and other administrative matters to the right person.
Your employer uses it for payroll and tax reporting. You may also need it to take out Dutch health insurance, open a bank account, or arrange access to online services through DigiD. To sign in to those services, you use a separately activated DigiD account; the BSN itself is not a login.
A BSN does not establish your right to live or work in the Netherlands. If you are a citizen of a country outside the European Union, you may also need an appropriate residence document or work permit.
RNI or BRP: which registration do you need?
The right registration mainly depends on how long you plan to stay. If you will be living in the Netherlands for less than four months, you will usually register as a non-resident in the RNI. If you intend to stay for more than four months within a six-month period, register as a resident in the BRP with the municipality responsible for your Dutch address.
| Planned length of stay | Type of registration | Where should you go? | What should you know? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than four months | RNI — non-resident registration | A municipality with an RNI registration desk | You will receive a BSN, but this does not register a permanent residential address in the Netherlands. |
| More than four months within a six-month period | BRP — resident registration | The municipality responsible for your Dutch address | You should generally register within five days of arrival. |
Which documents should you prepare?
Requirements vary depending on the municipality, the type of registration, your nationality, and your family circumstances. Before your appointment, check the document list on the relevant municipality's website. You will most commonly need:
- a valid passport or national identity card accepted for your circumstances;
- confirmation of your appointment;
- for RNI registration, your residential address outside the Netherlands;
- for BRP resident registration, your Dutch address and a document confirming that you are entitled to live there;
- in some cases, original civil status documents, such as a birth or marriage certificate, with any required legalisation and translation.
How to get a BSN: a step-by-step guide
- Work out how long you expect to stay. Use this to decide whether you need non-resident registration in the RNI or resident registration in the BRP.
- Choose the right registration office. For BRP registration, contact the municipality where you will live. For RNI, choose a municipality with an RNI desk and check whether it handles registrations for people of your nationality.
- Book an appointment. Many municipalities require advance booking, so check availability before you travel. Do not buy a “BSN number” from an intermediary: only the public authorities can assign one.
- Get your documents ready. Compare the municipality's requirements with the documents you have. Check that they are valid and bring any originals required.
- Attend your appointment in person. An official will check your identity and details. Ask when and how you will receive confirmation of your BSN.
- Check your details carefully. Make sure your first name, surname, date of birth, and address are correct. Report any errors to the relevant municipality as soon as possible.
- Keep the confirmation and give your BSN to your employer. Store the document securely. Send the number to your employer or agency through an agreed channel, and check which other formalities you still need to complete.
If you are travelling to work through an agency, your recruiter or coordinator may explain the process, help book an appointment, or point you to the right office. The registration itself is carried out by the municipality or another authorised institution.
Frequently asked questions about the BSN
Are there any costs involved in getting a BSN?
A private intermediary cannot sell or assign a BSN. A municipality may, however, charge for additional documents, such as an extract from the register. Check the municipality's schedule of fees for the cost.
Can I have two BSN numbers?
No. Each person is assigned one BSN. If you have worked in the Netherlands before, you most likely already have one. Rather than applying for a new number, ask for help finding your existing BSN.
Does my BSN expire when I leave the Netherlands?
No. The number remains yours. However, moving to another country may change your registration status and the address held in the records. Remember to keep your details up to date.
Can I sign an employment contract without a BSN?
A BSN is not a work permit. The requirements for starting work depend on your circumstances and contract, while not having a BSN can complicate payroll and tax reporting. Agree with your employer or agency when you need to provide it.
Do I need a Dutch bank account to get a BSN?
No. Having a Dutch bank account is not a requirement for being assigned a BSN. You may, however, need the number later when opening an account.
