BSN Number in the Netherlands: What It Is and How to Get One
Your First Step as an EU Worker
If you’re moving to the Netherlands to live or work — even temporarily — you’ll quickly hear about something called a BSN. It’s more than just a number. Without it, you can’t legally work, get paid, open a bank account, or take out health insurance.
In this guide, we’ll explain what the BSN is, why you need it, and how to apply — even if you’ve just arrived in the Netherlands.
What is a BSN?
BSN stands for “Burgerservicenummer”, or Citizen Service Number. It’s a unique personal identification number issued by the Dutch government to anyone registered in the Netherlands.
Think of it like a social security number or tax ID — it’s used by almost every public and private organization to identify you.
Why do I need a BSN?
As an EU labor migrant, you need a BSN for almost every official interaction in the Netherlands. Without one, your life will be on hold.
You need a BSN to:
- Sign an employment contract
- Receive your salary (bank transfer requires a BSN)
- Take out health insurance
- Apply for zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance)
- Open a bank account
- Visit a doctor or hospital
- File taxes or receive benefits
- Register for housing or utilities
Without a BSN, you are essentially invisible to the system — even if you’re legally working.
Who can get a BSN?
You are eligible for a BSN if:
- You’re from an EU or EEA country
- You intend to stay in the Netherlands for more than 4 months
- Or, if staying less than 4 months, you need to work or access Dutch public services
Even temporary workers, seasonal laborers, and cross-border workers are entitled to a BSN.
How to get a BSN: Step-by-step
You receive your BSN automatically after registering with the Dutch municipality (gemeente). Here’s how the process works:
1. Find your local gemeente office
You must register in the town or city where you are living. Common examples:
- Amsterdam: Gemeente Amsterdam
- Rotterdam: Gemeente Rotterdam
- Etten-Leur: Gemeente Etten-Leur
📍 Tip: If you’re staying in shared housing or a temporary address, use that for registration — but always check with your landlord if it’s allowed.
2. Make an appointment
Visit the gemeente’s website and search for “inschrijven als nieuwe inwoner” or “registering as a new resident”.
- Choose the option for EU citizens
- Book an appointment online or by phone
- Some municipalities allow walk-ins, but most require an appointment
3. Bring the right documents
Here’s what you typically need:
✅ Valid passport or ID card
✅ Proof of address (rental contract, signed statement from landlord, or housing confirmation)
✅ Employment contract or letter of intent from your employer
✅ Birth certificate (sometimes requested – bring it if you have it)
✅ Arrival date in the Netherlands
If your documents are not in Dutch, English, German, or French, they may need to be officially translated.
📎 Always bring both originals and copies.
4. Go to the appointment
At your appointment:
- A municipal officer will verify your documents
- You’ll complete a short registration form
- You’ll be registered in the BRP (Basisregistratie Personen) — the Personal Records Database
At the end of the appointment, you will receive a document with your BSN — either immediately or by post within a few days.
5. What if I’m staying less than 4 months?
You can still apply for a BSN via the RNI (Registratie Niet-Ingezetenen) system. This is for people who live outside the Netherlands (or are here short-term) but still need a BSN for work or government use.
There are 19 RNI offices in the Netherlands, including in:
- Amsterdam
- The Hague
- Breda
- Eindhoven
- Groningen
You still need to bring ID and a reason (e.g. employment contract).
How much does a BSN cost?
💶 It’s free.
There is no charge to register at the gemeente or to receive your BSN.
How long does it take to get a BSN?
In most cases, you will receive your BSN on the same day as your appointment. Sometimes it is mailed within 3–5 working days.
If you’re registering through RNI, the BSN is usually given immediately.
What happens after I get a BSN?
Once you have your BSN, you can start accessing the systems that require it:
✔️ Open a bank account
✔️ Take out health insurance
✔️ Apply for zorgtoeslag
✔️ Register with a general practitioner (huisarts)
✔️ File taxes or apply for benefits through the Belastingdienst
Can I lose my BSN?
Your BSN is permanent. Once you receive it, it is yours for life — even if you leave the Netherlands and return years later.
However, if you leave the country and deregister from the BRP, your information may become inactive. But the BSN remains linked to your identity and can be reactivated.
Can two people have the same BSN?
No. A BSN is unique to each person — no one else will ever have the same number. It is used by multiple systems, including healthcare, education, tax authorities, and law enforcement.
BSN and privacy: Is it safe?
Your BSN is considered sensitive personal data. It should not be shared publicly. Be careful when emailing or uploading it online.
Dutch companies and agencies are only allowed to request your BSN if they have a legal reason (e.g. salary administration, taxes, or healthcare).
Summary: Everything you need to know
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| What is it? | Burgerservicenummer (BSN), your Dutch citizen ID number |
| Who needs it? | Anyone working, living, or earning in the Netherlands |
| How to get it? | Register at the gemeente or RNI office |
| Documents needed | ID, proof of address, employment contract |
| Cost | Free |
| Validity | Lifetime |
| Processing time | Same day or 3–5 days |
Final Tips
- Schedule your appointment early, especially in large cities where waiting times can be weeks
- Don’t delay — you can’t legally work or register for services without a BSN
- If you need help, many municipalities offer support in English or multilingual guides
- After you get your BSN, you can proceed with health insurance, allowances, and more
Need help?
At PortRomania, we assist EU workers in settling in the Netherlands. Need help with your BSN registration, appointment scheduling, or translation of documents? Reach out to our team at info@portromania.com
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