How to get a BSN number in the Netherlands: simple step-by-step guide for expats

Every expat living in the Netherlands needs a BSN number (Burgerservicenummer). It is your personal identification number for taxes, healthcare, banking, employment and all official registrations. Without a BSN, you cannot start work, open a Dutch bank account or sign up for health insurance. This guide explains exactly how to get your BSN step by step.

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What is a BSN number?

Your Dutch citizen service number for all official matters.

The BSN (Burgerservicenummer) is the personal identification number assigned to everyone who registers with a Dutch municipality. It is used by government institutions, employers, banks, hospitals and insurance companies. You will use your BSN for taxes, healthcare, salary payments, benefits and official communication.

You receive your BSN after completing municipal registration (gemeente inschrijving). Registration is mandatory if you stay in the Netherlands for more than 4 months.

Where do you get a BSN number?

You receive your BSN at the city hall of the municipality where you live.

You obtain your BSN after registering at the gemeente. The address you register at becomes your official home address in the Netherlands.

Typical process:

• Book an appointment at the city hall
• Bring required documents
• Register your home address
• Receive your BSN immediately or within a few days

To check which municipality you belong to, simply search for “gemeente + your city”. Large cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and The Hague have dedicated expat desks.

Step-by-step: how to register and get your BSN

The full registration process explained in 5 simple steps.

1. Book an appointment at the municipality
Visit the website of your municipality and make an appointment for “inschrijven vanuit het buitenland” or “registration of non-residents”. Appointment slots are often limited, so book early.

2. Gather the required documents
You usually need:

• Valid passport or national ID
• Original birth certificate (sometimes with apostille)
• Rental contract, housing agreement or hotel declaration
• Employment contract if you already have one
• Marriage certificate (if registering a partner)

Always bring originals. Some municipalities may require translations if documents are not in English, Dutch, German or French.

3. Attend the appointment
At your appointment, an officer will verify your identity and address. You will officially register in the BRP (Dutch personal records database).

4. Receive your BSN
You usually receive your BSN immediately on paper or digitally. Some municipalities send it by letter within a few days. Keep it safe — you’ll need it for taxes, salary and health insurance.

5. Arrange your essential registrations
Once you have your BSN, you can:

• Open a Dutch bank account (Dutch bank account guide)
• Sign up for health insurance
• Register with a GP (doctor)
• Start working and receive salary
• Sign up for Dutch mobile or internet contracts (Internet providers Netherlands)

If you stay less than 4 months: RNI registration

You can register as a non-resident and still receive a BSN.

If you will stay in the Netherlands for fewer than 4 months but still need a BSN (for example for employment or tax purposes), you can register in the RNI (Registratie Niet-Ingezetenen).

RNI desks are located in selected municipalities. You do not need a rental contract for RNI registration — only your passport.

How long does it take to get a BSN?

Most expats receive their BSN the same day.

The timeline depends on your municipality, but in many cities you receive your BSN immediately after registration. If your documents need manual verification, processing can take a few days.

Why the BSN is important for your salary and taxes

Without a BSN, your employer cannot pay you properly and you will be taxed at the highest rate. The BSN links you to the Dutch tax system and ensures the correct payroll tax and benefits are applied.

If you want to see your expected net salary after getting your BSN, use the Dutch Income Tax Calculator.

Things you can only do with a BSN

Once you have your BSN, you can access many essential services:

• Register for DigiD
• Apply for government benefits and allowances
• Register with your local doctor (huisarts)
• Start health insurance
• Enroll children at school
• Sign official contracts

Next steps after getting your BSN

Your BSN is the foundation of your life in the Netherlands. Once you have it, continue with the next essential steps:

• Open a bank account (Dutch bank account guide)
• Arrange mobile and internet (Internet providers overview)
• Calculate your net salary (Net salary calculator)
• Plan your remaining relocation tasks (Moving checklist)

Need a full expat roadmap? Generate a personal plan with Expat Buddy.

With your BSN in hand, you can complete all essential registrations, start work and fully integrate into Dutch life.