Personal Public Service Number (BSN)
Everyone in the Netherlands has a registration number: the personal public service number (burgerservicenummer, BSN). Formerly called the ‘SOFI number’, a BSN is issued to Dutch citizens with their birth certificate. Those arriving in the Netherlands at a later date need to apply for a BSN.
What a BSN is used for
A BSN is required in order to be permitted to work; open a bank account; make use of a health care institution (a doctor or hospital); and to apply for benefit or an allowance.
How to get a BSN
Foreigners receive a BSN upon registration with the municipality (gemeente). Where one registers is dependent on the following:
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Those who have come to the Netherlands as a highly skilled migrant can arrange registration at the Expatcenter. The BSN will be sent per post.
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Those not in the Netherlands as a skilled migrant, can arrange a BSN when they register with the Municipality.
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Those who work in the Netherlands but don’t live here must apply to the Tax and Customs Administration (Belastingdienst) in Heerlen for a BSN.
Children
The BSN is issued by an urban district council office (stadsdeelkantoor) when a birth is registered with the Department of Civil Affairs (Burgerzaken). The child will immediately receive a BSN.
Costs
There are no costs involved with getting a BSN.
Contacts
You will find more information about the BSN on:
www.bsnweb.nl (only in Dutch)
www.burgerservicenummer.nl (only in Dutch)
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You can also reach us by phone:
+31 (0)20 254 79 99