BSN

A BSN is a personal number that everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands needs to have. 

The citizen service number (BSN) 

BSN stands for ‘burgerservicenummer’ (citizen service number). A BSN is a unique number that the government uses to find your details. You use your BSN for many things in the Netherlands. Examples include taking out health insurance, paying taxes and applying for a work permit. 

When do you get a BSN? 

You are given a BSN when you register in the Netherlands. 

• If you will be working in the Netherlands for more than four months, you need to register with the municipality. You will be entered in the Personal Records Database (BRP) and will be given a BSN automatically. 
• If you will be in the Netherlands for less than four months or you are coming to the Netherlands to work but not to live you can be registered in the Non-residents Records Database (RNI). You will then be given a BSN. To register, go to an RNI desk. 

You only get one BSN , which is valid for life. Your BSN appears on letters from the government and on your proof of registration, so keep your proof of registration safe. Children in the Netherlands are also given a BSN. 

Why is a BSN important? 

You need a BSN to do many things, such as open a bank account, work at a company and apply for health insurance. You have to use your BSN when you have contact with the government. Keep this number somewhere safe. If you have a BSN, you can also apply for a DigiD so that you can arrange government-related matters online.