You need this number for all kinds of important purposes, such as working, receiving healthcare, opening a bank account and contact with the authorities.
You can register as follows
If you are going to stay in the Netherlands for longer than 4 months, you must be registered in the Personal Records Database (Basisregistratie Personen, BRP). You can do this by making an appointment with the municipality of Amsterdam.
You should take the following documents with you to the appointment:
- A valid passport or identity card.
- Your employment contract (if you have one).
- Your birth certificate.
- Your marriage certificate (if applicable).
- A tenancy agreement or proof of your address.
Once you have completed the registration process, you will be issued with a BSN.
Why registering is important
The municipality of Amsterdam provides information on registering on its website and via the municipal offices. Required to inform your employer about important aspects of living and working in the Netherlands.
You need to register on time to avoid problems with work, healthcare, the authorities or other important services.
FAQs
How do I register with the municipality?
You can register at one of the municipal offices in Amsterdam. You should take along the documents that you need, such as a valid identity document and proof of your address. You can find the opening times and additional information on the website of the municipality of Amsterdam.
What is a BSN and why do I need it?
A BSN is your Citizen Service Number (Burgerservicenummer). This is a personal number that you need whenever you have contact with your authorities. You need a BSN in order to work, receive healthcare, pay your taxes and open a bank account.
What happens if I do not register?
If you do not register, you will not be issued with a BSN. This can cause you problems in relation to work or when arranging care or other matters with the authorities. The municipality can also fine you if you do not register on time.
More information
Local contact points
- Register of Non-Residents Southeast Office (RNI-loket Zuidoost), Anton de Komplein 150
- Register of Non-Residents West Office (RNI-loket West), Bos en Lommerplein 176
- Municipal Office for the City Centre District (Stadsloket Centrum), Amstel 1
- Municipal Office for the New-West District (Stadsloket Nieuw-West), Osdorpplein 946
- Municipal Office for the North District (Stadsloket Noord), Buikslotermeerplein 2000
- Municipal Office for the East District (Stadsloket Oost), Oranje-Vrijstaatplein 2
- Municipal Office for the West District Stadsloket West, Bos en Lommerplein 250
- Municipal Office for the South District Stadsloket Zuid, President Kennedylaan 923
- Municipal Office for the Southeast District Stadsloket Zuidoost, Anton de Komplein 150
Practical tips
- Register with the municipality as soon as possible. Then you will quickly be issued with your Citizen Service Number (BSN).
- Save copies of important documents, such as your identity document, employment contract and tenancy agreement.
- Before you visit the municipal office, you should check the opening times on the municipality's website.
- If you have any doubts about which documents you need, ask the municipality or your employer for help.
- In the event of any problems, please contact the Working in the Netherlands (WIN) team. They will be only too pleased to help.