How to Get a BSN Number in Amsterdam

Your BSN (Burgerservicenummer) is the Dutch citizen service number — the equivalent of a Social Security number. You need it for almost everything in the Netherlands: opening a bank account, starting a job, registering with a GP, and arranging health insurance. In Amsterdam, you get it at the Stadsloket on the same day you register, provided you have an appointment and the right documents.

What is a BSN and why do you need it

The BSN is a unique 9-digit number assigned to every person registered in the Dutch population registry (BRP). Every Dutch government system, employer, bank, and health insurer uses it to identify you. Without one, you are effectively invisible to the Dutch administrative system.

You will need your BSN to:

• Open a Dutch bank account
• Start employment (your employer is required to register it)
• Arrange Dutch health insurance (verplicht for everyone living in the Netherlands)
• Register with a general practitioner (huisarts)
• File taxes with the Belastingdienst
• Apply for DigiD (the government digital login)
• Access most Dutch government services

Who needs to get a BSN

Anyone who lives in the Netherlands — not just works here. If you are staying longer than 4 months, registration in the BRP is required by law. This applies to EU citizens and non-EU citizens alike. Short-stay tourists and visitors do not register.

What you need to bring

Before booking your appointment, make sure you have all of these:

Required for everyone:

• Valid passport or national identity card (EU citizens can use ID card)
• Proof of your Dutch address — a rental contract, purchase deed, or a written declaration from the person whose address you are registering at (bewijs van inwoning)

If you are a non-EU citizen:

• Valid residence permit (MVV or residence sticker in passport), OR
• Proof that you have applied and your permit is pending (V-number confirmation from IND)

If you are registering at someone else's address:

• Written consent from the main resident (toestemming), signed and dated

How to register in Amsterdam step by step

1. Book an appointment at the Amsterdam Stadsloket via amsterdam.nl. Walk-ins are not accepted for first registration. Appointments can book up 2–4 weeks in advance during peak season (August–September).
2. Go to your appointment at your nearest Stadsloket. There are locations in multiple districts — choose the one closest to where you live. Bring all documents listed above.
3. Complete registration — the civil affairs officer checks your documents, enters you into the BRP, and issues your BSN on the spot. The appointment takes 15–30 minutes.
4. Receive your BSN — you will be given a letter or printout with your BSN. Store this safely. You will use it constantly in your first weeks.

After you have your BSN

With your BSN in hand, your next steps in order:

1. Open a bank account — Bunq and ING both open accounts quickly for new residents
2. Arrange health insurance — mandatory within 4 months of registering; you can be fined for not having it
3. Register with a GP (huisarts) — find one in your neighbourhood and register before you need one
4. Apply for DigiD — your BSN is required; the code arrives by post in 5–7 days