How to Get a DigiD in the Netherlands

DigiD (pronounced "dee-ghee-dee") is the Dutch government's digital identity system — a username and password (or app) that gives you access to almost every Dutch government website. You need your BSN before you can apply, and it takes 5–7 working days for the activation letter to arrive by post. Apply as soon as you have your BSN, before you need it.

What DigiD is for

Without DigiD you cannot do the following online:

• File your Dutch tax return via the Belastingdienst (mijn.belastingdienst.nl)
• Access MijnOverheid, the central portal for all government correspondence
• Log in to your Dutch health insurer's portal to view claims and coverage
• Apply for or check housing benefits (zorgtoeslag, huurtoeslag)
• Use DigiD-enabled apps such as the CoronaCheck successor or municipal portals

Most interactions with the Dutch government that are possible online require DigiD. Without it, you must visit offices in person or send letters — significantly slower.

What you need before applying

You must have both of these before starting:

• A BSN — your 9-digit citizen service number received at the Stadsloket
• A registered Dutch address — you must be registered in the BRP at a Dutch address

You cannot apply for DigiD if you only have a postal address, temporary registration, or a BSN obtained via your employer's HR process without BRP registration.

How to apply — step by step

1. Go to digid.nl and click "Apply for DigiD"
2. Enter your BSN, date of birth, and Dutch postal address
3. Choose SMS as your second factor for now (you can upgrade to the app later)
4. Submit the application — takes about 5 minutes
5. Wait for the activation letter — arrives in 5–7 working days by post to your registered address
6. Log in to digid.nl and enter the activation code from the letter — your account is now active

SMS vs the DigiD app — which to choose

When applying, you choose your second authentication factor:

SMS (easiest to start): You receive a one-time code by text message each time you log in. Works immediately once your account is activated. No smartphone required. The downside is that some services — including MijnOverheid and certain healthcare portals — now require the higher-security DigiD app.

DigiD app (recommended for residents): Stronger authentication via your smartphone. Required for an increasing number of services. After activating your account with an SMS factor, you can upgrade to the app by scanning your identity document (passport or ID card) within the app — this identity check takes a few minutes.

Most residents start with SMS and upgrade to the app within their first month. If you plan to stay in the Netherlands long-term, upgrade to the app early.

Common problems

"Your address could not be verified": Your BRP registration address does not match what you entered. Go to your Stadsloket to confirm your registered address, then reapply.

Letter never arrived: After 10 business days, log in to digid.nl and request a new letter. One common reason is that the letter arrives addressed to a different name than expected — check your post box carefully.

"BSN not found": The BRP registration may not have processed yet. Wait 3–5 business days after your Stadsloket appointment before applying.

Official source: digid.nl