I need a registration number for tax and social security. Is that the BSN?

Article Number: 43 | Rating: Unrated | Last Updated: Thu, Dec 8, 2011 at 9:42 PM

BSN

If you live in the Netherlands you will need a registration number: the citizen service number, in Dutch called "burgerservicenumber" or "BSN". If you don't live in the Netherlands but you receive an income from the Netherlands, for example because you are working here, you also need a registration number. In that case a BSN will not be applicable, instead you will have to request a "sofinumber". In the past a SOFI number was the standard registration number for everybody, but in 2007 the BSN was introduced for people living in the Netherlands.

What is a BSN used for?

The citizen service number is used by all government organisations. 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 do I get a BSN?

When you arrive in the Netherlands you have to register with the municipality. Part of the registration procedure is that a BSN is issued to you. The same if you register a new born child.

If you will not live in the Netherlands you will have to contact the tax authorities to get a sofinumber. You will have to call the general telephone number 0800-0543 first to make an appointment. This number can be reached from Monday till Thursday (08:00 till 20:00) and on Friday (8:00 till 17:00). The number can only be reached from inside the Netherlands. Otherwise you may try a number which can be reached from outside the Netherlands: (+31) 55 538 53 85. The tax authorities will make an appointment for you, it may take a couple of days before they get back to you. The appointment will be made with one of the following offices: