Proof of being alive or attestation de vita

Authorities may ask for written proof that you are alive. There are two types: a proof of being alive or an attestation de vita. You request these documents from the municipality in which you live or reside.

Approach

This is how you apply for an attestation de vita or proof of living:

  • You come in person to the municipality in which you reside.

You bring:

  • your valid ID
  • possibly the notice of the authority requesting proof of living

If you are applying on behalf of another person, please bring the following: 

  • your valid ID
  • A copy of that other person's valid ID
  • written authorization from that other person
Cost

An attestation de vita costs €16.60 (2024) / €17.10 (2025).
Does your pension fund ask for the extract? Then it is free of charge.

A multilingual model form of an attestation de vita costs €16.60 (2024) / €17.10 (2025).

(Rates 2024/2025)

Description

A proof of living and attestation de vita is written proof that you are still alive. Authorities such as a pension fund or benefit agency may ask for this.

The difference between the two documents is:

  • You use a certificate of life in the Netherlands. This is an extract from the basic registration of persons ( BRP ).
  • You use an attestation de vita outside the Netherlands. This is a certificate of civil status. This is an international document.

Of an attestation de vita, you can request a multilingual model form at the same time.

Requirements
  • You come in person to counter to request proof of living.
  • Are you unable to attend in person? You can authorize someone.
    We will then call you to ask questions in order to establish your identity.
  • If that also fails, you can request a home visit from an official. There is a cost and a deadline associated with this. Please contact the Civil Affairs Department.