Registering with the Non-Residents Register (RNI) and obtaining a Citizen Service Number (BSN)

A citizen service number (BSN) is a unique personal identification number. Everyone who is registered with a Dutch municipality has a BSN.

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Make an appointment

Would you like Make an appointment more than 10 people?

Send an email to make an appointment 

Approach

What should you bring to your appointment?

  • a valid travel document: passport or identity card
  • the QR code or the completed application form
  • Are you younger than 16? Then please also bring a certified copy of your birth certificate. The copy must not be older than 3 years.
    At least one parent must be present at the appointment.
  • Are you coming to the appointment as an employer? Then please come in person with all your employees.

Do you live abroad and does your child need a BSN?

Do you live abroad, but was your child born in the Netherlands? Then your child will not automatically receive a BSN. First request a travel document (passport or ID card).

  • The following applies to children up to the age of 16:
    • Your child must come with you.
    • Please bring valid identification for your child.
    • A certified copy of your birth certificate, not older than 3 years.
    • At least one parent must accompany the child and bring his or her own identification.
  • Children aged 16 and older can apply independently with a valid travel document.

Modify RNI data

  • Would you like to change the address with which you are registered in the RNI? Go to change RNI details.
  • For all other adjustments, you must always Make an appointment.

From January 2026, two RNI counters for third-country nationals

From January 1, 2026, third-country nationals will be able to register at fewer RNI offices than non-residents with a European passport. They will then have a choice of two registration locations: the municipalities of Breda and Venlo.

Costs

The citizen service number (BSN) is free of charge.

Changing details in the Non-Residents Register is free of charge.
An extract costs €20.15 (2025).
An extract costs €20.65 (2026).

Description

Everyone has a unique personal number: the citizen service number (BSN). You do not have to apply for the number. If you are registered with a Dutch municipality, you receive it automatically. The BSN used to be called: social security number.

With your BSN, you can visit any government office, such as your local municipality. Healthcare providers and health insurers also use the citizen service number.

Your BSN is printed on your passport, driver's license, and identity card.

You do not live in the Netherlands? Or are you coming to the Netherlands to work or study for less than 4 months? Then you can register as a non-resident in the Non-Residents Registration (RNI). You will then receive a BSN.

Requirements

  • You do not live in the Netherlands or have lived there for less than 4 months.