Registration in the Netherlands

If you are staying, or plan to stay in the
Netherlands for more than 4 months, you need
to get registered. Note that registration refers to
and thus has to take place in, the city/town you
are living in.

Being registered to a specific home address
allows the Dutch authorities to allocate the
municipal taxes to every household of the city.
This charge is often included in the monthly rent.
Be aware that house owners might not allow
registration to avoid paying extra. Keep in mind
that this is illegal and may cause you quite of
trouble, especially when applying for a BSN.

To complete the registration process, you must
provide your local town hall with a:
› valid proof of identity (not driving license)
› residence permit (if applicable)
› rental contract
› certified copy of your birth certificate.

Also note that there are no costs/fees to be paid
but it would be wise to arrange an appointment
beforehand. In fact, setting an appointment when
dealing with Dutch authorities is always
expected.

About a month before departing from the
Netherlands, expats need to fill in the relevant
application (found at the local town hall), again
free of charge.