BSN number in the Netherlands

Previously known as the Sofi or Sofi-Fiscal number, the BSN number in the Netherlands (burgerservicenummer) is the first bureaucratic issue that expats will have to deal with. It's a unique identifier that you will need to interact with Dutch administration and authorities. 

What is the BSN number?

A BSN (burgerservicenummer) is the citizen service number, a unique registration number for everyone who lives in the Netherlands.

The BSN will facilitate any interaction with the Dutch authorities: starting a job, opening a bank account, deducting your taxes and social security contributions, using the healthcare system, applying for benefits, announcing a change of address - the list goes on. It is also used to combat identity fraud and misspelled names.

What is a Sofi number?

The Sofi number (sofinummer) was the previous name for the social security number, issued by the Dutch Tax Office (Belastingdienst). From November 2007, those with Sofi numbers had them automatically converted into a BSN, and in January 2014 the Belastingdienst ceased issuing Sofi numbers.

Note that having a BSN does not automatically allow expats to work in the Netherlands. Depending on their country of origin, they may need to apply for a work permit.

How to apply for a citizen service number

You will receive your BSN when you register with the municipality (gemeente) of the area you will live in. Everyone who lives in the Netherlands needs to register with their municipality within five days of arriving if they are planning to stay for more than four months.

When registering, EU citizens will need to provide a valid proof of identity (such as a passport, not a driving licence) and their address, while non-EU expats will have to present other documents as well, including for instance a residence permit or an employment contract.

If you are registering for a BSN number as a non-EU citizen, but have yet to receive your residence permit, your registration with the municipality will be provisional. After you are registered, you will receive a letter of pre-registration (BvB) from the IND, which they will return to your municipality after you have applied for your residence permit. Then your registration and BSN will be confirmed.

What do you do if you have lost your BSN?

If you have lost your BSN number, you can usually find it on a number of official documents, such as:

• Tax assessments or return letters sent to you by the Dutch Tax Office
• Payslips
• Your Dutch identity card/passport
• Your Dutch driving licence

If your identity document does not state your BSN number, simply go to the Dutch municipality where you are registered and request your BSN number there.