🇳🇱 Netherlands

DigiD Aanvraag

Digital Identity Application

Easy 10 min Digital IDRegistrationGovernment

/ What is this form?

DigiD (Digitale Identiteit) is the official digital identity system of the Netherlands, used to securely authenticate citizens when accessing government services online. It functions as a digital passport for online government interactions — from submitting your annual tax return with the Belastingdienst, to applying for benefits with the UWV, to accessing your medical records via MijnOverheid.

To get a DigiD, you must first be registered in the Dutch municipal population register (BRP) and have a Burgerservicenummer (BSN). Once you apply online, an activation letter is sent to your registered address, which you use to complete the setup.

There are three levels of DigiD security: basic (username and password), middle (with SMS verification), and high (via the DigiD app with biometric scan). Many government services now require at least the middle or high level, so setting up the DigiD app is strongly recommended after activation.

/ Who needs this form?

Anyone registered at a Dutch municipality (gemeente) who wants to use online government services
Employees who need to submit tax returns or access salary data via the Belastingdienst
People applying for Dutch benefits through the UWV or SVB
International students enrolled at Dutch universities who need to register for services
Healthcare patients who want to access their medical records and referrals online

/ What you need before you start

Burgerservicenummer (BSN) — your Dutch citizen service number, found on your residence permit or municipality registration document

Date of birth

Dutch postal code (postcode) of your registered address — this is used to send the activation letter

A valid email address

A mobile phone number for SMS verification (middle level)

Smartphone for the DigiD app (high level)

/ Step-by-step guide

1 BSN Required

You need a Burgerservicenummer (BSN) before applying. This is issued when you register at your municipality.

2 Online Application

Go to digid.nl and choose 'Aanvragen'. Enter your BSN, date of birth, and postal code.

3 Activation Letter

An activation letter is sent to your registered address within 5 working days. Keep it safe.

4 Activate Your DigiD

Use the activation code from the letter on the DigiD website to activate your account and set a password.

5 App & High Level

Download the DigiD app for higher-level authentication, required for tax returns and healthcare.

/ Key fields explained

Field	What to enter	Common mistake
Burgerservicenummer (BSN)	Your 9-digit BSN, found on your passport, residence permit, or municipality registration letter.	Confusing the BSN with your passport number or municipality reference number.
Geboortedatum (Date of birth)	Your date of birth in DD-MM-YYYY format.	Using the wrong format — always DD-MM-YYYY for Dutch government forms.
Postcode (Postal code)	The postal code of your current registered address in the Netherlands (format: 1234 AB).	Using your work or temporary address instead of your registered home address.
E-mailadres	A valid email address you have regular access to — DigiD notifications are sent here.	Using a shared or work email that others can access — this is a security risk.

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Applying before registering at a Dutch municipality — you need a BSN first.

Not activating the account within 20 days — the letter expires and you must request a new one.

Not installing the DigiD app — many services now require high-level authentication.

Sharing your DigiD login with others — your DigiD is personal and you are legally responsible for its use.

Forgetting your password — use the account recovery option, which requires your BSN and registered address.

/ Frequently asked questions

What is a BSN and how do I get one?

A BSN (Burgerservicenummer) is a unique 9-digit identification number assigned to everyone registered in the Netherlands. You receive it automatically when you register at your local municipality (gemeente).

How long does it take to receive the DigiD activation letter?

The activation letter is sent within 5 working days to your registered address. It contains an activation code that expires after 20 days.

Can I use DigiD if I live outside the Netherlands?

DigiD is primarily for people registered in the Dutch BRP (population register). If you deregister from the Netherlands, your DigiD may be deactivated. There are special arrangements for Dutch citizens abroad.

What is the difference between the DigiD levels?

Basic: username and password. Middle: username, password, and SMS code. High: DigiD app with biometric authentication. Many sensitive services (healthcare, tax, benefits) require at least the middle level.

What should I do if I forget my DigiD password?

Go to digid.nl and use the 'Wachtwoord vergeten' (forgot password) option. You will need your BSN and registered postal code to reset it.