Burgerservicenummer (BSN)

The Burgerservicenummer (BSN) is a unique personal number issued to everyone registered in the 'Gemeentelijke Basisadministratie persoonsgegevens' (GBA), or the Personal Records Database of the municipality. The BSN was formerly known as the Social-Fiscal (SOFI) number.

The BSN is a unique personal Dutch Social Security number and appears in Dutch passports, identity card and driving licenses.

Government authorities use the BSN to correspond with citizens and exchange personal information with other (government) agencies, when legally permitted; for example, between the municipality and the Inland Revenue Department (Belastingdienst). The BSN is an important tool for improving government services.

The BSN is required for starting a job in the Netherlands, opening a bank account, using the health care system, applying for benefits, buying a car and announcing a change of address, to name a few examples. The BSN is also being used to combat identity fraud and misspelled names.

How do I get a BSN?

A newly born child receives a BSN when his birth is registered in the GBA (from the municipality in which the family lives). SOFI numbers have been converted into the Burgerservicenummer. If you are moving to the Netherlands from abroad, you will need to register with the municipality at the Immigration Office. The Immigration Office will issue you your new BSN within 2 to 4 weeks.

New residents

Within four weeks of registering with the municipality, new residents of The Hague will receive a letter with their registration details, including their BSN number. For privileged persons click here.

Will SOFI numbers be abolished?

SOFI numbers have been converted into the Burgerservicenummer. The Belastingdienst no longer issues SOFI numbers apart from a few exceptions: for example, if you do not reside in the Netherlands and do not have a Burgerservicenummer, but you are liable for paying taxes in the Netherlands. You can also request a SOFI number if you will reside in the Netherlands for less than four months or if you are a privileged person who decides not to register with his municipality. To request a SOFI number, telephone 0800 - 05 43 (Belastingtelefoon).

SOFI number for Privileged Persons

Privileged persons who are employed at an international organisation, embassy or consulate can submit a written request for a SOFI number if they decide not to register with their municipality.

Questions?

You can direct any questions you may have about the Burgerservicenummer to the national information line at tel. (088) 900 10 10 or by checking the website at www.burgerservicenummer.nl.