The BSN in the Netherlands, known as the Burgerservicenummer, is the personal citizen service number you need to work, get paid and complete any official procedure in the Netherlands. Getting your BSN number is the first big step towards living and working legally in this country.
There are several ways to obtain it depending on your situation: through the non-residents register (RNI) if you don't have a fixed address yet, or by registering with a Dutch address. This guide is designed especially for people coming to work through an international agency who need to know how to get a BSN in the Netherlands, even if they don't have a permanent home yet or want to apply for the BSN without an address.
What the BSN is in the Netherlands and what it is for
The BSN in the Netherlands (Burgerservicenummer) is a unique number that identifies you to the government and all institutions in the country.
What it is for:
- Working legally
- Filing taxes
- Taking out mandatory health insurance
- Opening a bank account
- Applying for social benefits
- Enrolling in education
The BSN is not temporary: it never expires or changes, even if you move to another city or change your type of residence permit.
Requirements for getting a BSN in the Netherlands
The documents vary depending on your profile:
- EU citizen : valid ID card/passport
- Non-resident (RNI) : passport (or ID card only if you are European), no fixed address needed
- With a residence permit/visa : passport and your residence card/permit
Ideally you should register within the first few days after arriving, although in practice it may take a little longer depending on your situation and the city where you start the procedure.
How to get a BSN if you don't have an address in the Netherlands yet (RNI)
What RNI registration is
The RNI ("Registratie Niet Ingezetenen") is the procedure for obtaining a BSN if you don't have a fixed address in the Netherlands yet. It is the most common option for people who have just arrived and don't have stable accommodation yet.
The 4-month "paradox": although the RNI is intended for people planning to stay less than 4 months, in practice it is the most realistic route, because most people haven't found a home or a job in their first few days.
Steps to get your BSN through the RNI
Choose one of the 19 cities that offer RNI registration and book an appointment (many offer an online option)
Documents : bring your passport (or ID card if you are an EU citizen).
During the appointment : they will ask how long you plan to stay; say you don't know yet.
You receive your BSN number the same day. You can then start other procedures, open a bank account and look for work legally.
Advantages and limitations of the RNI
Advantages : you get your BSN quickly and can work and receive bank payments.
Limitations : if you stay longer than 4 months, you must register as a resident with a real Dutch address as soon as you have one.
How to get a BSN with an address in the Netherlands (registering as a resident)
When to use this option
If you already have a home or accommodation where you can register (for example, because your employer provides it), register directly as a resident.
Step-by-step procedure at the municipality
Book an appointment to register at the municipality where you live ("gemeente").
Prepare your documents : ID/passport, rental contract or permission from the main occupant of the address, and sometimes a birth certificate.
At the appointment you hand in your documents and are registered as a resident.
You normally receive your BSN by post within 1–2 weeks.
From RNI to resident: does the BSN change?
No, your BSN number does not change, only your status in the register (from non-resident to resident). This affects your tax, insurance and registration procedures (bedrijfsinschrijving).
Frequently asked questions about the BSN in the Netherlands
Can I work in the Netherlands without a BSN?
You can start a contract, but more tax will be withheld and you will have limitations when getting paid or accessing services.
How long does it take to get a BSN in the Netherlands?
With the RNI you receive it immediately; as a resident it takes 1 to 2 weeks to arrive by post.
Does the BSN expire or change if I move to another city?
No. Your Dutch BSN is unique and permanent, even if you change city or permit.
Do I need a BSN to open a bank account?
Yes, you must show your BSN number at the bank to open a local account.
What is the difference between the BSN and the RNI?
The BSN is the number; the RNI is the procedure for registering without residence. Once you become a resident, the number stays the same, but your status changes.
Can I apply for a BSN from Spain or another country before travelling?
No, the BSN can only be applied for in the Netherlands, by attending the appointment in person at the chosen town hall.
Practical tips to avoid getting confused with the BSN
Book your BSN appointment as soon as possible after arriving in the Netherlands.
Always carry copies of your documents and a digital copy on your phone.
Check that all your details are correct in the register and correct any mistakes straight away.
Use the waiting time to look for work and stable housing.
If you come with International Job Challenge, we help you with the appointment, paperwork and every step of the process.
BSN in the Netherlands and work with International Job Challenge
At International Job Challenge we support you through the entire process of applying for your Dutch BSN: from before you arrive, during your registration, while looking for housing and with any other procedures.
If you want to work in the Netherlands and don't have a BSN yet, we help you apply for your BSN in the Netherlands step by step.
Check our vacancies or contact us with any questions you may have.
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