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BSN Registration

If you move to the Netherlands from abroad for 4 months or longer, you must register with the Personal Records Database (BRP). This rule applies to everyone.

During the registration appointment you will receive a citizen service number (BSN). This is needed to access government services and open a Dutch bank account. Learn more about BSN and BRP.

You can book a BSN registration appointment directly with your local municipality, or with Leiden International Centre via our online booking form. 

Leiden International Centre charges fees for services provided, but there are also benefits to booking an appointment with us:

  • Appointments are usually available within the next 2 weeks
  • Possibility to register at your employer's address if you have not found accommodation
  • Welcome bag with useful information to ensure that you have a smooth start to life in the Leiden region
  • 30 minutes with our helpdesk expert, who can answer questions you may have and make sure that you have organised all the essentials

During a registration appointment at Leiden International Centre, you will be registered with the municipality and will immediately receive a BSN.

Things to Note

  • We cannot assist with biometric appointments or residence permit collection. The closest IND location with these services is in the Hague
  • ​​You can only register when you actually relocate, not on a preview trip
  • We cannot do resettlement registrations (hervestiging). Your BSN is unique to you and never changes; if you previously lived in the Netherlands and then de-registered you should make an appointment with Leiden municipality
  • For an address change, please contact your local municipality
  • ​When the Netherlands is no longer your primary country of residence, you must inform your municipality. Check "Leaving the Netherlands" for details

Staying 4 months or less

If you are visiting the Netherlands from abroad to work or study, and you will be staying less than 4 months, you are not required to register. However, in the case that you have to deal with any Dutch government agencies such as the Tax Administration Authority (Belastingdienst), a BSN will still be required. This can be obtained by registering as a non-citizen in the Personal Records Database (Register Niet-Ingezetenen - RNI).

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