ResideNL · Moving to NL · DigiD

How to get a DigiD as an expat

DigiD is your secure login for almost every Dutch government and healthcare service — tax, health insurance, your municipality, the doctor, and more. Setting it up early saves a lot of friction later.

You need a BSN first. DigiD is tied to your citizen service number, so sort your BSN (via municipality registration) before you apply.

How to apply

Apply online with your BSN on the official DigiD site.
Choose a username and password (keep them safe — you'll need them to activate).
You receive an activation code by post, usually within a few business days, at the address where you're registered with your municipality.
Enter the code to activate. Then set up the DigiD app for easy, secure logins on your phone.

Because the activation code is posted to your registered address, DigiD only really works after your municipality registration has gone through.

What you'll use DigiD for

Arranging and managing health insurance and healthcare.
Tax returns and benefits (Belastingdienst, Toeslagen).
Your municipality's online services.
Pensions, education, and many other official portals.

Official source: digid.nl — Apply for a DigiD.

Get the timing right.

DigiD depends on your BSN, which depends on registration — order matters. ResideNL sequences these for you and tracks what's done, so nothing stalls waiting on a step you missed.

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Related:

ResideNL is not a government service and does not provide legal advice. Rules, fees and deadlines change — always confirm on the official pages we link to.