DigiD ( Digital Identification) is a form of online ID that allows you to access many services and government websites in the Netherlands. It’s like a digital version of your passport or driving licenseDigiD consists of a username and password linked to your personal public service number (BSN).

Why do I need a DigiD?

You need your DigiD to do your administration online in the Netherlands. This includes filing your taxes, applying for benefits and allowances, checking your pension, and many other actions.

Dutch organizations that use the DigiD

There are hundreds of organizations in the Netherlands that use the DigiD. These include:

  • Government departments
  • The Belastingdienst (Dutch tax office)
  • Municipalities and their partners
  • Pension funds
  • The Dutch police
  • Dutch provinces
  • Regional water boards
  • Healthcare providers (including pharmacies)
  • Dutch health insurance companies

How to apply for a DigiD

You can request a DigiD for free on the DigiD website by clicking the “apply” (aanvragen) button. The online application form has three steps and is only in Dutch. Here’s a step-by-step guide with all the necessary translations and explanations.

Step 1: Personal information

On the first page fill in your personal information:

  • BSN (burgerservicenummer)
  • Date of birth (geboortedatum)
  • Postal code (postcode)
  • House number (huisnummer)
  • Additional house number (toevoeging) (if applicable)
  • Click the “next” button (volgende)

Step 2: SMS control

You can make your DigiD extra secure by receiving a text message authentication (SMS control) every time you use it.

This feature is optional; however, some government services require SMS control as an extra security measure. This also makes it easier to restore your password if you forget it.

  • Select Ja if you want the SMS controle or Nee if you don’t.
  • Click the “next” button (volgende).

Step 3: Username and password

On the third page, choose your username and password:

  • Username (gebruikersnaam): The username is case-sensitive and must not include spaces.
  • Password (Wachtwoord) The password is case-sensitive, must be between 8 and 32 letters, and include at least one lower-case letter, one upper-case letter, one number, and one special character.
  • Retype your password (herhaal wachtwoord).
  • Tick the box under password recovery (wachtwoordherstel) if you would like to be able to recover your password via email or SMS.
  • Enter you mobile number (mobiel nummer).
  • Enter your email address (e-mailadres).
  • Accept the terms by clicking on the box (gebruiksvoorwaarden).
  • Click the “next” button (volgende).

NOTE: Remember your username and password! If you forget them before activating your DigiD, you will need to reapply.

Step 3.1: Text message validation

You will now receive an SMS code on your mobile phone.

  • Enter the code in the field under SMS code.
  • Click the “next” button (volgende).

Step 3.2: Email validation

You will now receive another code via email. When checking your email, do not close the DigiD window.

  • Enter the code in the field under email code.
  • Click the “next” button (volgende).

Application (almost) complete

Once you have completed the above steps, your application is almost complete. To finish the process, you will receive a letter with a final code to activate your DigiD. The activation code will be sent to your registered address within five days. You must activate your DigiD account within less than 20 days.

Step 4: How to activate your DigiD

To activate your DigiD with the code from your letter go to the DigiD activation webpage and:

  • Click on “activate” (activeren).
  • Enter your username (gebruikersnaam).
  • Enter your password (wachtwoord).
  • Enter the activation code from the letter (activeringscode).
  • Enter the transaction code (transactiecode) you received in an sms (only if you applied for a text message validation).
  • Click on “activate” (activeren).

Keep your DigiD safe.

Remember that your DigiD grants access to many (financial) aspects of your life online, so you should take care to keep it secret and not lose it. If you forget your DigiD username or password, you can visit the DigiD contact page for help.

If you need help, prefer to have advice before applying DigiD, or have a problem using your DigiD, simply make an online or physical appointment with one of our advisors. You can book an appointment via this link: https://123nlbv.simplybook.it/v2/

You can also  call or send a message via WhatsApp to this number: 06–19952004 or visit our office in Hurksestraat 60 in EINDHOVEN.