Dutch digital identity: DigiD

Having a ‘Dutch Digital Identity’, or ‘DigiD’, will equip you to manage many of your practical, financial and legal matters in the Netherlands. It is a personal code, which you can use to safely take care of these important affairs online. Acquiring a DigiD is not technically an entry requirement for the Netherlands. Therefore, compared to arranging documents like resident permits or Visas, it is not too complicated! You can find an overview of what the DigiD is, what it’s for and how to get one on this page.

Do you need a DigiD?

You are not actually obligated to have a DigiD in Holland!

Most proceedings for which you would use your DigiD can be taken care of over the telephone, or by letter
Having a DigiD will, however, make it possible for you to take care of said matters online
This is simply more efficient, and enables you to manage your affairs singlehandedly

Tip

Entry Requirements for the Netherlands

Whilst you are not obligated to have a Digid there are certain requirements to which every natural person, who wishes to work in the Netherlands, must adhere:

This rule applies to you as an expat in NL, whether you work for an employer or for yourself
You must, for example, have a Dutch Citizen Service Number
Depending on where you come from, you may also need a visa and/or some further permits

‘DigiD‘ stands for ‘Digital Identification’. Each person who lives in the Netherlands, and applies for a DigiD, is given their own individual digital identification number. Here’s what you need to know about it:

Your DigiD will consist of a username and password
This code allows you to make use of the electronic services of several government institutions and organizations in NL
It is used as a kind of password
Some organizations link your DigiD to an ‘sms code‘ code
This is used as an extra precaution to protect your online security
In practice, this means that a text message will be sent to your mobile phone before you can login to secure websites
To set up this safety measure, visit the DigiD website

When do you use your DigiD in NL?

Here are a few examples of when you will use your DigiD in the Netherlands:

To file your online tax return
To arrange Child Benefit
For ordering municipal documents online
To make an appointment for your driver’s exam
To view your health care insurance expenditures

How to acquire a Dutch DigiD

To obtain your own DigiD, you must make sure you are registered with the municipality in which you live. Next, simply visit the DigiD website. Here, you will be asked for the following information:

Citizen Service Number
Date of birth
Postal code
House number
E-mail address

Five days after filling out the online form for your DigiD you will receive your activation code by mail. With the activation code will come instructions on how to activate your DigiD. You must use your activation code within 20 days of receiving it. Then, you will officially be able to use your DigiD in the Netherlands!

Useful links

DigiD: The official site
The Dutch Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment
The Dutch Social Insurance Bank

Recently Posted on XPat.nl

The Difference Between a Resume and a CV

If you’re an expat living and looking for work in the Netherlands then there are some vital differences you should know about in regards to your job applications. In the Netherlands, as with most places in Europe, the norm is a CV rather than the resume which is commonly used in the United States amongst … Continue reading

How to Learn to Speak Dutch: Top Tips and Tricks

Dutch is a West Germanic language, and the most common dialect spoken throughout The Netherlands. While plenty of individuals here are perfectly fluent in English, we need to remember that learning the basics is always a good idea if you are planning a visit in the near future. However, what if you happen to be … Continue reading

The Holland Handbook 2026-2027

It is that time of year again; the new and annually-updated version of The Holland Handbook is here and ready to be enjoyed! Not only that, but this is the 26th edition! More than twenty five years ago, a modest group of three people sat around a table to discuss the possibility of creating a … Continue reading

Preparing for the Inburgering A1 Exam

What Future Residents Should Know For many people planning a move to the Netherlands, the Inburgering A1 exam is one of the first important steps. If you need to take the basic civic integration exam abroad before joining your partner or starting a new life in the Netherlands, it helps to know exactly what to … Continue reading

Financial Planning Basics for Expats Moving to the Netherlands

Moving abroad brings exciting opportunities—and new financial responsibilities. For expats relocating to the Netherlands, understanding how the local financial system works can make a significant difference in building stability and avoiding unexpected costs. From housing and taxation to insurance and long-term planning, getting familiar with the essentials early on helps create a smoother transition. One … Continue reading

Dutch student culture decoded: a survival guide for internationals

Studying in the Netherlands is more than earning a degree; it is an introduction to a distinct social culture. International students often arrive prepared for coursework and exams, but less prepared for the unwritten rules that shape daily life. From direct communication to financial responsibility and structured planning, Dutch student culture follows clear principles that … Continue reading