How to apply for and activate DigiD in the Netherlands

What you need

DigiD lists three core requirements for an application from the Netherlands: a BSN, a registration address with a Dutch municipality and a mobile phone. Your municipal address must be correct because the activation letter is posted there.

Application and activation

1. Complete municipality registration and confirm your BSN.
2. Apply through the official DigiD application form.
3. Choose and securely store a unique username and password.
4. Receive the activation-code letter at the BRP address. DigiD indicates that delivery is usually within several working days.
5. Activate the account before the code expires.
6. Install and activate the official DigiD app.
7. Add the ID check if your Dutch identity document supports it and a service requires the stronger access level.

If you do not have a residential address

A person lawfully residing in the Netherlands still needs BRP registration. In qualifying circumstances, a municipality can register a postal address. It cannot be a PO Box or an empty address. Ask the municipality about eligibility before applying for DigiD.

Applying from abroad

People living abroad can apply if they have a BSN, but the collection or activation route differs. Follow the official DigiD abroad instructions. If you already had a DigiD before leaving the Netherlands, it can normally continue to be used.

Security habits

• Type DigiD addresses yourself or use official bookmarks.
• Never approve an app login you did not initiate.
• Keep the registered phone number and email current.
• Use DigiD Authorisation rather than sharing credentials.
• Report suspicious messages through official channels.