top of page
Zoeken

Moving to the Netherlands: Registration, BSN & Health Insurance

  • 19 feb
  • 2 minuten om te lezen

— What Expats Must Know




Moving to the Netherlands as an expat? Discover how to register with the municipality, get your BSN, and secure Dutch health insurance — the key steps for settling in.



1. Registering with the municipality and getting your BSN


If you plan to live in the Netherlands for more than 4 months, you must register with the municipality (gemeente) where you will live. Once you’re registered, you will receive your Citizen Service Number (BSN) — essential for working, opening a bank account, getting health insurance, and more. 


How to do it:

  • Find your municipality’s registration office and make an appointment (in some cities you can walk-in). 

  • Bring a valid passport or identity card, proof of address (rental agreement or statement), and for non-EU nationals a residence/work permit. 

  • After registration, you’ll be entered in the Personal Records Database (BRP) and receive your BSN. 


Tip for expats: The BSN is your gateway number — no BSN means no Dutch salary payment, no official health insurance enrolment, no bank account.

2. Health Insurance in the Netherlands – compulsory and timely


As soon as you live or work in the Netherlands, you must obtain Dutch health insurance. You have up to 4 months from your registration or residence permit coming into effect to take out the insurance. 


What you need to know:

  • You must be registered with the municipality (and thus have a BSN) to take out basic Dutch health insurance (basisverzekering). 

  • If you fail to register for insurance within 4 months, you may not be covered retroactively and could incur fines. 

  • Aside from the mandatory basic insurance, you may consider additional cover for dental, physiotherapy, or international treatments. 

Helpful links:


3. Quick checklist for expats relocating


  • Have a valid passport/ID and work/residence permit if required

  • Secure a rental contract or accommodation that allows registration

  • Make an appointment at the local municipality to register

  • Close after registration: obtain your BSN

  • Choose a Dutch health insurer and apply for the basisverzekering within 4

months

  • Keep the BSN and insurance details safe — you’ll need them often


4. Why this matters for your entire expat journey

Getting these basics right from the start makes everything else work smoothly: your salary, your tax filings, your ability to claim benefits, your access to healthcare — all hinge on your registration and insurance. Mistakes or delays can lead to unnecessary costs or administrative complications.


Are you preparing to move to the Netherlands? Start by ticking off your registration and health insurance essentials — then let us help you with your expat tax/ruling process.


👉 Next read: How to Make Friends in the Netherlands (Without Small Talk) or



Opmerkingen

bottom of page