What if the landlord does not allow registration?

Treat it as a red flag. You are legally required to register where you live, and a home you cannot register at may be rented out illegally, which can leave you without protection.

Registering your address (BRP) and getting a BSN

If you live in the Netherlands for longer than a few months you must register at your municipality. Your registration in the Personal Records Database (BRP) gives you a citizen service number (BSN), which you need for work, a bank account and health insurance.

Last reviewed 12 November 2026. General information, not legal advice.

Why registration matters

The Personal Records Database (Basisregistratie Personen, BRP) is where your municipality records where you live. When you register for the first time you receive a citizen service number (burgerservicenummer, BSN). You need the BSN for work and salary, taxes, a Dutch bank account, health insurance and benefits such as rent allowance.

Who has to register

If you will live in the Netherlands for more than four months within a six-month period, you must register at the municipality where you live, usually within five days of arrival. For shorter stays you can register as a non-resident (RNI) at one of the municipalities with an RNI desk, which also gives you a BSN.

How it works

Make an appointment with your municipality. In larger cities there are often special desks or expat centres for international newcomers.
Bring your passport or ID card, your rental contract or written permission from the main occupant, and, if they apply to you, legalised documents such as a birth certificate.
You usually receive your BSN at the appointment or shortly after.

A warning sign

If a landlord says you cannot register at the address, be careful. It can mean the home is rented out without the required permits, and you may end up without legal protection or unable to get a BSN. See how to spot rental scams.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to register my address?: If you will live in the Netherlands for more than four months within six months, you must register at the municipality where you live, usually within five days of arrival. Make an appointment with the municipality and bring your passport and rental contract.
What if the landlord does not allow registration?: Treat it as a red flag. You are legally required to register where you live, and a home you cannot register at may be rented out illegally, which can leave you without protection.
What do I need a BSN for?: Among other things for your salary, taxes, a Dutch bank account, health insurance and benefits such as rent allowance (huurtoeslag).