DigiD is a code that is used to identify the identity of an Internet user. It consists of a unique username and password. Dutch laws do not require the obligatory registration of DigiD, but life becomes much more comfortable with it. With this code, you can contact government agencies via the Internet, which means you can save the time required to contact various authorities in person. The DigiD code is required for submission of applications and information, if this requires identification of the identity of the applicant. In particular, DigiD is used to file tax returns and apply to a pension fund, an insurance company. In general, in the Netherlands, only state organizations or organizations performing important public functions (pension funds, insurance companies, etc.) can request a DigiD code to authorize the author of messages.
The personal data of DigiD users is well protected. An increasing number of government and government-affiliated organizations require you to log in to their websites in order to gain online access to the full range of features. In the future, the need for DigiD will only increase, so it is worth issuing this code, although it is not yet mandatory.
The owner of the DigiD code can transfer interactions with government and other organizations to trusted individuals or companies. They do not need to transfer their DigiD - they need to give the trusted person the appropriate authority through authorization on the site digital.nl. Further, this person will enter government sites through his DigiD and perform on your behalf only those operations that you entrusted to him.
How to get DigiD?
To apply for DigiD, you must have a single citizen account number (burgerservicenummer - BSN). For foreigners who intend to live in the Netherlands for four or more months, it is issued automatically when registering in the municipal personal database (Basisregistratie Personen - BRP). Those foreigners who want to get a BSN without becoming a resident of the Netherlands need to register in the database of non-residents (registratie niet-ingezetenen - RNI) - then they will be issued a temporary BSN. Find out more about it in our article.
An application for DigiD registration can be submitted by filling out form at digital.nl or through a mobile application. Within three weeks of submitting the application, a letter with the DigiD activation code will be sent to the address of residence in the Netherlands specified during the application process. After that, you need to visit the DigiD registration points, the address of the nearest one you will find on the same site. You may need to make an appointment online for a specific time. You need to take identity documents with you, BSN (if it is not in your passport) and a phone with the received code.
The DigiD mobile app is the preferred option as more and more government agencies require you to work with them through it. In addition, the application can be used on five different devices.
The application can be downloaded from Google Play or App Store. Requirements for the operating system of your phone or tablet:
- iOS: version 12 or higher,
- Android: version 7.0 or higher.
By activating the application, you will come up with a PIN code that you need to remember well. You can also order DigiD through the mobile application. The application will prompt you to enter this code, but the “I don’t have DigiD” button will also appear - by activating it and following the instructions, you can order the code you need.
If your smartphone is equipped with an NFC (Near Field Communication) reader and you have valid Dutch documents (passport; identity card; driver's license issued after November 14, 2014), you can immediately add identity verification. NFC stands for "Near Field Communication". This device encodes the read information, so it can be safely transmitted over communication channels. If you skip identity verification, you can activate the app with an activation code.
Registration of DigiD abroad
DigiD is also valid when you are abroad. The Dutch can also issue it abroad, but this option is more complicated, so if you plan to travel abroad, it is better to issue DigiD in the Netherlands.
DigiD can also be obtained by foreign citizens of countries belonging to the European Economic Area (EEA). The EEA includes all EU countries, as well as Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. To apply for DigiD, foreigners must get a Dutch BSN by registering with the RNI.
After receiving the confirmation code, you must personally visit the special DigiD activation points: they are in the Caribbean Netherlands and other parts of the world. The address of the nearest such point can be found here.
When should DigiD be changed?
A new DigiD must be ordered in the following situations:
- You have forgotten your login.
- You have forgotten your password. If you selected "Password Recovery" under "My Data" when registering DigiD, you do not need to order a new code, you will be able to create a new password.
- You have not used your DigiD for 3 years. A warning about a possible deactivation of the code will be sent to the email address specified during registration 30 days before deactivation.
- You have not activated your DigiD within 20 days of receiving your activation code.
Site digital.nl only available in Dutch and English, it can be tricky to understand.
Company Nalog.nl can take over the technical part of the work! For this need to apply.
