BSNnummers

BSNnummers refers to Burgerservicenummers, the unique identification numbers used in the Netherlands to identify residents in interactions with government bodies and many institutions. A BSN is a nine-digit number that serves as a single, stable identifier throughout a person’s life in official systems.

The primary purpose of the BSN is to simplify and standardize administrative processes. It is used by the government for tax administration, social security, healthcare, education, and civil registrations. Many non-governmental organizations, such as banks, insurers, and healthcare providers, also rely on the BSN to correctly identify clients or patients, especially in formal procedures and when exchanging data with government systems.

People receive a BSN when they are registered in the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP), the Dutch municipal civil registry. This can happen at birth or when a child is registered in the municipality; residents moving to the Netherlands or foreign nationals registering to live there will also obtain a BSN. TheBSN is intended to be a permanent identifier and does not change with address changes or personal circumstances.

Structure and use: a BSN is a nine-digit number with no embedded meaning or check digits that reveal personal information. It is used in official documents and processes but is not meant to be displayed publicly or used as a general form of personal identification in everyday life. ID cards and passports typically do not display the BSN.

Privacy and safety: the BSN is sensitive personal data. It should be shared only when required by law or a legitimate service provider, under proper privacy protections. Misuse can have legal consequences, and individuals can report concerns to authorities such as the municipality or the Dutch data protection authority.