What is a DigiD?

DigiD stands for Digital Identification. It’s an online ID that lets you access many services and government websites in the Netherlands. Think of it as a digital version of your passport or driver’s license.

Why Do You Need a DigiD?

You need a DigiD to manage your administration online in the Netherlands. This includes:

• Doing your taxes
• Applying for benefits and allowances
• Checking your pension
• And many other tasks

Who Uses DigiD?

Many organizations in the Netherlands use DigiD, including:

• Government departments
• The Dutch tax office (Belastingdienst)
• City municipalities (Gemeenten)
• Pension funds
• The Dutch police
• Dutch provinces
• Regional water boards
• Healthcare providers (including pharmacies)
• Dutch health insurance companies

How to Apply for a DigiD

You can apply for a DigiD for free on the DigiD website. The application form is in Dutch and has three steps. Here’s a simple guide:

Step 1: Personal Information

Fill in your personal details:

• BSN (burgerservicenummer)
• Date of birth (geboortedatum)
• Postal code (postcode)
• House number (huisnummer)
• Additional house number (toevoeging) (if applicable) Click “next” (volgende).

Step 2: SMS Verification

You can add extra security by receiving a text message (SMS controle) each time you use your DigiD. Some services require this. Choose “Ja” for yes or “Nee” for no. Click “next” (volgende).

Step 3: Username and Password

Create your username and password:

• Username (gebruikersnaam): Case-sensitive, no spaces.
• Password (wachtwoord): Case-sensitive, 8-32 characters, with at least one lowercase letter, one uppercase letter, one number, and one special character.
• Retype your password (herhaal wachtwoord).
• Tick the box for password recovery (wachtwoordherstel) if you want to recover your password via email or SMS.
• Enter your mobile number (mobiel nummer).
• Enter your email address (e-mailadres).
• Accept the terms (gebruiksvoorwaarden). Click “next” (volgende).

Step 3.1: Text Message Validation

You will receive an SMS code. Enter it and click “next” (volgende).

Step 3.2: Email Validation

You will receive another code via email. Enter it and click “next” (volgende).

Activating Your DigiD

You will receive a letter with a final code to activate your DigiD. This will arrive within five working days. You need to activate your DigiD within 20 days.

Step 4: Activation

Go to the DigiD activation webpage:

• Click “activate” (activeren).
• Enter your username (gebruikersnaam).
• Enter your password (wachtwoord).
• Enter the activation code from the letter (activeringscode).
• Enter the transaction code (transactiecode) if you chose SMS verification. Click “activate” (activeren).

Keep Your DigiD Safe

Your DigiD gives access to many important aspects of your life online. Keep it secure and don’t lose it. If you forget your username or password, visit the DigiD contact page for help.

More Information

For more questions or issues, contact the DigiD helpdesk:

• By phone: 088 123 65 55 (8am-10pm, Monday to Friday)
• By email: info@digid.nl (provide your phone number, but never your username or password)