DigiD (Digital Identity) is the Netherlands' online authentication system — think of it as your digital passport for interacting with the Dutch government and many other organizations. You will need it for filing taxes, checking your pension, applying for benefits, and dozens of other essential tasks.
For expats, getting DigiD set up should be a priority shortly after registration. Here is how it works.
What Is DigiD?
DigiD is a username-and-password system managed by Logius, a Dutch government organization. It functions as a single sign-on for hundreds of government websites and some private organizations. You use the same DigiD credentials to log into:
- The Belastingdienst (tax office) — to file your annual tax return
- MijnOverheid.nl — your personal government inbox for official letters
- Your health insurer — to manage your health insurance policy
- UWV — the employment insurance agency
- DUO — for education-related matters
- SVB — the Social Insurance Bank (AOW pension, child benefits)
- Your municipality — for various local government services
- Mijnpensioenoverzicht.nl — to check your pension accrual
How to Apply for DigiD
Requirements
To apply for DigiD, you need:
- A BSN (Burgerservicenummer) — assigned when you register at your municipality
- A Dutch residential address registered with the municipality
- A valid email address
- A Dutch mobile phone number (recommended but not strictly required for basic DigiD)
Step-by-Step Application
Step 1: Go to digid.nl
Visit digid.nl and click "Aanvragen" (Apply). The website is available in English — look for the language toggle. Choose "DigiD aanvragen" to start the application.
Step 2: Enter your personal details
You will need to enter your BSN, date of birth, postal code, and house number. This information must match your municipal registration exactly.
Step 3: Choose a username and password
Pick a unique username and a strong password. Your username must be at least 6 characters. Your password must be at least 8 characters and include a mix of letters and numbers.
Step 4: Wait for the activation letter
After completing the online application, Logius sends an activation letter to your registered address. This typically arrives within 5 business days within the Netherlands. The letter contains a one-time activation code.
Step 5: Activate your account
Return to digid.nl, log in with your new credentials, and enter the activation code from the letter. Your DigiD is now active.
DigiD App: Adding Extra Security
Once your basic DigiD is active, we strongly recommend setting up the DigiD app. Many services now require the app for higher security levels.
Why You Need the App
- Some government services require "DigiD with app" (a higher authentication level)
- Filing your tax return increasingly requires app-based authentication
- Healthcare portals and banking integrations often require it
- It is more secure than username/password alone
Setting Up the App
- Download the DigiD app from the App Store or Google Play
- Open the app and select "Activate"
- Log in with your DigiD username and password
- Scan your identity document (passport or ID card) using your phone's NFC reader
- The app verifies your identity by reading the chip in your document
- Set a PIN code or enable biometric login
Important: The NFC scanning step requires a passport or European ID card with a chip. If your phone does not have NFC, or your document is not NFC-compatible, you can request an activation letter instead (this takes additional time).
Common Uses of DigiD for Expats
Filing Your Tax Return
The most important use. Every spring (March-May), you can file your annual tax return at mijn.belastingdienst.nl using your DigiD. The system pre-fills much of your information. See our Dutch tax system guide.
Applying for Toeslagen (Benefits)
If you are eligible for zorgtoeslag (healthcare subsidy), huurtoeslag (rental subsidy), or other government benefits, you apply and manage them through toeslagen.nl — which requires DigiD.
Checking MijnOverheid
MijnOverheid.nl is your personal government mailbox. Official letters from the tax office, municipality, and other government bodies are sent here digitally. Check it regularly — missing a letter does not exempt you from deadlines.
Healthcare and Insurance
Most health insurers allow you to manage your policy, submit claims, and change coverage through their website using DigiD authentication.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Activation Letter Never Arrived
If you do not receive the activation letter within 7 business days, verify that your address is correctly registered at the municipality. You can request a new letter at digid.nl, but the old application must expire first (usually after 20 days).
Locked Out
After three failed login attempts, your DigiD is temporarily blocked. Wait 15 minutes and try again. If you have forgotten your password, you can request a recovery — which again involves a letter to your address.
Moving to a New Address
When you move, update your address at the municipality first. Your DigiD remains the same, but any letters (like recovery codes) will go to your new registered address.
NFC Scanning Problems
If the DigiD app cannot read your passport chip, try removing your phone case, holding the phone flat against the passport photo page, and staying very still during the scan. Different phones have the NFC antenna in different positions — some work better when the phone is at the top or bottom of the passport.
Security Tips
- Never share your DigiD credentials — no legitimate organization will ever ask for your DigiD username and password by email or phone
- Enable two-factor authentication — use the DigiD app rather than SMS verification when possible
- Check MijnOverheid regularly — at least monthly, to catch any important government communications
- Update your phone number — if you change your Dutch phone number, update it in your DigiD settings to maintain access to SMS verification