DigiD (short for Digitale Identiteit, or Digital Identity) is the Dutch government's universal login system for online public services. If you want to file your tax return, access your healthcare records, apply for benefits, check your pension details, or interact with dozens of other government and semi-government organisations, you need a DigiD. It is not optional — it is the key that unlocks most of the Dutch digital bureaucracy.
What DigiD is used for
The list of services that require DigiD is long. The most immediately relevant for expats are: filing your annual tax return with the Belastingdienst, accessing MijnOverheid.nl (the personal government portal where you receive official communications), applying for the zorgtoeslag (healthcare allowance), registering children at school, viewing your DigiD-linked healthcare records at MijnZorgGegevens.nl, and interacting with the UWV (the social insurance agency) if you ever need to claim unemployment benefits. You will also need it to use the Mijn Gemeentepagina, which is your local municipality's online service portal.
What you need to apply
To apply for DigiD, you need a BSN (Burger Service Nummer) and a Dutch address. You apply online at DigiD.nl. The application process generates a paper activation letter that is sent to your registered Dutch address — this is the security step that verifies you are who you say you are. The letter typically arrives within five business days.
The application process step by step
Go to DigiD.nl and click on "Aanvragen" (Apply). Enter your BSN and Dutch address details and create a username and password. You will receive an activation letter at your address within a few days. Once the letter arrives, go back to DigiD.nl, log in with your username and password, and enter the activation code from the letter. Your DigiD is now active.
The basic DigiD (username and password) allows access to most services. For services that require a higher level of identity assurance — such as some healthcare platforms and certain government databases — you will need the DigiD app, which allows authentication by scanning a QR code with your phone. The DigiD app is available for iOS and Android and is set up by activating it through the website.
DigiD and non-EU nationals
Non-EU nationals with a valid Dutch residence permit and a BSN can apply for DigiD in exactly the same way as EU citizens. The system does not distinguish based on nationality — it only requires a BSN and a Dutch address.
If you lose access
If you forget your username or password, or if your DigiD is blocked after failed login attempts, you can reset it at DigiD.nl using a new activation letter sent to your address. You cannot reset it by phone or email — the letter process is the only recovery mechanism, which can be frustrating if you need access urgently. Keep your login details somewhere safe.
App and security levels
DigiD has three security levels: DigiD (username/password, level 10), DigiD with SMS (adds a one-time code, level 20), and DigiD with the app using a PIN or biometrics (level 25). Most services require level 10 or 20. Setting up level 20 (SMS verification) is a sensible precaution that takes about two minutes and significantly reduces the risk of your DigiD being misused.