What is the DigiD?
Your DigiD is your digital identification in the Netherlands. It allows you to identify yourself online when dealing with various organisations, including the government, educational and healthcare institutions. You can use it to do pretty much anything that concerns getting money from the government; in fact, you need it to apply for subsidies. Other uses include telling the municipality that you’ve moved house, getting health insurance, and even getting messages from government agencies. It works by linking your BSN number to a username and password that you will be able to use to access most Dutch government websites.
Do I have to get one?
It’s not a legal requirement that you get a DigiD. But, if you just take a look at the government organisations that use this digital identification, you’ll be able to tell why we highly recommend you get one. It will definitely make your life in the Netherlands easier.
How does it work?
There are two ways in which you might be asked to use your DigiD to log into an official government website: sometimes, your password is enough; other times, you might be asked to authenticate yourself using your mobile phone. For this, you’ll need to install the DigiD app. It’s a simple process, but also a safe and secure one.
How do I apply for a DigiD?
You can apply for your digital identification online and doing so will save you time and money in the long-run. Be sure to keep your username and password in a safe place for future uses!
Scroll down for a step-by-step guidance document to help you apply for a DigiD!
