DigiD
The DigiD (digital identification) is the Netherlands' national electronic identification (eID) scheme for citizens and residents. Under the eIDAS regulation, different European Union (EU) Member States offer digital solutions allowing citizens and residents to securely access online services across participating EU Member States, each using their own EU-approved eID scheme. In the Netherlands, DigiD provides secure access to national and local authority websites in the Netherlands and to a growing number of other websites such as health insurers and pension funds.
The DigiD is linked to the Burgerservicenummer – BSN (citizen service number) which is issued upon registration at the municipality.
Applying for a DigiD can be done via the digid.nl website. Once registered with DigiD, there are different ways to log in including username and password, using the DigiD app, SMS verification and using your identity document issued in the Netherlands (identiteitskaart issued from 13 March 2021 or driving licence issued from 26 May 2018).
EU/EEA citizens and residents can apply for a DigiD when not resident in the Netherlands if they already have a BSN. However, they are encouraged to apply for one prior to departing the Netherlands.
More and more EU Member States have their own eID and residents and citizens can more often use their own eID in the Netherlands (link in Dutch) without having to apply for a DigiD. For example, itsme in Belgium and Freja+ in Sweden.
Tip: Once you have a DigiD you can also use it when you are outside the Netherlands.