Summary
This guide explains clearly and humanly how to apply for and activate a DigiD (Digital Identification) in the Netherlands. It combines all official steps for residents who receive an activation letter and for non-residents (those registered outside the Netherlands) who must collect their activation code in person or by video call. It also details deadlines, required documents, and verified government sources to ensure no confusion when navigating Dutch administrative systems. The text is written entirely in English and integrates both procedures for residents and non-residents.
Context and Scope
The blog covers every verified aspect of the DigiD application and activation process available as of 6 October 2025 (Europe/Amsterdam).
It unites the standard postal activation method with the alternative procedure for those without a Dutch registered address (RNI – Non-Resident Register).
The focus is on clarity for people living either in the Netherlands or abroad, showing how both groups can complete their DigiD activation safely and on time.
Required Information
Before starting the application, prepare the following:
- Citizen Service Number (BSN) — the unique personal identification number used in the Netherlands.
- Date of birth.
- Residential address.
- Valid email address.
- Mobile phone number.
These are mandatory to verify your identity and complete the online request.
Applying for DigiD
- Visit the official website: www.digid.nl. You can switch the site to English.
- Start the process: Click “Apply for or activate DigiD.”
- Enter your personal details: Fill in BSN, date of birth, and home address.
- Create login details: Choose a username and a strong password.
- Add contact information: Enter your email and mobile phone number and confirm both through the codes you receive.
- Submit your application: Check that all data is correct and send the form.
Activation for Residents: Letter by Post
If you live in the Netherlands and are registered in the BRP (Base Registration of Persons), you will receive a letter at your official address within about three working days.
This letter contains an activation code valid for 21 days.
To activate:
- Return to www.digid.nl.
- Choose “Activate DigiD.”
- Log in with your username and password.
- Enter the activation code from the letter.
If the 21-day period expires, you must start a new application.
Activation for Non-Residents or People Living Abroad
Why You Do Not Receive a Letter
If your address is outside the Netherlands, or if you are registered in the RNI (Non-Resident Register), DigiD cannot send you a postal letter.
Instead, the system automatically generates a baliecode (service-desk code) sent by SMS and email.
This code is valid for 30 days and allows you to collect your activation code in person or by video call.
How to Collect Your Activation Code
You can use your baliecode in one of three ways:
- At a DigiD service desk within the Netherlands — available in selected municipalities; an appointment is required.
- At a Dutch embassy or consulate abroad — only those listed as DigiD collection points.
- By video call through NetherlandsWorldwide — this option is available only if you are physically outside the Netherlands.
Bring the following to your appointment:
- The baliecode you received.
- A valid identity document (no copies).
- Your BSN.
- The phone number you used during the application.
After receiving the activation code, return to www.digid.nl and activate your DigiD within 21 days.
Validity and Deadlines
- Baliecode: 30 days to collect the activation code.
- Activation code: 21 days to complete activation after it is issued.
If either expires, you must apply again.
Special Cases and Alternatives
- The video-call option is unavailable inside the Netherlands; you must go to a service desk.
- Pension recipients (AOW) may apply via the Social Insurance Bank (SVB) and receive their activation letter by post.
- Citizens of the European Union can temporarily access some Dutch services using their national electronic ID (eIDAS) until their DigiD is activated.
- If you already had DigiD before moving abroad, you may continue using it normally.
Using DigiD
Once activated, DigiD becomes your secure digital key for many Dutch public services:
- Tax and benefits portals.
- Health-care and insurance platforms.
- Municipal and education websites.
- Pension and social-security information.
For stronger protection, enable the DigiD app, which adds two-factor authentication.
Personal Experience Example
A verified personal account published on 28 September 2025 describes the in-person route clearly:
“A service-desk code must be presented to receive an activation code.” (translated from English)
A related entry on 27 September 2025 notes:
“Because the applicant was physically in the Netherlands, the video-call option was unavailable.” (translated from English)
Both statements confirm the official rule that video verification is allowed only when the applicant is abroad, while those inside the Netherlands must visit a municipal service desk.
Definitions and Translations
DigiD
DigiD (Digital Identification) — the Dutch national digital identity system enabling secure login to public-service platforms.
BSN
BSN (Citizen Service Number) — a unique personal identification number assigned to every resident of the Netherlands.
BRP
BRP (Base Registration of Persons) — the national register containing the official addresses of residents.
RNI
RNI (Non-Resident Register) — registry for individuals who live abroad but have ties to the Netherlands.
Baliecode
Baliecode (service-desk code) — a temporary code sent by SMS and email that allows the applicant to collect an activation code in person or by video call.
Activeringscode
Activeringscode (activation code) — the unique code needed to complete the DigiD activation.
Binnen 21 dagen
Within 21 days (translated from Dutch) — the period allowed to activate DigiD before the code expires.
Balie
Balie (service desk, translated from Dutch) — the physical counter or office where activation codes can be issued.
Practical Conclusions
Applying for DigiD is straightforward once you understand which registration applies to you.
Residents receive their activation letter automatically by post.
Those living abroad or not registered at a Dutch address must follow the baliecode route, collecting their activation code in person or by video call.
Knowing the 30-day and 21-day limits is essential to avoid repeating the process.
These procedures maintain the security of Dutch digital identification while ensuring equal access for both residents and non-residents.
Sources
- DigiD – Living abroad: https://www.digid.nl/en/living-abroad/ — Official DigiD page explaining the baliecode procedure for non-residents.
- DigiD – Activation in the Netherlands: https://www.digid.nl/aanvragen-en-activeren/digid-activeren/ — Official Dutch-language guide for residents activating via letter.
- Netherlands Worldwide – How to apply: https://www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/digid-abroad/how-to-apply — Government portal outlining application and collection steps.
- Video-call collection option: https://www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/digid-abroad/collect-code-video-call — Official explanation of the remote verification service.
- Collect at a service desk: https://www.nederlandwereldwijd.nl/digid-buiten-nederland/activeringscode-nederland — List of Dutch municipalities and embassies offering DigiD desk service.
- Government.nl – Activation deadline: https://www.government.nl/topics/online-access-to-public-services-european-economic-area-eidas/digid/digid-applications-from-the-netherlands — English-language explanation of activation rules and time limits.
- Verified personal diary entry (28 September 2025): https://leonardocardillodiary.car.blog/2025/09/28/2025-09-28-digid-digid-app-digid-helpdesk-netherlands-worldwide-gemeente-bergen-op-zoom-team-publieksdiensten-stadskantoor-jacob-obrechtlaan-4/ — First-hand description of in-person activation (translated into English).
- Verified personal diary entry (27 September 2025): https://leonardocardillodiary.car.blog/2025/09/27/2025-09-27-digid-verification-in-the-netherlands-netherlands-worldwide-gemeente-bergen-op-zoom-den-haag-haarlemmermeer-schiphol-parkeergarage-de-parade-and-stadskantoor/ — First-hand note confirming the unavailability of video calls inside the Netherlands (translated into English).
My Diary - Leonardo Cardillo 