Step-by-Step DigiD Guide

Getting a DigiD Account

DigiD is the Dutch government login that lets you identify yourself online for services like Studielink, DUO, the Tax Office, municipalities, and healthcare portals. Because more and more services require two-factor login (2FA), you should plan to use the DigiD app or SMS verification, not just a username + password.

What You Need Before You Start

To apply for a DigiD from within the Netherlands, you generally need:

BSN (Citizen Service Number) from the municipality

Registered address with a Dutch municipality (BRP registration)

Mobile phone (for SMS/app verification)

Step-by-Step: Apply and Activate DigiD

Follow these five steps to get your DigiD up and running

Step 1

Get Your BSN and Register Your Address (BRP)

Most degree students do this after arrival through the municipality registration process. DigiD applications from the Netherlands require BRP registration.

Step 2

Apply for DigiD Online

You create a username + password during the application.

Step 3

Receive Your Activation Letter by Post

After applying, you receive an activation code letter at your municipality-registered address — often within 3 business days.

Step 4

Activate Your DigiD (Website or App)

You can activate using the DigiD website or the DigiD app. A common flow is:

  • Open the DigiD app
  • Log in with your username + password
  • Confirm with an SMS code
  • Enter the activation code from the letter
Step 5

Set Up a Secure Login Method (Recommended)

Many organisations require 2FA and will ask for:

DigiD app

DigiD with SMS verification

DigiD App and "ID Check"

Important information for international students

ID Check Limitation

ID check is an extra security level in the DigiD app for privacy-sensitive services, but it requires a Dutch identity document (Dutch passport/ID card/driving licence). Foreign passports and residence cards cannot be used for this ID check.

Good News

Even without ID check, most students can still use DigiD with the app (PIN) and/or SMS verification, depending on the service.

What You Can Use DigiD For

Student essentials — handle key tasks online

Studielink

Study applications and enrolment steps

DUO (Mijn DUO)

Student finance and education services (often requires DigiD app or SMS)

Belastingdienst

Tax returns, allowances/benefits, and related services

Municipality services

Common administrative tasks

Healthcare portals

And other government-linked systems

Applying from Abroad

It's generally easier to apply from within the Netherlands, but applying from abroad is possible in specific situations. Typically you need a BSN and to be registered as a non-resident (RNI), plus an activation step arranged via an appointment process.

StudyPath Tips (Avoid Common Mistakes)

  • Apply as soon as you have your BSN + BRP address — many services become easier once DigiD is active.
  • Plan for 2FA (DigiD app or SMS), because basic username/password login is being phased out for many services.
  • Only install the DigiD app from official app stores and protect it with a strong PIN.

With the complete package, StudyPath assists you from address registration, getting BSN, to registering a DigiD account that make sure you have a seamless transition relocating to the Netherlands.

Official Resources

DigiD.nl

Official DigiD website — What is DigiD?

Frequently Asked Questions

DigiD (Digital Identity) is the Dutch government's online login system. It lets you identify yourself securely when using government services like Studielink, DUO, the Tax Office (Belastingdienst), municipalities, and healthcare portals.
Yes. To apply for DigiD from within the Netherlands, you need a BSN (Citizen Service Number) and a registered address with a Dutch municipality (BRP registration). You get your BSN when you register at the municipality.
Yes, you can use DigiD with a foreign passport. However, the DigiD app's 'ID check' feature requires a Dutch identity document (Dutch passport, ID card, or driving licence). Foreign passports and residence cards cannot be used for the ID check. The good news is that most services work fine with the app PIN and/or SMS verification.
After applying online, you'll receive an activation code letter at your registered address — often within 3 business days. Once you have the letter, activation takes just a few minutes via the app or website.
As a student, you'll use DigiD for Studielink (study applications), DUO/Mijn DUO (student finance), Belastingdienst (tax returns and allowances), municipality services, and healthcare portals. It's essential for managing your administrative life in the Netherlands.
It's generally easier to apply from within the Netherlands. Applying from abroad is possible in specific situations — typically you need a BSN and to be registered as a non-resident (RNI), plus an activation step arranged via an appointment process.