Registration Amsterdam Municipality Explained

Moving to a new country can be both exciting and challenging. As an expat in Amsterdam, understanding how to handle your Amsterdam Municipality registration is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide will provide you with all the essential information about your registration in Amsterdam.

The Amsterdam municipality is the governing body responsible for the city's administration and services. It plays a vital role in maintaining the city's infrastructure, public services, and community programs. For expats, the municipality offers various services and support to help you integrate into your new surroundings.

Do I need registration in Amsterdam?

One of the first steps you need to take as an expat is to take care of your Amsterdam municipality registration. If you plan to live in Amsterdam for more than four months, you are legally required to register with the municipality. Registration is essential for several reasons: it provides you with a citizen service number (BSN), which is necessary for accessing healthcare, opening a bank account, arranging your taxes and even securing a job in the Netherlands. For those staying for less than four months, registration may not be mandatory, but it's worth checking specific cases to ensure compliance with Dutch regulations.

Failing to register on time can result in fines or complications with legal and administrative procedures. Therefore, if you’re unsure whether registration applies to you, it’s best to contact your local municipality or consult a relocation expert for guidance.

After your appointment, you'll receive a confirmation of BRP registration and your BSN number.

How do I arrange my Amsterdam Municipality registration?

To be able to get an appointment at one of the city offices, you need to schedule an appointment online. Answer all the questions, submit the form, choose your location and book your appointment.

Do this well in advance, as it can take some time to get an appointment. Sometimes up to 2 months.

Where to register in the Amsterdam Municipality?

For your registration in Amsterdam, you'll need to schedule an appointment with the Amsterdam municipality at one of the offices below. You can schedule for such an appointment online (read below at the next section). It is not necessary to go to the city office in the district that you live in, you can go to any city office that is convenient for you.

- Stadsloket Centrum: Amstel 1, 1011 PN Amsterdam
- Stadsloket West: Bos en Lommerplein, 1055 EK Amsterdam
- Stadsloket Nieuw-West: Osdorpplein 946, 1068 TD Amsterdam
- Stadsloket Zuid: President Kennedylaan 923, 1079 MZ Amsterdam
- Stadsloket Noord: Buikslotermeerlaan 2000, 1025 XL Amsterdam
- Stadsloket Zuidoost: Anton de Komplein 150, 1102 CW Amsterdam
- Stadsloket Oost: Oranje-Vrijstaatplein 2, 1093 NG Amsterdam

The city offices are open Monday - Friday: 09:00 - 17:00 and Thursday open until 20:00
You can also call to the general Amsterdam municipally at: 14020.
Or if you are calling from abroad: +31206241111 (Monday - Friday: between 08:00 and 18:00).

Municipality, Amstel 1

Required documents

Here's what you'll need for the registration process:

• Valid Passport: Your original passport and for member outside of the EU, also a residence permit.
• Proof of Address: A rental contract, purchase agreement, or a written statement from the primary occupant of the residence.
• Birth Certificate: An original and legalized birth certificate, translated into Dutch, English, French, or German.
• Employment Contract or Proof of Income: This can be a work contract, a statement from your employer, or other proof of sufficient income.
• Other certificates (if you have): marriage certificate, divorce certificate, adoption certificate etc.

Please note: that town offices only accept official documents in Dutch, English, French, or German. If your documents are in another language, you may need to obtain an official translation. Additionally, certain documents, such as your birth certificate, may require proof of authenticity (legalization), such as an apostille. It’s important to arrange this before departing your home country.

In short step-by-step registration

1. Make an Appointment: To register, you need to make an appointment with the municipality of Amsterdam. You can do this online through their website or by calling them.

2. Take the required documents with you: These typically include: A valid passport or identity card Proof of your address in Amsterdam (such as a rental contract, purchase agreement, or landlord’s declaration) Birth certificate (if applicable) Residence permit (if applicable)

3. Visit the Municipal Office: Go to the municipal office (stadsloket) at the scheduled time of your appointment. Be sure to bring all the required documents with you.

4. Registration: At the municipal office, you will be registered in the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP), which is the Personal Records Database. This registration is necessary for various administrative purposes, including taxes, social services, and healthcare.

5. After your appointment: you will receive a confirmation of the BRP registration and your BSN.

Please note: the municipality of Amsterdam can impose fines of up to 325 euros on individuals who are not registered at the correct address, fail to report a change of address on time, or do not provide the required documents. It is mandatory to be properly registered and to report any changes promptly.

Conclusion

The Municipality of Amsterdam is your gateway to a smooth and enriching expat experience in The Netherlands. By understanding the registration process, exploring housing options, understanding the Dutch healthcare system, and participating in cultural activities, you'll find yourself at home in no time. Whether you're here for work, study, or personal growth, Amsterdam offers a vibrant and welcoming community for all expats.

For more detailed guides and support, join Your Expat Social Club and connect with other like-minded individuals navigating life in Amsterdam.