BSN Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a citizen service number (‘burgerservicenummer’, BSN)?

The Citizen Service Number (BSN) is a unique and personal nine-digit number linked to your personal data. It helps you easily manage your affairs with official authorities.

Why do residents of Bonaire, Statia, and Saba receive a Citizen Service Number?

The introduction of the Citizen Service Number is a step towards improving official services on Bonaire, Statia, and Saba, both at service counters and online. To securely manage your affairs online with official authorities in the Caribbean Netherlands in the future, you will need a Citizen Service Number. With it, you can apply for the DigiD login tool, which is not currently possible with the personal numbers used in the Caribbean Netherlands, such as the ID and CRIB numbers. Therefore, everyone will receive one unique personal number for all official matters.

Who receives a BSN?

Everyone registered in the population records of the Public Entity of Bonaire, Statia, and Saba will receive a Citizen Service Number. All new residents will also receive one upon registration.

When do residents of Bonaire, Statia, and Saba receive a BSN?

The Citizen Service Number will be introduced in 2025. It is expected that residents will receive it in the second half of 2025, following legislative amendments.

Will I receive a new Citizen Service Number if I already have one?

No, if you already have a Citizen Service Number, you will keep the same number. A person can only have one Citizen Service Number.

Can I continue using my ID and CRIB numbers?

Yes. After the introduction of the Citizen Service Number, the ID and CRIB numbers will still be in use. The ID number will remain valid for a few more years, so you will continue using it temporarily.

What is the difference between the ID, CRIB number, and Citizen Service Number?

The Citizen Service Number is a personal number that does not contain personal information. The ID number includes your date of birth, which poses a risk to data protection. The CRIB number is used by the Tax Office of the Caribbean Netherlands. The Citizen Service Number allows you to apply for the DigiD login tool and can be used in communication with official authorities in the European Netherlands, which is not possible with the ID and CRIB numbers.

How do I receive my Citizen Service Number?

In 2025, you will be able to collect your Citizen Service Number letter during designated collection weeks. Further details, including dates and locations, will be provided later this year. The letter will be issued by the Public Entity where you are registered. Residents who already have a Citizen Service Number will retain their number and can also collect a letter.

How should I handle my Citizen Service Number?

The BSN is your personal number. Keep your BSN safe and do not share it with others for no reason.

What if I forget my Citizen Service Number?

If you lose or forget your Citizen Service Number, you can request it at the Civil Affairs office in Statia. With a DigiD, you can also look up the number online via MijnOverheid: MijnOverheid.

Who can use my Citizen Service Number?

The Citizen Service Number is primarily for use between residents and official authorities, and between official authorities themselves. All official authorities in both the Caribbean and European Netherlands can use your Citizen Service Number. This is stated by law. This applies, for example, to organisations like the Tax Office Caribbean Netherlands and Care and Youth Caribbean Netherlands. Organisations other than the government can only use your BSN if this is stated by law. In the Caribbean Netherlands this has not been regulated yet. Therefore, do not share your BSN with organizations outside the government, even if they ask for it. In healthcare and education, for example, this concerns hospitals, general practitioners, pharmacies, and schools. This also applies, for example, to banks, hotels and suppliers of energy and water.

How do official authorities use my Citizen Service Number?

Official authorities use the Citizen Service Number to process personal data. The number ensures that authorities can correctly identify a person, enabling the exchange of information between them. The Citizen Service Number must be unique and personal.

What is DigiD?

DigiD is a secure login tool that allows you to verify your identity when accessing websites of official authorities. It makes it easier to handle your affairs online with government agencies.

Can I apply for a DigiD with my Citizen Service Number?

Yes, with your Citizen Service Number, you can apply for a DigiD online at www.digid.nl/buitenland.

Can I use my DigiD anywhere?

No, you cannot immediately use your DigiD everywhere. Official authorities  Statia are not yet connected to DigiD. Connecting these systems will take time. Gradually, more authorities in the Caribbean Netherlands will link to DigiD, allowing you to use online services more frequently. However, DigiD can already be used with official authorities and organisations in the European Netherlands.

Will I be registered in the Dutch Personal Records Database (BRP)?

Yes, anyone who receives a Citizen Service Number is registered in the BRP. This registration is required to obtain a Citizen Service Number. BRP registration does not replace registration in the population records of Statia.

Will my Citizen Service Number appear on my new identity card (sédula) or passport?

The BSN will appear on new passports. In due course, the BSN is added to new identity cards (sédula). To add the BSN on identity cards requires modification of the model of the card, adaptation of systems, and distribution of new stocks of blank cards. This takes time. When the BSN appears on new identity cards is not yet known.

Will residents of Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten also receive a Citizen Service Number?

No, residents of Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten will not receive a Citizen Service Number, as these are independent countries within the Kingdom. Bonaire, Statia, and Saba are part of the Netherlands as Public Entities (special municipalities), so the amended legislation applies only to them.