q AND A

What step to i have to take to I Register at the Municipality of Amsterdam or Amstelveen?

When staying in Amsterdam or Amstelveen for a work assignment of one to six months, registering with the municipality (gemeente) ensures a smooth start to your stay in the Netherlands. This process gives you your Dutch citizen service number (BSN) — essential for work, healthcare, and banking. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Step 1. Check Whether You Need to Register

If you plan to stay longer than four months, you must register with the municipality in the Basisregistratie Personen (BRP), the Personal Records Database.

If your stay is shorter than four months, you can register in the Register of Non-Residents (RNI). You’ll still receive a BSN, but you won’t be considered a Dutch resident.

� Learn more on the official government site:
Government of the Netherlands – BRP Registration

Step 2. Book Your Appointment

In Amsterdam:

You can make an appointment online through the official Amsterdam municipality website:
Book an Appointment – City of Amsterdam

In Amstelveen:

Most expats register through the IN Amsterdam expat center (formerly Expatcenter Amsterdam), which handles registration for both Amstelveen and Amsterdam.
Visit: IN Amsterdam – Registering in the Netherlands

Tip: Appointments can fill up quickly, especially around summer or year-end relocations. Try to schedule your appointment before your arrival date.

Step 3. Prepare Your Documents

You’ll need to bring several official documents to your appointment:

  • A valid passport or EU ID card
  • A rental agreement or housing confirmation (as proof of address)
  • Your employment contract or a letter from your employer
  • If applicable, birth or marriage certificates for accompanying family members

If you’re staying in a serviced apartment such as Htel Apartments, our Guest Services team can provide a proof of residence letter accepted by both Amsterdam and Amstelveen municipalities.

Step 4. Attend Your Appointment

During your appointment:

  1. A municipal officer will check your documents and personal details.
  2. You’ll sign your registration form.
  3. You’ll receive your BSN (citizen service number) — sometimes immediately, or otherwise by post within a few days.

For short-term stays (RNI), you’ll typically receive your BSN right away.

Step 5. Registering Family Members or Partners

Each family member needs a separate appointment.
Bring original or legalized documents such as marriage or birth certificates, translated into Dutch, English, French, or German.

Learn more about document requirements here:
IND – Legalisation and Translation of Documents

Step 6. After You Register

Keep your BSN safe — you’ll need it for:

  • Employment contracts and payroll
  • Opening a Dutch bank account
  • Signing up for Dutch health insurance
  • Registering with a GP or healthcare provider
  • Filing taxes

If you move to another address during your stay, you must update your registration with the municipality within five days.

How Htel Apartments Can Help

For short-term professionals and corporate guests, Htel Apartments provides fully furnished serviced apartments that comply with municipality requirements for official registration. Our team regularly assists guests with:

  • Housing confirmation letters for registration
  • Directions to registration offices in Amsterdam and Amstelveen
  • Contact details for IN Amsterdam and the local municipalities

Ready to Settle in Comfort and Confidence?

Registering in Amsterdam or Amstelveen is a key step to start your Dutch experience smoothly. Htel Apartments makes the rest easy — from comfortable serviced housing to on-site support with local paperwork.
Stay in a serviced apartment that supports your registration needs. Htel Apartments offers flexible stays for professionals in Amsterdam and Amstelveen.

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