What Is the Gemeente?
If you’re planning to move to the Netherlands or have just arrived, one of your first stops will be the gemeente. But what exactly is it?
The Role of the Gemeente
The gemeente is the Dutch term for the local municipality. It handles a wide range of official matters and public services for residents, including expats. Each city or town has its own gemeente, responsible for managing day-to-day civil affairs at the local level.
Why You Need to Visit the Gemeente
As an expat, you will need to register with your local gemeente shortly after your arrival. This is a mandatory step for getting your BSN (citizen service number), which you’ll need to work, open a bank account, get health insurance, and more.
Services Offered
The gemeente offers many services including:
- Registering new residents
- Issuing BSN numbers
- Providing birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Processing driving license applications
- Issuing parking permits and waste cards
- Providing voting information and documents
How to Make an Appointment
Most gemeenten require an appointment for services, which you can make through their official website. Some larger cities also offer English-language support or translations.
Tip: Keep Your Registration Up to Date
If you move to a new address within the Netherlands, you must inform your gemeente within five days of the move. Failure to do so may lead to complications with taxes, benefits, or even legal issues.
Final Thoughts
Though it might seem intimidating at first, the gemeente is your main point of contact for many essential services. Getting familiar with how it works will help you settle in more smoothly.