The South African Expat

Chaging your address in the Netherlands? You are legally required to register your new address with the municipality (gemeente) within five days of moving. Failing to do so may result in a fine, and incorrect registration can affect your benefits and taxes. But how do you go about updating your address?

Moving Within the Same Municipality

If you are moving within the same municipality, you only need to notify the civil affairs department (Afdeling Burgerzaken) of your new address.

Moving to a Different Municipality

When relocating to a different municipality, you don’t need to inform your old municipality. Once you register at your new municipality, they will notify your previous municipality on your behalf.

How to Register Your New Address

There are three ways to register your new address: in person, by post, or online.

Register in Person

To register in person, visit the civil affairs department (Afdeling Burgerzaken) of your municipality. Be sure to bring the following documents:

• Passport, identity card, or residence permit.
• If you are renting, your rental contract.
• If you purchased a property, bring your purchase contract.
• If you are moving in with someone, you will need a copy of the primary resident’s ID and a declaration confirming permission to live there.

Some municipalities may require you to make an appointment, so check ahead.

Register by Post

If you’re unable to register in person, some municipalities allow you to register by post or even by email. However, this process is usually slower, and requirements may vary by municipality, so it’s best to confirm with them directly.

Register Online

Many municipalities offer online registration. To do so, you will need a DigiD, and you may be required to complete an online form and upload the necessary documents. Check your municipality’s official website for specific instructions, as procedures can differ. For more information, visit the official municipality website.

Who to Notify When You Change Address

When moving to a new address in the Netherlands, there are several key organisations and individuals you should notify:

Notify Your Landlord

If you’re renting, remember to inform your landlord. Ensure you comply with the notice period specified in your tenancy agreement and leave the property in good condition to retrieve your rental deposit.

Notify Utility Providers

Contact your energy (electricity and gas) providers to update your address. Depending on your contract, you may be able to continue with the same providers, or you might need to choose new ones.

Inform the Post Office

PostNL, the main postal service in the Netherlands, offers a free moving service that can notify your bank, insurance company, telephone provider, and internet provider of your change of address. For a fee, you can also arrange for your mail to be forwarded to your new address. Visit PostNL’s moving service page.

Do I Need to Notify the Tax Office?

Generally, you don’t need to directly notify the tax office or the Department of Road Transport about your move. The municipality will handle this for you. However, if you receive rent benefit or if you are moving abroad, you will need to inform the tax office. For more details, visit the Tax Office website.

Also, ensure your residence permit (MVV) is updated with your current address, as it remains valid only if your address is up to date.

How Many People Can Register at One Address?

The number of people who can be registered at one address depends on various factors, including whether you are renting or owning the property, and the rules of your municipality or housing corporation.

Generally, the guideline is one person per 10m², unless it is a family. If your municipality notices an unusually high number of people registered at your address, they may conduct an address investigation (adresonderzoek) to ensure there is no fraud. Failure to respond to such inquiries could result in fines (€240–€325) or further penalties.

Additionally, the number of people registered at your address can impact your taxes and benefits. You can check your details in the Personal Records Database (BRP) via the Mijnoverheid portal with your DigiD.

Final Tips for Moving to a New Address in the Netherlands

• Stay Organised: Keep all your documents handy and ensure you notify all necessary parties.
• Check Municipality Requirements: Some municipalities may have specific requirements or deadlines for registration.
• Update Your DigiD: Ensure your DigiD is up to date to make the online registration process easier.