Applying for a Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag (VOG) in the Netherlands
Many jobs in the Netherlands require you to have a Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag – VOG (certificate of conduct). This also includes volunteer work. Examples are if you are going to work with confidential information or with children. A VOG shows that your behaviour is satisfactory for a new job. You may also need a VOG to apply for a visa or if you want to emigrate to another country.
There are several ways to apply for a VOG:
- Are you registered with your municipality in the Personal Records Database (Basisregistratie Personen – BRP)? Then you or your employer can submit a fully completed application form to the municipality.
- Are you not registered with your municipality in the BRP? For example, if you are working in the Netherlands temporarily or living outside the Netherlands? Then send your application with all accompanying appendices to Justis by post (in Dutch). You can also download the application form from the justis.nl website.
Do you own a company or organisation that requires a VOG? Then you can apply for a VOG voor rechtspersonen – VOG RP (certificate of conduct for legal entities).
This is how it works for you
Here is some information from your municipality.
Municipality of 's-Hertogenbosch: Applying for a Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag (VOG)
A certificate of good conduct (VOG)states that you have not committed any offences. It is proof of good conduct. Apply for the VOG at the municipality where you are registered.
Please note. You can only apply for a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) if you are registered with a Dutch municipality. If you are not registered with a Dutch municipality, you must submit your application to the Ministry of Security and Justice.
Applying online
You can apply online for a VOG together with the person requesting it, for example your employer. You pay for an application for a VOG. To apply online, use your e-mail address, your citizen service number (BSN) and DigiD. Your employer needs an eHerkenning (eRecognition) login.
Your employer starts the application:
- Your employer opens the Dienst Justis website and logs in using eHerkenning. The website allows you to enter the employee's details.
- You will then receive a link to the website by e-mail and log in with DigiD to complete the application.
To apply, use your e-mail address, your citizen service number (BSN) and DigiD. You must be registered with a Dutch municipality.
Applying at the counter
Do you not meet the conditions for an online application? Do you have a job or study abroad, for example? Then visit the municipality. Make an appointment first. This is more expensive, please contact the municipality of 's-Hertogenbosch about the costs.
Bring along
Once you have made an appointment, bring the following with you:
- Print out the application form via the website of the Ministry of Security and Justice, Dienst Justis, or call telephone number +31 88 998 22 00. You and your employer complete the form.
- Bring your proof of identity with you. You can also authorise someone. Employer abroad? Then also bring a letter showing that you need the declaration, and the details of the future employer/educational institution.
How long does it take
The application takes 4 weeks. You will receive the VOG or a rejection by post from Dienst Justis. If you are going to work abroad and for an adoption, you can request an emergency procedure. This takes 10 working days.
Further information
For more information on the application, costs and conditions, please contact the municipality of 's-Hertogenbosch by phone or Whatsapp +31 73 615 51 55 or send an e-mail via the digital contact form.
Questions about this topic?
Contact the Municipality of 's-Hertogenbosch
Visiting addresses
Hoff van Hollantlaan 1
5243SR Rosmalen
| Monday | 08.30 - 12.00 |
| Tuesday | 08.30 - 12.00 |
| Wednesday | 08.30 - 20.00 |
| Thursday | 08.30 - 12.00 |
| Friday | 08.30 - 12.00 |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Wolvenhoek 1
5211HH 's-Hertogenbosch
| Monday | 08.30 - 17.00 |
| Tuesday | 08.30 - 17.00 |
| Wednesday | 08.30 - 17.00 |
| Thursday | 08.30 - 20.00 |
| Friday | 08.30 - 17.00 |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |