What must or can I arrange for my child if I live outside the Netherlands?
When you become a parent abroad, there are various matters that to arrange so that, for instance, you can travel with your child or ensure they have health insurance coverage.
You can arrange this
Your child must have a citizen service number (BSN) for any matters you need to arrange for them with the Dutch authorities. If you live outside the Netherlands your child does not automatically receive a BSN unless you register them in the Non-residents Records Database (RNI). In some cases you may also be able to apply for a BSN for your child through the Social Insurance Bank (SVB) or the Tax Administration (Belastingdienst).
A DigiD makes it easier to arrange matters for your child with the Dutch authorities. Parents or guardians of children under the age of 14 can help them apply for a DigiD.
If you live outside the Netherlands you can apply for a Dutch passport for your child at a Dutch embassy, Dutch border municipality or the passport desk at the Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.
If you live in a country for which you need a visa, you probably also need to get a visa for your child. Find out more from the authorities (for example, the immigration authorities) in the country where you live.
If you still have Dutch health insurance you can add your child to your policy or your partner’s policy. If you have a foreign health insurance policy, ask your insurer how you can arrange coverage for your child.
Dutch language and culture lessons will help your child keep up their Dutch. This will make it easier for them to stay in contact with family and friends in the Netherlands. And if you decide to return to the Netherlands, it will be easier for them to go to a Dutch school.
Contact
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.