How to Get a National Registration Number in Belgium: Your Essential Guide 2025

If you are planning to live, work, or study in Belgium, one of the first administrative steps is securing your National Registration Number. This unique identifier is essential for interacting with government institutions, accessing healthcare, signing employment contracts, and fulfilling tax obligations. Understanding the process and requirements for obtaining this number will make your transition smoother.

What Is the National Registration Number?

The Belgian National Registration Number, also known as the NISS (Numéro d’identification à la sécurité sociale / Rijksregisternummer), is an 11-digit code assigned to every resident registered in Belgium's population registry. It is formatted as YYMMDD-XXX-XX, where the first six digits represent your date of birth, followed by a sequence number and a control number.

This number acts as a key to Belgium’s social security system, tax authorities, healthcare services, and other public sectors. It functions similarly to a social security number in other countries.

Who Needs a National Registration Number?

The number is required for individuals who intend to stay in Belgium for more than 90 days, including EU citizens. Whether you’re moving for work, studies, family reunification, or long-term residence, registering with your local commune and obtaining your National Registration Number is mandatory.

Short-term visitors or tourists do not need to register or obtain this number.

Step-by-Step Process to Get Your National Registration Number

The procedure to receive your National Registration Number begins with registering your residence address at the local commune (municipality) where you live. Here’s how it generally works:

• Booking an Appointment: First, contact your local commune office. Many municipalities require you to book your appointment online, especially in larger cities like Brussels or Antwerp.
• Providing Documents: At the appointment, you must bring several documents: your valid passport or national ID, proof of residence (like a rental contract), proof of employment or enrollment in an educational institution, and health insurance proof.
• Verification Visit: After your registration, a police officer or official may visit your residence to confirm that you actually live at the declared address.
• Receiving Your Number: Upon successful registration and verification, you will receive a confirmation document containing your National Registration Number. This number will also be printed on your residence card if you are issued one.

The entire process may take anywhere from a few weeks to over a month, depending on the commune and your specific situation.

Important Documents to Prepare

Although specific requirements vary by commune, the following list covers the most common documents you will need:

• Valid passport or European ID card
• Proof of address (rental contract, utility bills, or official attestations)
• Employment contract or proof of sufficient financial means
• Enrollment confirmation if you are a student
• Proof of health insurance coverage

Always check the website of your local commune for any additional document requirements or special instructions.

What to Do If You Receive a Temporary “Bis Number”?

Some individuals arriving for short periods or seasonal work may initially receive a bis number, which is a temporary registration number. Unlike the full National Registration Number, a bis number does not grant access to all social benefits or healthcare services.

If your stay becomes long-term, you should ensure that your temporary bis number is converted into a full National Registration Number by completing the standard registration process.

How to Verify Your National Registration Number

Once you receive your National Registration Number, you can verify it through Belgium’s official government portal mybelgium.be. Using your electronic ID card or the itsme mobile app, you can securely access your profile and confirm the details linked to your number.

Why Is Your National Registration Number Important?

Having this number is critical for multiple administrative procedures and services in Belgium. For example, you will need it to:

• Register with a health insurance fund (mutuelle)
• Open a bank account
• Sign an employment contract and pay taxes
• Enroll your children in school or university
• Access social security benefits and public services

Without this number, navigating Belgian bureaucracy becomes almost impossible.

What Happens If You Leave Belgium?

If you leave Belgium permanently, you must deregister your address at your local commune. Your National Registration Number will then become inactive but will remain in the national database. Should you return later, your registration can be reactivated without having to apply for a new number, provided the absence has not been excessively long.

Final Recommendations

To avoid delays, register your residence as soon as you move in and gather all necessary documents beforehand. Keep digital copies of everything to ease future administrative tasks. If you need detailed guidance or want to stay updated on immigration matters, visit our complete guide here: https://welcomebelgium.icu/imigration/national-registration-number/.

For broader information about living, working, and settling in Belgium, explore welcomebelgium.icu.

Conclusion

Your National Registration Number in Belgium is the gateway to numerous services that enable you to live and work legally. By understanding the registration process and ensuring you have all required documents ready, you can navigate this essential step without hassle. Staying informed through reliable sources will help make your experience in Belgium smoother and more secure.