Understanding the BIS Number in Belgium: What You Need to Know

If you are moving to Belgium or planning to stay for an extended period, you might come across the term BIS number. This identification number is crucial for foreigners who do not have a national registry number but still need to be registered in the Belgian system. Let’s dive into what the BIS number is, who needs it, and why it matters.

What is the BIS Number?

The BIS number stands for "BIS-nummer" in Dutch or "Numéro BIS" in French. It functions as a unique identifier assigned to foreign nationals who reside in Belgium but have not yet been registered in the National Register. Unlike Belgian citizens or foreigners with permanent residence, who have a standard national registry number (called a "rijksregisternummer" or "numéro de registre national"), newcomers may first receive a BIS number.

This number acts as a temporary placeholder to identify and track individuals within the Belgian administrative system while their official registration process is ongoing. Essentially, it bridges the gap before the full national registry number is assigned.

Who Gets a BIS Number?

Primarily, the BIS number is issued to foreigners who apply for residence permits or other official registrations but have not yet been assigned a permanent Belgian national registry number. This usually includes:

• New immigrants who have recently arrived in Belgium.
• Temporary residents or those applying for a specific residence status.
• People whose registration process is still in progress.

Once the official registration is complete, the BIS number is replaced with the standard national registry number.

Why is the BIS Number Important?

Having a BIS number allows foreigners to access many essential services in Belgium while waiting for full registration. This includes healthcare, social security, tax procedures, and even opening bank accounts in some cases. Authorities and institutions use this number to identify you and keep track of your legal status.

Without it, navigating Belgium’s bureaucratic system would be far more complicated for recent arrivals or those in transition. The BIS number ensures that even before final registration, your presence in the country is recorded and recognized by official bodies.

How to Obtain a BIS Number?

The process for obtaining a BIS number generally starts when you apply for a residence permit or register with the local commune (municipality) where you live. The local administration requests your data to the National Register, which issues the BIS number if your permanent number is not yet available.

You will typically receive this number on official documents or correspondence from the commune or immigration office. Make sure to keep these records safe since you will need the BIS number for various administrative tasks.

Can You Use the BIS Number as an Identification Number?

While the BIS number functions as an identifier during the waiting period, it is not intended as a permanent replacement for the national registry number. Once you receive your permanent number, it should be used in all official interactions.

Still, during the time you hold the BIS number, it can be used in many official contexts, like health insurance registration, social benefits applications, and tax declarations. Institutions recognize it as proof that you are legally registered in the system, even if temporarily.

Important Tips for Newcomers

If you have just arrived in Belgium, promptly register with your local commune to start the process of obtaining your residence permit and BIS number.

Keep track of all documents you receive that mention your BIS number. Losing this information can complicate your administrative procedures.

Remember that the BIS number is temporary. Stay in contact with your commune to know when your permanent national registry number will be assigned.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the BIS number is vital for anyone new to Belgium. It simplifies interactions with governmental agencies and allows you to access important services while waiting for your full registration. If you want to learn more details about the BIS number and related procedures, check out this detailed guide on welcomebelgium.icu. Also, the main site offers a wealth of information for foreigners settling in Belgium: https://welcomebelgium.icu.

Navigating the Belgian system can be complex, but with the right information and a bit of patience, the process becomes manageable. The BIS number is just one piece of the puzzle, yet it plays a key role in ensuring your stay in Belgium is properly documented and supported.