Cutting Through The Red Tape
You've found somewhere to live, you're ready to start your new life in Amsterdam. Here are some useful tips that will make sure you don't run into any problems along the way.
BSN Number
Before you can take any (legal) paid employment, you need a BSN Number (previously known as a SoFi number). It is the equivalent of a tax/national insurance number. To obtain one you need to go in person to the Tax Office. In Amsterdam this is near Sloterdijk train/tram station.
Before you go along, make an appointment by calling 0800 0543.
They will call you back within two days to make an appointment. You'll need to take your passport with you to your meeting. In line with new regulations against fraud, your tax file number will not be issued on the spot. Instead, it will be sent by post, generally on the same day that you made your application.
Non-EU nationals will need to show a passport, residence permit identification card (or proof of registration with the foreign police) and proof of registration with the population registrar in your local municipality.
National Tax Information
0800 0543
Belastingdienst Amsterdam
Kingsfordweg 1
1043 GN Amsterdam
Tel: 020 687 72 99
Bank Accounts
You will always be asked for your bank details when you start a job and you'll need one to make regular payments for your rent and/or bills. Trying to survive with just your old account from your home country is unrealistic and will end up costing you too much money.
If you are an EU citizen, you'll need to take your passport, BSN Number and a copy of your rental contract to the bank when you apply for an account. For non-EU citizens, proof of registration with the IND is also needed. You can simply drop by, but it is often better to make an appointment at your nearest branch. In Amsterdam, many ex-pats have found it easier to first try the Postbank. You need to go to the main branch at Singel, as sub-branches won't be able to open an account for non Dutch people. The ABN AMRO on Dam Square also has experience of working with ex-pats.
City Tax
From 2006, you will no longer receive a bill for use of your property. Property owners will continue to pay tax on places that they own. Check with the owner of each property if you will have to pay 'cleaning tax' (to cover garbage removal) and water tax. If you have a dog, you will need to pay hondenbelasting (around 90 euros for a dog for a year)
