NL hubs

Personal Records Database: Who Qualifies and What You Get

Learn how the Personal Records Database tracks your official address and civil status for all residents in the Netherlands.

The Personal Records Database is an official system that maintains a centralized record of your current residential address and your civil status.

Who it's for

This database is designed for all residents. If you live in the country, you are included in this system to ensure that your official information is documented and accessible to the relevant authorities.

What you get

By being part of this database, you receive an official government record of your current address. This record is used to verify where you live and tracks your civil status, which is your current legal standing regarding marriage or other significant personal status changes. Having this official documentation is a fundamental part of being a resident and ensures your information is correctly held by the local government.

What it costs you

The primary requirement for this scheme is your physical presence and time. To be included in the database, you must complete a registration process known as inschrijven. This process takes place at your local town hall (Gemeente), where you must provide the necessary details to establish your residency and civil status in the official records.

The catch to know

The most important thing to remember is the strict timeline for updates. If you move to a new home or change your living situation, you must complete an adreswijziging (address change) within a very short window. Specifically, you are required to update your address within 5 days of moving to ensure the database remains accurate and your official records are never out of date.

How to apply

  1. Locate your local town hall (Gemeente) responsible for your area.
  2. Visit the office to begin the inschrijven registration process.
  3. Provide your details to establish your official address and civil status.
  4. Ensure you return to handle any adreswijziging within 5 days of any future moves.