Are you a Dutch but don’t have a Netherlands identity card or is it soon to be expired? Apply for a new one! The Netherlands ID card not only serves as proof of identity but also allows you to travel to most European countries. This is a complete guide to help you apply for an identity card.
Eligibility for Dutch identity card
Not everyone is eligible to apply for a Dutch ID card. To go through the application for an identity card, you must meet the following standards:
- You need to have a Dutch nationality.
- You are registered in a municipality.
- Minors under 12 years old need permission from their guardians for the application.
Required documents for Dutch ID card
Before you apply, there are documents you need to gather. See the list below:
- Current ID card and passport: Take all travel documents with you including your current passport and ID, even if they are expired.
- 1 passport photo: A color passport photo that meets the government requirements and should be taken within 6 months prior to the application date.
- A bank card: You will need to pay the application fee directly at the municipal counter. Either a debit card or cash is acceptable.
How to apply for a Dutch identity card
Applicants’ age affects the application for identity cards in some way and the rules may vary in different cities. Here we will walk you through the steps of the Dutch ID application for both adults and children.
For adults
1. Make an appointment
Whether you need an appointment depends on your City Office. In some cities, due to large crowds, you need to make an appointment online before going to the office to apply. In this case, visit the website of your municipality and fill in the data required to secure a date and time for your application. On the other hand, if an appointment is not necessary in your city, you can go to the City Office directly. It is best to check with your municipality in advance.
2. Show up in person.
As an adult, you must always show up in person to apply for an ID card.
3. Gather necessary documents.
Make sure you have all the necessary documents mentioned above and bring them with you on your application date.
4. Go to the City Office.
Go to the appointment on time (if you have) and submit the required documents. Pay the relevant fee with a debit card or cash.
5. Pick-up.
Usually, you can collect your new ID card in person at the same location after you apply or you can have it delivered to your home. Pick-up appointments are required in some offices, please remember to check with the staff when you apply.
For children
1. Make an appointment
This step goes the same as adults. Make an appointment if needed.
2. Show up in person
- Children at the age of 12 and older
If your child is over 12 years old, he can apply for an ID card by himself. He needs to present in person but no permission from his parents or guardians is needed.
- Children under 12 years old
If your child is under 12 years old, he needs to go to his selected City Office in person accompanied by at least one parent or guardian. The parent who present needs to bring his valid passport or ID card and give written consent while the parent who does not show up will have to sign a permission form which is only valid for 3 months as well.
3. Gather necessary documents.
Necessary documents for children are the same as for adults.
4. Go to the City Office.
Go to the City Office with all the required documents. If your child is 12 years old or older, the staff may take 2 fingerprints from him for the ID card.
Pay directly at the counter as well.
5. Pick-up.
Confirm with the staff whether you need an appointment for the ID card pick-up when apply. All children need to go to the desk for pick-up in person. If the child is under the age of 12, he has to be accompanied by an adult with a valid ID. Besides, you can have the ID card delivered, but both you and your child have to be presented when it is delivered to your hand.
Dutch ID card for foreigners
Is it possible to apply for a Dutch identity card for foreigners? Unfortunately, no. As we talked about, to apply for a Dutch ID card, you must have Dutch nationality. If you don’t have one but have a valid resident permit, you can apply for an alien’s passport under certain conditions. Also, if you are considered a refugee, you can get a refugee passport as your proof of identity and travel document.
How to apply for a Dutch ID card abroad
If you have a Dutch nationality but live abroad, you can apply for your Dutch ID at a Dutch embassy or consulate, the Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, or a Dutch border municipality. If you live in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom, you can apply for an ID card at the Civil Affairs Departments(Caribbean Netherlands) or the Dutch Representations (Caribbean countries).
The application process for Dutch citizens living abroad takes a little more effort. Follow these steps:
1. Fill in the questionnaire.
The documents required for your Dutch ID depend on where you live and other personal conditions. Complete a checklist on the website The Netherlands Worldwide. Then you will know the documents you need to prepare.
2. Gather necessary documents.
Make sure you have the documents needed and print out the checklist.
3. Make an appointment.
Make an appointment online with the office you are going to visit.
4. Go to the appointment in person.
Take all the documents required on your checklist to the appointment. You must submit your application in person. This also applies to children.
5. Collect your ID card.
Once you receive the e-mail for collection, you can go get your ID card where you apply or have it delivered to your address. Both ways require you to collect your document in person.
How much does an identity card cost?
The cost for a Dutch ID card depends on your age and where you apply. Here is a price list:
| For Dutch citizens living in the Netherlands | For Dutch citizens in the Caribbean countries | For Dutch citizens living abroad |
| Adult US€75.80 Minor €40.92 | Adult $116.16 Minor $78.07 | At Dutch representations： Adult US€158.65 Minor US€121.80 At Dutch border municipalities： Adult US€121.95 Minor US€87.04 |
The above rates are for reference. You should confirm with the application point when you apply.
How long does it take to collect an identity card?
Pick-up arrangements can vary from city to city. Generally speaking, the processing time ranges from 5 working days to 1 week. Also, you have 3 months to collect your ID card. If you don’t pick it up within the period, it will be destroyed and you need to apply for it again.
If you need an identity card urgently, it can be ready in 2 working days, but you need to indicate your situation to the staff and pay an extra fee for an urgent application which is €132.90 in total.
What to do if my identity card is lost or stolen?
When your identity card is nowhere to be found, you should report the loss. If you live in the Netherlands, report it to the municipality where you are registered. If you live abroad, report it to a Dutch embassy or consulate, or a Dutch border municipality. For Dutch citizens who live in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom, they need to report the loss to the Civil Affairs Department or the Office of the Governor. After you deal with the loss, you can apply for a new ID card.
Bonus: Create a Dutch ID card photo online
Wherever you live, a Dutch ID card photo is a necessary document on the checklist when you apply for a Dutch ID. Now you can create your digital ID photo without getting out of your house. AiPassportPhotos is an online ID photo maker that transforms your homemade picture into a compliant Dutch ID photo in seconds. Plus, it is totally free! To create a Dutch ID photo online, simply follow these steps:
Step 1. Go to AiPassportPhotos Netherlands ID photo generator
Step 2. Upload any photo online and let AI process the photo
Step 3. Download your compliant Dutch ID photo.
FAQ
How long is an identity card valid?
For adults, a Dutch identity card is valid for 10 years, while for minors (under 18 years old), it is valid for 5 years.
Does my child need an identity card to receive medical care?
Healthcare providers such as family doctors, pharmacies and hospitals will need to see proof of identification when they provide medical care. You can show them an identity card or a passport of your child instead.
Is my partner’s name on my identity card?
This is optional. If you want your partner’s name listed on the card, you need to prepare relevant documents when you apply.
Conclusion
The Dutch identity card is a non-compulsory document issued to Dutch nationals. Dutch citizens of all ages can apply for one. In this article, we have delved into the process of application for the Dutch identity card. Whether you live in the Netherlands or abroad, getting an ID card is not difficult as long as you follow the instructions.