Social Security Number (SSN)
You need a Social Security Number (SSN) in order to obtain health insurance. In most cases, you will receive your Social Security Number / Citizen Service Number through the Dutch employer for whom you are going to work. However, it may happen that an employer does not provide this for you. In that case you have to make an appointment with the IRS to get your Social Security Number.
For stays longer than four months in the Netherlands
If you will stay in the Netherlands longer than four months, you have to officially register with the municipality where you will live during your stay in the Netherlands. If you do this, you will get a SSN/ CSN through this municipality.
What is the difference between an “SSN” and a “BSN”
This is the same. The terms “Social Security Number” and “Citizen Service Number” (“BSN”), are often used interchangeably. In both cases, you are registered under this personal number with the government and other agencies (such as your health insurer and some health care providers). The term “social security number” is the old term. Since the 27th of November 2007 it is officially called “BSN”.
