Living abroad without DigiD and needing Dutch documents?
Not having an active DigiD can block the easiest online request route, but it does not always make the document impossible to obtain. Apostille Assist helps review the issuing body's alternatives, identity and authorisation requirements, and any later apostille, translation or delivery steps.
Choose the right level of support
Use apostille submission when the correct Dutch document is already available. Choose document coordination when the document must still be requested or an alternative to DigiD must first be established.
Apostille Submission
For an available and suitable Dutch document when the apostille requirement is already confirmed.
- Submission for a Dutch apostille
- Suitable when the document route is clear
- WhatsApp progress updates
Document Coordination
For a document request involving alternative application methods, identity checks, authorisation or several Dutch-side steps.
- Review of the document and issuing body's options
- Coordination of the agreed Dutch-side route
- Additional costs confirmed before work begins
No DigiD does not always mean no route
Some issuing bodies offer a written, email, counter, representative or other identity-checked request route. Availability depends on the document and organisation.
You may still be able to apply for DigiD
If you live abroad and have a BSN, the official DigiD route may allow you to apply and collect an activation code through a DigiD desk or video appointment.
DigiD is personal. Apostille Assist does not need your username, password, app access or verification codes. Where authorisation is possible, use an official authorisation route or the issuing body's own procedure.
From access problem to document route
The first step is to separate the DigiD issue from the document's later international requirements.
Identify the document
Share the document type, issuing body, purpose, destination and deadline.
Check access options
Review whether DigiD, a form, identity copy, appointment or authorisation is accepted.
Complete Dutch steps
Coordinate the agreed request, copy, apostille, legalisation or translation route.
Deliver internationally
Arrange the accepted digital transfer or tracked shipment where required.
What determines the alternative route?
A missing DigiD is only one part of the assessment.
Document and issuing body
A municipality, university, court, notary, KVK or other organisation can apply different access rules.
Identity and eligibility
The issuing body may check your identity, BSN, relationship to the record or right to request it.
Original and delivery needs
The recipient may require a recent original, certified copy, direct delivery or tracked paper shipment.
Documents that may involve DigiD
Online portals are common, but the available alternative should be checked with the responsible issuing body.
DigiD does not decide the foreign route
DigiD may provide access to the Dutch request process. The destination country and receiving organisation separately determine what happens after issue.
Information that helps clarify the route
A few precise details are usually enough for an initial review.
Your current access
State whether you have a BSN, Dutch identity document, old DigiD account or access problem.
The document details
Include the document type, issuing authority, names, dates and whether an old copy exists.
Country and purpose
Share the destination, receiving organisation, exact instruction and deadline.
Related document situations
These existing pages cover closely related routes for people arranging Dutch documents from abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for DigiD while living abroad?
If you live abroad and have a BSN, you can generally apply through the official DigiD route. You need a valid identity document, telephone and email address, followed by activation through an available DigiD desk or video appointment.
Can I request a Dutch document without DigiD?
Sometimes. It depends on the issuing body and document. A written form, identity-checked email request, appointment or valid authorisation may be available.
Can Apostille Assist log in with my DigiD?
No. DigiD is strictly personal. Never share your username, password, app access or verification codes. Any representation must use an official authorisation or issuing-body procedure.
Can someone in the Netherlands request the document for me?
Possibly, but only if the issuing body accepts representation and its identity and authorisation requirements are met. This must be checked for the specific document.
Does not having DigiD affect whether I need an apostille?
No. DigiD concerns access to certain Dutch services. The destination country, document and receiving organisation determine the later apostille or legalisation requirement.
Can the completed document be shipped abroad?
Yes, when paper delivery is required. Tracked international shipping can be included in the agreed route, with the destination and courier charge confirmed beforehand.
Official information: DigiD application guidance and DigiD activation by video call from abroad.
Need a Dutch document without active DigiD?
Share the document type, issuing body, destination country and current access problem so the possible Dutch-side route can be reviewed.
