Documents needed for renting in the Netherlands

In a competitive Dutch rental market, speed matters. Landlords and agencies sometimes receive dozens of responses for a single property — and having a complete file ready gives you a real edge. Here is exactly which documents you need and how to collect them quickly.

Proof of identity

A valid proof of identity is always required. This can be a passport, national ID card, or residence permit. Important notes:

  • A driving licence is often not accepted as proof of identity for renting
  • Make sure your document is not expired
  • The landlord may make a copy, but you do not need to provide your BSN (citizen service number) for viewings — that is only needed when signing the contract

Proof of income

Landlords want assurance that you can afford the rent. The common requirement is that your gross monthly income is at least three times the basic rent. You can prove this with:

  • Pay slips (loonstrookjes): usually the last 3 months
  • Employment contract: preferably a permanent contract. With a temporary contract, landlords may ask for additional security
  • Annual income statement (jaaropgave): a yearly overview from your employer

Are you self-employed or freelance? You will need different documents:

  • Annual accounts or profit-and-loss statement from the last 1-3 years
  • Recent income tax return (IB-aangifte)
  • Chamber of Commerce extract (KvK-uittreksel)
  • Optionally, an accountant’s statement

Employer’s statement (werkgeversverklaring)

A werkgeversverklaring is an official document from your employer confirming:

  • Your position and type of employment (permanent or temporary)
  • Your gross annual salary (including holiday allowance and any bonuses)
  • The start date of your contract
  • Whether a probation period applies

Many landlords accept the NHG template (Nationale Hypotheek Garantie) as a format, although it was originally designed for mortgage applications. It is available as a free download from nhg.nl. Not every landlord specifically requires this template — some have their own format. Ask in advance which format your landlord expects. The document should generally be no older than 3 months.

BKR check (credit check)

Increasingly, landlords request a BKR report. The Bureau Krediet Registratie (BKR) tracks all loans and credit in your name. A negative BKR registration (e.g. a payment default) can be a reason for rejection.

  • You can request your own BKR overview for free at bkr.nl (choose “Opvragen gegevens”)
  • It takes a few days, so request it well in advance
  • A standard registration (e.g. phone contract or student loan) is normal and not a problem
  • Only arrears or special notations are a red flag for landlords

Municipal registration extract (BRP)

Some landlords request an extract from the BRP (Personal Records Database, formerly GBA). This document confirms your current address and personal details. You can request it from your municipality, often online via MijnOverheid. Costs vary by municipality (usually 10-15 euros).

Reference from previous landlord

Not always required, but a reference from your current or previous landlord can make the difference — especially when you are competing with dozens of other applicants. Ask your landlord for a brief letter or email stating you were a good tenant: you paid on time, kept the property clean, and there were no complaints.

Expats: additional documents

If you are moving to the Netherlands from abroad, landlords may request additional documents:

  • 30% ruling decision (if applicable)
  • Employment contract with a Dutch company
  • Bank statements from the last 3 months
  • A guarantor (someone who provides surety if you do not yet have Dutch income)

Checklist: everything ready for your application

  • Valid proof of identity (passport or ID card)
  • Last 3 pay slips or proof of income
  • Employer’s statement (max 3 months old)
  • Employment contract
  • BKR overview (free via bkr.nl)
  • Optional: BRP extract, reference from previous landlord

Tip: save all these documents in one folder on your phone or laptop. When you find a property through RentSlam, you can respond within minutes — and in a competitive market, that makes all the difference.

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