KVK number: all you need to know

Click the button to find an organisation by its KVK number.

You can find your own KVK number in the following places:

• in your welcome letter after registering your business
• in a KVK extract
• in My KVK 
• in the online Business Register.

When do you receive a KVK number?

You receive your KVK number when you register your company in the Dutch Business Register (Handelsregister). You can pre-register up to 3 months in advance. You will then receive your KVK number by letter, a week prior to that date.

If you register your business a week before or after the starting date in the Business Register, you receive the KVK number straightaway. Please note: you are legally obliged to register your business within a week of starting your business activities.

What do you use a KVK number for?

If you know their KVK number, you can check the details of a new client or supplier in the Business Register. 

In return, a new business partner can use your KVK number to look up and check the details of your business or organisation. Think of address details and the directors' names. 

The Business Register Act states that all Dutch companies have to register in the Business Register. You can register if you meet KVK's entrepreneurial criteria.

Where do you state your KVK number?

Consumers and business owners can use a KVK number to find out who they are doing business with. The law states that you must include your KVK number on letters, price quotations, invoices, your website, and business emails. 

The obligation does not apply to the following:

• a vereniging (association) or a stichting (foundation) without commercial activities
• an owners’ association (VvE)
• a public body or other governmental organisation
• a religious community

When do you need your KVK number?

You need your KVK number for every business purchase, subscription, or insurance. With it, you prove that you are making these commitments as a business.

Common examples are:

• purchases from a wholesaler
• buying a company car
• arranging business insurance
• arranging subscriptions and phone contracts
• opening a business bank account
• arranging business loans

Can you have multiple KVK numbers?

No, every business has only one KVK number. Even if you have multiple business activities or business names.

Can you cancel your KVK number?

Do you want to end your business? Then you must deregister your business with KVK. View the step-by-step guide to ending a business so that you do not forget any important steps.

How do you check a foreign legal entity or organisation?

Most countries have a register for businesses and organisations. Read more about foreign registers.

RSIN and establishment number

Click one of the buttons to find out more about the RSIN or the establishment number.