How do I register a religious organisation

Would you like to register an independent body of a religious organisation (a member of Interkerkelijk Contact in Overheidszaken (CIO, in Dutch)) in the Business Register? Or change the details of any such independent body? Please contact the religious organisation in question. 

Download and fill in the form

Download form 27: ‘religious organisation registration form’. The form states who is authorised to sign it and what extra documents are needed. Please consider the following:

Do not use any personal details

No details that can be traced back to an individual may be included in the registration. This is to prevent, for example, discrimination on the basis of religion. So directors and authorised representatives are not recorded in the Business Register, even if the religious organisation runs a business. Also, the organisation’s phone number may not be the private phone number of a member of the congregation, as this would be personally identifiable information.

What supporting documents do you need?

Collect the documents below and bring them to your appointment at KVK. 

• The religious organisation's statute, signed by at least 2 directors. These statutes may be in Dutch or in another language. If the bylaws are filed in another language, a sworn translation is required by law (Article 35, in Dutch). These articles of association are public.
• Are there no statutes for the religious organisation? Then bring a written statement setting out the name of the congregation and its objective. This statement must be signed by at least 2 members of the congregation.
• Minutes of the board meeting or letters of appointment showing that the person signing the form is also a director. At least 2 directors must sign the minutes.
• A copy of the lease, purchase, or rental agreement, which is signed by 2 parties. Or a declaration of consent for the visiting address. A statement of consent must also be accompanied by a copy of a valid ID belonging to the owner of the property. The visiting address of a religious organisation may not be the private address of one of the members of the congregation. An address of an independent third party, such as an accountant or notary, is allowed.

Do you have to register UBOs?

A religious organisation only has to register ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs) if:

• the congregation is required to be registered in the Business Register
• there is no Dutch umbrella organisation above the congregation

You use form 34 to register UBOs for a religious organisation. 

How do you make an appointment to visit KVK?

You make an appointment online by logging in with DigiD. Even though the directors are not registered, the person (director) who signs the form must must visit a KVK office in person. 

• You can make an appointment at any KVK office.You can make, change or canel your appointment online by logging in with DigiD.
• Bring valid ID and the necessary forms and supporting documents. After you make an appointment you will receive an email with information about the documents you need to bring.
• Registration is free for religious organisations.