What is an SBI code?

  • Astrid Feitsma
  • Edited 22 April 2026
  • 1 min
  • Managing and growing
  • Rules and laws

What is an SBI code and why does your business need one? SBI stands for 'Standaard Bedrijfs Indeling' (Standard Industrial Classification). When you register your business with KVK, your business is assigned one or more SBI codes. The code indicates what your business does.

In just one minute, Max and Lisanne explain which organisations use SBI codes and what for:

  • the authorities to determine whether you are eligible for subsidies or permits
  • pension funds to see whether you should register
  • insurers to decide how much premium you must pay
  • the Netherlands Tax Administration to determine which taxes you must pay

If your SBI code is incorrect, you may, for example, miss out on subsidies or find that you are not properly insured. So, check regularly that your activities and SBI codes are still correct in your KVK registration.

English subtitles are available.