Improving services by digital technology
The present Government is determined to reduce the regulatory burden, for both individuals and businesses. It also intends to prioritise the digital provision of public services. This will make the services more convenient and save time and money. At the same time, great care will be taken to protect the privacy of personal information.
A growing number of public authorities are enabling citizens to conduct transactions online. You can now, for instance, use your home PC to apply for a building permit or submit your tax return. Offering more services online increases efficiency and reduces paperwork.
DigiD stands for Digital Identity. It is a personal combination of a username and a password. With a DigiD, you can safely use the online services of public authorities.
Digital security and identity
If you conduct online transactions with public authorities, it is very important that nobody else should be able to use your identity. Information relating to private citizens and businesses is therefore rigorously protected, and access to them is strictly regulated. The Personal Data Protection Act regulates how organisations handle personal information.
Municipal Personal Records Database (GBA)
The Municipal Personal Records Database (GBA) contains the personal details of everyone who lives in the Netherlands. The public authorities use these details to help them perform their tasks, such as paying benefits and collecting taxes.
Details passed on to the Municipal Personal Records Database
Citizens have to inform the Database when certain changes occur in their lives: if they have a baby or marry abroad, for instance, or if a family member dies. Some changes are recorded automatically. If you marry in the Netherlands, for instance, the Registrar of Births, Deaths, Marriages and Registered Partnerships will inform the Municipal Personal Records Database.