Proof of being alive

What is it?

A Certificate of Survival shows that you are alive at the time the certificate is issued. A proof of being alive is only intended for use by Dutch authorities in the Netherlands and costs .

For foreign agencies, you need an Attestation de vita. The Attestation de vita is an international document. You can use this certificate outside the Netherlands. The Attestation de vita comes from the registers of civil status.

What to do.

You apply for proof of being alive in person at the municipality.

Make an appointment

If you need help applying, make an appointment. To obtain a proof of life for Dutch agencies, make an appointment online and come in person to City Hall.

Make an appointment

How does it work?

You need proof of being alive, for example, if your life insurer or pension fund asks for it.

Proof of being alive is valid in:

  • Netherlands
  • Aruba
  • Curaçao
  • Bonaire
  • Saint Martin
  • St. Eustatius
  • Saba

If you need to show that you are alive in another country, apply for an attestation de vita.

What do I need?

  • valid identity card

If you need the proof for a pension fund, you will also need the letter from the pension fund requesting it.

How long does it take?

The Certificate of Living will be made for you at the counter and given to you after payment.

Validity

A Certificate of Living has no expiration date. It does say when it was made. Usually the proof should only be three or six months old for the agency asking for it. You can check with the agency that wants it from you.

What does it cost?

Rate: . If it is required for a foreign pension fund it is free. You may be asked for supporting documents and this will be assessed at the counter.

Applying from abroad

Are you Dutch and do you live abroad? Then you can apply for the proof of being alive at the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country of residence. You must apply in person. More information can be found on the website nederlandwereldwijd.nl.