A Dictionary of Dutchness

Bevolkingsregister

The bevolkingsregister (population registry) is where you are required, by law, to register your address. Proof of residency is needed for many official transactions, such as applying for a parking permit. It is also where births, marriages and deaths are recorded. During World War II, the registry files were a rich source of information for the Nazi occupants, especially as they listed everyone’s religion. They still do.