About Message Box

Who may create a Message Box account?

Message Box is intended for new and existing businesses that are based in the European Economic Area (EEA) and want to offer their services in the Netherlands. The EEA is a free trade zone between countries of the European Union (EU), Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein.

For what purposes can I use Message Box?

Via Message Box, you can complete such procedures of the Dutch government as permit applications, which are required to provide your services in the Netherlands. In addition, you can ask government agencies about how the rules are applied in the Netherlands.

Which permit applications can be submitted via Message Box?

Via Message Box, you can apply for permits related to procedures subject to the Services Act. These are listed in the Dutch ministerial regulation on the scope of the Services Act (Regeling indicatieve vaststelling reikwijdte Dienstenwet).

Why should I use Message Box when I can just send an e-mail?

Message Box offers a number of advantages over ordinary e-mail:

• Government agencies are not required to deal with ordinary e-mail messages. It is, however, bound by law to do so if the message is sent via Message Box, provided the e-mail concerns procedures falling under the Services Act.
• The permit for which you applied using Message Box, as well as the invoice where applicable, will be sent to you via Message Box.
• Message Box is an extra-secure environment.

Why is Message Box more secure than e-mail?

Message Box operates in a secure environment. A message is not simply set via the Internet, the exchange involves a secure HTTPS connection between your computer and your Message Box account. This is indicated on your browser by means of a padlock icon.

Is Message Box always accessible?

The aim is to make Message Box accessible as much as possible. If Message Box is temporarily inaccessible due to maintenance, this will normally be on Sunday mornings between 1 AM and 7 AM. This will be announced in advance.

I did not receive my permit, can I file an objection via Message Box?

Message Box cannot be used to file an objection or lodge an appeal. For more information, see the section entitled Objecting and appealing against a government decision.

I want to perform my services in another EU Member State, where can I find more information?

Every country in the EU has a central Point of Single Contact (Services Counter), similar to Answers for Business in the Netherlands. A list of Points of Single Contact in the EU can be found on website of the European Commission.

Are any changes planned for Message Box?

Message Box is still under development. New options will be announced on this website.