eRecognition

eRecognition (eHerkenning) is a digital service for businesses listed in the Trade Register of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. You can use eRecognition to prove your identity electronically to government organisations with which you do business. For example, you can use it to apply for a permit or a subsidy, submit a return, file an objection or complete a contact form. At the moment eRecognition is already used by a number of government organisations and the number will increase in the future. As from 1 January 2011, eRecognition has replaced DigiD for Businesses.

e-Identity (EID) token

In order to use eRecognition, you will need an e-Identity (EID) token (eHerkenningsmiddel). You can buy an EID token from a recognised service provider of your choice. EID tokens may include user name/password, texting, bank card, phone, one time password (OPT), or public key certificate. You or your employee use this EID token to prove your identity to the government organisation. You can use the same EID token when dealing with different government organisations.

Assurance levels

There are four assurance levels, from low up to very high security. The government organisation with which you do digital business will select an assurance level at which to offer its services. Your EID token must comply at least with that prescribed level. You can use a level eH1 EID token (e.g. as required for the Dutch website 'Omgevingsloket online') free of charge for the first year. It is expected that this will remain free of charge in future as well.

Costs

You pay purchasing costs for an eIdentifier. Until 1 April 2012 you can purchase a level eH1 e-Identifier (e.g. as required for the Dutch website 'Omgevingsloket online') free of charge.

Mandate register

In the mandate register of your EID service provider you record the name of the person who you authorise to do digital business with the government on your company’s behalf. You must inform your service provider if there is a change in the authorisation or if the authorisation is withdrawn.