Certificate of main residence (proof of residence)
The certificate of main residence (proof of residence/certificate of registration) confirms that a resident is registered at their address in the municipality.
The certificate contains a number of personal details such as
- surname and first names
- place and date of birth
- address, nationality
- and the date on which you started living at that address.
You can also request a certificate of main residence with the history of your previous addresses.
Conditions
The following parties may apply for the certificate in relation to yourself:
- yourself
- your legal representative (e.g. parent or guardian)
- special agents such as notaries or lawyers
- third parties (e.g. public or private institutions) if the issue thereof is prescribed by or pursuant to the law,
- and any third persons provided that they are in possession of a power of attorney and the applicant’s identity card (or a copy thereof).
Procedure
Apply for the certificate of main residence with your municipality.
If you have an electronic identity card (eID), you can also consult, download, and print the document online
- via the online application of the National Registry ‘My Dossier’ (‘Mijn dossier’(opens in new window))
- via the online application of the Flemish public administration ‘My Citizen Profile’ (‘Mijn Burgerprofiel’)
- or via your municipality’s e-desk.
Other parties can only apply for the certificate from the Civil Affairs Office. In certain cases, however, lawyers, notaries, etc. can submit an online application provided the legal basis is stated. The local council will decide on this basis whether or not the certificate can be issued.
Requisites
If you collect the certificate yourself:
- your own identity card or residence permit.
If you are requesting the certificate for someone else:
- a power of attorney from that person and a copy of their identity card
- as well as your own identity card.
