Licence for private security organisation or detective agency

If you wish to set up or take over a private security organisation or detective agency in the Netherlands, you need a licence (in Dutch). There are various types of security organisations:

• security firms that provide security for one or more other organisations
• security departments that only provide security for their own organisation
• firms that transport money and other valuables
• private alarm centres

Operators of hotel and catering establishments who employ their own bouncers need this licence as well. You can obtain the licence and the ministerial consent from Justis (Ministry of Justice and Security).

Conditions

In order to be eligible for this licence, you must satisfy a number of conditions. Your employees must have the required diplomas. There are also requirements concerning proof of identity, uniform and privacy. For managers and supervisors within the company permission by Justis Department (PDF) (in Dutch) is required. When granted, this permission is valid for the duration of the licence, with a maximum of 5 years.

Private alarm centres must be certified by Kiwa NCP.

Certificate of suitability for dogs

If you want to use a patrol dog or guard dog, you are required to present a certificate showing that the dog is suitable. When on duty, the dog handler must carry this certificate at all times. You can apply for the certificate to:

• the Royal Dutch Police Dog Association (Koninklijke Nederlandse Politiehond Vereniging) (in Dutch)
• the Netherlands Association for Patrol and Police Dogs (Nederlandse Bond voor de Diensthond) (in Dutch)

Ban on establishing and dispensation

A security firm of detective agency may not be established by special investigating officers, public prosecutors, police officers or soldiers of the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee. These persons are also not permitted to work for a security firm or detective agency. Dispensation from this ban may be obtained from the Minister of the Interior and Kingdom Relations.

Online application procedure via Message Box

Private alarm centres and detective agencies can also submit an application for a licence to Justis via Message Box. Message Box is a secure email system that enables you to exchange digital messages with Dutch government organisations.