Getting, searching, and changing an SBI code

Look up an SBI code

I want to:

• Look up my SBI code via My KVK (in Dutch)
• Download the list of SBI codes (Excel)
• Look up SBI codes by activity, code or classification (CBS.nl, in Dutch). KVK has an English language list of all SBI codes

Searching SBI code of another business

Get a business extract from the KVK. Or, access the information via the KVK Company Check (Bedrijvencheck, in Dutch. Free of charge 30 times a year). The KVK Company Check is intended for entrepreneurs registered in the Business Register. You must request an access code to use the KVK Company Check.

What is an SBI code?

The SBI code is a 5-digit number that indicates a business’s activities, the line of business. SBI stands for Standaard Bedrijfsindeling a classification of Statistics Netherlands (Centraal Bureau voor de Statistiek, CBS). Every company and organisation that registers in the KVK Business Register is assigned one or more SBI codes, depending on their business activities.

Examples of SBI codes:

• 96210 - Hairdressing and beauty treatment
• 49330 - On-demand passenger transport service activities by vehicle with driver

Why is the SBI code important?

The government and other organisations use SBI codes. This may affect your business operations. For example:

• The government uses SBI codes when granting licences. For example: all businesses with an SBI code for taxi transport must apply for a licence.
• Government subsidies and schemes often apply to businesses with a specific SBI code.
• The Netherlands Tax Administration uses your SBI code to determine whether you must pay VAT and at what rate.
• An insurer may use the code to assess business risks and determine the level of your premium.
• Banks may use the code when granting loans.
• The SBI code may be associated with a profession that falls under a mandatory pension scheme.
• You may work in a sector where a mandatory collective labour agreement (CAO) applies to staff.

Check the impact of your SBI code on financial matters, insurance and licences.

How do you get an SBI code for your company?

When you register your company in the Business Register at KVK, you have to describe your business activities. The KVK will determine which SBI codes are applicable. You will be assigned a maximum of 3 SBI codes upon registration. Once you have a KVK number, you can add further activities.

You can also suggest your own SBI code

Use the Statistics Netherlands (CBS) search tool (in Dutch) to find the code that best matches your activities. KVK will then assess your suggestion. Please note: KVK will only accept your suggestion if the SBI code accurately reflects your activities.

Multiple SBI codes

Your company may have several activities. You will then receive one SBI code for your main business activity and SBI codes for any additional activities. Read more about starting extra business activities.

How to ensure you get the correct SBI code

KVK assigns you an SBI code based on the description of your activities. So, describe your activities as clearly as possible. Always list your main activities first.

Reporting changes to KVK

Do your business activities change? Always report this to KVK. You can report changes in your activities online. KVK assigns you an SBI code based on the description of your activities. You can also submit a proposal for a new SBI code yourself. KVK will only accept your proposal if the SBI code matches your business activities. Updating your details with KVK is free of charge.

Notify other organisations of your new SBI code

Changing your business activities can have consequences. For example, for your bank account, financing, insurance, pension fund, and permits. So, check with these organisations to find out what steps you need to take if your business activities change. These include:

• insurer
• bank
• granting authority
• municipality

The Tax Administration is automatically notified if your activities change. The same applies to some other large organisations that use SBI codes. If you are unsure whether your change has been processed, it is best to check with the organisation itself. Also check what else you need to arrange in the event of an additional business activity.