SBI Code means Standard Industrial Classification, in Dutch Standaard Bedrijfsindeling, and is a classification code that describes the nature of the activities of a company in the Netherlands. These codes are often selected at the time of business registration with the KVK [Kamer van Koophandel], the Dutch Chamber of Commerce, either by the company itself or by a notary assisting with the incorporation.
Every business including NGOs must be registered in the KvK and the SBI codes assigned at registration are directly linked to the official description of the business activities.
The SBI codes serve as an essential reference for government authorities, financial institutions, and insurers. They are used, for example, to determine a company’s eligibility for subsidies, participation in pension schemes, loan applications, and insurance premiums.
In September 2025, significant changes will be made to many SBI codes. It is therefore critical that companies will verify their company code. It is essential to check in the KvK portal or on their digital register, if the description of their company’s activities is still accurate and up to date, so that the business is properly classified under the new coding system.
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SBI Code in the Netherlands
An SBI code is a four or five digit numerical code that designates the nature of a company’s business activities in the Netherlands. SBI stands for Standard Industrial Classification. The codes are assigned by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) upon registration at the Dutch Chamber of Commerce [KVK]. Businesses with multiple distinct activities may be assigned more than one SBI code.
Search Your Company SBI Code
The current company’s SBI code can be found in several ways:
- When the company was registered an SBI code(s) was assigned and it is listed on the documentation. Ask the notary, accounting firm or other stakeholder that supported during the setup of the company.
- Another option is to search online for your company registration. Go to the website KvK Register. Check Mijn KVK and login to their business portal. The SBI code(s) will be listed under your company profile.
Automatic Adjustment of Company SBI Code
Between September 5 and September 7, 2025, the business register will update existing SBI codes where necessary. They will assess every registered description of activities and assign the SBI code(s) that best match the stated business operations.
Every business owner is strongly advised to check the current activity description and SBI codes via the KVK business portal.
It is possible to submit to the KvK a business proposal for an appropriate SBI code if a different classification is more suitable. Ultimately, the KVK will determine and record the correct SBI code(s) for the business.
Why Are the SBI Codes Changing in 2025?
SBI codes are revised approximately every 15 years as part of a European-level harmonisation process. This ensures that the classification system remains relevant, reflecting emerging industries and phasing out obsolete sectors. Examples include new categories for environmental and sustainability-related activities or platform-based business models such as marketplaces and comparison websites, while outdated activities such as video rental stores have been removed.
These changes will make the SBI classification more accurate and align the Dutch system with that of other European countries, facilitating improved international reporting and statistical comparisons.
Risks of Incorrect Standard Industrial Classification Codes
An outdated or inaccurate activity description may result in the business being assigned incorrect SBI code(s). This can have adverse consequences, such as:
- Ineligibility for government subsidies for which you would otherwise qualify.
- Issues with pension scheme obligations.
- Loan applications being rejected by financial institutions.
- Incorrect insurance premiums being applied.
SBI codes are frequently used by governmental bodies, UWV, pension funds, banks, and insurers as a classification tool to determine eligibility for subsidies, participation in mandatory pension schemes, creditworthiness, and applicable insurance rates.
If the business is commencing new activities, ceasing certain activities, or if the primary focus of your business activities changes, every business owner must notify the KVK immediately via their login portal or by submitting a change notification form.
Preliminary SBI Codes 2025
An overview of the SBI codes 2025 can be found here (Dutch only): Search SBI Code 2025.
- Certain codes are completely revised.
- Existing four-digit codes will be expanded by adding an additional digit (a zero).
- The separate codes for online and physical retail sales is consolidated into a single code to reflect the hybrid sales practices of modern businesses.
- The codes category covering the trade and repair of cars, motorcycles, and trailers is eliminated and redistributed.
- New codes are introduced for intermediary and brokerage services, mediation activities, including online marketplaces and comparison sites.
Actions for Employers: SBI Codes Netherlands 2025
Starting mid September 2025 employers will have to promptly log into the Chamber of Commerce business portal to review their company’s registered description of activities and ensure it accurately reflects your current operations, thereby ensuring the correct SBI codes will be applied after the 2025 update.
The KVK will notify entrepreneurs of the upcoming changes to the SBI codes through multiple channels, including social media, newsletters, and their portal, however it is the responsibility of the employer to check their SBI codes.
More Information
- 9 Reasons Why Small Businesses Should Outsource HR.
- Doing Business in the Netherlands: Dutch Leadership Culture.
- What Is eHerkenning? How to Login to Your KvK and UWV Account.
