What is an SBI code?
SBI stands for "Standaard Bedrijfsindeling" (Standard Business Classification). Each code corresponds to a type of economic activity, for example software development, hairdressing or management consultancy. The KVK assigns your code(s) based on what you tell them you do.
Why it matters
- Banks: some activities are seen as higher risk, which can affect whether you get a business account easily.
- Insurers: your code influences which policies and premiums apply.
- Subsidies and schemes: some support is limited to specific sectors identified by SBI code.
- Statistics: the government uses it to understand the economy.
How to choose
Describe your main activity as precisely as possible. The KVK has a search tool to find matching codes. Pick the one that best reflects how you actually earn money rather than a vague catch-all.
Can you have more than one?
Yes. If you genuinely do several things, for example consultancy and selling products online, you can register multiple SBI codes. The first one listed is treated as your main activity.
Changing it later
If your business evolves, you can update your SBI code with the KVK. Keep it accurate, because a code that has drifted from your real activity can cause problems with insurers or banks.
The follow-up question
Alongside this belong Choosing a Business Name in the Netherlands, Is Entrepreneurship Right for You? Traits and Self-Check and Running a Business as a Student in the Netherlands.