Security Services

If you want to install an alarm system that produces sound audible in public spaces or neighboring residences, you may need an environmental permit (omgevingsvergunning). This applies to outdoor sirens, bells, and other audible alarm devices on commercial or residential buildings.The municipality assesses whether the alarm installation meets noise pollution standards and fits within the local environmental plan (omgevingsplan). You apply through the Omgevingsloket (Environmental Portal). The permit conditions typically cover maximum sound levels, operating hours, and false alarm prevention. Silent alarm systems connected directly to a monitoring center generally do not require this permit.

Issued by: Municipality

If your security or investigation agency wants to equip employees with handcuffs, you need separate permission from the Minister of Justice and Security. Handcuffs are classified as special security equipment that may only be used under strict conditions by qualified personnel in situations where it is necessary and proportional.The application is assessed based on the nature of your security activities and the demonstrated need for handcuffs. Your staff must be trained in the proper and safe use of handcuffs. The permission specifies which employees may carry them and under what circumstances. Misuse can lead to revocation of the permission and criminal prosecution.

Issued by: Ministry of Justice and Security

An exemption for a security and investigation agency allows you to provide security or investigation services in exceptional situations where you cannot meet all standard license requirements. This exemption is granted by the Minister of Justice and Security under the Private Security Organizations and Detective Agencies Act (Wet particuliere beveiligingsorganisaties en recherchebureaus, Wpbr).The exemption is intended for specific cases where your activities serve the general interest but full compliance with the licensing requirements is not feasible. The Minister sets conditions tailored to your situation. You must still meet basic reliability and quality standards. The exemption can be withdrawn if you fail to comply with the imposed conditions.

Issued by: Ministry of Justice and Security

A license for a security and investigation agency is mandatory if you want to offer professional security or investigation services in the Netherlands. Under the Private Security Organizations and Detective Agencies Act (Wpbr), it is prohibited to operate a commercial security or investigation business without this license.The license is granted by the Minister of Justice and Security after a thorough assessment of the applicant. You must demonstrate reliability, professional competence, and sound business operations. All employees performing security or investigation work also need individual permission (toestemming). The license must be renewed periodically, and the Justis screening authority conducts background checks on the business and its directors.

Issued by: Ministry of Justice and Security

Anyone who wants to work as a security guard or private investigator at a licensed security organization or investigation agency must have personal permission (toestemming) from the Minister of Justice and Security. This ensures that only reliable and qualified individuals work in these sensitive roles.Your employer submits the application on your behalf. The screening authority Justis conducts a background check on reliability, including criminal records and police data. You must also hold the required professional qualifications, such as a security diploma or investigation certificate. The permission is linked to a specific employer, so a new application is needed when changing jobs. Without valid permission, you may not perform security or investigation tasks.

Issued by: Ministry of Justice and Security

A security or investigation license (beveiligings- of recherchevergunning) is required for carrying out specialized security or investigation activities that go beyond what the general agency license covers. This includes high-risk tasks such as guarding vital infrastructure, personal protection services, or sensitive investigation assignments.The license is granted by the Minister of Justice and Security under the Wpbr and requires additional screening of the applicant and involved personnel. The assessment looks at professional competence specific to the requested activities, organizational safeguards, and reliability. Each license specifies which activities are permitted, and you must comply with additional conditions set for the type of work involved.

Issued by: Ministry of Justice and Security

A firearm export permit (vuurwapen uitvoervergunning) is required for exporting firearms, ammunition, and related products to countries outside the European Union. This permit falls under EU Regulation 258/2012 on the export of civilian firearms and is intended to prevent illegal arms trafficking.Traders, manufacturers, and individuals who wish to export firearms must apply for this permit with the Central Import and Export Office (CDIU) of Dutch Customs. The application must specify the type and quantity of items, the destination country, and the end user. Processing includes verification against international arms embargoes and end-use certificates. Transfers within the EU follow a separate notification procedure.

Issued by: National Government