Buying a BKR-Free Phone: The Ultimate Guide for 2026
Are you ready for a new smartphone, but don’t want the hassle of a BKR registration or an income check? In the Netherlands, a cell phone plan where the device costs more than €300 is considered a loan. This results in an official registration with the Credit Registration Bureau (BKR). Fortunately, there’s an easy way to avoid this. On this page, you’ll discover how to get the latest iPhone, Samsung, or Motorola without affecting your credit score.
Found: 184 phones
Why Choose a BKR-Free Phone?
A smartphone “on an installment plan” may seem appealing, but since the AFM implemented stricter rules, such a registration can have negative consequences for things like your maximum mortgage amount. By choosing a BKR-free phone, you keep your credit history clean and maintain complete freedom.
There are two smart ways to stay below the registration threshold:
- Phone bundle under €250: You pay a portion of the phone’s cost upfront, so the remaining amount you pay off monthly stays below the legal limit.
- Buy a standalone phone: You pay for the phone in one lump sum and combine it with an affordable SIM-only plan.
- Go for refurbished: Not new, but something different. A refurbished phone isn’t just any used phone—it’s been thoroughly inspected by technical experts, ensuring it will last for years to come.
Avoid a negative impact on your mortgage: choose BKR-free
Popular phones without a BKR check
Even the most advanced smartphones, such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 or the iPhone 17, are available BKR-free. The secret lies in the down payment. By paying a portion upfront when you sign up for your plan, you ensure that the “loan” (the amount included in your plan) stays below €250.
How exactly does the threshold work?
- Up to €250: No BKR registration, no income check (just a preventive check by the provider).
- Above €250: Mandatory income check and registration as “credit.”
Save on your monthly payments
In addition to avoiding a BKR registration, a BKR-free option offers another major financial benefit: your monthly payments are significantly lower. Since you’ve already paid for the device (in part), your bill will consist only of the costs for data and calling. This provides peace of mind and clarity in your monthly budget.
Tip: Consider refurbished
Want a high-end iPhone but find the down payment too high? Then check out the refurbished iPhones. These devices are technically like new, but because of their lower purchase price, they’re much more likely to fall below the BKR limit without you having to dig deep into your pockets.
Not sure which one is best for you?
Our comparison tool will help you right away. Use the filters on the left to select devices within your budget. Once you’ve found a suitable device, we’ll take you straight to the page featuring only plans that don’t require a BKR check. You don’t need to do anything else—we’ve already filtered and compiled all the offers for you.
