Buying a BKR-free mobile phone: The ultimate guide for 2026
Are you in need of a new smartphone, but don’t want the hassle of a BKR registration or an income check? In the Netherlands, a mobile phone contract where the handset costs more than €300 is treated as 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 find out how to get your hands on the latest iPhone, Samsung or Motorola without it affecting your credit rating.
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Why choose a BKR-free mobile phone?
A smartphone ‘on an instalment plan’ may seem appealing, but since the AFM introduced stricter rules, such a credit record can have adverse consequences for things like your maximum mortgage. By choosing a BKR-free mobile phone, you keep your credit history clean and retain complete freedom.
There are two smart ways to stay below the registration threshold:
- Phone bundle under €250: You pay part of the cost of your phone upfront, so that the remaining amount you repay each month stays below the legal limit.
- Buy a standalone handset: You pay for the phone in one go and combine this with an affordable SIM-only plan.
- Go for refurbished: Not new, but something different. A refurbished phone isn’t just any second-hand phone; it’s been thoroughly checked by specialist technicians, ensuring it will last for years to come.
Avoid a negative impact on your mortgage: choose BKR-free
Popular handsets without a BKR check
Even the most advanced smartphones, such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 or the iPhone 17 can be obtained BKR-free. The secret lies in the deposit. By paying a portion up front when taking out your contract, you ensure that the ‘loan’ (the amount included in your contract) is below €250.
How exactly does the threshold work?
- Up to €250: No BKR registration, no means test (just a precautionary check by the provider).
- Above €250: Mandatory income check and registration as ‘credit’.
Save on your monthly payments
As well as avoiding a BKR entry, a BKR-free option offers another major financial benefit: your monthly costs are significantly lower. Because you’ve already paid for the handset (in part), your bill will only include the costs for data and calls. This gives you peace of mind and clarity in your monthly budget.
Tip: consider refurbished
Do you want a high-end iPhone but find the deposit too high? Then take a look at the refurbished iPhones. These handsets are technically as good as new, but thanks to 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 is the best choice?
Our comparison tool will help you straight away. Use the filters on the left to select handsets within your budget. Once you’ve found a suitable handset, we’ll take you straight to the page featuring only contracts 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.
