LU-Card
All students at Leiden University should have a university ID card, known as a LU-Card.
Why do you need a LU-card?
Your LU-card is not proof of student registration, but is still very important. It serves as your:
- Leiden University ID card
- University library card
- Print and copy card
- Access pass for buildings and areas
- Access pass for car parks
- Access pass for the Hortus Botanicus
Requesting and activating your LU-Card
As soon as possible
It will take about two weeks to receive your LU-card, so request one as soon as possible.
Requirements
To request a LU card you must have:
- an activated Leiden University student account (ULCN);
- a Dutch address.
Non-Dutch address?
- Arriving in The Netherlands soon
Enter your Dutch correspondence address in Studielink as soon as possible. You can then request a LU card at your Dutch address, ready for your arrival. - Studying online from abroad
You cannot yet request a LU card. However, if you need to identify yourself during online exams, you can instead show a statement of registration (downloaded via uSis) accompanied by your valid passport or EU ID card. Make sure to always conceal your passport/ID card number to prevent any risk of identity theft. Read more about preventing identity theft.
How?
- Log into Account Self Service using your student account (ULCN).
- Check that your Dutch correspondence address is correct. LU-Cards are sent by post and only to addresses in The Netherlands. If your Dutch correspondence address is incorrect, update it via Studielink. Note that it will take a couple of days for your address update to be processed in your ULCN account.
- Go to 'My profile' and upload a passport photo. Make sure your photo meets standard passport photo requirements.
- Within 5 to 10 days you will receive your LU-Card at your Dutch correspondence address.
Exception for HOVO students
HOVO students can request a LU-Card at the University Library.
Activating your LU-Card
Before using your LU-Card you will first need to activate it at a LU-Card desk (see contact block on this page). Remember to bring along valid ID!
Loss or theft
If your LU-Card is stolen or lost, please contact the Student Affairs Front Office.
Not official proof of student registration
Your LU-Card does not serve as official proof of student registration. If you need to demonstrate that you are registered as student of Leiden University, you must show your student or registration card or an official statement of registration.
Keep your OV-chip card & LU-Card separate
If you mistakenly hold your LU-Card and OV-card (travel pass) against a card reader at the same time problems can occur. Always keep your LU-Card and OV-card separate and never hold them against a card reader together.
Questions?
- You’ll find the answers to most LU-Card-related questions in the FAQ.
- You can also contact the LU-Card central helpdesk via 071 - 527 2727 or lu-card@leidenuniv.nl. (Please remember to state your account name.)