Mortgage with a BKR A3 rating: what are your options?

An A3 code from the BKR indicates that part of your debt has been forgiven or written off by the lender. This special code is added when the forgiven amount exceeds €250. For mortgage lenders, this is a significant indicator that there have been payment issues in the past, causing them to be very reluctant to grant a new mortgage. The A3 code remains visible for five years after the registration is closed.

negative bkr registration - credit rating

You’re not alone in this situation. Many people only discover during the mortgage application process that this record is limiting their financial options. At Dynamiet Nederland, we understand how frustrating this can be, especially if you thought the matter had already been resolved. Fortunately, there are ways to improve your situation, though it does require the right legal approach.

Deepak Thakoerdien
Written on September 8, 2025, by Deepak Thakoerdien
  • Co-founder & legal strategist

Key insights

  • BKR A3 code: Assigned when a debt is forgiven or written off in an amount exceeding €250
  • Impact on mortgages: Lenders are very cautious due to visible payment problems
  • Visibility period: Remains visible for five years after the registration is closed
  • Discharge is possible: Through legal proceedings and often by subsequently paying the amount that was previously waived
  • Professional assistance: Specialists can negotiate with the original lender

What exactly does a BKR A3 code mean?

An A3 code is the most severe type of special code you may encounter at the Credit Registration Bureau. This code is added when a lender decides to forgive or write off part of your debt. This usually happens when the lender assesses that the full amount will no longer be repaid and arranges a settlement whereby you pay a portion in exchange for forgiveness of the remainder.

The difference between debt forgiveness and write-off is primarily administrative. With debt forgiveness, a formal agreement is reached whereby you are released from your obligation to pay. With a write-off, the lender writes off the amount in its own records, but legally speaking, you still owe the full amount. In both cases, however, you will receive the same A3 code on your BKR record.

For lenders, this code serves as a clear warning sign. It indicates that you have been unable to meet your full payment obligations in the past. Understandably, this makes them cautious when evaluating new loan applications, especially for large amounts such as a mortgage.

BKR removal how does it work

Why is it so difficult to get a mortgage with an A3 rating?

Mortgage lenders are legally required to assess your creditworthiness before they can grant a mortgage. A negative BKR record, such as an A3 code, directly affects this assessment. The lender sees that you have previously had difficulty repaying debts, which increases the risk for them.

In addition, the amount of the debt that has been forgiven or written off plays a role. The higher this amount, the greater the impact on your creditworthiness. The nature of the original debt is also important. A written-off credit card debt is assessed differently than, for example, a written-off mortgage debt.

Many mortgage lenders have strict underwriting criteria, under which an A3 credit rating automatically results in rejection. Other lenders consider specific circumstances, such as how long ago the issues occurred and whether you have improved your financial situation since then. But even then, the terms are often less favorable, with higher interest rates or lower maximum loan amounts.

“I often see people who think their past financial problems no longer matter. Unfortunately, an A3 code is a permanent record. The good news is that in many cases we can still find a solution, although this does require a strategic approach and sometimes a bit of patience.”
Deepak, legal specialist at Dynamiet Nederland

Getting a mortgage with bkr registration

How long does an A3 code stay on your record?

The length of time an A3 code remains visible depends on when the record is closed. Once the entire outstanding balance—including the forgiven portion—has been paid in full, the record is assigned an end date. From that end date, the record will remain visible in your BKR report for another five years.

If a residual debt remains outstanding after the debt has been discharged, the record remains “open” with no end date. This means that the A3 code will remain visible to lenders indefinitely. The five-year period does not begin until this residual debt has also been paid in full.

It is important to know that the original lender is required to remind you of any remaining debt within five years of the debt being forgiven. If this does not happen, the claim may become time-barred. However, this does not automatically mean that the BKR record will be removed. Additional legal steps are often required to have the record removed.

What options do you have with an A3 code?

Despite the challenges associated with an A3 classification, there are several options available to you. The most effective approach depends on your specific situation, the amount that has been forgiven, and your current financial situation.

The first option is to contact the original lender. In some cases, they may be willing to have the record amended or removed if you pay the amount that was previously forgiven. This requires negotiation skills and knowledge of the legal options available. It is no guarantee of success, but we have seen that lenders are sometimes open to this, especially if time has passed since the original issues.

Another option is to challenge the registration through legal channels. This is possible, for example, if the registration is incorrect, if procedural errors were made, or if the registration is no longer proportionate given the circumstances. Seeking removal through the courts requires thorough legal knowledge and experience with this type of case.

If removal isn’t possible, you might want to look into mortgage lenders who take a more flexible approach to BKR records. Some lenders assess applications on a case-by-case basis and consider the bigger picture. You may be eligible for a mortgage with modified terms. We can advise you on which lenders are best suited for this.

Professional help makes all the difference

Navigating the complex world of BKR records and mortgage options is no easy task. Every situation is unique and requires a tailored approach. What works for one person may not be the right solution for another.

At Dynamiet Nederland, we have helped thousands of people in similar situations since 2012. We know the ins and outs of the BKR system and are familiar with the available legal options. Our specialists can analyze your situation and develop a strategy that offers the best chance of success.
We understand that past financial problems can be a heavy burden. Especially when you want to look ahead and, for example, buy a home. It’s frustrating to realize that past decisions are limiting your current options. That’s why we’re fully committed to working with you to find solutions.

Would you like to know what your options are? Schedule a free consultation today. During this consultation, we’ll discuss your situation, analyze your BKR report, and give you honest advice on the best next steps. You’re not alone in this situation, and with the right help, there are often more options available than you think.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mortgages with A3 Classification

Can I get a mortgage with an A3 rating?

What is the difference between an A3 rating and other BKR ratings?

How can I have my A3 code removed?

Does an A3 code automatically expire after 5 years?

How much does it cost to have an A3 code removed?

Customers about us

Trustpilot

Can we help you?

This page was last updated on: