There are plenty of opportunities for finding employment for expats in the Netherlands. But what if you want to set up your own business? In this article, we’ll explain what you need to know if you want to start a business as an expat in the Netherlands.
What do I need to set up a business in the Netherlands?
Over the past decade, there has been an 85% increase in the number of Dutch residents who switched from employment to self-employment. Entrepreneurship is not without risk, of course. You may have to trade in a steady salary for an uncertain income, and it may take a while to get things up and running. But being an entrepreneur also comes with a sense of freedom, flexibility and autonomy; an opportunity to do what you love and make a living out of it, according to your own values. Do you want to start a business as an expat in the Netherlands? There are a few things you need before you can get started:
A (provisional) residence permit
If you have the nationality of a country that belongs to the EU or EFTA (Iceland, Switzerland, Norway or Liechtenstein), you can apply for a residence permit as an entrepreneur. If you have the nationality of a country that does not belong to the EU or EFTA, you will first have to apply for a provisional residence permit (a special visa for people who want to stay in the Netherlands for more than three months) or a residence permit. Regardless of your nationality, your business is required to serve Dutch interest.
A valid home address in the Netherlands
When you become a resident in the Netherlands, you need a valid home address – a PO box does not suffice.
A citizen service number
Uou must register with the municipality that you live in. You will need your passport and a (translated!) birth certificate. Upon registration, you will receive your personal citizen service number (burgerservicenummer or BSN).
How to start a business in the Netherlands
Every new business starts with an idea. Since you’re reading this, you probably already have one. Below, we have listed the steps you need to take to transform that idea into a business and officially become an entrepreneur in the Netherlands.
#1. Do your research
You may have already had your own business before. But the market in the Netherlands could be very different from the one in your home country. Therefore, it is crucial to do your research. Explore the industry that you want to work in and get insight into supply and demand, competition, rates, etc.
#2. Write a business plan
If you need to apply for financing to get your business off the ground, you must submit a business plan. But even if you don’t require financing, writing a business plan is recommended. It will help to keep an overview and create insight in the viability of your business.
#3. Determine the legal entity of your business
Sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak), a private limited company (besloten vennootschap or BV), and general partnership (vennootschap onder firma or VOF) are the most common legal structures for businesses in the Netherlands. Each structure has its pros and cons regarding both legal and fiscal matters. Do your research and find out which legal entity is best suited for your business. Keep in mind that this decision also determines whether you can be held personally liable in case things go awry.
#4. Register your business at the Dutch Business Register
Only when you have your residence permit, valid Dutch home address, and citizen service number, you can proceed with the next step: registration in the Dutch Business Register (Handelsregister). You need to make an appointment at the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (Kamer van Koophandel or KvK). We recommend bringing your business plan with you. Also, don’t forget that you need to pay a registration fee (€82,25 in 2025). After finalizing your registration, the KvK will inform the Dutch tax that you started a business. Within around 14 days, you will receive your VAT-ID and VAT registration number by mail.
#5. Find out if you need permits or licenses
Depending on your industry and the type of business, you may need permits and/or licenses. If you provide financial services, for example, you need to apply for a permit at the Dutch Authority for Financial Markets (Autoriteit Financiële Markten or AFM), and businesses in hospitality need an operating permit.
#6. Open a business account
If you’ve read our survival checklist for expats in the Netherlands, you know that opening a Dutch bank account makes your life a lot easier. When you’re starting your own business, it is recommended to also open a business account. This way, you can keep your personal and business transactions separate – which will also simplify managing your taxes.
#7. Get a tax consultant
Speaking of taxes – hire a tax consultant! This is not a requirement, but as a business owner or freelancer in the Netherlands, you must pay tax on profits from your business. A tax consultant will help you to navigate the complex Dutch fiscal system. Good tax consultants will essentially pay for themselves, because they ensure you take advantage of the deductibles that apply to your situation.
