For those international professionals, freelancers, and business owners who want to run a proper business and lead a standard life, the Netherlands is an attractive option. It is essential to obtain business-related permits for non-EU/EEA citizens.
Let’s understand a detailed comparison of important work-related visa routes, with a primary focus on popular business options supported by INLS, including the DAFT Visa and the standard self-employed procedure (Zelfstandigen aanvraagprocedure). Applicants can assess which option best fits their objectives, deadlines, and eligibility by being aware of various options.
Important Types of Work & Business Visas
Non-EU citizens mostly fail in the following two categories when considering work opportunities in the Netherlands:
- The Permits that are Based on Employment
EU Blue Cards, Intra-Corporate Transfers, and Highly Skilled Migrant visas are appropriate for individuals employed by a Dutch company. - Freelancing
Those citizens who want to build their own business, freelance or invest in a Dutch company.
The Standard Self-Employed Route
The Permit of Self-Employed Residence
It is designed for non-EU citizens who want to run a business in the Netherlands. The Zelfstandigen aanvraagprocedure, a structured evaluation technique, is used in this process to ascertain whether the proposed firm contributes value to the Dutch economy.
The Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must have to:
- Submit a solid business plan that indicates creativity, potential and long-term financial validity.
- Demonstrate professional expertise and qualifications.
- Must be financially strong, including finances and hopes for investments.
- Must be registered by the RVO (Netherlands Enterprise Agency) points-based assessment.
- If needed, apply for an MVV.
Unlike other visas, this process is for all citizens.
Legal charges and the time of Processing
- The time of Processing: Depending on RVO review, typically 2–6 months.
- Charges: Around 350 euros
- Validity of the Permit: If the business is active, then it usually gives 2 years of validity.
The Pros
- It offers wide access as it is open to non-EU citizens.
- It gives an opportunity to run a business or self employment.
- If the business is strong enough, then the visa allows for continuous residency.
- Allows reunion of families.
The Drawbacks
- It’s more demanding and strict than other visa options.
- It may be difficult for less business-experienced individuals due to the rigorous points-based assessment.
- The processing time is much longer.
- Proper and in-depth paperwork is needed.
The DAFT Visa (Treaty-Based Entrepreneur Visa)
For US citizens who want to build a business in the Netherlands, the DAFt is a good option. Allowing business to be smooth for the eligible candidates in the Netherlands, it is based on the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty.
Requirements of Investments and Criteria
The candidates must:
- Be a resident of an eligible treaty nation such as the US.
- In the Dutch business, make a small investment.
- Register a BV, partnership, or individual in the Netherlands.
The recently launched 2024 IND pilot, which enables candidates to obtain clearance before submitting items like:
- Get registered with the Chamber of Commerce
- Proof of the Business bank account
- Financial records and balance sheet
After approval within the six months, this paperwork must be done, providing business owners with time to settle.
Legal Fees and the Time of Process
- Time for the Process: Usually, the time for the process is 1-2 months
- Charges: About 380 euros
- Duration of the Permit: 2 years, renewable
The Pros
- As compared to standard self-employment paths, it is easier.
- RVO points-based assessments are not required.
- Particularly for the pilot, reduced paperwork.
- Easier administration and quicker decisions.
- It permits the family members to go with them.
The Drawbacks
- Even the eligible nationalities are not applicable.
- Creating a financial risk requires one-time investments.
- Within the six months must complete registration of the business; otherwise risks losing the permit.
- General employment is not covered by residency visas, but only covers self-employment.
Comparing the Two Choices
There are many similarities between the DAFT visa and other standard self-employed paths, but both offer a residency of two years, encourage business and allow family members to join. But significantly, they differ in criteria, process and depth.
A detailed points-based RVO assessment, extensive documentation, and a comprehensive business plan are all required for the normal self-employment path, which can take up to six months to complete. It is very difficult to get but accessible to all nationalities.
The DAFT approach, on the other hand, rejects the points-based scoring system, is more efficient, and is frequently approved in one to two months. It does, however, have a minimum investment requirement and is only available to treaty nationals. Because of the nationality DAFT is limited, on the other hand, the standard path is more rigorous but universally available.
Conditions After Approval
1. Registering Your Business
Every business must be registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK). Within the duration of six months, DAFT applicants can complete this after approval.
2. Regulations of Tax
It’s important to maintain the following criteria for all self-employed permit holders:
- Paying yearly tax
- The VAT administration (if applicable)
- Suitable bookkeeping
It is recommended to have professional accounting.
3. Job Limitations
Unless stated otherwise, self-employed permits strictly allow business activity. Those wishing to engage in employment must secure additional work authorization.
4. Permanent Residency and Renewals
If the business is well-operated the both paths allow renewal. Continuous residency criteria are also influenced by successful long-term operation.
5. Reunion of the Families
If the financial requirements and accommodation are met the both visas allow children and partners to join.
Selecting the Correct Option
The DAFT visa is usually the easiest, quickest and cost-effective path to build a business in the Netherlands for U.S. citizens (or other treaty nationals). Despite its more strict standards, the conventional self-employed approach should be considered by those who do not qualify for DAFT or who have very detailed, creative, or long-term company ideas. The ideal choice is usually affected by personal factors such as nationality, quickness, business preparation and investment capacity.
Conclusion
The Netherlands provides a great opportunity for business owners to build a strong future and business, whether applying through the DAFT Visa or the Zelfstandigen aanvraagprocedure.
Both visas have their own benefits, but with the right planning and proper support from immigration agencies, such as INLS support, international business owners can effectively obtain residency, set up operations, and support the booming Dutch economy.
