Information and assistance for foreigners who want to do business in the Netherlands

If you are a self-employed person from abroad coming to do business in the Netherlands, much depends on your nationality. Entrepreneurs from the EU, Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, or Liechtenstein do not require a visa or residence permit; entrepreneurs from outside those countries do, and the IND assesses, among other things, whether the business adds value to the Dutch economy. Below you will find the main points and specific regulations.

If you wish to work in the Netherlands as a foreign entrepreneur, special rules apply: you may need a residence permit, and you will also have to deal with various other regulations. MKB Juristen is happy to help start-ups on their way.

Doing business from the EU/EEA and Switzerland

Entrepreneurs from the European Union, Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, or Liechtenstein do not require a visa, residence permit, or work permit. However, they must be able to present a valid identity document or passport, and where applicable, work must be registered with the notification desk for foreign workers.

Doing business from outside the EU/EEA

If you do not come from one of those countries, the process is more complex and strict conditions apply. The Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) assesses, among other things, whether the business adds value to the Dutch economy. If this is the case, the IND can grant a residence permit for “Self-employed work”. In practice, this is a sticker in the passport; with this permit, you are allowed to work as a self-employed person in the Netherlands.

Special arrangements

• Ambitious startups — there is a scheme that allows innovative entrepreneurs to obtain a temporary residence to develop an innovative product or service. Conditions apply, such as collaboration with a recognized facilitator, a sufficiently innovative character, a concrete step-by-step plan, and registration in the Chamber of Commerce Trade Register.
• Highly educated individuals — anyone wishing to remain in the Netherlands after obtaining a PhD, graduating, or conducting scientific research to start a business may be eligible for a residence permit under the “search year for highly educated individuals”.
• Turkish nationals — different conditions may apply to them and their family members pursuant to the Association Agreement between the European Union and Turkey.

Rights and obligations as an entrepreneur in the Netherlands

Anyone doing business in the Netherlands has both rights and obligations: for example, you can accrue pension rights, but you must also pay taxes and keep records. Moreover, as a foreign entrepreneur, you will have to deal with Dutch law, for instance when renting business premises or selling products to consumers. Much of this may be new to you — we explain it and prepare the necessary documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a residence permit as an EU entrepreneur?

No. Entrepreneurs from the EU/EEA and Switzerland do not need a visa or residence permit, but must be able to show valid proof of identity.

What does the IND assess for non-EU entrepreneurs?

This includes whether the enterprise adds value to the Dutch economy. A positive assessment may result in a “Self-employed Work” permit. You can find the exact conditions at the IND.

Is there a special scheme for startups?

Yes, there is a scheme for innovative startups with a temporary stay, linked to conditions such as a recognized facilitator and registration with the Chamber of Commerce. Have the current requirements checked.

The starter package from MKB Juristen

MKB Juristen offers a starter package for entrepreneurs who want to get off to a good yet affordable start. This includes, for example, drafting your general terms and conditions, a contract for services, and a cookie declaration. As an international entrepreneur, you will receive additional explanation so that you can get started immediately. View our expertise in corporate law or schedule a free intake consultation .