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Since 2021, you can digitally establish a foundation in the Netherlands via a notary who offers online processes. The process is similar to the online incorporation of a private limited company (BV): fill out an online form, digital identification via ID and facial scan, receive and approve the draft deed, sign a digital power of attorney, and the notary executes the deed remotely. Turnaround time: one to two weeks. Costs: €350 – €800. This works perfectly fine for standard foundation incorporations.
How does it work?
- Online form: purpose, name, directors, registered office, statutory provisions.
- Digital identification: Upload proof of identity plus facial scan for AML/CFT.
- Draft deed: available 1–3 working days later.
- Agree and possible video call if there are any questions.
- digital power of attorney via qualified digital signature.
- The notary executes the deed remotely. The foundation exists legally.
- Chamber of Commerce registration and UBO notification directly by the notary.
Who does the online program work for?
An online foundation formation is suitable for:
- Dutch founders with a valid Dutch ID.
- Standard objective and board composition.
- No special statutory provisions (e.g. complex supervisory board model).
- No international aspects or non-Dutch-speaking founders.
This suffices for 80% of foundations. For the complete step-by-step plan: establish a foundation.
When is it better to be physically active?
A physical notary is a better fit for:
- International or non-Dutch-speaking founders — sometimes an interpreter is required, see foundation with a non-Dutch-speaking founder.
- Complex articles of association with multi-tiered boards, supervisory boards, or special veto rights.
- Transfer of family assets involving other notarial acts.
- Founders who prefer personal contact.
Pros and cons
Benefits online:
- Speed: 1–2 weeks instead of 3–4.
- Costs: €350 – €800 versus €600 – €1,200 at a physical notary.
- No travel movement.
- Fixed price upfront, no surprises.
Disadvantages online:
- Less scope for extensive personal consultation regarding the articles of association.
- Limited suitability for customization.
- Identification for non-EU founders is sometimes complicated.
Identification and AML/CFT
The Wwft requires identification “reasonably comparable” to physical identification. In practice:
- Upload a valid passport or ID card.
- Facial scan with liveness check.
- In unusual situations: additional video call with the notary.
- UBO determination: in the case of a foundation, often the directors themselves.
Costs
- Online foundation formation: € 350 – € 800.
- Third-party funds foundation or complex articles of association: € 600 – € 1.200.
- Additional: internal regulations (€ 250 – € 500), ANBI application guidance (€ 250 – € 500).
Honest recommendation
For the average foundation formation, an online process is the smartest choice: faster, cheaper, and no travel. Invest in a consultation with a legal expert beforehand regarding your mission statement and board composition; the online notary executes your decisions and has less room for strategic customization. For complex or international situations: a physical notary.
For a broader explanation: establishing a foundation. For timelines: how long does it take.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, since 2021 in the Netherlands this has been possible via a notary offering digital incorporation. Identification is via proof of identity and a facial scan, and the deed is executed remotely. This works fine for most standard foundations.
€350 – €800 for a standard online process. For complex articles of association or third-party funds foundations, €600 – €1,200. Additional documents (internal regulations, ANBI application) apply.
One to two weeks from completing the form to the signing of the deed. In standard cases it can be faster; with questions or additional documents, it takes slightly longer. Chamber of Commerce registration is usually immediate after signing.
Via an online tool: scan proof of identity, facial photo with liveness check (blinking, turning head). Complies with the AML/CFT Act. In unusual situations, a video call with the notary may be required.
For non-Dutch-speaking founders (interpreter required), complex articles of association with a supervisory board or special provisions, international aspects without a valid EU ID, or for founders who prefer personal contact.
Sometimes — for standard third-party funds foundations, that is possible. For more complex structures (e.g., for lawyers or notaries with specific rules of conduct), a physical setup is often more practical because extra documents and regulations must be carried along.
Yes. A digital notarial deed has the same legal force as a physical one. Banks, the tax authorities, and third parties treat foundations established online identically to those established physically.
