Yes, foreigners can start a business in the Netherlands! Establishing a Dutch company is not limited to Dutch residents. If you are an EU citizen, then you can automatically start a business in Netherlands. If not, you can apply for a temporary residence permit or a startup visa, if you have an innovative startup idea.
But, regardless of whether you have an existing business idea or an innovative startup, you can start a business in the Netherlands. Even students or minors can establish a Dutch company.
Here are the steps to establishing a Dutch company:
- First, you should conduct research to make sure there is demand for your product or service on the Dutch market.
- Next, to establish a Dutch company, you will need to apply for a business bank account (IBAN) and determine your financing.
- Now you will need to select a company name,AKA a trade name. you will need to register that with the Dutch Commercial Register at KVK.
- Register with the KVK, which will pass on your business information to the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration. You will need to pay taxes if you register a Dutch company. Although there may be some exceptions on registering if your business is not permanently in the Netherlands
- If you will hire anyone other than yourself, register as an employer with the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration.
- Check if you need any insurance, permits, professional qualifications, or to follow any Dutch environmental regulations.
- Develop a terms and conditions statement for your customers, including information on GDPR, or data processing requirements.
- Set up your business bank account and start using it.
- Start selling!
That’s all you need to do to establish a Dutch company, but it may feel overwhelming. To get help starting your company in the Netherlands, reach out to Intercompany Solutions for an all-in service.