Coming to the Netherlands as an entrepreneur
If you want to move to the Netherlands as an entrepreneur or self-employed person, there are several steps you should take. Depending on your nationality and how long you stay, you may need a visa or residence permit. Find out which steps apply to your situation.Please make a selection so we can match the information with your specific situation
What you need to enter the Netherlands
You do need a Provisional residence permit (mvv)
A provisional residence permit (machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf, mvv) is a sticker that the Dutch representation places in your passport. You need the mvv to travel to the Netherlands for a stay longer than 90 days. In order to get an mvv, you need to meet the requirements for a residence permit.
If you apply for a residence permit, it is really for two permits at the same time: a provisional residence permit (mvv) and a residence permit. You submit the application to the Dutch representation in your country of origin or country of continuous residence. The Dutch representation forwards your application to the IND.
What you need to stay in the Netherlands
You do need a Residence permit
A residence permit is a document you need if you wish to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days. There are several conditions for a residence permit, depending on your situation. You apply to the Dutch representation in the country of your nationality or country of continuous residence. The Dutch representation forwards your application to the IND. Or you may apply for a residence permit directly with the IND. To do so, you must be in the Netherlands. Note: Are you planning to launch an innovative startup in the Netherlands? In that case, you may want to apply for a special residence permit: the residence permit for foreign startups.
Conditions
More information
Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)
What you need to work in the Netherlands
You do not need a separate Work permit (twv)
When you are in possession of a residence permit as a self-employed professional or entrepreneur, you are allowed to work in the Netherlands, either on assignment as a freelancer, or in your own business. You will not need a separate work permit. Your residence permit will be stamped with the addition: this person is allowed to work in the Netherlands.
More information
Employee Insurance Agency (UWV)
You may need to register at the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK)
If you do not have a business already and you want to start your own company in the Netherlands, you must register with the Dutch Business Register (Handelsregister). To register, you must have a valid residence document plus a Dutch address. There is a registration fee. If you are a foreign legal entity that does not have a permanent establishment in the Netherlands, you do not have to register with the Business Register. However, if your business involves VAT, you will have to register with the Netherlands Tax Administration.
The Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK) uses three criteria to assess if you qualify as an entrepreneur. If you want to know for certain if you need to register, contact KVK.
Conditions
More information
Chamber of Commerce (KVK)
What else do you need
You need a citizen service number (BSN)
If you want to live and work in the Netherlands and have dealings with the Dutch government, you need a citizen service number (BSN). If you plan on staying in the Netherlands for over 4 months, you become a resident and must register at your municipality. To register with the municipality you need a legalised and translated birth certificate.
The citizen service number (BSN) is a unique personal number. The government uses it to process your personal data. You can use your BSN for any government service in the Netherlands. Your BSN also allows you to identify yourself if you need care. Recognised care providers like general practice doctors and health insurance companies have to use the BSN.
More information
Non-business information
When you move to the Netherlands, you will also need to arrange non-business matters, for instance medical care and education. To find out quickly what to do and how, Government.nl has devised a checklist.