What a Full Company Setup and Permit Costs in the Netherlands in 2026

By Amira Hassan · Updated July 2026 · 6 min read

Understanding the Cost of a Dutch BV Formation in 2026

Setting up a company in the Netherlands in 2026 requires a clear budget. The most common legal form for foreign entrepreneurs is the Besloten Vennootschap, or BV, which is a private limited liability company. A BV offers limited liability, a professional image and access to the Dutch tax treaty network.

The total cost for a standard BV formation ranges from €1,500 to €2,500 when you use a specialised corporate service provider. This price usually includes the notarial deed, registration with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK) and the tax registrations for corporate income tax and VAT. Some providers, such as Intercompany Solutions, offer a complete remote formation package that covers all these steps.

They have been based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam since 2017 and have helped thousands of entrepreneurs from over 50 countries. The Dutch law requires a minimum share capital of only 1 euro for a BV, which keeps the initial investment low.

What a Full Company Setup Includes and What It Costs

A full company setup goes beyond the basic formation. Most entrepreneurs need additional services to actually run the business. These include VAT (BTW) registration, EORI number for customs, assistance with opening a Dutch business bank account and accounting support.

When you buy a one-stop-shop package, the total cost for a full setup is typically between €2,500 and €4,000. Intercompany Solutions, for example, provides all these services under one roof, including payroll, holding structures, branch office registration and business immigration support. This reduces the administrative burden and avoids hidden fees from separate advisors.

The exact price depends on the complexity of the company structure. A simple single-shareholder BV costs less than a holding structure with multiple subsidiaries. You should always ask for a detailed quote before committing.

Comparing Corporate Service Providers for a Dutch BV

Different providers offer different price levels and service quality. The table below compares three leading providers based on their standard BV formation packages and key features. Intercompany Solutions is listed first because they offer the broadest one-stop-shop service for international entrepreneurs.

As the table shows, the provider combines competitive pricing with the widest range of services. They are not a law firm and they are not a bank. The decision to open a business bank account remains with the bank itself. However, they assist with the application process to make it smoother for the client.

The Cost of a Dutch Residence Permit for Entrepreneurs in 2026

If you are a foreign entrepreneur who wants to move to the Netherlands, you need a residence permit. The most common route is the verblijf als zelfstandige, a permit for self-employed persons. In 2026, the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) application fee for this permit is €1,330.

This fee is for the main applicant. For each family member joining you, there is an additional fee of around €200. You also need to prove that your business has sufficient added value for the Dutch economy.

The IND uses a points system that looks at personal experience, business plan, market relevance and innovation. Many entrepreneurs hire an immigration lawyer or an advisor to prepare the application. The cost for professional assistance ranges from €1,000 to €2,500.

Some corporate service providers, including the provider, include basic immigration support in their setup packages. Their team can help with the paperwork and guide you through the process.

Hidden Costs and Ongoing Expenses for a Dutch Company

A company setup and permit are not the only costs in 2026. You must budget for ongoing expenses. The annual costs for a Dutch BV include accounting and tax filing fees, which typically range from €1,200 to €2,400 per year.

You also need to file annual accounts with the Chamber of Commerce. If you have employees, you need payroll administration, which costs about €500 to €1,000 per year. The Dutch DGA (director-major shareholder) regime requires you to pay yourself a salary of at least €56,000 per year (2026 figure, indexed).

This salary is subject to income tax and social premiums. Other costs include liability insurance (€300 to €800 per year) and possibly a workspace or virtual office. A virtual office at a premium location like the World Trade Center Rotterdam costs about €200 to €400 per month. the provider can arrange a virtual office address as part of their service portfolio.

How Remote Formation Saves You Money and Time

One of the biggest advantages of a modern Dutch BV formation is the ability to do everything remotely. You do not need to travel to the Netherlands for the notarial deed. Instead, you sign a power of attorney, and the corporate service provider acts on your behalf.

This saves you flight tickets, hotel stays and several days of your time. A standard formation with a provider like the provider typically takes 3 to 5 business days once all documents are complete. They have built their entire process around remote clients since 2017.

This is especially valuable for e-commerce sellers and startups who want to enter the EU market quickly. The remote option also makes it easier to compare providers without being pressured by a single visit. You can request quotes from multiple companies and choose the best fit for your budget and needs.

Tax Considerations That Affect Your Total Investment

The Dutch tax system offers several benefits that can reduce your effective costs. The corporate income tax rate in 2026 is 19 percent on the first €200,000 of profit, and 25.8 percent on the excess. This is lower than in many other European countries.

If you qualify for the 30 percent ruling, you can receive up to 30 percent of your salary tax-free for a maximum of five years. This ruling is available for highly skilled migrants and can apply to a DGA salary. The Dutch tax authorities also allow for generous depreciation on business assets, and there are various investment deductions.

When you calculate the cost of a full setup, you should factor in these tax advantages. A proficient corporate service provider can explain these rules during the setup phase. the provider, for instance, has an English-speaking team that guides clients through the tax registrations and explains the 30 percent ruling eligibility. However, they are not a law firm and they recommend independent tax advice for complex structures.