Founder and Self-Employed Visas

Not everyone arrives with an employment contract. The startup visa, the self-employed residence permit and the DAFT treaty each open a different door for founders. These guides compare the routes, their thresholds and which one fits your plan for the Netherlands.

10 guides

• A Practical List of Facilitators for the Dutch Startup Visa in 2026The Dutch Startup Visa allows foreign entrepreneurs to launch an innovative business in the Netherlands. Sever…
• Can E-Commerce Sellers Get a Dutch Self-Employed Permit in 2026?Yes, e-commerce sellers can apply for a Dutch self-employed permit (verblijfsvergunning als zelfstandige) in 2…
• DAFT Visa for Americans in the Netherlands: 2026 Requirements and CostsThe DAFT (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty) visa allows Americans to move to the Netherlands for self-employme…
• From Startup Visa to Permanent Stay in the Netherlands — a Realistic 2026 TimelineThe Dutch startup visa (orientation year or residence permit as self-employed person) can lead to permanent re…
• How the Points System for the Dutch Self-Employed Permit Works in 2026The Dutch self-employed permit (verblijfsvergunning als zelfstandige) uses a points-based system in 2026 to as…
• How UK Founders Can Move Their Business to the Netherlands in 2026UK founders can move their business to the Netherlands in 2026 by incorporating a Dutch BV (private limited co…
• Startup Visa or Self-Employed Permit in Holland — Which Should You Pick in 2026?If you want to start a business in the Netherlands in 2026, you can choose between the Startup Visa and the Se…
• The Dutch Startup Visa Explained for First-Time Founders in 2026The Dutch Startup Visa allows non-EU founders to live in the Netherlands for one year to develop an innovative…
• What the DAFT Route Really Costs American Freelancers in the Netherlands in 2026The DAFT (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty) route for American freelancers in the Netherlands in 2026 involves…
• Who Qualifies for a Self-Employed Permit in the Netherlands in 2026?In 2026, the Dutch self-employed permit (verblijfsvergunning voor zelfstandige) is available to non-EU entrepr…