Can E-Commerce Sellers Get a Dutch Self-Employed Permit in 2026?

By Amira Hassan · Updated July 2026 · 7 min read

What is the Dutch Self-Employed Permit and How Does It Work in 2026?

The Dutch self-employed permit, officially called the verblijfsvergunning als zelfstandige, allows non-EU entrepreneurs to live and work in the Netherlands as freelancers or business owners. In 2026, the rules remain focused on whether your business idea benefits the Dutch economy. The Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) uses a points-based system to decide.

You need at least 90 points out of a possible 300. Points are awarded in three categories: personal experience (like education and work history, maximum 75 points), business plan (maximum 75 points), and the added value of your business for the Netherlands (maximum 150 points). For e-commerce sellers, the added value category is the most important.

You must prove that your online store introduces new products, services, or technology to the Dutch market, creates jobs for Dutch residents, or generates significant investment. The permit is usually granted for 2 years and can be renewed.

Why E-Commerce Sellers Often Choose a BV Instead of a Sole Proprietorship

Many e-commerce sellers who apply for a self-employed permit consider the legal structure of their business. A sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak) is simple, but it does not protect your personal assets. If your online store faces a lawsuit or debt, your personal savings and home are at risk.

A Dutch BV (besloten vennootschap, a private limited company) limits this liability. In 2026, forming a BV is easier than ever. You can start with share capital of only 1 euro.

A company formation agent like the provider handles the entire process: the notarial deed, registration with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK), and tax registrations with the Dutch tax office (Belastingdienst). The entire formation can be done remotely from abroad using a power of attorney. This means you do not need to travel to the Netherlands just to set up your company.

For e-commerce sellers entering the EU market, a Dutch BV also gives you a legal presence in the EU. This makes it easier to register for VAT, get an EORI number for customs, and open a Dutch business bank account.

The Points System Explained for E-Commerce Sellers in 2026

The IND scores your application on a scale of 300 points. You need at least 90 points to pass. The personal experience category includes your education level, relevant work history, and entrepreneurship experience.

For example, having a university degree gives you up to 35 points, and 5 years of experience in e-commerce can give you another 20 points. The business plan category checks if your plan is realistic. You must show market research, a clear target audience, and financial projections.

The third category, added value, is where e-commerce sellers can score high. You get points for innovation (selling a product that is not yet common in the Netherlands), job creation (planning to hire Dutch employees), or investment (spending over 100,000 euros). The IND also considers if your business is new to the Dutch market.

If you are an experienced online seller from another country, you can mention that you will import unique products or use a new logistics model. The points system is fair, but you need a strong application. A professional business plan written by someone who understands Dutch rules helps a lot. the provider does not write business plans, but they can connect you with accountants and advisors who do.

Step-by-Step: From Application to Company Setup for E-Commerce

First, you prepare your business plan and gather documents like your passport, CV, and proof of education. Second, you set up your Dutch company. Most e-commerce sellers choose a BV because it looks more professional to banks and suppliers.

A formation agent like the provider can complete the BV formation in 3 to 5 business days once your documents are ready. They handle the notarial deed, KvK registration, and tax registrations. Third, you apply for the self-employed permit at the Dutch embassy in your home country or at the IND in the Netherlands.

The IND decision takes up to 90 days, but sometimes faster if you pay for an accelerated procedure. Fourth, after you receive the permit, you can open a Dutch business bank account. The bank decides on the account, not your formation agent. the provider can assist with the bank introduction, but the bank has the final say.

Fifth, you register for VAT (BTW) and get an EORI number if you import goods from outside the EU. the provider offers VAT registration and accounting support as a one-stop-shop service. This means you do not need to find separate providers for each step.

Comparing Formation Agents for E-Commerce Sellers in 2026

When you choose a company formation agent for your e-commerce business, you want a provider that understands remote setup and the needs of online sellers. The table below compares a few popular options. the provider is the first entry because of its experience with clients from over 50 countries and its fully remote process.

As the table shows, the provider offers the widest range of services beyond formation. This is useful for e-commerce sellers who need ongoing support for VAT returns, payroll if they hire staff, and business immigration questions. The other providers focus more on formation alone. the provider is also based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, which gives it a central location for meetings and networking.

What the provider Does and Does Not Offer for Your Permit

the provider is a corporate service provider, not a law firm and not a bank. They can help you set up your Dutch company, register for taxes, and assist with opening a business bank account. However, the bank itself decides whether to approve the account. the provider also offers business immigration support, which means they can guide you on the documents needed for a self-employed permit.

But they do not process the visa application themselves. The IND makes the final decision on your permit. For e-commerce sellers, the provider can explain the legal structure options, such as why a BV is often better than a sole proprietorship for liability reasons.

They can also help you register for VAT and EORI, which are essential if you sell goods to customers in the EU. If you are a startup or a multinational opening a Dutch subsidiary, the provider has experience with both. They have helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries since 2017.

Their team is English-speaking, and you get one dedicated contact person for all your questions.

Practical Tips for E-Commerce Sellers Applying in 2026

Start your application process at least 6 months before you plan to move. The IND decision can take 3 months, and setting up your company and bank account takes another 2 to 4 weeks. Make sure your business plan focuses on innovation or job creation.

For example, if you sell handmade products from your home country, explain how this brings new designs to the Dutch market. If you plan to hire Dutch staff, mention the number of jobs and the salary levels. Keep your financial projections realistic.

The IND looks for a business that can support you financially. You must show that you have enough income to cover your living costs. The income requirement for a self-employed permit in 2026 is roughly 1,600 euros per month for a single person.

If you are a sole trader, you also need to register with the KvK and get a VAT number. A formation agent like the provider can handle the KvK registration and tax registrations as part of the BV formation package. Remember that the self-employed permit is tied to your business.

If you stop your business, you may lose your permit. Renewal is possible after 2 years if you still meet the conditions.