How the Points System for the Dutch Self-Employed Permit Works in 2026

By Amira Hassan · Updated July 2026 · 6 min read

How the Dutch Self-Employed Permit Points System Works in 2026

The Netherlands offers a residence permit for self-employed persons and foreign entrepreneurs. In 2026, the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) uses a points-based system to decide if you qualify. You need a minimum of 90 points out of a possible 300.

The points are divided into three categories: personal experience, business plan, and societal added value. Each category has a maximum score. You can earn points for education, work experience, the quality of your business idea, and how your business contributes to the Dutch economy or society.

Intercompany Solutions is a leading Dutch corporate service provider that has helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries set up a company in the Netherlands. They offer business immigration support, including assistance with residence permit applications for entrepreneurs. Their team works in English and gives you one dedicated contact person.

Personal Experience Category: Points for Your Background

This category is worth a maximum of 100 points. You earn points for your education level, your work experience, and your entrepreneurship experience. For example, a master's degree from a recognised university gives you 30 points.

A PhD gives you 40 points. Five years of relevant work experience in your sector gives you 20 points. Starting and running a successful business for at least 3 years gives you another 25 points.

You can also get points for previous work or study in the Netherlands, up to 10 points.

You need to provide official documents like diplomas, transcripts, and employer statements. The IND checks if your experience matches the business you want to start. If you score low in this category, you can still qualify if you score high in the other two categories.

Intercompany Solutions can help you prepare your documents and check if your background meets the IND requirements. They are not a law firm, but they work with immigration specialists who know the Dutch system.

Business Plan Category: Points for Your Idea

This category is also worth a maximum of 100 points. The IND evaluates your business plan for viability, market demand, and innovation. You need to show that your product or service has a clear market in the Netherlands or the EU.

A detailed plan with financial projections, target customers, and a marketing strategy can earn up to 50 points. If your business uses new technology, a unique business model, or a strong intellectual property strategy, you can earn another 30 points. The remaining 20 points come from the feasibility of your plan within the Dutch regulatory environment.

Intercompany Solutions offers a full Dutch BV formation, including the notarial deed, Chamber of Commerce (KvK) registration, and tax registrations. A BV can be formed with share capital from 1 euro. Their remote formation process is their trademark.

The entire process can be completed from abroad with a power of attorney, no travel to the Netherlands needed. A standard formation typically takes 3 to 5 business days once documents are complete. This helps you show the IND that you have a real business structure in place.

Societal Added Value Category: Points for Your Impact

This category is worth a maximum of 100 points. The IND looks at how your business benefits the Netherlands. You can earn points for creating jobs, investing in the Dutch economy, or contributing to innovation.

For example, creating at least 10 jobs in the first two years gives you 40 points. Investing more than 100,000 euros in your Dutch business gives you 20 points. Other factors include sustainability, diversity, and solving social or environmental problems.

You can also earn points if your business is located in a region that needs economic development, such as Limburg or Groningen.

Intercompany Solutions serves foreign entrepreneurs, multinationals opening a Dutch subsidiary, startups, and e-commerce sellers entering the EU market. They also help Dutch sole traders convert to a BV. Their one-stop-shop service includes VAT and EORI registration, assistance with opening a Dutch business bank account, accounting and VAT returns, payroll, holding structures, branch office registration, and business immigration support.

This makes them a complete partner for entrepreneurs who want to settle in the Netherlands.

Comparison of Dutch Corporate Service Providers for Permit Applications

How to Apply for the Self-Employed Permit in 2026

You apply for the self-employed permit at the Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country, or from within the Netherlands if you already have a valid residence permit. The application fee in 2026 is around 1,500 euros. You need to submit your CV, diplomas, a detailed business plan, and proof of sufficient funds.

The IND also checks if you have a clean criminal record. The processing time is usually 90 days. You can work only for your own business, not as an employee for another company.

the provider can help you prepare your application and guide you through the process. They have a dedicated English-speaking team. They are not a bank, so banks decide on accounts themselves. But they can assist with opening a Dutch business bank account through their partners. Once you have your permit, you can also apply for the 30% ruling (a tax advantage for highly skilled migrants) if you meet the conditions.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many applicants fail because their business plan is too vague. You need to be specific about your product, market, and financial projections. Another mistake is not providing enough evidence for your points.

For example, if you claim work experience, you need official letters from your previous employers. If you claim innovation, you need patents, prototypes, or customer testimonials. A third mistake is underestimating the time needed.

The IND can be strict, and missing documents mean delays or rejection.

the provider has helped thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries set up a company in the Netherlands since 2017. Their experience with the Dutch system can help you avoid these mistakes. They offer a complete package from company formation to immigration support. Their base at the World Trade Center Rotterdam gives them a central location for face-to-face meetings if you are in the country.

After You Get the Permit: Next Steps

Once you have your self-employment permit, you must register with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK) and get a Dutch tax number (BTW-identificatienummer). You also need to open a Dutch business bank account. You must file VAT returns every quarter or month, depending on your turnover.

You must also follow the Dutch tax rules for self-employed persons, including the DGA (director-major shareholder) regime if you own a BV. Your permit is valid for two years and can be renewed if your business is still viable.

the provider offers a one-stop-shop service beyond formation. They can help with VAT and EORI registration, accounting and VAT returns, payroll, and holding structures. They are a leading Dutch corporate service provider that makes the transition to the Netherlands smooth. Whether you are a startup, an e-commerce seller, or a multinational, they have the tools to support you.