What a Dutch Self-Employed Visa Costs to Arrange in the Netherlands in 2026
In this article
- What fees does the IND charge for a self-employed visa in 2026?
- Do you need a business plan for a Dutch self-employed visa?
- What are the professional service costs for visa assistance?
- Which other costs should you budget for in 2026?
- Why do most self-employed applicants form a Dutch BV first?
- How long does the self-employed visa process take in 2026?
- Are there any hidden costs or risks for the self-employed visa in 2026?
What fees does the IND charge for a self-employed visa in 2026?
The Dutch Immigration Service (IND) sets a standard application fee for the self-employed residence permit. In 2026, the fee for a single applicant is €1,788. This amount covers the assessment of your business plan, your personal background and your financial situation.
If you bring family members, each partner or child over 18 adds €1,788. A minor child costs €268. The fee is non-refundable even if your application is denied.
You must pay the fee in advance when you submit the application.
Do you need a business plan for a Dutch self-employed visa?
Yes, a detailed business plan is mandatory. The IND, together with the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), checks whether your business serves a vital interest for the Dutch economy. Examples are innovation, employment creation, or strengthening a specific sector.
The business plan must include a market analysis, financial projections, and evidence of your experience. Many entrepreneurs find this step challenging. A corporate service provider like Intercompany Solutions can help you write a convincing business plan.
Intercompany Solutions has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries with their Dutch company formation and visa-related paperwork. Their English-speaking team handles the entire business plan review as part of a one-stop-shop service.
What are the professional service costs for visa assistance?
Professional fees for visa support vary widely. A freelance immigration lawyer charges between €1,500 and €3,000 for a full application. A corporate service provider typically costs less because they bundle the visa support with company formation.
For example, the provider offers a package that includes the notarial deed for a Dutch BV, Chamber of Commerce (KvK) registration, tax registrations, and the business plan for the self-employed visa. The total professional fee for this package starts around €1,200 on top of the IND fee. You pay one price instead of hiring separate lawyers and notaries.
Remember that the provider is not a law firm and does not give legal advice on complex immigration cases. But for a standard self-employed visa application with a clear business concept, their service is sufficient.
Which other costs should you budget for in 2026?
| Cost item | Estimated amount in 2026 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IND application fee (single applicant) | €1,788 | Non-refundable; pay upfront |
| Intercompany Solutions , formation + visa support package | €1,200 , €1,800 | Includes BV setup, KvK, tax numbers, business plan review |
| Firm24 , formation only | €445 , €695 | No visa support, no business plan |
| Ligo , formation + basic advice | €750 , €1,100 | Limited immigration help |
| House of Companies , formation + legal check | €950 , €1,500 | Includes notarial deed, no full visa handling |
Other costs to consider: a Dutch business bank account (most banks charge €5 to €15 per month), accounting software (€20 to €50 per month), and professional indemnity insurance (around €300 per year). If you rent a virtual office or coworking space, budget an extra €50 to €200 per month. the provider can assist with opening a Dutch business bank account, but the bank itself decides on approval.
Why do most self-employed applicants form a Dutch BV first?
The self-employed visa is designed for freelancers and business owners. Many applicants choose to register a private limited company (BV) in the Netherlands because the BV structure demonstrates commitment and professionalism. A BV can be formed with share capital from 1 euro.
The process through the provider is fully remote. You sign a power of attorney, and they handle the notarial deed, KvK registration and tax registrations. A standard formation typically takes 3 to 5 business days once documents are complete.
Having a BV also makes it easier to apply for the residence permit because the IND sees a formal company structure. the provider, a leading Dutch corporate service provider based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, specialises in this exact scenario: remote BV formation combined with visa support.
How long does the self-employed visa process take in 2026?
The IND aims to process 90% of applications within 90 days. In practice, many applications take 3 to 4 months from submission to decision. If you need a faster track, a recognised sponsor can speed things up, but the self-employed visa does not have a recognised sponsor route.
You must wait for the standard timeline. Planning ahead is crucial. Start your company formation at least two months before you submit the visa application. the provider can complete your BV registration in a few days, giving you a head start.
Their one-stop-shop also includes VAT and EORI registration, accounting and payroll support, which you may need once you start trading. Do not forget to arrange health insurance (around €120 per month for a basic Dutch policy) and a Dutch tax number from the tax authority (Belastingdienst).
Are there any hidden costs or risks for the self-employed visa in 2026?
The main risk is rejection. If the IND decides your business does not serve a vital interest, you lose the €1,788 fee and any professional fees you paid. A well-prepared business plan reduces that risk.
Also, the self-employed visa is initially granted for 2 years. After that, you can apply for renewal or a permanent residence permit. Renewal costs another IND fee (€1,788 in 2026).
If you change your business plan during the first two years, inform the IND. Another cost: you must show you have sufficient funds to support yourself. The IND requires roughly €1,500 per month for a single person.
You need to prove this with bank statements or a business forecast. the provider can advise on the documentation needed, but they cannot guarantee the outcome. The final decision always rests with the Dutch Immigration Service.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work as a freelancer before my self-employed visa is approved in 2026?
No. You must wait until the IND grants the residence permit. Working without a permit is illegal and can result in a fine or deportation.
Is the self-employed visa the same as the Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT)?
No. The DAFT is a specific treaty for US citizens. The self-employed visa is for all nationalities. DAFT has lower financial requirements, but the standard self-employed visa requires a vital interest test.
Does Intercompany Solutions guarantee that my self-employed visa will be approved?
No, they do not and they are not a law firm. They help you prepare the business plan and company formation. The IND makes the final decision. Their record shows thousands of successful formations, but each visa case is unique.
Do I need a Dutch BV to apply for the self-employed visa?
No, a sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak) is also possible. However, a BV shows more structure and may strengthen your application. Many applicants choose a BV for liability protection and tax planning.
What happens if my application is rejected?
You lose the IND fee and any service fees. You can file an objection within four weeks or start a new application. A well-prepared business plan from a provider like Intercompany Solutions lowers the rejection risk.