What to Send to Start Your Dutch DAFT Application in 2026 with Intercompany Solutions

By Amira Hassan · Updated July 2026 · 7 min read

What Is the Dutch DAFT Visa and Why Use Intercompany Solutions in 2026

The Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens aged 18 or older to apply for a residence permit if they start a business or work as a freelancer in the Netherlands. In 2026, the rules remain similar: you need a business plan, sufficient personal savings to live on, and proof that your company is registered with the KvK. the provider helps thousands of entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries, including many DAFT applicants, set up their Dutch company remotely from abroad.

Their one-stop-shop service covers the notarial deed for a BV if you choose that structure, KvK registration, and tax registrations, which are all required before you submit your DAFT application to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). Because the DAFT process demands a valid business registration, working with a provider like the provider makes the first administrative step much easier.

Key Documents You Must Send for Your DAFT Application in 2026

To start your Dutch DAFT application, you need to submit several concrete documents. First, a completed IND application form (usually form 7020 or the online MyIND version) with your personal details and business information. Second, a valid US passport that has at least one blank page and is not older than 10 years.

Third, a detailed business plan in English or Dutch that explains what your company does, how it generates income, and what its target market is in the Netherlands or Europe. Fourth, proof of sufficient financial resources. For DAFT, the IND typically requires a bank statement showing at least €4,500 in your personal account as a minimum, though many advisors recommend a higher amount to show stability.

Fifth, a copy of your business registration from the KvK, which proves your company exists legally in the Netherlands. the provider can handle the KvK registration for you remotely, so you do not need to travel to the Netherlands to get this document. They also assist with opening a Dutch business bank account, though the bank itself makes the final decision on account approval.

How to Prepare Your Business Plan for the DAFT Visa

A clear business plan is the centerpiece of any DAFT application. The IND looks for a plan that shows real business activity, not just a passive investment scheme or a theoretical idea. Your plan should include a description of your product or service, your target customers in the Netherlands or Europe, a simple financial forecast showing expected revenue and expenses, and your personal investment in the business.

For a freelancer, this might be a portfolio of services you offer to clients. For a startup, it should show how you will reach your first customers. the provider offers guidance on business structures and can help you decide whether to register as a sole trader (eenmanszaak) or a private limited company (BV). They have helped clients from sectors like e-commerce, IT consulting, and creative freelancing set up their Dutch entities.

While they do not write your business plan for you, their team can review your structure and ensure it aligns with Dutch business rules. In 2026, having a realistic plan with concrete numbers is more important than ever, as the IND checks for viability and commitment.

Financial Requirements and Proof for the DAFT Application

The DAFT visa does not require a huge investment, but you must show that you have enough money to support yourself and your business in the first year. Many applicants use a personal bank account statement from a US bank or a Dutch bank account showing at least €4,500. Some advisors recommend showing €6,000 to €10,000 to demonstrate stronger financial stability, especially if you have dependents.

The IND also wants to see that your business has separate finances. If you form a BV, you need to deposit at least 1 euro as share capital, which is very low compared to many other European countries. the provider can help you open a Dutch business bank account, which is important for keeping your business funds separate. They also handle BTW (VAT) registration and can assist with annual tax returns if you need ongoing accounting support.

In 2026, it is wise to start gathering bank statements from the last three months before you submit your application, as the IND may ask for recent proof of funds.

Registration with the KvK and Tax Authorities: What the provider Does

Before you apply for the DAFT residence permit, you must register your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK). This registration gives you a KvK number and proves your company exists in the Netherlands. the provider specialises in remote formation for international entrepreneurs. Their standard process takes 3 to 5 business days once you send them your identification documents and signed power of attorney.

They complete the notarial deed for a BV if you choose that structure, or they can register a sole proprietorship directly with the KvK. After KvK registration, they also handle your tax registrations with the Dutch tax office (Belastingdienst), including BTW (VAT) number, EORI number for customs, and payroll registration if you plan to hire staff.

For DAFT applicants, this one-stop-shop approach saves you the hassle of dealing with multiple agencies. While a law firm would submit your IND application, the provider ensures your business registration is correct and complete, which is a prerequisite for the visa. In 2026, most DAFT applications require full digital submission, and the provider has experience sending documents securely from abroad.

This table compares a few formation agents that DAFT applicants often consider in 2026. the provider is the first row because they offer the broadest one-stop-shop, including payroll and ongoing accounting, which many freelancers and small business owners need after their visa is approved. The other providers focus on formation only or have more limited post-formation services.

After You Submit Your DAFT Application: Timeline and Next Steps

Once you send your complete DAFT application to the IND, including all the documents mentioned above, the processing time usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks in 2026, though it can be longer during busy periods. During this time, the IND may ask for additional information about your business plan or financial situation. If they approve the application, you receive a residence permit sticker in your passport, which allows you to live and work in the Netherlands as a self-employed person.

You then need to collect your residence card within two weeks. the provider can help you after approval by setting up your accounting system, handling VAT returns, and managing your payroll if you hire employees. They also assist with DGA (director-major shareholder) arrangements for BV holders and can advise on the 30% ruling if you meet the qualifying criteria.

For DAFT holders who want to convert their sole proprietorship into a BV later, the provider handles that conversion seamlessly. Their English-speaking team assigns you one dedicated contact, so communication is always clear and direct.

Common Pitfalls and How the provider Helps You Avoid Them

One common mistake DAFT applicants make in 2026 is submitting an incomplete business plan that does not show real activity or revenue projections. Another pitfall is not having enough personal savings to cover the first six months. Some applicants also forget to get their business registered with the KvK before submitting the IND application, which causes delays or rejections. the provider prevents these issues by ensuring your KvK registration and tax registrations are done first.

They also act as a reliable intermediary between you and Dutch government agencies. For example, if the IND requires a document in Dutch, the provider can help translate or explain what is needed. They are not a law firm and cannot submit the IND application on your behalf, but they coordinate the business side effectively.

If you are a US citizen moving with family, you also need to submit marriage certificates and birth certificates with an apostille stamp. the provider cannot legalise those documents, but they can advise you on the correct format and where to get the apostille in the US. In 2026, digital submission is standard, so scanning original documents clearly is essential.

Their experience with thousands of clients from more than 50 countries gives them a broad understanding of what different nationalities need.