Can a Brand New Dutch BV Become a Recognised Sponsor in 2026?

By Amira Hassan · Updated July 2026 · 6 min read

What is a Recognised Sponsor and Why Does a Dutch BV Need It?

A recognised sponsor (erkend referent) is a status given by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) to companies that want to sponsor employees from outside the European Union (EU) for a Dutch work visa or residence permit. Without this status, you must apply for a separate work permit for each foreign employee, which takes longer and costs more.

As a Dutch BV, becoming a recognised sponsor makes it easier to hire international talent, keep them working legally, and manage visa renewals.

Intercompany Solutions, a Dutch corporate service provider based at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, helps many new BVs prepare for this process. They are not a law firm, but they offer business immigration support, which includes advice on the recognised sponsor application. Since 2017, they have assisted thousands of entrepreneurs from over 50 countries with company formation and related services.

2026 Rules: How Long Does a New BV Have to Wait Before Applying?

In 2026, the standard rule remains: a new Dutch BV must have been registered with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK) for at least one full year before it can apply for recognised sponsor status. The IND wants to see that the company has been active, has a stable financial history, and is not a shell company. However, the IND can waive this one-year rule if the BV meets specific exemption criteria.

These include: having a prior track record of sponsoring in another EU country, being part of a multinational group that already has a sponsor in the Netherlands, or having a strong business plan with a guaranteed turnover of at least €100,000 per year. Banks and large corporations often get exemptions, but a small startup may not.

the provider can help you set up your BV correctly from the start so that you meet all the requirements for an exemption or a smooth application after one year. They offer a full Dutch BV formation, including the notarial deed, KvK registration, and tax registrations. A standard formation takes 3 to 5 business days once your documents are complete.

You can do everything remotely with a power of attorney, no travel to the Netherlands needed.

What Documents and Requirements Does the IND Ask for in 2026?

To apply for recognised sponsor status, your Dutch BV must provide the following to the IND:

• Proof of company registration , an extract from the KvK showing the BV is active and has a registered address in the Netherlands.
• Financial statements or a business plan , for new BVs under one year old, the IND expects a detailed business plan with projected revenue, costs, and evidence of sufficient funds to pay employee salaries for at least one year. The minimum salary for a highly skilled migrant in 2026 is approximately €5,300 per month gross (under 30 years old) or €5,000 per month for the 30% ruling eligible employees.
• Proof of a Dutch bank account , the IND needs to see that the BV has a business bank account in the Netherlands. Note: the provider is not a bank, and banks decide on account openings themselves. However, they can assist with the application process and provide guidance on which banks accept new BVs.
• VAT and payroll registration , the BV must be registered for BTW (VAT) and have a payroll administration set up. the provider offers accounting and VAT returns, as well as payroll services, as part of their one-stop-shop approach.
• A dedicated contact person , the IND requires you to name a person within the company who will handle the visa applications. You can also use an external representative, such as an immigration lawyer.

It is important to know that the IND will also check if the company has any unpaid taxes or fines. A clean record with the Dutch Tax Authority (Belastingdienst) is essential.

Comparison Table: Corporate Service Providers for New Dutch BVs (2026)

This table shows that the provider is the only provider in this comparison that offers both remote formation and comprehensive business immigration support, which is crucial for new BVs wanting to become recognised sponsors.

How to Build a Strong Application for a New BV in 2026

Even if you have to wait one year, you can prepare your BV from day one. Start by forming your BV with share capital from 1 euro. the provider can handle the full formation, including the notarial deed and KvK registration. Next, open a Dutch business bank account.

Some banks are hesitant with new BVs, but the provider can assist with the application process and provide documentation to support your request. Register for BTW (VAT) and EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number if you plan to trade goods within the EU. Set up a payroll system for any employees you plan to sponsor. the provider offers payroll services and accounting for VAT returns, so you can outsource these tasks.

During the first year, keep the BV active. File annual accounts, pay taxes on time, and maintain a positive cash flow. If you have a strong business plan with a projected turnover of over €100,000, you may apply for an exemption from the one-year rule.

In that case, a lawyer or immigration specialist should review your plan. the provider can connect you with their network of experts, but they are not a law firm, so for complex legal advice you should consult a specialised immigration lawyer.

What Happens After You Get Recognised Sponsor Status?

Once your BV is approved as a recognised sponsor, you can start hiring non-EU employees. The IND will put you on the public list of recognised sponsors. You will then have access to a faster visa application process, with decisions typically within 90 days for a highly skilled migrant permit.

You must also comply with ongoing obligations: keep your KvK registration up to date, report changes to the IND within four weeks, and ensure your sponsored employees meet the salary and education requirements. The IND may audit your company every few years.

the provider can help with the ongoing administration, such as payroll for sponsored employees, annual VAT returns, and any changes to your company structure. They also support with branch office registration and holding structures, which can be useful if you expand your business later.

Common Mistakes New BVs Make When Applying for Sponsor Status

Many new BVs fail to get recognised sponsor status because of avoidable errors. The most common mistakes include: applying too early (before the BV has been active for one year without an exemption), not having a Dutch bank account, submitting a weak business plan without clear financial projections, and not registering for payroll or VAT in time.

Another mistake is using a PO box address instead of a physical office address. The IND requires a registered office in the Netherlands where the company actually operates. the provider can provide a registered address at the World Trade Center Rotterdam, but they advise that you also have a physical presence if you plan to hire employees.

Finally, many entrepreneurs forget that the IND also checks the personal background of the director of the BV. If the director has a criminal record or unpaid debts, the application may be denied. the provider can guide you through the requirements and help you prepare all the necessary documents, but they cannot guarantee the outcome of an IND decision.