The DAFT visa allows U.S. entrepreneurs to live in the Netherlands and operate a business. To qualify, applicants must establish a Dutch business, register it with the Chamber of Commerce, open a business bank account, deposit a minimum investment of €4,500, and apply for a residence permit with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
NetherBridge Partners supports American entrepreneurs with company formation, accounting, tax registration and ongoing compliance when building their businesses in the Netherlands.
Guide for U.S. Entrepreneurs (2026)
For American entrepreneurs looking to build a business in Europe, the Netherlands offers a unique opportunity through the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT).
The DAFT visa allows U.S. citizens to live and operate a business in the Netherlands with relatively straightforward requirements compared with many other immigration pathways. Since its introduction, the program has attracted thousands of American founders, consultants, freelancers and startup founders who want to establish a European presence.
However, while the DAFT visa is accessible, the process still involves legal, financial and administrative steps that must be handled carefully. Understanding these steps in advance helps ensure a smooth transition.
This guide explains how the DAFT visa works in 2026 and outlines the five key steps U.S. entrepreneurs should follow.
What Is the Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT)?
The Dutch American Friendship Treaty is a bilateral agreement between the Netherlands and the United States that facilitates entrepreneurship and trade between the two countries.
Under DAFT, U.S. citizens can obtain a residence permit to operate a business in the Netherlands without going through the standard points-based startup visa system used for other nationalities.
The visa is typically granted for two years initially and can be extended if the business remains active.
Why American Entrepreneurs Choose the Netherlands
The Netherlands offers several advantages for U.S. founders:
• Access to the European Union market
• A highly international business environment
• One of the highest English proficiency rates in Europe
• Efficient logistics and infrastructure
• Transparent legal and tax systems
Cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht have vibrant startup ecosystems and attract international talent and investors.
For entrepreneurs looking to expand into Europe, the Netherlands provides an excellent base of operations.
Step 1 – Establish Your Dutch Business
The first step in the DAFT process is setting up a Dutch business.
Entrepreneurs can choose from several structures, including:
• Sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak)
• Dutch private limited company (BV)
While sole proprietorships are common for freelancers and consultants, many entrepreneurs prefer a BV structure because it offers limited liability and stronger credibility with investors and business partners.
Company formation typically involves:
• Drafting legal documentation
• Notarial incorporation (for BVs)
• Registration with the Chamber of Commerce (KVK)
Step 2 – Register with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce
Every business operating in the Netherlands must register with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK).
Once registered, your company receives:
• A KVK number
• A listing in the Dutch Business Register
• Automatic notification to the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration
The registration confirms that your company is legally established and able to conduct business.
Step 3 – Open a Dutch Business Bank Account
A Dutch bank account is required to operate your business and to meet the DAFT investment requirement.
Banks will typically request:
• Company registration documents
• Identification for directors and shareholders
• A description of business activities
• Compliance checks related to anti-money laundering rules
Opening the account can take time due to strict KYC procedures, so planning ahead is important.
Step 4 – Deposit the DAFT Investment Capital
A key requirement of the DAFT visa is a minimum investment of €4,500 into the Dutch business.
This amount must be deposited into a Dutch bank account and generally remains locked while the residence permit is valid.
Compared with many entrepreneur visa programs globally, this requirement is relatively modest, making the Netherlands particularly attractive for independent entrepreneurs.
Step 5 – Apply for the Residence Permit
Once the business is established and the investment is made, the final step is applying for the DAFT residence permit through the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
The application typically requires:
• Proof of U.S. citizenship
• Chamber of Commerce registration
• Evidence of the €4,500 investment
• A business activity description
• Health insurance coverage in the Netherlands
After approval, the residence permit allows the entrepreneur to live and operate the business in the Netherlands.
Maintaining the DAFT Visa
To renew the permit after the initial period, the business must remain active and comply with Dutch regulations.
This includes:
• Maintaining proper bookkeeping
• Filing tax returns
• Complying with VAT and corporate tax rules
• Operating the business genuinely and continuously
Strong financial administration is therefore essential.
Accounting and Tax Responsibilities
DAFT entrepreneurs must comply with the same accounting and tax rules as any Dutch business.
This includes:
• Maintaining bookkeeping records
• Filing VAT returns if applicable
• Submitting annual income or corporate tax returns
• Retaining financial records for at least seven years
Failure to comply can jeopardise both the business and residence status.
How NetherBridge Partners Supports DAFT Entrepreneurs
Starting a business in a new country can feel complex, especially when navigating immigration requirements alongside business administration.
NetherBridge Partners provides comprehensive support for U.S. entrepreneurs establishing their businesses in the Netherlands.
Our services include:
• Dutch company formation and structuring
• Chamber of Commerce registration
• Accounting and bookkeeping setup
• VAT and tax registration
• Financial reporting and compliance
• Strategic advisory for scaling in Europe
By combining corporate, accounting, tax, and advisory services under one roof, we help entrepreneurs focus on building their businesses while ensuring full regulatory compliance.
Final Thoughts
The Dutch American Friendship Treaty remains one of the most accessible pathways for American entrepreneurs to establish a presence in Europe.
With relatively straightforward investment requirements and a strong business environment, the Netherlands continues to attract U.S. founders seeking international growth.
However, success under the DAFT visa requires more than simply forming a company. Proper planning, compliance, and financial management are essential.
If you are a U.S. entrepreneur considering the Netherlands as your European base, NetherBridge Partners can guide you through every step of the process.
