The DAFT Visa: Your Gateway to Doing Business in the Netherlands

What is the DAFT Visa?

The DAFT visa is a residence permit specifically designed for U.S. citizens who want to start a business in the Netherlands. Established under the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty of 1956, it simplifies the process of relocating and investing in the Dutch economy. This visa allows you to live and work in the Netherlands as a self-employed entrepreneur.

Why Choose the DAFT Visa?

1. Ease of Application: Compared to other visa types, the DAFT visa has fewer bureaucratic hurdles.

2. Flexible Requirements: There’s no need to prove specific educational qualifications or advanced language skills.

3. Business Freedom: The visa permits you to run a wide range of business activities, from consultancy to creative services.

4. Pathway to Residency: Successfully maintaining your business can lead to permanent residency after five years.

Key Requirements

To qualify for the DAFT visa, you must:

1. Prove Your U.S. Citizenship: Only American nationals are eligible.

2. Make a Minimum Investment: Deposit at least €4,500 into a Dutch business bank account.

3. Register Your Business: Establish and register your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK).

4. Maintain Financial Viability: Demonstrate that your business can support you financially.

Steps to Apply

1. Prepare Your Documents:

   • Valid U.S. passport

   • Proof of business registration (KvK extract)

   • Bank statement showing the required deposit

   • Health insurance coverage

2. Submit Your Application:

   • File your application with the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

   • Pay the processing fee (approximately €1,446 as of 2024).

3. Attend an Appointment:

   • Schedule an IND appointment for biometric data collection.

4. Wait for Approval:

   • Applications typically take up to 90 days to process.

5. Register Locally:

   • Once approved, complete your local municipality registration (BRP).

Maintaining Your DAFT Visa

To retain your DAFT visa, you must:

• Renew your permit every two years.

• Keep your business operational and profitable.

• Continue meeting the financial investment requirement.

Benefits of the DAFT Visa

1. Cultural Exchange: Immerse yourself in Dutch culture and broaden your global perspective.

2. Tax Advantages: Benefit from the Netherlands' favorable tax treaties for entrepreneurs.

3. Strategic Location: Operate your business in a central hub within the European Union.