How to Start a Business On-Site or Remotely in the Netherlands: A Complete Guide for EU/EEA and Non-EU Entrepreneurs

Starting a business in the Netherlands is an attractive option for entrepreneurs due to the country’s stable economy, business-friendly environment, and strong support for startups. Whether you’re an EU/EEA citizen or from outside the EU, the Netherlands offers multiple pathways to establish a business, both on-site and remotely. Here is a complete guide to setting up your business, understanding tax requirements, and navigating visa options in the Netherlands.

Remote Business Registration Support: Start Your Dutch Business from Anywhere

The Netherlands has made it easy for entrepreneurs to establish businesses remotely. Through a video conference with a Dutch notary, you can incorporate your business without needing to be physically present. This option is ideal for entrepreneurs testing the Dutch market from abroad, setting up subsidiaries, or managing international operations from their home country.

In this process, you will attend a virtual meeting with a notary who will verify your identity and review your documents. After verification, the notary submits your registration to the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK), which provides you with a KvK registration number. This number is essential for all official business interactions within the Netherlands, from banking to invoicing.

AtlasCorp that specializes in Dutch incorporations can assist with document preparation to ensure everything meets Dutch legal requirements. Remote registration simplifies the setup process, allowing you to establish and operate your business efficiently, wherever you are.

Setting Up a Business in the Netherlands for EU/EEA Nationals

For EU and EEA nationals, starting a business in the Netherlands is straightforward and does not require a residence or work permit. This streamlined process lets you focus on building your business with minimal administrative hurdles.

The first step is registering your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK), where you will provide information about your company’s structure and activities. Upon registration, you’ll receive a KvK number, which serves as your company’s unique identifier for official interactions.

Although you may not be a Dutch resident, your business must comply with local tax obligations. This includes VAT registration with the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration (Belastingdienst). The standard VAT rate is 21%, though essential goods like food and books are taxed at a reduced rate of 9%. Certain services, such as healthcare and education, are exempt from VAT altogether.

Corporate Income Tax (CIT) applies to profits earned by Dutch companies. In 2024, the CIT rate is 19% on the first €200,000 in profit and 25.8% on profits above that threshold. Further, self-employed individuals can benefit from tax deductions, including the Self-Employment Deduction (Zelfstandigenaftrek). New entrepreneurs may also qualify for the Start-Up Deduction (Startersaftrek), which applies in the first three years if eligibility criteria are met.

Options for Non-EU Nationals to Establish and Manage a Business

Non-EU nationals can also set up a business in the Netherlands, either remotely or by applying for a visa to manage the business on-site. For those who wish to actively operate their business within the country, several visa options are available.

The Start-Up Visa is designed for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas. This one-year visa allows you to work with an approved “facilitator” (business mentor) who helps guide your business development. To qualify, you must submit a business plan that demonstrates the potential impact and viability of your idea.

The Self-Employment Permit is available for entrepreneurs whose business activities contribute positively to Dutch society. This permit requires a detailed business plan that includes financial projections, economic impact, and potential job creation in the Netherlands.

The Highly Skilled Migrant Visa is another option for professionals with specialized expertise in high-demand sectors. This visa is based on an assessment of qualifications, professional experience, and income level by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND).

If you prefer to manage your business remotely without relocating, you can take advantage of the Netherlands’ remote registration process, allowing you to complete all incorporation steps online.

Key Tax Obligations in the Netherlands

Understanding and meeting Dutch tax obligations is essential for operating a business smoothly in the Netherlands. The tax system covers corporate income, VAT, payroll, and other taxes based on business structure and activities.

Corporate Income Tax (CIT) applies to profits generated by businesses operating in the Netherlands. For 2024, CIT is 19% for the first €200,000 in profit and 25.8% for profits above that amount. This tax is based on net profits, with deductions available for business expenses such as operational costs and depreciation.

If your business distributes profits to shareholders, a Dividend Withholding Tax of 15% may apply. Non-resident shareholders may benefit from a reduced rate under applicable tax treaties.

VAT is charged on most goods and services. The standard rate is 21%, while a reduced rate of 9% applies to certain essential goods, such as food, books, and medicine. Some services, like medical care and education, are VAT-exempt. VAT registration is generally required for businesses, and VAT returns must be filed either quarterly or monthly, depending on turnover.

For businesses with employees, payroll taxes include wage tax, social security contributions, and healthcare insurance premiums. Employers are responsible for withholding and submitting these amounts directly to the tax authority.

Self-employed individuals are subject to income tax on their earnings, calculated using a progressive rate system. The Netherlands applies a box system for income tax, with Box 1 covering income from work and residence (such as business earnings) and rates up to 49.5%. Self-employed individuals may qualify for deductions, including the Self-Employment Deduction (Zelfstandigenaftrek), which requires a minimum of 1,225 working hours annually. New entrepreneurs can also benefit from the Start-Up Deduction (Startersaftrek) during their first three years.

Small businesses with annual turnover below €20,000 can apply for the Small Business Scheme (Kleineondernemersregeling or KOR). This scheme provides a VAT exemption, allowing eligible businesses to simplify tax compliance by waiving the need to charge or remit VAT.

Other taxes may apply based on business operations, such as environmental taxes for companies engaged in waste production or energy use. Transfer tax applies when acquiring real estate, with a standard rate of 10.4% on commercial property. Municipal taxes vary by region and may cover waste collection, property tax, and other local services.

Ensuring Compliance and Seeking Expert Support

Navigating the Dutch tax and regulatory system can be complex, especially for entrepreneurs unfamiliar with local laws. The Netherlands has a highly organized system, but staying compliant requires regular filings and an understanding of obligations like VAT, corporate income tax, and payroll contributions. Many business owners find it beneficial to consult with Dutch tax advisors to optimize their tax position and ensure compliance. Advisors can help you maximize deductions, avoid penalties, and stay up to date with any regulatory changes.

How AtlasCorp Can Support Your Netherlands Business Journey

At AtlasCorp, we understand that starting a business in a new country comes with unique challenges. Our expert team provides comprehensive support, making the setup process seamless and efficient while ensuring that you comply with all Dutch legal requirements. With AtlasCorp as your partner, you have access to guidance in every aspect of your business journey:

Business Registration: We assist with choosing the right legal structure, preparing documentation, and completing your company’s registration with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK), whether on-site or remotely.

Visa Assistance: For those needing visas, we help you navigate the options—from the Start-Up Visa to the Self-Employment Permit or Highly Skilled Migrant Visa—and ensure your application meets Dutch Immigration (IND) standards.

Tax Compliance: Our in-depth knowledge of Dutch tax regulations ensures that you understand your tax obligations, from VAT and corporate income tax to payroll and self-employment tax, allowing you to focus on business growth while staying compliant.

Business Development and Network Support: We offer strategic guidance for business development and connect you with a network of local contacts, including potential clients, partners, and investors, to accelerate your growth in the Netherlands.

Ongoing Corporate Legal Assistance: AtlasCorp provides continuous legal support for corporate matters, helping you with contracts, filings, and adapting to regulatory changes as your business grows.

Management Consultancy: Our consultancy services cover everything from operational strategies to market positioning, helping you manage and optimize your business for success in the Dutch market.

AtlasCorp is ready to support you at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey in the Netherlands. Reach out to us today to begin building your business confidently and successfully in one of Europe’s most dynamic business hubs. Let us help make your vision a reality.

Let AtlasCorp be your trusted partner for a successful business launch in the Netherlands.

Contact us today to get started:

Email: contact@atlascorp.nl

Webpage: atlascorp.nl