Netherlands - DAFT Visa
Move to the Netherlands on the DAFT Visa
The simplest way for American entrepreneurs to live and work in the Netherlands. Start a business, get a two-year permit, and bring the family.
Built for US founders and freelancers.
Why Americans pick it
The easy door into Europe
The DAFT visa is the most popular path for Americans moving to the Netherlands. A 1956 friendship treaty lets US citizens skip the points test other founders face. Your business can be anything, online or offline.
The DAFT visa at a glance
4,500 euros
Business capital, kept in a Dutch account
your money, not a fee
2 years
Length of your first permit
renewable, leads to permanent
No points test
Just start a real business
US citizens only
Family too
Spouse works freely, kids included
same-sex partners fine
How it works
Register a business, move your life
Here's the catch: the permit is tied to a real Dutch business. The good news is the steps are simple. Register with the Chamber of Commerce, open a business bank account, and keep at least 4,500 euros in it. That's your company's money, not a fee, with no minimum income to start.
- A valid US passport
- A registered Dutch business (KvK)
- 4,500 euros in your business account
- Dutch health insurance once you arrive
DAFT Visa
Allows U.S. entrepreneurs to live and work in the Netherlands by starting a company. No 'points system' or 'added value' assessment required, unlike the regular self-employed visa. The process involves company registration and opening a Dutch bank account.
- Government cost
- $1,500
- Processing time
- ~90 days
- Timeline
- 3 months
- Difficulty
- Easy
Key requirements
- U.S. citizenship
- Register a Dutch business
- Open a Dutch business bank account
- Submit a business plan
- Proof of sufficient funds for living expenses
A base in the middle of Europe
Fast trains, faster internet, and English almost everywhere.
Scouting Trips
Before you move, see the Netherlands like a future resident.
- We walk neighborhoods
- Meet local experts
- Tour healthcare facilities
- Explore housing options
- Help you understand what daily life actually feels like
Americans who've done it
GTFO Tours - Netherlands
Netherlands Tours, Visas & Relocation
Housing, visas, healthcare, and Dutch business setup for Americans.
Michelle Pomlade
Netherlands Local Guide
Moved here on DAFT herself; builds your pre-move checklist.
Jana Sanchez
Career Coaching
Coaches Americans on EU careers and work permits.
Where to land
Pick your home base
Rotterdam
Modern and business-minded
Bold architecture and cheaper rent than Amsterdam.
Utrecht
Central and canal-pretty
A lively student city, central and minutes from everywhere.
The Hague
International and coastal
Home to embassies, courts, and a North Sea beach.
Haarlem
Charming and close
Small-city calm, fifteen minutes from Amsterdam by train.
DAFT visa questions
Can my spouse and kids come with me?
Yes. Your spouse or registered partner and children under 18 join you, and your partner can work freely in any job, no separate permit needed. Same-sex partners qualify too.
Who qualifies for the DAFT visa?
Any US citizen who starts and runs a business in the Netherlands and keeps at least 4,500 euros of capital in a Dutch business account. There's no points test and no age limit.
Do I need to speak Dutch?
No. There's no Dutch language test for the DAFT permit, and English is spoken almost everywhere. You'll only need some Dutch later if you apply for permanent residence or citizenship.
What kind of business can I start?
Almost anything, online or offline. Freelancers, consultants, shop owners, and remote founders all qualify. Practicing medicine and national-security work are the main exceptions.
How much money do I really need?
4,500 euros in business capital, plus enough to cover your living costs. The 4,500 euros is your company's money and can be spent on real business expenses, but it has to stay at that level while you hold the permit.
How long does the permit last?
Your first permit is good for two years and can be renewed. After five years of living in the Netherlands, you may qualify for permanent residence or citizenship.
Is the Netherlands your move?
Take the free Expatsi Test and see which visa and city fit you.