Ultimate List of DAFT Visa Resources

When we started our DAFT journey, we were overwhelmed by outdated forums, scattered links, and weird legal jargon that made us feel like we were accidentally signing up for a Dutch prison sentence instead of a family adventure. So I made this: a curated list of actually useful resources. Some are official, some are crowd-tested by other expats, and all of them are things we personally found helpful (or wish we’d known about sooner).

Whether you're still in the "maybe someday" stage or actively prepping your application, this list covers everything from visa paperwork to finding a rental, moving your pets, and figuring out how the hell Dutch banking works.

Use what you need, ignore what you don’t. Let’s make this a little less stressful!

All About DAFT

• The official application details and criteria– https://ind.nl/en/residence-permits/work/residence-permit-self-employed-person

• Friendly walkthrough with a focus on real-life steps– https://daftvisaguide.com

• Well-written breakdown of the DAFT experience by someone who's done it– https://dutchamericanfriendship.com/how-to-get-a-daft-visa/

• Detailed guide to the DAFT visa process, including deciding between a BV and ZZP– https://www.iamexpat.nl/career/employment-news/step-step-guide-securing-daft-visa-american-expats

• Curious about the history? This link offers historical context and deep-dive explanations– https://daft.amsterdam

Immigration Law Firms

• Well-known immigration lawyers that are familiar with DAFT- https://adamwolf.da06.qabana.nl/dutch-american-friendship-treaty

• Highly recommended legal firm that knows DAFT– https://www.cardon.nl/

Business Setup & Registration

• Where you’ll officially register as a self-employed person– https://www.kvk.nl/en/registration/

• Your one-stop-shop for starting a business in the Netherlands– https://business.gov.nl/starting-your-business/

• If you need help crafting a business plan for your application– https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/plan-your-business/write-your-business-plan

• Business plans and bookkeeping– https://hannahelps.nl/

Visit Before You Move

• Hands-on relocation tours specifically for Americans considering the move– https://gtfotours.com

• Tours of the Netherlands and airport pickup/dropoff, as well as moving assistance– https://www.oconnelltours.com/

Housing

• Massive database of rental listings– https://www.pararius.nl/

• Another massive database of rental listings– https://funda.nl

• Makelaar group that are all expats themselves, who our family called for help– https://homesforexpats.com

Banking & Money Transfers

• Best money service for transferring money from the U.S. to NL– https://wise.com

• Fast, app-based banking that's expat-friendly– https://www.bunq.com/en-nl/

Pet Relocation

• Highly recommended professional pet relocation service– https://www.petrelocation.com/country/netherlands

• Practical breakdown of what to do if you're moving abroad with pets– https://www.expatica.com/global/living/family/pet-relocation-105058/

• This link covers regulations and timelines regarding taking your pets abroad– https://pet-express.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-on-moving-to-europe-with-a-pet/

Healthcare

• Compare Dutch health insurance plans– https://www.zorgwijzer.nl/

• English-speaking medical help for expats, offers quick appointments for medication refills– https://thetouristdoctors.com/

Education

• Dutch school system explained- https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=uuJ82w2CnJk

• More information on the Dutch school system- https://allaboutexpats.nl/dutch-education-system/

General Expat Resources

• List of official expat resource centers in NL– https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/live-work-study/in-amsterdam/official-expat-centers-in-the-netherlands

• Practical guides for living in the Netherlands– https://www.xpat.nl/

• Consular services for U.S. citizens in NL– https://nl.usembassy.gov/services/

• This Facebook group, DAFThub, offers peer support, and is the largest Facebook group for anyone interested in the DAFT visa– https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15j29Jmyox/

If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably knee-deep in planning, or at least seriously considering the leap. I hope this collection of resources helps cut through the noise and gives you a clearer path forward.

The DAFT visa process can feel overwhelming, but it’s entirely doable with the right tools and a bit of patience. Whether you're moving solo, with your partner, kids, pets, or all of the above, having the right information can make all the difference.

Feel free to save or share this list, and if you’re looking for more personalized support or just want to connect with someone who’s been through it, don’t hesitate to reach out. You’ve got this!

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