The DAFT Visa

This visa is relatively simple, but that doesn't mean it's easy. We made a lot of mistakes on our journey that caused the whole process to be more lengthy and more challenging than it had to be.

​

Based on everything we learned, we have compiled the basic steps to the DAFT process for someone intending to start a ZZP (the equivalent of a sole proprietorship) business. For more information regarding the DAFT visa for BV businesses (the equivalent of an LLC or similar) contact us.

 

​

This information is based on the research we have done and our personal experience. We are not immigration lawyers- if you want more detailed information, we can help you find an immigration attorney that specializes in the DAFT.​

​​

​

 

​

Step 1: Get to the Netherlands

 

Unlike some visas that require approval before you go, DAFT works the other way around. You fly in and apply from within the country. You’ll enter on a 90-day tourist stay, but you’ll need to schedule your first IND appointment quickly (ideally within the first couple of weeks).

​

Its shocking to many people researching this visa that your first major decision is when to book the flights. The reason this is possible is that this visa has an exceptionally high approval rating when completed correctly. 

​

Some people work on finding housing before they leave. We attempted to do this, but it caused some issues for us. If you are going to search for housing while still in the USA, we highly recommend using an experienced and trustworthy rental agent (makelaar).

​

The company we used is called Homes for Expats and we seriously can't say enough good things about them.

​

You should have temporary housing set up before flying out if you don't have a long term place in advance. There are several options for short term temporary stays, including corporate housing and vacation rentals. We recommend having at least a month covered, but longer is better. The housing market is competitive and it will take at least a month to find somewhere permanent to live unless you are very lucky.

​

 

​

Step 2: Find a Home

​

Be prepared, finding housing in the Netherlands can be incredibly challenging. This was by far the most stressful part of the process for us. The market is highly competitive, so persistence is key.

​

There are several websites you can use to search, but we’ve had the best luck (and heard the most positive feedback from other expats) with funda.nl and pararius.com. The more flexible you are in your search, the better your chances of finding a place. We were open to living anywhere in the Netherlands, but because we needed a pet-friendly home, our options were more limited.

​

Before you begin reaching out to landlords or agents, prepare a personal profile. This is a brief introduction that includes who you are, what you do for work, your income, and any relevant details that might help your application stand out. You’ll also need proof of income or savings to include with any applications.

​

If you’re unsure where to start with your profile, we can help. We offer personalized profile writing services to help you make a strong impression. Contact us to get started!

​

If your budget allows, we highly recommend working with a rental agent (called a makelaar in Dutch). A makelaar can help you navigate the housing market, schedule viewings, and even set up utilities. If you’re still in the U.S., they can attend viewings on your behalf. Most charge the equivalent of one month’s rent for their services, and in our experience, it was absolutely worth it.

​

Our top recommendation is Homes for Expats, a service we used and genuinely recommend.

 

​

Step 3: Submit Your Application

 

Now that you're in the Netherlands, it's time to submit your visa application. You can download the forms from the IND website, print them out (local libraries usually offer printing if you don't have a printer), and fill in the information you currently have.

Each family member will need their own application. Only one person, typically the main applicant starting the business, will submit the DAFT application. At the time of writing, the correct form for this is IND form 7524. This person will act as the sponsor for the rest of the family.

​

For spouses and minor children, you'll need a different form. Currently, that is IND form 7518.

​

It's perfectly normal to leave parts of the form blank during this stage. The IND will let you know if they need more details. All communication from the IND is sent by mail, so it's important to have a reliable address where you can receive official letters. Ideally, this will be your new permanent address and not a hotel or vacation stay. Make sure to keep every document they send you; these letters will include important instructions and documents that you'll need to continue the process.

​

 

Step 4: Get Your Residence Sticker at the IND

​

Shortly after arrival, you'll need to get the sticker in your passport that proves that you are in the country legally while awaiting approval of your visa. The IND should have sent you several letters by now in response to your application being mailed in.

​

You can make this appointment online at the IND website. You should bring your passports with you, as well as any letters that the IND has sent so far.

​

There are limited locations throughout the country to make these appointments, so choose whichever is closest to you. 

​​

​

 

Step 5: Register with Your City (Gemeente)

 

Once you have secured housing and received your residence sticker from the IND, your next step is to register with your local municipality. In the Netherlands, everyone is required to complete this municipal registration (gemeente inschrijving) whenever they move—this applies to both citizens and immigrants.

​

This registration is how you receive your BSN (Burger Service Nummer), a personal identification number used for nearly everything, including opening a bank account, setting up health insurance, and registering for utilities. While it is possible to set up some services without a BSN, it can be significantly more complicated.

​

You can book your registration appointment online. To find your city’s municipal website, search for the name of your city followed by the word “gemeente.” Gemeente is the Dutch term for local government or municipality.

​

At your appointment, be sure to bring:

​

• Passports for all family members

• Any letters you’ve received from the IND

• Apostilled copies of your marriage certificate (if applicable)

• Apostilled birth certificates for each family member

• A copy of your lease agreement, which confirms your legal residence at the address and shows that registration is permitted there

​

Be aware, hotels and vacation rentals typically do not allow you to register.

​

 

Step 6: Register Your Business with the KVK (Chamber of Commerce)

 

You’ll register your new business with the Kamer van Koophandel (KVK), the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. The process is simple and typically takes about an hour. Once completed, you’ll receive your KVK number, and shortly after, your VAT number. You don’t need to be earning income yet—just have a clear and legitimate business idea.

​

We already owned and operated a business in the U.S., so we expanded that same business into the Netherlands under the DAFT visa. If you’re starting something brand new, you’ll want to prepare a business plan, create a logo, and establish a few essentials that add legitimacy, such as a business email address, social media accounts, or even a basic website. You’ll also need to complete the KVK registration form, which you can fill out online when booking your appointment.

​

Most DAFT applicants will register their business as a ZZP, which is the Dutch version of a sole proprietorship. If you're following these steps, this is the route you're likely taking. Registering as a BV (similar to an LLC) involves a different process. It requires establishing the company before arriving in the Netherlands and then hiring yourself as a foreign employee. This route can be more complex, but it has advantages, particularly if you expect to earn over €80,000 per year. Feel free to reach out to us if you're considering this option and need guidance.

​

Not sure how to get your business off the ground? That’s exactly what we help with. The business we brought with us is focused on helping others launch and grow, just like we did. We specialize in brand development for small businesses, with services tailored for expats and new entrepreneurs. Whether you need a logo, a brand identity, a business plan, or help setting up your online presence, we can take care of the essentials so you can focus on the big move. If you want your business to feel confident, professional, and ready to succeed in the Netherlands, we’d love to help. Click here to contact us.

​

At the end of your KVK appointment, make sure to request an official extract of your registration. This document serves as proof of registration and will be required for your IND appointment.

 

​

​

Step 7: Open a Dutch Business Bank Account

 

You’ll need to deposit at least €4,500 into a business bank account under your name to qualify for the DAFT visa. This account doesn’t have to be with a Dutch bank, but it must be a dedicated business account.

​

Keep in mind that the required amount is in euros. If your funds are in a U.S. account, the exchange rate and transfer fees can affect how much you need to send. When we made our deposit, it came out to around $5,100 USD after conversion and fees.

​

This deposit is considered your investment for the visa. The money doesn’t get spent, it simply needs to remain in the account as proof that you’re serious about starting a business. You’ll submit bank statements to show this, and a certified tax professional or accountant must also verify and sign off on an opening balance sheet confirming that the money is there. You’ll need this document for your IND appointment.

​

The €4,500 must stay in the account and not fall below that amount if you plan to renew your visa after the initial two-year period.

​

We personally recommend using Wise for the business account. It’s a money services provider that also offers business accounts. There is a €50 fee to open one, but Wise has some of the lowest currency conversion fees available. It supports payments in multiple currencies, making it a great option if you plan to work with clients internationally. We use Wise to transfer most of our funds from the U.S. to the Netherlands for this reason. You can send USD to your Wise account from your American bank, and then send the converted Euros to a Dutch bank account.

​​

You should also set up a personal bank account with a Dutch bank in order to get your Dutch pin card. Some things here require this specific type of debit card for payments.

​

 

​

Step 8: Biometrics Appointment at the IND

 

Next, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with the IND. At this appointment, they will take your photo and fingerprints as part of the biometric process.

​

Be sure to bring the following documents:

​

• Copies of all family members' passports

• Proof of registration at your Dutch address (obtained from the gemeente)

• Proof of business registration (from the KVK)

• Bank statements showing the €4,500 deposit

• A signed statement from the financial professional who confirmed the deposit

• Your business plan 

 

After submitting your initial documents in step 3, the IND will send you a letter with payment details. You can use the information in that letter to pay the fee online via bank transfer before your appointment, which can help streamline the process. Otherwise, you can pay the application fee during this appointment. When we applied, it was approximately €1,500 for a family of four. Payment can be made by Dutch pin card (which you can get with your new bank account) or in cash. However, we found it easier to pay in advance.​

 

 

​

Step 9: Wait for Approval and Receive Your Residency Card (Visa Card)

 

This part requires patience. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. However, it's typically very fast, and in the meantime, you are a legal resident.

 

Once approved, you’ll get a letter and can pick up your residence card, which is a little plastic rectangle that represents a whole new chapter of life!

​

​