
Category: Dutch Tax System

The rights, obligations, and structure of the Dutch private limited company (BV)
When we register Dutch companies for foreign entrepreneurs, by far the largest number of legal entities established are Dutch BVs. This is also known as a private limited company in foreign countries. The reasons why this is such a popular legal entity are many, such as the lack of personal liability for any debts you […]

The fiscal retention obligation according to Dutch law
When you start a Dutch business, you will need to adhere to all Dutch laws that regulate the business environment. One of such laws is the so-called fiscal retention obligation. This essentially tells you, that you need to archive your business administration for a certain amount of years. Why? Because this allows the Dutch Tax […]

Is buying a shelf company a good alternative for establishing a new Dutch BV?
If you are thinking about starting a Dutch company, chances are high that you are opting for a Dutch BV, which is the equivalent of a private limited company. A Dutch BV has many benefits, such as a relatively low corporate tax rate and the fact that you will not be personally held liable for […]

Do you need a tax accountant for your business in the Netherlands?
If you are an ex-pat starting your own business, it is probable that you will have lots of questions about the tax implications. Questions will certainly arise, such as what is the right kind of legal entity to, a BV or is the “eenmanszaak” or sole trader/one-person business) a more suitable option? You may well […]

Inheritance Tax in the Netherlands: Rates, Rules & Exemptions (2025)
What is the inheritance tax in the Netherlands?In the Netherlands, inheritance tax applies to the worldwide assets of a deceased person who was a Dutch resident at the time of death. Tax rates range from 10% to 40%, depending on the relationship between the beneficiary and the deceased and the value of the inheritance. Spouses […]

Business taxes in the Netherlands: a quick overview
If you would like to set up a business in the Netherlands, you will need to take into account that this means you will also have to pay several business taxes. The exact amount and type(s) of tax(es) you will need to pay depend on the legal entity you choose, your business activities and several […]

Directives and regulations counter tax avoidance in Netherlands
The Netherlands is known worldwide as a very stable country economically, with a healthy fiscal and political climate. A few mentionable reasons that have led to this image are the fairly modest tax rates when compared to neighboring countries. Furthermore, clear and efficient administrative processes and the innovative use of IT and technology in order […]

What does Dutch BTW (VAT) mean for your business?
If you are a foreign company with a Dutch branch office or subsidiary, then you also fall under the Dutch VAT regulations. The Dutch word for VAT is BTW, which is the turnover tax you charge your clients. All Dutch companies have unique VAT identification numbers. These changed for all sole proprietorships on January 1, […]

New VAT rules for e-commerce in the EU from the 1st of July 2021
If you want your Dutch e-commerce company to do business in the entire European Union, you will have to deal with different VAT rules than those that apply if you only deliver to customers in the Netherlands. A number of basic rules apply to VAT in the EU. This includes certain threshold amounts for the […]

VAT Number (BTW-nummer) Netherlands: Format & Registration Guide
The first thing you need to do is to register your company with the Trade Register via the Chamber of Commerce. Your company information will be automatically transferred to the tax authorities. When registering the BV with the Chamber of Commerce you will receive an RSIN number. This number is also on the extract of […]

The Netherlands continues it's fight against tax avoidance
Over the last few years, the government of the Netherlands has been keen to be seen to be taking decisive action against tax evasion. 1n July 2019, for example, the government announced its plan to close loopholes in which companies avoid tax by taking advantage of the differences in tax systems of countries, the so-called […]

VAT in the Netherlands: How It Works (21%, 9%, 0%)
Are you a business owner who is based in a country other than the Netherlands? Do you supply services or goods to the Netherlands? If so, you might be classed as a foreign entrepreneur in terms of VAT. You may need to file a turnover tax return in the Netherlands and you might also need […]



