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Netherlands Company Formation

Remote BV formation packages. No hidden fees.

Our incorporation agents and notaries have over 10+ years industry experience with over 2000+ entrepreneurs from over 50+ countries. Saving you time and effort. Your new company is just a short call away!
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If you plan to set up a business in the Netherlands, our team can guide you through the entire process. We have supported entrepreneurs from more than 50 countries with the formation of Dutch BVs, subsidiaries, and branch offices. Thanks to our cooperation with our local notaries, most companies can be incorporated within just a few working days.

Beyond the initial formation, we also assist with practical follow-up services such as applying for a VAT number with the tax office, preparing periodic tax returns, and assisting with the corporate accounting requirements. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Download Dutch BV (FAQ)

Why do companies incorporate in the Netherlands?

Starting a Dutch company is now more profitable than ever. The current corporate income tax in the Netherlands is 19% up to a profit of EUR 200,000 annually, and any profit exceeding EUR 200,000 is taxed at 25.8%.

The Netherlands has a 21% VAT rate on goods and services delivered in the country. Between European Member State countries, goods and services may be offered at a 0% VAT rate. Corporations with a VAT number may additionally claim back paid VAT.

Why Work With Us?

ICS' partner notaries can incorporate your business in the Netherlands very quickly and also provide a diverse array of all-in services. On average, a Dutch company formation procedure takes around 3-5 business days from the moment we receive your documents. The entire formation process can be realized remotely.  There are several documents required for the formation of the company, and all documentation can be handled in English.
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CLIENTS FROM 50+ DIFFERENT COUNTRIES
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2000+ COMPANIES FORMED
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Intercompany Solutions CEO Bjorn Wagemakers and client Brian Mckenzie are featured in a report for The National (CBC News) ‘Dutch Economy braces for the worst with Brexit’, in a visit to our notary public on 12 February 2019.

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Intercompany Solutions is a well known brand in the Netherlands and abroad as a trusted incorporating agent in the Netherlands. We are constantly looking for opportunities to share our solutions with foreign entrepreneurs.
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Can a foreigner open a company in the Netherlands?

Yes, any foreigner can start a company in the Netherlands! There are some significant advantages to opening a Dutch company, such as:

  • 19% corporate tax, one of the lowest tax rates in Europe
  • 0% VAT for business between EU member states
  • Core member of the EU
  • High-tech infrastructure
  • The Netherlands ranks 3rd place in Forbes Global Business list
  • 5th place in Global Competitiveness
  • Leading world banks (ING bank, ABN Amro, Rabobank)
  • Excellent international business climate
  • 93% English-speaking natives
  • Netherlands is a logistical hub as a gateway to Europe
  • Qualified personnel (3rd in the world)
  • Remote formation of a business is possible

The Netherlands and company formation:
What type of company should you choose?

The Dutch BV (private limited company) is the most common company type for a Dutch company setup by foreign investors. The Dutch private limited company can already be registered with a minimum share capital of 1 EUR. A Dutch BV is deemed to be a tax resident in the Netherlands.

The required documentation for the formation of the Dutch BV company includes identification documents as well as power of attorney. A power of attorney is required to be signed by a notary for remote incorporation. However, it is not necessary to travel to the Netherlands to arrange this. All the involved shareholders can authorize our notary to take care of the necessary filings on their behalf.

As such, a personal visit is not required to incorporate a company in the Netherlands, the entire formation procedure can be completed from abroad.

Corporate shareholders (Holding companies)
A private limited company in the Netherlands may have corporate shareholders and directors.
For the company incorporation process, the corporate shareholders must be verified and have the authority to sign the deed of incorporation or formation. An extract from the chamber of commerce of the corporate entity must be received, which will act as proof for all shareholders or directors. If the company setup is performed remotely, a power of attorney must be received and signed on behalf of the shareholder or director.

In the case of corporate shareholders, the Dutch company will become a subsidiary. It is also possible to register a Dutch branch office, which has less substance than a subsidiary and may be treated differently by the Dutch tax authorities.

Video explainers on the Dutch BV:

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Ready To Start Your Company?

Contact us and our team will be ready to assist you in your journey to the Netherlands.
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How do I form a company in the Netherlands?

The company formation procedure itself can already be completed within 3-5 business days. 

Step 1

  • Confirming identity information regarding the directors and shareholders of the BV company to be established
  • A copy of a valid form of identification of all the directors, shareholders and other ultimate beneficial owners
  • Our filled-out form regarding the formation of a business

Step 2

ICS checks and verifies all documents, performs compliance checks and prepares the documents to be sent to the notary.

Step 3

Our partner notary will process the company formation procedure in the Netherlands and file the company in the Dutch company register. We can also assist with extra services, such as filing a VAT number application.

Company Formation Netherlands Timetable

Taxation Of Netherlands Companies

Any entrepreneur forming a company in the Netherlands should be aware of the Dutch tax system. When your business is registered with the Dutch tax authorities, your Dutch company will be obligated to pay tax on its profits. The lower corporate tax rate is currently 19%, up to €200,000 profit a year. The higher tax rate is 25.8% for all profits exceeding €200,000.

Many international companies have found the Netherlands to be an excellent country to optimize their global tax rates. This is primarily because of the interesting regulations and tax benefits for international companies.

Company profit taxation

  • 2026: 19% up to €200.000, 25.8% when exceeding this amount

The VAT rates Are:

  • 21% standard VAT rate
  • 9% lower VAT rate
  • 0% tax-exempt rate
  • 0% for transactions between EU countries

Economic Opportunities In
The Netherlands

The Netherlands benefits from its stable position as a core member of the European Union and the accompanying ease of travel within the Schengen area. This offers many opportunities, as new trade routes and investments beyond the Dutch borders can be established. Also, being a part of the EU means that you benefit from the European Single Market. This enables you to exchange goods and services freely between all member states without having to add VAT to your invoice.

International trade is easy if you are based in the Netherlands, since the country is known for its accessibility to large international markets. The port of Rotterdam and the 'Europoort' port area immediately connect international trade with the mainland of Europe. Interesting detail: the meaning of ‘Europoort’ in Dutch is literally ‘Gateway to Europe’. The airport of Schiphol is the second largest airport in Europe, connecting your business to the entire world.

The Netherlands currently holds the 4th position as the most competitive business climate in the world, thanks to the Dutch trade mentality and strong transportation infrastructure. The Dutch workforce is stable, well-educated, and fully bilingual, creating a perfect environment for recruitment purposes and dealing with other cultures, which is good for general diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions
On Netherlands Company Formation

What are the top companies headquartered in the Netherlands?

In 2020, more than 24 thousand multinationals were active in our country, according to the Dutch Central Bureau for Statistics (CBS). These include (but are definitely not limited to) well-known companies such as Discovery, Panasonic Europe, FUJIFILM Irvine Scientific, Swisscom, Universal Music, IKEA, Lipton, Nike, Adidas, Cisco Systems, Booking.com, Tesla Motors and Netflix; the list is extensive. 

There are many reasons these companies decide to open a subsidiary or even headquarter here, such as the fantastic infrastructure, highly qualified staff, international opportunities and opportunities for growth and innovation. The Netherlands is globally seen as a very progressive country with a vibrant business climate that attracts many successful businesses.

How does the process of incorporation work if I am not a resident of the Netherlands?

Starting a business in the Netherlands is an option for residents of any country. The Netherlands has very welcoming regulations for foreign investors and entrepreneurs. The process itself is always the same, whether you reside here or not.

You also do not need to be physically present to start a company in the Netherlands. This makes it possible for all foreign entrepreneurs to enjoy the advantages of a Dutch business remotely.

Do I need a business license in The Netherlands?

This depends on the nature of your business activities, but most businesses in the Netherlands are not regulated by business licenses. Some types of businesses that might require a license are restaurants and other companies within the food and beverage industry, shipping companies, companies that work with toxic substances, pharmaceutical companies, taxi companies and some financial institutions, to name but a few. 

What do you need to start a company?

There are a few documents you will need to provide if you plan to establish a Dutch business formally. In general, you will need a valid form of identification, a preferred company name, and the legal entity you wish to set up.. 

When should one consider forming a company in the Netherlands?

Starting a Dutch company can be interesting for you in several ways. If you are looking to expand your current business internationally or if you want to start a new internationally oriented business, then the Netherlands is a perfect option due to its strategic position for international trade. 

The country is also a highly acclaimed member state of the European Union, which makes it possible for you to reap all the benefits of doing business within the EU and its Single Market. Next to that, the Netherlands has a very vibrant business climate, a stable economy and many interesting opportunities for foreign investors and entrepreneurs. 

Are there specific naming requirements for companies in the Netherlands?

Naming your company in the Netherlands is no different from naming it elsewhere. The most important part is that you come up with something unique and original that fits your company’s goals and ambitions well and, at the same time, isn't already used by someone else. 

When we start the incorporation process, we always check the availability of your preferred name. In the case that it’s already taken, we will inform you about this so you can devise another name. 
Disclaimer: Intercompany Solutions is a private legal and accounting firm. We are not a government authority and do not issue official documents, approvals, or licenses. All official filings in the chamber of commerce are carried out by our licensed Dutch notary partner firms.

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Intercompany Solutions is a well known brand in the Netherlands and abroad as a trusted incorporating agent in the Netherlands. We are constantly looking for opportunities to share our solutions with foreign entrepreneurs.
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Looking to start your company in the Netherlands?

Set up your BV quickly and compliantly
Guidance through every legal step
Expert help with company registration
Full accounting and legal support
All of the above — with Intercompany Solutions.
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ICS is specialised in supporting entrepreneurs with forming a Limited Liability Company (BV) in The Netherlands.

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