Have A Question? Call An Expert
REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION

Intercompany Solutions: Starting a business in the Netherlands

Operating since 2017, our company has helped over 1000 clients from 50+ countries to set up their businesses in the Netherlands. Our clients range from small business owners opening their first company, to multinationals opening a subsidiary in the Netherlands.
Talk to an expert

Why Choose To Start A Dutch Business?

The Netherlands is a country offering many benefits to entrepreneurs and investors. Within several industries, the Dutch have proved to take on a leadership position, by continually coming up with innovative and efficient solutions. These key industries include (but are most certainly not limited to):
Information & Technology
High Tech Sector
Agriculture
Trade and logistics
Health Sector
Energy
Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals
Creative Sector & Arts
The Netherlands are ranked as the 5th most innovative and competitive country in the world by the World Economic Forum and the 3rd best country in the world for business by Forbes Magazine. The fact that the Netherlands is part of the EU obviously plays a large role, since this enabled the Dutch to build outstanding connections with most countries abroad. Due to the European Single Market you can freely import and export goods and services throughout the entire EU. Next to that, the location of the Netherlands has proven to be a huge advantage for purely logistical reasons. Both Schiphol as well as the port in Rotterdam are two of the most prominent logistical gateways for goods entering and exiting Europe. Starting a business in Netherlands means you have both options within driving distance
24-HOUR RESPONSE TIME
1000+ COMPANIES FORMED
BUSINESS LAW EXPERTS
FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION
100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

Why work with Intercompany Solutions?

Our experience with international entrepreneurs has allowed us to perfectly adjust our processes in order to ensure the successful establishment of your company. Customer satisfaction is guaranteed for all the services we offer.

Our Scope Of Expertise:

  • Starting a Dutch business, complete package;
  • Assistance with local regulations;
  • Application for issue of an EORI or VAT number;
  • Accounting;
  • Application for a company bank account
  • Secretarial support: premium package.

Associations And Memberships :

We are constantly improving our standards of quality to deliver impeccable services.

Media

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.

We perfect our quality standards to deliver services of the highest degree.
Learn more
YouTube video

Featured In

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.

The Benefits Of Starting A Business In Netherlands

The Netherlands is known worldwide for its beneficial environment for entrepreneurs.

Many global investors and entrepreneurs consider starting a business in the Netherlands. In this guide, we explore the Netherlands as a jurisdiction to start a company. Here are some of the benefits of establishing a business in Holland:

  • Corporate tax rate of 19%, among the lowest in Europe;
  • No value added tax (VAT) for transactions between member states of the EU;
  • In 2018, Forbes rated the Netherlands as the 3rd best country in the world for businesses
  • The Netherlands has recently attracted many businesses and multinationals from the UK regarding Brexit
  • The #1 country worldwide for double tax avoidance treaties;
  • The Netherlands is among the founding members of the EU;
  • Local companies have a great reputation in global commerce. The Netherlands gives a big advantage in representation;
  • Of the Dutch people, 93% speak English; many are proficient in German and French;
  • Highly educated labor force (3rd in the global top for education level);
  • Outstanding international business atmosphere;
  • Holland is 4th in the global report of the WEF and first in the European top for most innovative and competitive economies;
  • According to a recent investigation by G. Thorton, starting a business in Netherlands is one of the best choices for foreign investors.
  • The country welcomes foreign entrepreneurs and investors: from small enterprises to multinational companies included in the Fortune 500 list;
  • The Netherlands attracts international companies from all sectors with its stable legislation and politics, coupled with excellent international relations.

Procedures To Follow To Gain Dutch Citizenship

When you wish to live in the Netherlands, the exact procedure you need to follow depends on your current citizenship. Roughly there are two categories: EU, EEA and Swiss citizens versus Non-EU citizens.

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens

In general, all of the above-mentioned persons enjoy exactly the same benefits as Dutch citizens due to the equality of all citizens within the EU & EEA. This means you will not have to obtain a residence permit to live in the Netherlands. On arrival in Holland you can obtain a BSN number (which is a personal registration number) from your local municipality. This number serves as a tax and social security number.

Non-EU citizens

If you are from a different country than one of the above-mentioned, you will be required to follow certain procedures according to Dutch immigration regulations. This means you will either be required to obtain a residence permit. Which one you need depends on your exact goals and aspirations.

Which Visa-Permit Do You Need To Live In The Netherlands?

If you want to obtain a permit to live in the Netherlands, you must meet certain conditions as set by the Dutch Immigration Authorities (IND). Furthermore, the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) will score the application based on the activities of the future company as well as the ambitions of the applicant. This score is based on the added value of your potential business for the Netherlands, your past experience and the quality of the business plan.

Start-up permit:

If you want a residence permit under the program of ”innovative startup”, you need to find yourself a so-called facilitator. This mentor figure needs to meet certain criteria, such as previous experience in guiding start-ups and a registration in the Trade Register of the Chamber of Commerce. He or she can help and advise you about management, research, marketing and communication and investment acquisition. Also, the RVO requires that your business is innovative, that you have a plan how your idea can be developed into a business, and you have sufficient financial resources to be able to live in the Netherlands for a period of one year.

Self-employed permit:

This visa is widely used for applicants who want to run or continue their own business in the Netherlands. One of the things you will need to prove, is the fact that your business activities will somehow benefit the Dutch business market. You will need to prove this in your business plan and by showing financial prospects offered by third parties. The financial information you provide must be examined by a certified accountant or financial advisor. The application for this permit is point-based, meaning you need to earn a certain minimum of points in order to be eligible. Japanese and United States citizens are exempt from this system and able to follow a simplified procedure. You can start a Dutch company at any time, you do not need a permit for that. The permit is only for persons who wish to live in the Netherlands. Intercompany Solutions can help you set up your company and introduce you to an immigration lawyer.
You can start a Dutch company at any time, you do not need a permit for that. The permit is only for persons who wish to live in the Netherlands. Intercompany Solutions can help you set up your company and introduce you to an immigration lawyer.
YouTube video

Starting A Company In The Netherlands:
All Legal Entities

In the Netherlands, you can choose from a wide variety of legal business entities. There is a significant distinction between unincorporated business structures (‘rechtsvormen zonder rechtspersoonlijkheid’) and incorporated business structures (‘rechtsvormen met rechtspersoonlijkheid’). The main difference between these two is that there is no distinction between your private and business assets in an unincorporated business. So if you create debts with your business, you can personally be held accountable. If you choose an incorporated business, you separate private and business assets and thus enjoy protection from business debts.

There Are Four Types Of Unincorporated Business Structures:

  • Sole trader/single-person business (Eenmanszaak or ZZP)
  • Limited partnership (Commanditaire vennootschap or CV)
  • General partnership (Vennootschap onder firma or VOF)
  • Commercial/professional partnership (Maatschap).

There Are Five Types Of Incorporated Business Structures:

  • Private limited company: ltd. and Inc. (Besloten vennootschap or BV)
  • Public limited company: plc. and Corp. (Naamloze vennootschap or NV)
  • Cooperative and mutual insurance society (Coöperatie en onderlinge waarborgmaatschappij)
  • Foundation (Stichting)
  • Association (Vereniging).

Legal requirements differ between the business structures. In general, the business structure that is most often chosen by foreigners is the Private limited liability company (BV).

Contact us

Starting A Business In The Netherlands:
Company Types In Depth

The Dutch Foundation

Is a legal entity. Dutch foundations can be used as commercial entities, family funds, and holding entities. The foundation may hold shares and real estate, it may strive for profits. Dutch foundations can be tax-exempt under certain conditions. Or can even be exempt from accounting or reporting requirements. If the Dutch foundation is concluded under notary agreement, the foundation will be limited in liability.

Dutch NV company

Also known as public liability company is a legal entity most suitable for large businesses when forming a Netherlands public company. It requires a minimum share capital of EUR 45,000. The Dutch NV company is controlled by a board of directors for day-to-day decisions. The annual shareholders meeting may appoint directors or demand changes in management.

Branches and Subsidiaries

Starting a branch in the Netherlands can be interesting for foreign companies. A subsidiary will usually be a Dutch BV owned by the foreign holding company. The main difference is that the subsidiary company is fully independent, while the branch company is not.

General partnership

The general partnership is where two or more resident partners work together with one company name and entrepreneurial goal. Both directors have full liability for the debts of the company. The profits are shared between the partners and there is no minimum share capital requirement. The downside of the general partnership is that the partners can both be held accountable by creditors if the firm cannot fulfill its payments.

Dutch Limited partnership

The Netherlands also knows a different type of partnership, this is known as the Limited partnership and is comparable to an LP or LLP company. One managing partner has unlimited liability and one silent partner has limited liability, if he does not participate in the management of the company. ICS does not provide services for Dutch Limited Partnerships.

Professional Partnership

A professional partnership in the Netherlands can be formed by two self-employed individuals, such as accountants, dentists or physio therapists. The partners are responsible for the liabilities. This type of entity is made for resident practicing professionals.

BV And NV: Differences Between The Two Limited Companies

Quick fact: Around 99% of our clients choose for a BV company. Unless you want to be publicly listed (NV), or you are looking to form a charitable foundation (Stichting). The Dutch BV is likely the company type you are looking for.

BV or NV: how do you choose which one is best for you?

Potential clients often ask us which option is the best fitting choice: the BV or the NV. The BV is comparable to a limited liability company, which means that the liability for the owner is limited. Some comparable structures are the private liability company in the UK (Ltd), the French société a responsabilité limitée (SARL) and the German Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung (GmbH).

The NV is comparable to a corporation. The NV is also the legal entity that is traded at stock exchanges. In the UK, the NV is comparable to the public liability company (plc), in Germany to the Aktiengesellschaft (AG) and in France to the Société Anonyme (SA).

The Dutch BV (comparison)

The BV is a privately held company comparable to the ‘limited liability company’

  • There is an annual general meeting (GM) for shareholders.
  • A one-tier board and a two-tier board are both possible.
  • A supervisory board (or non-executive directors in the board) is optional.
  • The articles of association can contain regulations granting shareholders limited possibilities to give general instructions to the management board.
  • Practically no minimum capital is required. Issued and required paid-up capital is determined by founders. This is registered in the articles of association.
  • Different types of shares allow varying voting and dividend rights, plus non-voting shares.
  • Particular class shares may limit profit sharing entitlement, however such shares must always have voting rights.
  • Transfer restrictions are sometimes allowed.
  • Shares are not admitted on stock exchange.
  • The director decides about profit distribution.

The Dutch NV (Comparison)

The NV is a Public Company Comparable to the ‘Public Limited Company’ 

  • The minimum capital is EUR 45,000.
  • Different types of shares allowed (such as bearer shares).
  • All shareholders receive voting rights as well as profit rights.
  • Transfer restrictions are sometimes allowed.
  • Shares are admitted on stock exchange.
  •  There is an annual general meeting (GM) for shareholders with and without voting rights.
  • A one-tier board and a two-tier board are both possible.
  • A supervisory board (or non-executive directors in the board) is generally optional.
  • The articles of association can contain regulations granting shareholders the right to give specific instructions to the management board.
  • The GM decides about profit distribution.
  • If a certain contribution might threaten the continuity of the company, the management board may refuse approval to the distribution of profit, dependent on the outcome of a liquidity test.
  • Interim dividends are possible.
There are some differences between the two limited companies. For instance, a BV can only issue registered shares, whereas a NV can issue both registered and bearer shares.

The articles of association determine a large part of the rules regarding the possibility of transferring shares freely in a BV. Oftentimes, there are certain transfer restrictions that limit some (or all) shareholders. In that case, the other shareholders need to give their consent when a shareholder wants to transfer shares.

Also, the other shareholders have a preemptive right to buy shares from a selling shareholder. Since 2012 the flex-BV was introduced. One of the most notable changes was the decision to cancel the obligation to bring in a minimum share capital in order to start a BV completely. For most companies, a BV structure is the best option.

Ready To Start Your Company?

Contact us and our team will be ready to assist you in your journey to the Netherlands.
Contact us

Dutch Limited Liability Company (Dutch BV)

The Dutch private company with limited liability (besloten venootschap, BV) issues shares that are registered privately and cannot be transferred freely. The BV company is the company type of choice for 99% of our clients.

Shareholders

A limited company is established by at least one incorporator, either a legal entity or an individual. The entity or individual, resident or foreign, can act both as an incorporator and a complete management board for the new company. A Dutch BV can be registered remotely by the director(s) and shareholder(s). 

It is not compulsory to have a secretary. If the shareholder is just one, this does not result in personal liability. Still, the name of the shareholder will appear on the registration certificates of the company prepared by the Commercial Registry. Shareholdings are recorded in the register of shareholders maintained at the company’s office.

 

Incorporation deed

To start a business in the Netherlands, an incorporation deed is drafted in the presence of a public notary and submitted to the Trade Registry at the Commercial Chamber and to the Tax Office.

The official incorporation deed must be prepared in Dutch (our company will also prepare an English version of the notary deed for your convenience). This document lists the details of incorporators and initial board members, their participation amounts and payments made to the starting equity.

The deed also contains the AoA (Articles of Association) that include, as a minimum, the following details: company name, city location of the registered office, company purpose, amount of authorized capital (EUR), share division and share transfer conditions.

Company name

Intercompany Solution will check before we start your Dutch business if the chosen company name is not already in use as a trademark or a commercial name.

This is done as the holders of prior registrations have the right to require a name, The name of your company must either end or begin with “BV”. In addition to the company name, a BV has the freedom to choose one or several trade names to label the whole business or parts of it.

Shares and share capital

Incorporators can decide on the amount of share capital; A minimum share capital of €1 is required.

A single share with a corresponding voting right is required as a minimum. Shares can have profit and/or voting rights.

Dutch private limited companies can have corporate directors and shareholders.

Timeframe

The incorporation procedure to start a business in the Netherlands will usually take 5 working days. Please note that the procedure can take longer in busier periods.

The timeframe depends on how complex the shareholding structure is and, also, on the prompt provision of papers by the client.

Advantages Of Opening a BV in The Netherlands

Limited Liability

Shareholders carry no personal liability for the debts of the company. In principle, the risks are limited to their investments in the business.

Minimum Capital

The minimum share capital required to establish a BV used to be EUR 18 000 (before October 01, 2012), but it was reduced to just 1 euro. Now it is easy to establish a new business.

Innovation

The Netherlands offers various entrepreneurial subsidies, e.g. the Innovation Box instrument and WBSO (R&D tax credit).

No Taxes On Interest, Royalties And Dividends

The Netherlands has developed a comprehensive network of treaties for the avoidance of double taxation. Thus, companies can benefit from reduced rates of withholding taxes on interest, royalties and dividends transferred to companies established in the country and minimum taxation of capital gains arising from share sales in the source country (pacts with close to a hundred different jurisdictions).
YouTube video

The BV Holding Structure

The BV Holding Structure is a secure and cost-effective way to start your own business in the Netherlands.

A holding is a legal entity that only holds assets, e.g. trade companies shares. Therefore, a holding company does not carry any liability or risk associated with its operations.

A subsidiary is an entity actively involved in services or trade. It performs business activities and, therefore, carries liability for its operations. This means that creditors, suppliers and other parties may file claims against it. On the other hand, the holding entity with its assets is safe from claims.

The combination of a subsidiary and a holding in one structure results in the so-called holding structure. Below are the main characteristics of a Dutch BV Holding Structure:

  • the holding structure includes two separate private limited companies (BVs);
  • one of the BVs is a subsidiary and engages in business activities;
  • the other BV is a holding without any business activity;
  • the investor/entrepreneur owns the holding’s shares;
  • the holding company owns the subsidiary’s shares.

Reasons To Incorporate A BV Holding Structure

Entrepreneurs prefer to start their Netherlands businesses as holding structures for two principal reasons: risk and tax.

First, you reduce risk by operating via a holding structure in the Netherlands. A holding BV provides an additional layer of protection between the business owner, as an individual, and his/her business activities. BVs can also be structured to protect the capital of the active company. Accumulated pension provisions and profit are thus shielded from business risks.

Second, holding structures may provide tax advantages. The most significant one is the so-called participation exemption. It allows the owner to sell the company and transfer the profit to the holding BV without paying profit tax.

Contact us

When Should I Consider Starting A Holding Structure For My Netherlands Business?

If it is very likely that your company will one day be sold. You can then transfer the profit from selling the company to the holding BV free of tax, by virtue of the Dutch participation exemption.
If you need risk protection for your capital.
If you want to start a fiscally flexible business structure in the Netherlands.
Contact us

Company Formation Netherlands: The Procedure

In order to form a Netherlands company, you will obviously need to fill out the necessary paperwork. The required documents for the formation of a legal entity consist of a legalized copy of valid identification and proof of address. These documents need to be sent with an apostille, which you can obtain at a local notary’s office. Also, a power of attorney is required, which must be signed by a notary for remote formation.

However, it is not necessary to travel to the Netherlands. All shareholders may authorize us in order to take care of all mandatory filings on their behalf. Other necessary actions, such as applying for a bank account for your company, may also be performed remotely. Only in some cases, the director needs to be present, but this depends entirely on the bank you choose. If you so wish, we can advise you on practical matters such as these, so every step can be done remotely.

The whole procedure of company formation in the Netherlands can be completed in only 5 working days, assuming all documentation meets the requirements. Please note that the procedure can take longer in busier periods.

The largest portion of time is spent in the verification of the documents. The procedure for the formation of a Dutch BV is as follows:

Step 1

We check the identities of all directors and shareholders of the company you want to register in the Netherlands, using the legalized copies of valid identification. Also, all accompanying forms will be checked, as well as the preferred company name which needs to be submitted in advance to check availability.

Step 2

After the preparation of all the necessary documentation for the formation of a Dutch business, the formation documents need to be signed by all shareholders. This can either be done remotely, in which case we prepare the formation documents and send them to your home country. After signing, you can return the original documents to us by legalizing the papers at a local notary’s office of your choice. Alternatively, you can also choose to sign the documentation at a Dutch notary, provided you visit the Netherlands for the entire process. The process may defer slightly for an international holding structure.

Step 3

After all the documentation has been signed, received and processed, our firm will commence with the registration procedure. The deed of incorporation will be signed by a notary public, in order to legally form the company, and afterwards submit the deed of formation to the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. A few hours later, a registration number will be assigned to your Dutch company, which serves as your company identification number. You will then receive a corporate extract from the company. Once this process is finished, you can apply for a Dutch business bank account. All shareholders will need to pay the agreed upon share capital to this bank account. This can be accomplished after formation of the Dutch company, but also beforehand by transferring the funds to the notary public. After the formation procedure, you will also receive your tax (VAT) number. You will need to register at the local Dutch tax office. It is highly recommended to hire an accountant or use our services for the VAT application. After completion, you are legally obligated to use accounting services for your quarterly VAT filings, your corporate income tax filings and one annual statement which needs to be published at the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.

What Are The Costs Of Starting A Business In Netherlands?

The exact costs will be calculated according to your specific business needs and wishes, but you should consider the following fees and costs involved with the entire procedure:

  • Preparing all legal documents and documents for identification purposes
  • The fee at the Dutch Chamber of Commerce for registering a Dutch company
  • The costs for registration at the local tax authorities
  • Our incorporation fees covering the formation of the company as well as extra services such as application for a Dutch bank account
  • Our fees for assisting you with the VAT number and optional EORI number applications

The annual costs cover our accounting services. Of course, we will happily provide you with a detailed personal quote for the formation of a Dutch company.

Company Formation Netherlands Timetable

Find our practical timetable on the full incorporation process with our firm.
Note that several actions can be completed in 1 day, which shortens the total time of the formation process.

Taxation Of Netherlands Companies

Every Dutch business is of course subject to taxation. You will have to pay tax over all profits of your company.

Currently, the corporate tax rate is 19% up to €200.000 annually, all profits above this threshold are taxed at 25.8%.

Profits taxation

2023: 19% until €200.000, 25,8% above

Profits The VAT rates Are:

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

Tax Advantages And Obligations

After incorporation private limited companies are registered at the Tax Office and the required tax numbers are issued. Dutch companies have particular obligations and need to submit different tax returns. Find more information below.

Dutch corporate tax

The corporate tax rate in the Netherlands is among the lowest in Europe: 19% for profits up to EUR 200 000 and 25.8% for profits exceeding this amount. These conditions apply for both NVs (public companies) and BVs. In the next years, the government will reduce the minimum tax rates.

Participation exemption

The participation exemption is among the most commonly used advantages with respect to taxation. This tax regulation exempts from tax, holding entities owning at least 5 percent of a subsidiary in case of transfer of dividends. The regulation is known as “the directive on parent companies and subsidiaries”. The process may defer slightly for an international holding structure.

Participation exemption for international companies

The exemption gives an additional advantage to companies operating internationally if the subsidiary company is located in another country. The international subsidiary’s profit is subject to tax in the country where it is established. The profit after tax can then be transferred to the parent company in Holland. This amount, received by the parent company, will NOT be subject to corporate tax in Holland. Once this process is finished, you can apply for a Dutch business bank account. All shareholders will need to pay the agreed upon share capital to this bank account. This can be accomplished after formation of the Dutch company, but also beforehand by transferring the funds to the notary public. After the formation procedure, you will also receive your tax (VAT) number. You will need to register at the local Dutch tax office. It is highly recommended to hire an accountant or use our services for the VAT application. After completion, you are legally obligated to use accounting services for your quarterly VAT filings, your corporate income tax filings and one annual statement which needs to be published at the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.

Economic Opportunities In The Netherlands

The Netherlands largely benefits from its stable position being a core member of the European Union, which allows for ease of travel within the Schengen area. This offers plenty of opportunities, as new trade routes and investments beyond borders can be easily established. The Dutch are internationally renowned for their accessibility to large international markets, mainly due to the port of Rotterdam and the ‘Europoort’ area. These are both gateways connecting international trade with the entire mainland of Europe.

Due to the strong Dutch trade mentality as well as a solid transportation infrastructure, the Netherlands have been able to maintain a 20th position as the largest economy in the world. The Dutch workforce well-educated and fully bilingual, providing many possibilities regarding recruitment and doing business with other cultures. This and the substantially low costs for company formation makes the Netherlands extremely attractive compared to other Western European countries.

Value Added Tax (VAT) In Holland

Holland uses a VAT system, similarly to other EU members. Some transactions are not subject to value-added tax, but it is commonly charged by the authorities. The regular rate, 21%, is charged with respect to almost all services and goods offered by Dutch businesses.

This rate might also apply to products imported from non-EU countries. In Holland, there is also a lower VAT rate of 9% regarding specific services and goods, e.g. medicine, food, art, medicine, books, antiques, entry to sports events, museums, theaters and zoos. 

VAT for international entrepreneurs: when your company is established in a foreign country, but you are also operating in Holland, you need to conform to the national regulations. If you are offering products or services in Holland, in most cases you need to cover VAT there. Still, VAT is often charged in reverse to the individual receiving the product or service, resulting in 0% rate.

Reverse-charging is an option if your clients are legal entities or entrepreneurs established in Holland. Then you can omit the VAT from the invoice and insert reverse-charged instead. Otherwise, you need to pay the tax in Holland. Starting a company in The Netherlands will allow your business to make full advantage of the Dutch VAT regulations.

30% tax reimbursement ruling: international employees hired in the Netherlands can make use of a tax exemption called “the 30 percent reimbursement ruling”. If you meet certain conditions, the employer will transfer to you 30% of your wages free of tax. This allowance is meant to compensate the additional expenses of employees who work outside their home countries.

Eligibility conditions: in order to qualify for reimbursement, candidates have to meet the following requirements:

  • the employer is registered at the Tax Office in the Netherlands and covers payroll tax;
  • there is a written agreement between the employee and the employer that the reimbursement ruling applies;
  • the employee is either transferred or recruited abroad;
  • upon hiring, the employee had resided more than 150 kilometers away from the border of the Netherlands for at least 18 months out of the past two years;
  • the yearly salary of the employee is equal to or exceeding € 37 000;
  • the employee has qualifications that are scarce on the Dutch labour market.

The Netherlands Compared To Other Countries

The Netherlands is considered to be one of the most favorable countries for business and investments. The infamous annual Forbes list listed the Netherlands on a proud 3rd spot, only preceded by the U.K. and New Zealand. The logistical power and innovative atmosphere of the Netherlands are key factors inherent to the high ranking, as well as the low tax rates compared to some other European countries:

The Dutch tax rates were further reduced in 2021. The goal is to achieve a strengthened investment climate, providing foreign investors with better opportunities. There has probably never been a better time to start a business in the Netherlands.

Intercompany Solutions In Brexit Report

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.

We perfect our quality standards to deliver services of the highest degree.
LEARN MORE
YouTube video

Some Of Our Recent Clients

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.

Frequently Asked Questions
On Business In The Netherlands

Procedure and requirements

Is it possible to establish a Dutch company if I reside elsewhere?

Yes, a resident of any country can incorporate a company in Holland. For your convenience, we also provide procedures for starting a business remotely in the Netherlands.

How many days does it take for starting a business in Netherlands?

On average, it will take 5 working days to start a Netherlands business. Please note that the procedure can take longer in busier periods.

Is it compulsory to have a Dutch company address?

Yes, your company needs a registered address in Holland. You also have the option to establish a branch of an international business.

What is the minimum required share capital?

Limited companies no longer need to declare a minimum capital, €1 share capital is sufficient.

What is the procedure for Starting a Netherlands company?

The procedure includes four main steps:
1) Drafting and submission of the deed of incorporation
2) Registration in the chamber of commerce
3) Tax registration
4) Bank account application

What are the documents necessary for starting a Dutch business?

The main document you need in order to incorporate a business is the Articles and Memorandum of Association.

Is it possible to start a business in the international trade through a company in Holland?

Yes, it is possible. International traders set up companies in Holland quite often. Local incorporation brings numerous advantages.

Questions Dutch BV

Can you provide further information on Dutch BVs?

We have prepared a comprehensive brochure about Dutch BVs. If you have further questions, please, contact us.

What taxes do companies pay in Holland?

For annual profit of up to € 200.000 companies pay 19% corporate tax. Above this threshold, the tax rate is 25.8%.

Can you list the main legal aspects of company establishment in Holland?

You need to consider several important aspects: Your company’s name must be available and compliant with the laws; you need a local office; you need to meet the requirements for registration and obtain the relevant business permits.

What are the company types in Holland?

The entity preferred by most foreign investors is the private limited company (BV). Other popular types are the foundation (Stichting) and the public company (NV). You can also register a collaborative entity, a solitary proprietorship or a partnership.

Do I have to obtain any special licenses or permits for my newly established Dutch company?

The requirements depend on the nature of your business and your scope of activities. A permit for conducting business ensures that you are able to legally sell, trade, store and engage in financial activities. Few companies need special licenses or permits.

Visa and Citizenship

Is a visa necessary to enter Holland? What is the procedure for obtaining it?

EU residents are free to enter the Netherlands without any specific document. Non-EU citizens can stay in the country with a Schengen Visa (short-term) for no more than 90 days. For longer stays, you must apply for a visa at the Dutch Embassy in your country of residence

What is the procedure for obtaining Dutch citizenship?

A person may become a citizen of the Netherlands through business immigration, naturalization, option procedure or marriage. Children of Dutch parents can claim citizenship. Our experts can provide you with further detail regarding the procedures and help you follow them.

Legal questions

Can you list the main legal requirements that foreign entrepreneurs must meet in order to make investments in the Netherlands?

Foreign investors have the same rights to establish businesses as Dutch citizen. In practice, it involves slightly different procedures, as a foreigner does not have a local address or tax number.

Can you explain the requirements for employment in Holland?

The employer-employee relationship is regulated by the national Law of Employment. International employees have to obtain permits for work prior to arriving in the country (EEA and Swiss nationals are excluded from the rule). A written employment agreement needs to be drafted and signed. The agreement can be open-term or with a particular duration. This depends on the nature of the business activities.

How to register a brand or a trademark?

The usual way for trademark registration in the Netherlands is to first incorporate a company and subsequently register the trademark locally. There might be a possibility to register a trademark or brand in the Netherlands without establishing a company.

Download brochure: Set up a Dutch Limited Liability Company

Do you want to start your own business in Europe or The Netherlands? The Netherlands, with its international outlook, is a good place to start your own business. We will make it easy for you by providing our brochures with topics around Busines Establishment, Legal issues and Business Immigration.
*By downloading our brochure you consent that our team may send you 2 follow-up emails.

Our brochure describes the possibilities of The Dutch BV (besloten vennootschap) as the most popular entity to be used as a financing, holding or royalty company in international structures.
The businessman puts a stamp on the contract

Need more information on Intercompany Solutions?

Are you planning on starting a business in Netherlands or do you wish to receive more information on taxation, investment or incorporation in the country? Please contact our local incorporation agents.
Contact us
Dedicated to support entrepreneurs with starting and growing business in the Netherlands.

Member Of

menuchevron-downcross-circleplus-circlecircle-minus