Intercompany Solutions: Starting a business in the Netherlands
Why Choose To Start A Dutch Business?
Why work with Intercompany Solutions?
Our experience with international entrepreneurs has allowed us to perfectly adjust our processes in order to ensure the successful and rapid establishment of your Dutch company. Customer satisfaction is guaranteed for all the services we offer.
Our Scope Of Expertise:
- Starting a Dutch business: the complete package
- Assistance with local regulations
- Application for an EORI or VAT number
- Accounting and other financial assistance
- Application for a company bank account
- Secretarial support: premium package
Associations And Memberships :
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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:
- A corporate tax rate of 19%, which is among the lowest in Europe
- No value-added tax (VAT) for transactions between member states of the EU
- Forbes rated the Netherlands as the 4th 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 has a big advantage in terms of representation
- A staggering 93% of the entire Dutch population speaks English, and many are proficient in German and French as well. The Dutch are ranked number one worldwide when it comes to English proficiency, with English being a second language
- Highly educated labor force (3rd in the global top regarding education level)
- Outstanding international business atmosphere
- Holland is 4th in the global report of the WEF and first in the European top 10 for most innovative and competitive economies
- According to a recent investigation by G. Thorton, starting a business in the 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
These are just some notable factors that contribute to the Netherlands being a profound hub for foreign entrepreneurs, investors and multinationals. Nonetheless, small and unique foreign companies are very welcome as well. If you have an original business idea or plan, your chances of success are quite substantial in the Netherlands.
Advantages of opening a BV in the Netherlands
There are several well-known advantages to owning a Dutch BV, which is exactly why almost all our clients choose to establish this specific type of Dutch company. The limited liability part is, of course, one of the main reasons why entrepreneurs choose this legal entity. But the BV has multiple beneficial characteristics. We will outline the most obvious advantages shortly below.
Limited Liability
Competitive income tax rates
The Netherlands benefits from a low corporate tax rate compared to some neighboring European countries. Also, when you have a sole proprietorship, you pay income tax on the profits. The highest tax bracket in this category is currently 52%. You also pay tax on the profits of a BV, but this is only 19% or 25.8%, depending on whether your profits exceed the total annual amount of 200,000 euros. Keep in mind, though, that you will still need to pay income tax on the profits you distribute to yourself. You can also pay yourself dividends, which could be more profitable in some situations. We have covered the topic of paying yourself dividends extensively in this article.
The minimum share capital required is extremely low
Innovation and subsidies
No taxes on interest and royalties
Option to reinvest your profits tax-free via dividend payments
A professional impression
Company formation in the Netherlands: the procedure
In order to establish a Dutch company and register it with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK), 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. Please note, that it is currently not necessary to travel to the Netherlands when you want to establish a Dutch business: the entire process can be executed remotely. All involved shareholders may authorize us 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 rare cases does the director need to be present, but this depends entirely on the bank you choose. If this is your preference, we can advise you on practical matters such as these because, in principle, every step can be done remotely.
The whole procedure of company formation in the Netherlands can be completed in only 3 to 5 business days, assuming all the documentation you send in meets the requirements. The largest portion of time is spent on the verification of the documents. Thus, it is very important that you make sure that you send us the correct documentation and what you send is complete.
The procedure for the formation of a Dutch BV is as follows:
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
The Netherlands compared to other countries
One main benefit of establishing a business in the country is direct access to the European Single Market. The Netherlands isn’t just a member state of the EU; it is actually held in very high regard by the other member states due to its stable political, fiscal and economic climate. The Dutch are often at the forefront of innovative concepts and ideas. As an entrepreneur, you can reap many benefits from being physically present in the country. The port of Rotterdam connects your business directly to the entire world, next to Schiphol Airport. The location of the country is excellent for any import, export or general logistics business. Furthermore, the Dutch tax rates are being further reduced. 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
on Business Establishment in the Netherlands
We receive many questions on a regular basis about company establishment in the Netherlands. Therefore, we have compiled the most frequently asked questions for your convenience. If you have a question that is not mentioned in this section, please feel free to contact us with your query anytime.
The establishment procedure and corresponding requirements
Is it possible to establish a Dutch company if I reside elsewhere?
How many days does it take to start a business in the Netherlands?
Is it mandatory to have a Dutch company address?
What is the minimum required share capital to establish a Dutch BV?
What is the procedure for starting a company in the Netherlands?
1) Drafting and submission of the deed of incorporation
2) Registration in the Dutch Chamber of Commerce
3) Tax registration
4) Bank account application
If you wish to obtain a permit or visa or would like us to take care of extra services, there will be more steps involved.
Which documents are necessary to establish a Dutch business?
Is it possible to start a business in international trade through a company in Holland?
Questions about the Dutch BV
Can you provide further information on Dutch BVs?
We have prepared a comprehensive brochure about Dutch BVs. The Dutch BV is comparable to a private limited liability company, which means that you are generally not personally liable for any debts you make with the company. The legal entity comprises a board of directors, shareholders and sometimes also a supervisory board. It is a well-respected legal entity that breathes professionalism, which will enable you to attract high-end clients and business partners. If you have further or personalized questions, please contact us.
What kind of taxes do companies pay in Holland?
Can you list the main legal aspects of company establishment in Holland?
• Your company’s name must be available and comply with the laws
• You need a local office or virtual registration address
• You need to meet the requirements for registration
• You need to obtain the relevant business permits whenever they are necessary
Feel free to contact Intercompany Solutions for tailored business advice and a clear quote.
What are the available company types in Holland?
The entity preferred by most foreign investors is the private limited liability company, known as the Dutch BV. Other popular types are the foundation (stichting), the public limited liability company (NV), the cooperation, the general partnership, a collaborative entity and the sole proprietorship. If you are doubting about the best legal entity to suit your needs, you can find more information about company types on the website of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce, or contact us directly for professional advice.
Do I have to obtain any special licenses or permits for my newly established Dutch company?
Visas and citizenship
Is a visa necessary to enter the Netherlands? What is the procedure for obtaining such a visa?
EU residents are free to enter the Netherlands without any specific documentation. 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. You can visit the website of the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service for in-depth information about visas, how to obtain one, and the necessary requirements to do so.