Netherlands Self-Employed / Startup Visa

Introduction about Netherlands

Country Key Data

Passport Ranking: Top 5 globally
Visa-Free Travel: 190+ countries (for citizens)
Population: ~17.5 million
GDP per Capita: ~USD 58,000
Capital: Amsterdam (official), The Hague (government)
Currency: Euro (€)
Government Type: Constitutional monarchy with parliamentary system

The Netherlands offers one of Europe’s most innovation-driven migration models because:

It ties residency approval to entrepreneurial merit, not passive capital
It fosters high-tech, sustainable, and scalable business development
It supports early-stage founders through official facilitators
It aligns with EU-wide goals of boosting innovation and competitiveness
It provides real relocation options for global founders, digital creators, and knowledge workers

Why Choose This Program?

Program Qualifications

Startup Visa – Key Requirements

Support agreement with RVO-approved facilitator
Innovative business idea
Clear business & market plan
Sufficient funds for 12 months living costs
Relevant entrepreneurial experience
Clean criminal record

Self-Employed Visa – Key Requirements

Points-based assessment on:
- Experience & qualifications
- Business plan & financial viability
- Economic benefit to the Netherlands
Assessed by IND & RVO
No fixed investment amount (realistic startup capital required)

Eligible Dependents (Both Programs)

Spouse
Children under 18

Benefits

Investment Options

Option 1: Startup Visa

Sufficient funds for personal living expenses (~EUR 18,000/year)

A development agreement with a certified Dutch facilitator

Clear innovation component (tech, sustainability, creative industries, biotech, etc.)

Option 2: Self-Employed Visa

Adequate business capital depending on business model

Evidence of realistic financial projections and market analysis

Demonstrated demand or economic contribution

This makes the visa accessible to entrepreneurs rather than purely investors.

Roadmap to Residency

Prepare business plan and innovation proposal

Partner with an RVO-approved facilitator (Startup Visa)

Submit application to Dutch IND

Receive 1-year Startup Visa OR 2-year Self-Employed Visa

Operate the business and meet performance criteria

Renew or transition to long-term self-employed residency

After 5 years: apply for permanent residency

Later, apply for Dutch citizenship if qualified

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Eligibility Assessment

Confirm whether Startup Visa or Self-Employed Visa is more suitable.

Step 2: Develop Business Plan

Must include financial forecasts, innovation rationale, and market analysis.

Step 3: Secure Facilitator (Startup Visa Only)

Accelerator/incubator signs an official support agreement.

Step 4: Submit Application to IND

Include proof of funds, business plan, facilitator contract, and required documents.

Step 5: Receive Temporary Residence Permit

Startup Visa: 1 year
Self-Employed Visa: 2 years

Step 6:Operate Business in the Netherlands

Demonstrate growth, innovation, or economic impact.

Step 7: Renewal or Transition

Startup Visa often transitions into the Self-Employed Visa.

Step 8: Permanent Residency Eligibility

After 5 years of legal residence + integration requirements.

Risks & Realities

Pros

No large capital investment required

Access to one of Europe’s strongest startup ecosystems

Schengen mobility

Clear pathway from Startup Visa → Self-Employed Visa → Permanent Residency

Support from accelerators and incubators

Cons

Innovation requirement eliminates purely traditional businesses

Success depends on business performance, not just investment

High cost of living for early-stage founders

Language requirement for long-term settlement

Facilitator ecosystem competitive and selective

“netherlands is more than a destination — it’s where your family’s next chapter begins. Take the first step today toward a life of peace, prosperity, and purpose.”

Download Full Citizenship Guide