Question 1

Can I start a company in the Netherlands if I am not living there?

Accepted Answer

Yes, non-residents can fully own and register a Dutch BV remotely. Foreign entrepreneurs are allowed to incorporate and manage a Dutch company without living in the Netherlands. The entire process can be completed remotely through a notary, with registration at the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK).

Question 2

Do I need a Netherlands business address?

Accepted Answer

Yes, every Dutch company must have a registered address in the Netherlands. This address is required for registration with the Chamber of Commerce. If you do not have your own office, you can use a registered business address service. Costs typically range between EUR 60 and EUR 150 per month depending on the provider and location.

Question 3

Is there a minimum share capital for a Dutch BV?

Accepted Answer

No, the minimum share capital is EUR 1. There is no longer a strict minimum capital requirement for a Dutch BV. However, it is generally recommended to start with a higher amount to reflect a more stable financial position.

Question 4

Do I need a local Dutch director?

Accepted Answer

No, a foreign entrepreneur can be both the owner and director of a Dutch BV. Dutch law allows non-residents to fully manage their company. However, in some cases, having local substance (such as a Dutch director, staff, or office) may be beneficial for tax purposes, VAT registration, or banking. Substance requirements help determine the company's connection to the Netherlands and may impact how the tax authorities assess your business.

Question 5

What are substance requirements in the Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

Substance refers to the real presence of your company in the Netherlands. Dutch tax authorities assess factors such as the location of directors, place of business activities, presence of staff and office setup. Stronger substance can be important for tax residency, VAT registration, and access to certain tax benefits.

Question 6

What does it cost to incorporate a Dutch BV?

Accepted Answer

The cost for remote company formation is EUR 2299 all-in. This includes notary fees, legalisation, and Chamber of Commerce registration, including the mandatory EUR 85.15 KVK registration fee (this is included in all our fees). All incorporation costs are tax-deductible business expenses. Discounts may apply when combining services such as accounting or company secretarial support.

Question 7

What services are included in company formation?

Accepted Answer

We provide full-service support from incorporation to compliance, including company registration with Dutch authorities, notary coordination, VAT number application, and corporate tax setup. Optional ongoing services include accounting, annual filings, and legal compliance support.

Question 8

What types of companies can I register in the Netherlands?

Accepted Answer

The Dutch BV is the most common choice for foreign entrepreneurs. Options include the BV (Besloten Vennootschap) private limited company, the NV (Naamloze Vennootschap) public limited company, and the Foundation (Stichting), suitable for non-profit or charitable purposes. For most international clients, the Dutch BV is the recommended structure due to flexibility and limited liability.

Frequently Asked Questions

At a Glance

Video Answers

Company Formation

Process

General Questions

Billing Questions

Tax Questions

Payroll

Frequently Asked Questions

At a Glance

Video Answers

Company Formation

Can I start a company in the Netherlands if I am not living there?

Do I need a Netherlands business address?

Is there a minimum share capital for a Dutch BV?

Do I need a local Dutch director?

What are substance requirements in the Netherlands?

What does it cost to incorporate a Dutch BV?

What services are included in company formation?

What types of companies can I register in the Netherlands?

Process

What is the process for starting a Dutch BV?

What documents are required to start a company?

Do I need to travel to the Netherlands?

How long does company formation take?

What happens after my company is registered?

General Questions

Why should I start a company in the Netherlands?

Can I run my Dutch company from abroad?

Is the Netherlands a good place for international business?

Do I need prior business experience?

Billing Questions

How do I pay for company formation services?

Are there any hidden costs?

Are your services tax-deductible?

Do you offer package discounts?

Tax Questions

Do I need to register for VAT in the Netherlands?

What is the corporate tax rate in the Netherlands?

When do substance requirements apply?

Do I need an accountant for my Dutch company?

What are my ongoing tax obligations?

Payroll

How can payroll services benefit my company in the Netherlands?

How much do payroll services cost?