Start a Business in the Netherlands
Fully remote company formation for international entrepreneurs. Trusted by 2000+ founders worldwide.
Trusted by 2000+ founders worldwide · ⭐ 4.7 / 5 based on 150+ verified reviews
Last reviewed:
Speak with a company formation expert
"We guide international entrepreneurs through every step of setting up in the Netherlands."
- Trusted by 2000+ founders worldwide
- Fully remote setup in 3-5 business days
Not ready to talk yet? Get our free guide to Dutch company formation, costs, timelines and compliance.
Download brochureWhy choose to start a Dutch business?
The Netherlands is one of the most attractive countries in Europe for business due to its low corporate tax rates, strong international trade position, and fast company formation process.
- Corporate tax: 19% (up to EUR 200,000)
- Access to the EU single market
- Highly skilled, English-speaking workforce
- Strong logistics (Rotterdam, Schiphol)
- 100+ tax treaties
The Benefits of Starting a Business in the Netherlands
The Netherlands offers low tax rates, a stable legal system, and strong access to international markets, making it one of the best countries in Europe for foreign entrepreneurs.
Tax advantages
Corporate tax from 19%, no VAT within the EU on intra-community supply, and an extensive tax treaty network.
Business environment
Ranked a top EU business hub, with a strong startup ecosystem and political and economic stability.
Operational advantages
English is widely spoken, the workforce is highly educated, and the infrastructure is excellent.
Tax Rates for Companies in the Netherlands
Direct answer: Companies in the Netherlands are subject to corporate income tax, VAT, and potentially dividend tax depending on their activities.
| Tax Type | Rate | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate tax (low bracket) | 19% | Profits up to EUR 200,000 |
| Corporate tax (high bracket) | 25.8% | Profits above EUR 200,000 |
| VAT (standard) | 21% | Most goods/services |
| VAT (reduced) | 9% | Food, books, essentials |
| VAT (zero) | 0% | EU/international transactions |
| Dividend tax | 15% | Profit distributions |
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
A Dutch BV (Besloten Vennootschap) is the most common company structure in the Netherlands for foreign entrepreneurs. It offers limited liability, requires minimal starting capital, and provides a flexible and tax-efficient structure for international business.
What is a Dutch BV
A Dutch BV is a private limited liability company and a separate legal entity. This means the company is legally distinct from its owners (shareholders), reducing personal financial risk. Shareholders are not personally liable for company debts, the company is managed by one or more directors, and it can be owned 100% by foreign individuals or companies.
Key features of a Dutch BV
Limited liability: shareholders are only liable up to their investment. Minimum capital requirement: EUR 0.01. Flexible ownership structure with a single shareholder allowed. No requirement to be a Dutch resident. Recognized legal structure across the EU.
Taxation of a Dutch BV
A Dutch BV is subject to corporate taxation in the Netherlands: 19% corporate income tax on profits up to EUR 200,000 and 25.8% above that, standard VAT (BTW) of 21% with reduced rates of 9% or 0% where applicable, and dividend tax of typically 15% when distributing profits to shareholders. Tax rates may vary depending on international treaties and company structure.
Advantages of a Dutch BV
A Dutch BV protects personal assets through limited liability, has a very low capital requirement compared to other EU countries, gives access to the EU single market, carries a strong reputation for international business, is eligible for tax optimization through holding structures, and is easy to scale and transfer ownership via shares.
When should you choose a Dutch BV?
A Dutch BV is generally the best option if you want to limit personal liability, are operating internationally or trading within the EU, expect to generate profits and reinvest them, want a professional and credible business structure, or are a foreign entrepreneur starting a Dutch company remotely.
Netherlands vs Other Countries for Starting a Business
Direct answer: The Netherlands offers one of the fastest and most accessible business environments in Europe compared to countries like Germany and France.
| Feature | Netherlands | Germany | France | UK |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Setup time | 3-5 days | 2-4 weeks | 1-3 weeks | 1-2 days |
| Minimum capital | EUR 0.01 | EUR 25,000 | EUR 1+ | GBP 1 |
| Corporate tax | 19-25.8% | ~30% | ~25% | 25% |
| Ease for foreigners | High | Medium | Medium | High |
| Language | English widely spoken | German | French | English |
How to Set Up a Dutch BV
Setting up a Dutch BV involves a few key steps:
- Prepare shareholder and director information
- Draft and sign the incorporation deed with a Dutch notary
- Register the company with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK)
- Obtain a VAT number from the tax authorities
- Open a Dutch business bank account
Timeline for Setting Up a Dutch BV
Direct answer: A Dutch BV can typically be set up within 3-5 business days, depending on document readiness and processing times.
| Step | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Document preparation | 1-2 days |
| Notary incorporation | 1-2 days |
| KvK registration | Same day |
| VAT number issuance | 1-3 days |
| Bank account setup | 3-10 days |
- 1
Select a company name
Choose a unique company name that complies with Dutch naming regulations. It must be distinguishable from existing companies, cannot be misleading or restricted, and is checked during KvK registration.
- 2
Determine ownership and management
You must determine who owns the company (shareholders) and who manages the company (directors). A Dutch BV can be owned 100% by foreign individuals or companies.
- 3
Prepare your documents
You will need passport copies of shareholders/directors, proof of address, and company structure details. These are used by the notary to draft the incorporation deed.
Why Entrepreneurs Choose the Netherlands
- Fast company formation (days, not weeks)
- Very low capital requirement
- Strong international reputation
- Access to the EU market
- Business-friendly tax system
- Excellent infrastructure and logistics
Is the Netherlands the Right Choice?
The Netherlands is ideal if you:
- Want to operate in the EU market
- Run an international or online business
- Need a reputable and stable jurisdiction
- Prefer a fast and straightforward setup
Frequently Asked Questions on Business Establishment in the Netherlands
We receive many questions on a regular basis about company establishment in the Netherlands. Here are the questions we hear most often. If your question isn't answered here, contact us anytime.
The establishment procedure and corresponding requirements
Questions about the Dutch BV
For more questions on costs, tax, payroll and compliance, see our full FAQ page.
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' during a visit to our notary public on February 12, 2019.
We perfect our quality standards to deliver services of the highest degree.
Intercompany Solutions in the 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 February 12, 2019.
We continually perfect our quality standards in order to deliver services of the highest degree.
Featured In
Intercompany Solutions has been recognized by leading international media and industry platforms for its expertise in Dutch company formation and corporate services.
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.
Ready to Start Your Company?
- Dutch BV formation completed in 3-5 business days
- Fully remote setup with step-by-step guidance
- Expert support for registration, VAT, and compliance
- Complete service including accounting, tax, and legal support
- All of the above, delivered through one trusted partner for Dutch company formation