|
American Entrepreneurs in the Netherlands
For over 60 years, the Dutch American Friendship Treaty has enabled
USA citizens to start a business in Holland. Successful
applicants receive a residence permit which allows them to work on a
self-employed basis, or to represent American companies with
business interests in Holland.
The treaty gives American citizens preferential treatment to operate a
business in the Netherlands. In contrast to other non-EU nationals who want to
work in
the Netherlands on a self-employed basis, Americans applying under the
treaty do not need to satisfy
the points-based test which is applied to non-EU
businesses.
The Requirements
In order to get a residence
permit to operate a business under the Dutch American Friendship Treaty, the applicant must have the
following:
-
Registration of the business with the Chamber of
Commerce;
-
A business plan demonstrating commercial activities in
the Netherlands;
-
A financial report, prepared by a qualified accountant
or tax advisor;
-
A valid passport valid for at least one year from
the application date;
-
Health Insurance;
-
Substantial personal capital invested in the business. Borrowed funds are not considered.
The amount of capital required is determined on a
case-by-case basis. The minimum amounts are determined by the legal form of the
business:
- For an 'eenmanzaak' (a sole entrepreneur), the minimum amount of
capital is €4,500.
- For incorporated businesses, the amount is at least 25% of
the minimum capital stock required
by law (€45,000), or €11,250.
The residence permit will be issued on a renewable basis for one year. On the back of
the permit it will state that self-employment activities are only permitted in
connection with the business plan. If the applicant wants to
perform paid work for an employer, then a new application for a work
permit is required.
The residence permit will also be endorsed to say that the permit can
be withdrawn if the applicant applies for public welfare benefits.
At renewal time, the IND will ask to see proof that the minimum required
capital amount has been maintained without fail during the year.
Please contact us
if you would like more information regarding the Dutch American
Friendship Treaty and how it may apply to your individual situation.
|
