Establishing a Company
Independent entrepreneurs interested in establishing their business in the Netherlands may qualify for a residence permit if it can be proven that their business is of added value to the Dutch knowledge economy. In order to judge this the Ministry of Economic Affairs has developed a point system. Points are awarded on the basis of experience, a business plan and the added value. Criteria which are of importance in this are: level of education, experience as an entrepreneur, work experience, jobs created by the business, investment and the innovative aspects of the business. Once sufficient points are scored entrepreneurs qualify for a residence permit.
A different set of rules and criteria apply to artists. In this case what needs to be established is the Dutch cultural interest for the activity.
American and Japanese Entrepreneurs
It is simpler for American and Japanese entrepreneurs to get started in the Netherlands than for other non-EU nationals.
The friendship, trade and shipping treaty between the Netherlands and the US, and the trade and shipping treaty with Japan make it easier for nationals of both countries to apply for a residence permit. This is because they do not need to demonstrate that their business activities have an added value to the Dutch economy.
The treaties are applicable if an applicant from Japan or the US wishes to start, expand or head up a business in the Netherlands. One condition is that applicants have at least € 4,500 to invest in the business.
For more information, please contact Susanne Mooij or Eva Bezem
mooij@everaert.nl
bezem@everaert.nl