FAQ
Company formation in Netherlands for
non-dutch residents

As a foreigner, is company formation in Netherlands possible without appointing a dutch director? 

Yes, you can set up a Dutch B.V. in the Netherlands as a foreigner.

In fact, we have a package has been specifically designed for non-Dutch residents and international clients looking to set up a Dutch B.V

Do I need a dutch partner or a dutch director to open a company in the Netherlands?

No, it is not necessary. 

What documents do I need to open a company in Holland as a non-dutch resident?

  1. Proof of your identity—copies of notarized passports of the director(s) and shareholder(s) of your new Dutch BV.
  2. Proof of address—required for both your director(s) and shareholder(s) of the BV. This could include something simple like a utility bill or a bank statement.
  3.  Address in the Netherlands—your Netherlands BV will need a registered office with an address that is located in the country for formal correspondence. Learn more 

What are the tax filing requirement for a Dutch B.V.?

It is the director of the BV’s responsibility to ensure that all the filing requirements are complied with. Failure to do so could result in a fine imposed on B.V.

  • A Dutch B.V. is required to prepare annual accounts, organize an AGM to approve the annual accounts.

  • Submit and file the annual accounts at the KVK six month after the year-end

  • Prepare and file a VAT return at the Belastingdienst (the tax authority)

  • Prepare and file an ICP return if the BV is trading with EU members states

  • Prepare and file a corporate income tax return five months after the year-end

  • If the Dutch B.V. has employees, it is required to file the wage tax and prepare the monthly payslip.

Do I need a dutch address to set up a B.V.?

Yes, you need a dutch address.  Most foreign owners uses virtual office providers in the Netherlands.

I have heard that it is not easy to open a bank account, is it a case also in holland?

Indeed, not all Dutch banks accept foreign directors who live outside Holland.

Due to  our experience serving foreign directors,  we develop our knowledge  regarding which banks foreign directors have more chance to successfully open a bank account. 

Is there a minimum amount of share capital to register a dutch company?

No, Dutch B.V. company formation starts with a share capital of €1

Do I need to keep a register of the director for our Dutch B.V?

No, it is not necessary.

Can I be a freelancer in the Netherlands?

Yes, provided that you are an EU citizen and you do not require a work permit to work in the Netherlands.

Can I open a one-man company in the Netherlands?

Yes, a person can be the sole director and shareholder of a Dutch B.V.

What documents do I need to set up a Dutch B.V.?

If you are not a dutch resident, we need the following documents to proceed with setting up your B.V.

1. notarised passport copy and passport copy in apostille;

2. proof of address;

3. the details of the new B.V.

4. the scope of business of the new B.V.

How long does it take to incorporate a Dutch B.V.?

Provided we collect all the required documents, we can set up a Dutch B.V. in 3 days. 

Do I need to come to the Netherlands to open a business bank account? 

If you want to open a bank account with one of the  traditional banks, Eg ING, Raobbank, ABN Amro, then the director of the B.V. is required to visit to the bank in order open the bank account.

If it is not possible to come to the Netherlands, you can open a virtual bank account.

What is the cost of opening a company in Holland?

The cost of opening a simple dutch limited liability company, also known as “B.V.” starts from €1,500 + VAT.  Learn more : company formation package for non-dutch residents.