Want to register a foreign branch at KVK?
Fast KVK Registration for Foreign Companies (Commercial or Non-Commercial)
Registering a foreign branch in the Netherlands is simple compared to setting up a Dutch B.V.
You avoid the complex requirements and ongoing obligations of forming a B.V., while still gaining an official presence in the Netherlands.
Whether you want a commercial branch, a non-commercial representative office, or simply need a KVK number to work with Dutch clients, this page explains your options clearly
Four Ways to Establish a Presence in the Netherlands
Foreign companies have four main choices:
- Incorporate a Dutch Limited Liability Company (B.V.)
- Use your existing foreign company to create a branch with no commercial activities
- Set up your foreign company as a branch with commercial activities
- Register your foreign company directly with the KVK
Choosing the right option depends on the level of activity you plan to carry out in the Netherlands.
A Dutch B.V. is best for foreign companies that want a full legal presence with limited liability.
A branch structure, on the other hand, allows you to use your existing foreign company in the Netherlands with far fewer costs, fewer formalities, and no need for a Dutch notary.
A branch with no commercial activities is suitable when you only need a representative presence, such as meeting partners, carrying out market research, or displaying a Dutch office address on your website.
By comparison, a branch with commercial activities is needed when you plan to sign contracts, invoice clients, or generate Dutch-source income.
If you simply need to appear in the Dutch Business Register (KVK) without opening a Dutch office, you can also register your foreign company directly at KVK.
Confused with all the information available online?
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Change of address of a Dutch B.V.
A quick and easy guide to changing a dutch company address
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Appointment of a director of dutch company
A quick and easy guide to appointing of a dutch director and file it at the Dutch company house
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Resignation of a director of a dutch company
A quick and easy guide to removing a dutch director and file it at the Dutch Company House
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Download company extracts
A quick and easy guide to conducting a dutch company search.
What Is the Difference Between a B.V. and a Branch?
Two Types of Branches: Commercial and Non-Commercial
A B.V. is a separate legal entity under Dutch law.
This means:
- It has its own legal personality
- It is responsible for its own debts and obligations
- The parent company enjoys limited liability
- It must file annual accounts in the Netherlands
- It is often preferred for long-term or scalable operations
A branch is an extension of your existing company, not a separate company.
- You do not create a new legal entity
- You register your foreign company at the KVK
- The foreign parent company remains fully liable
- No change to ownership structure
- Simpler and faster than setting up a B.V.
A branch is ideal when you want a presence in the Netherlands without maintaining a separate Dutch company.
A commercial branch is used when you carry out business activities inside the Netherlands.
Commercial activities include:
- Signing contracts in the Netherlands
- Issuing invoices
- Paying suppliers for Dutch operations
- Serving Dutch customers
- Generating revenue from the Netherlands
A commercial branch may have tax obligations and, depending on your country of incorporation, may need to file annual accounts in the Netherlands.
A non-commercial branch is used when your company wants a Dutch presence but does not engage in business activities.
You must NOT:
- Issue invoices from the Netherlands
- Pay suppliers for Dutch-based activities
- Have Dutch customers
- Generate sales or income in the Netherlands
However, you can use a non-commercial branch for:
- Meeting business partners, suppliers, investors, or customers
- Internal meetings
- Market research or data collection
- Using a Dutch business address on your website (for credibility), as long as no selling takes place at this location
This option is ideal for companies that need a representative presence, but not active operations.
Comparison: Dutch B.V. vs Commercial Branch vs Non-Commercial Branch
Category
Legal entity
Liability
Allowed activities
Dutch address required
VAT
Corporate tax
Annual accounts
UBO registration
Best for
Dutch BV
Seperate legal entity
B.V. liable
Full operations
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes, Dutch accounts
Yes
Long term presence
Commercial Branch
Same legal entity as parent
Parent company liable
Full operations
Yes
Yes
Yes (if PE exists)
Yes, Parent accounts
Yes
Companies generating NL revenue
Non – Commercial Branch
Same legal entity as parent
Parent company liable
No Selling, no invoicing
Yes
No
No
No
No
Prepresentative office/presence
Why Foreign Companies Choose a Branch
A fast way to obtain a Dutch KVK number
Lower setup costs compared to a B.V.
A Dutch presence without forming a full subsidiary
A structure that keeps all ownership within the existing company
Get Your Dutch Branch Registered Fast
We help foreign companies register commercial or non-commercial branches quickly and accurately.
FAQ - Registering a Foreign Branch in the Netherlands
Do I need a Dutch address to register a branch?
Yes. A branch must have a Dutch visiting address that is listed in the BAG (official Dutch address register).
However, a foreign entity without a Dutch address can still register at KVK for contract purposes — this is not a branch.
Can a foreign company get a KVK number without forming a B.V.?
Yes. You can register your foreign company directly using a branch structure or as a non-established foreign entity.
What is the difference between a commercial and non-commercial branch?
A commercial branch performs business in the Netherlands. A non-commercial branch only performs representative or administrative activities.
Will a branch have tax obligations?
Only commercial branches may have VAT or corporate tax obligations.
A non-commercial branch has no tax obligations in the Netherlands.
Is the parent company liable for branch activities?
Yes. A branch is not a separate legal entity. The parent company is fully liable for all debts and obligations.
When should a foreign company choose a B.V. instead of a branch?
A B.V. is better when you want limited liability, local staff, full Dutch operations, or long-term presence.
Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. Dutch branch registration requirements can vary depending on the activity of the foreign company, its legal form, and the specific circumstances of the case. Although we aim to keep the information accurate and up to date, rules and procedures may change, and interpretations may differ between authorities. Before taking any action, you should seek advice based on your own situation. Dutch Business Incorporation (DBI) is not responsible for any loss or consequences resulting from the use of this information without personalised professional advice.