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DAFT visa in the Netherlands

Moving to the Netherlands on a DAFT visa: what you need to know

Moving to the Netherlands on a DAFT visa?

If you are an American entrepreneur thinking about moving to the Netherlands, the DAFT visa is one of the simplest ways to make it happen.

We have helped many American clients relocate using the DAFT visa. We know the process and know how to guide you through it. Ensuring where possible that this journey is as stress free and uncomplicated as possible. 

What is the DAFT visa

The Dutch American Friendship Treaty allows U S citizens to apply for a residence permit to start their own business in the Netherlands.

You do not need a job offer.

You do not need to speak Dutch.

You just need to meet the requirements and register a business.

To qualify for the DAFT visa, you need to:

  • Hold a valid U S passport.
  • Register your business with the Chamber of Commerce here in the Netherlands known as the KVK.
  • Open a Dutch business bank account.
  • Deposit and keep at least €4500 in that account.
  • Show you can support yourself.
  • Get Dutch health insurance.
  • Register your address with a Dutch municipality.

The visa is valid for two years. You can renew it. After five years, you may apply for permanent residency.

What type of business should you register

Most American clients moving over on the DAFT visa register as a sole proprietorship, called an eenmanszaak in Dutch. You will often hear the term zzp’er too, which stands for zelfstandige zonder personeel. It means a self employed person without staff. This structure is quick to set up, low cost and easy to manage. It is perfect for freelancers, consultants or anyone working independently.

If you want limited liability or plan to grow your business quickly, a BV (besloten vennootschap) might be a better fit. It is more complex but offers more protection. We will connect you with experienced Dutch accountants who can help you choose the setup that is right for you.

Opening a Dutch business bank account without a BSN

Most banks ask for a BSN before they will open a business account. But to get a BSN, you usually need a Dutch address and registration. That can make things tricky.

Here are banks that have worked for our clients:

  • Bunq allows online applications with just a passport and Chamber of Commerce registration.
  • ABN AMRO sometimes accepts appointments and documentation in advance.
  • ING may approve accounts with a KvK extract and proof of address.
  • Rabobank is stricter but may allow exceptions with full documents.

Can you rent or buy a home on a DAFT visa

Yes, absolutely.

We help our DAFT clients rent or buy homes every week in the Netherlands. 

Renting a home

You will need your residence permit or DAFT application, proof of business registration, and some form of income or savings. Landlords may ask for extra rent in advance if you do not yet have a Dutch income history. We will help you find homes that meet all legal requirements, are suitable for registration and a place you can call home!

Buying a home

You can buy property while on a DAFT visa. If you want a mortgage, your approval depends on your income, tax setup and business records. We work closely with mortgage advisors who understand the DAFT process and can help you navigate it.

What life looks like on a DAFT visa

Most people work remotely for US clients or offer services in the Netherlands.

You will get access to the Dutch healthcare system, reliable public transport and a calm, safe way of life. You will hear English almost everywhere, especially in major cities. You will meet a lot of expats doing exactly what you are doing.

It is a good place to build something new.

What is needed to renew your DAFT visa after two years

You can renew your DAFT visa if:

  • Your business is still active.
  • Your €4500 is still in your account.
  • You have Dutch health insurance.
  • You are registered at a Dutch address.
  • Your taxes are up to date.

You will need an accountant’s statement confirming these details. We can connect you with someone experienced in this.

How Homes for Expats helps DAFT visa clients

We do more than find you a home. We guide you through the entire process of moving on a DAFT visa.

We connect you with reliable partners who can assist with:

  • Immigration and IND appointments.
  • Business registration and accountancy.
  • Opening your Dutch bank account.
  • Arranging international movers.
  • Health insurance and registration.
  • Finding and securing the right home to rent or buy.

Let Homes for Expats take the stress of relocation and housing off your plate, so you can focus on getting settled and growing your business. We would love to assist you. Let us know how.

Visit our DAFT visa support page here:

www.homesforexpats.nl/daft-visa-netherlands

Get in touch

WhatsApp: +31 6 28 32 22 35

Email: info@exhs.nl

Website: www.homesforexpats.nl

At Homes for Expats every story, every client, and every move matters to us. Because if it matters to you, it matters to us.

Ready to chat? Let us get in touch with you!

Leave your details and one of our agents will be in contact with you shortly.

Leslie Gamble

Rental Makelaar Utrecht and surrounds

Leslie relocated to the Netherlands from the United States in June 2025 with her husband, their two children, and their two dogs. She knows exactly what it feels like to move your whole life across borders and start again in a new country.

Before moving to the Netherlands, Leslie spent ten years working as a Realtor and Property Manager in Nevada. That background means she understands the buying process deeply, while also knowing how different and sometimes overwhelming it can feel when you are purchasing as an expat in the Dutch housing market.

Living in Utrecht herself, Leslie stays closely connected to the local market and works with fellow professionals to ensure her clients always receive current, accurate information. She understands the importance of clarity, honesty, and guidance you can rely on when making such a big decision.

Leslie is passionate about helping expats feel supported and confident from the very first conversation through to the moment they receive the keys. For her, it is about more than buying a house. It is about helping people find a place where they can truly feel at home.

At Homes for Expats, every story, every client, every move matters to us.

Today, I’m proud to say that Homes for Expats has grown into a dedicated group of professionals. We are eight property specialists, all expats, and all women, covering most of the Netherlands. Each of us brings unique insight, experience, and a shared passion for helping others find their place here. As a group, we understand the emotional and practical challenges of moving to a new country because we’ve lived it ourselves. Together, we’re here to make the process smoother, more personal, and filled with care.

For me, this isn’t just business; it’s personal. I care deeply about the people I work with, and my commitment to honesty, integrity, and excellence drives everything I do. Helping you find a home where you feel comfortable and happy isn’t just my job, it’s my passion.

Nothing makes me happier than seeing the joy on a client’s face when we find the perfect match. That moment, when everything falls into place and a house starts to feel like home, is why I do what I do. Your trust means the world to me, and it inspires me and my colleagues to work tirelessly to make your experience seamless and rewarding.

Let us be your guides on this exciting journey. With Homes for Expats, we’re here to help you build a home and a life you’ll love in the Netherlands. Let’s make it a memorable, meaningful, and stress-free adventure, together.

Jessica Venn

Purchasing makelaar Amsterdam, haarlem, north holland

A lawyer and lecturer from Johannesburg who relocated to the Netherlands in 2018 after first living for a short time in Dubai. Jessica studied B Com Law and LLB and after completing her articles in law, she started lecturing law to university students. In 2011 she opened up her own law firm specializing in Consumer Law and Contracts. After relocating and running her business remotely, Jessica closed her firm in 2020 and became a full-time mom to her two little boys.

 

Going from running my own law firm to being a full-time mom has been an interesting journey. Moving to a new country (twice) definitely kicked my networking skills into a higher gear! As an expat you have to learn how to make new friends, find your way around a new city, and integrate into a different culture and community. From the moment I landed in Dubai I felt the need to want to help others integrate more easily and make them feel supported even though their own family and friends were far away. Helping expats find a home is an integral part of the relocation process. Offering the best support while taking that step is exactly what I want to provide to my clients. Now here in the Netherlands at Homes for Expats I get to do exactly that! Relocating is not for the faint-hearted but it is worth it! Let me help you find your home!