DAFT
Dutch American Friendship Treaty
The DAFT Visa is a residency permit that allows Americans to live and work in the Netherlands by starting their own business. It’s an easier way for people to move, work for themselves, and enjoy the quality of life in the Netherlands, thanks to a special treaty between the U.S. and the Netherlands. It’s one of the most accessible ways for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers to relocate. No sponsor required and bring your spouse and children.
Move to the Netherlands with the DAFT Visa without the confusion. I help American set up their DAFT visa, business, and relocation step-by-step. Clear guidance. Real Experience.
DAFT Visa application process
Proven Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Dutch DAFT Visa in less than 3 months!
Understand the DAFT Visa Requirements
Current USA passport, plan to start a business or practice a profession in the Netherlands, investing a minimum capital of €4,500, no prior illegal stays in the Netherlands or criminal convictions.Prepare Your Documents
Gather your USA current passport, apostilled birth and marriage certificates, and a business plan. For California apostilled certificates, here is the California Secretary of State link. For other states, Google search apostille birth and marriage certificates for your state.Open a Wise mobile app account and a N26 mobile app account
I have done extensive research on transferring money from USA and bank accounts in Netherlands. The best are mobile banking apps, Wise and N26, because of ease of use and low fees compared to others. Wise account is the best option when it comes to international money transfers, i.e. transferring money from USA to EU (you can convert USD to Euro at the real exchange rate whenever you need. It’s free to sign up, and there are no monthly fees). For making payments in all of Europe, I recommend N26 mobile app and N26 bank card or Revolut mobile banking app.Choose Your Business Structure
Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship): Ideal if you anticipate earning under €66,000 annually.Besloten Vennootschap (BV - Private Limited Company): Beneficial if you expect profits over €66,000, as it may grant access to tax advantages like the 30% ruling.
Submit Your Application
Fill out IND Form 7524 and send it to the address on the form. Note: Include all printed & photo pages of your USA Passport including travel stamps. Access my helpful notes highlighted in red and yellow for form IND Form 7524 in Tools below.
Register with the Municipality (Gemeente)
Apply online or schedule an appointment with the gemeente in your chosen city to register your residence and obtain a Burgerservicenummer (BSN), the Dutch equivalent of a Social Security Number. This number is essential for official processes, including opening a bank account. NOTE: You will need a signed lease document, proof of ownership, or a declaration of the property’s main occupant (see your city website for this form, example Address Registration Permission Form for the city of Maastricht).Pay the Application Fee
Watch your mailbox for IND’s payment request. The fee is currently ~ €380.Schedule Your Appointments
Book appointments for Biometrics (photo, signature and fingerprints) on IND.nl website. TIP: At this appointment, you can request a temporary residence permit card while you wait to receive resident permit card in the mail.Submit Final Documents
Send your bank statement, business registration, and accountant’s opening balance sheet to IND.Pick Up Your Residence Card
Once approved, collect your residence permit and get health insurance.
(health insurance comparison sites Zorgwijzer or Independer.)
Contact
I’ve simplified the DAFT visa process into clear, easy steps so you can do it yourself too, and if you need extra help, I’m here to guide you personally. My services include consultation, document preparation and application guidance. I provide independent guidance services. Not affiliated with the Dutch government or IND.
Cheers, Ibarolle Advisory