Netherlands Startup Visa – Types, Documentation and Application

Netherlands startup visa allows foreigners like you to move to the country to start a business or assist entrepreneurs. Hence, the startup visa expands work chances in the Netherlands. 

For the business or startup to be qualified under this program, it must have the assistance of a recognized venture capital fund, which must also confirm that it is investing at least $200,000 in the qualifying enterprise.

The complete procedure for the startup visa takes between four and six months. After that, you can apply online or contact the Netherlands embassy or consulate in your residence country for help.

Furthermore, to prevent a delay or a refused application, you must follow particular guidelines and protocols while applying for this type of visa.

In light of this, this article will help you apply for a Netherlands startup visa from any global location.

About the Netherlands 

The Netherlands is a country in Western Europe. It has a population of just over 17 million, making it the world’s second most populous country after China. 

The Netherlands is bordered to the east by Germany and to the south by Belgium. The capital and largest city are Amsterdam.

The country is known for its stunning landscapes and its tolerant attitude towards different religions and cultures. 

Furthermore, the country is also home to some of the world’s top museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum.

About the Netherlands Startup visa program

The startup visa is a program that permits international investors to launch an innovative firm and employ the assistance of an experienced facilitator to build the firm into a functional business for one year.

In addition, the program is designed to help startups grow and develop their businesses in the Netherlands. 

The startup visa program is available to Dutch citizens and foreign nationals who have a valid residence permit and are starting or running a company that has the potential to create jobs in the Netherlands.

Who is a facilitator?

The facilitator is a professionally trained business mentor that will guide you as you establish your company in the Netherlands. 

Depending on the needs of the company, the assistance might take several forms, including fund acquisition, advertisement, aiding with operational management, etc.

Before applying for a startup visa, you must locate and cooperate with a facilitator approved by the Business Register of the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce.

This is done to confirm that the facilitator is trustworthy, financially secure, and has prior expertise coaching new firms. 

When you locate a mentor, you must formalize your relationship with them by signing an agreement.

Basic Start-Up Visa Eligibility Requirements

To be qualified for a startup visa, you must meet the Netherlands government’s eligibility criteria. These include the following:

1. You must own or operate a qualifying business in the Netherlands.
2. A commitment certificate and a letter of support from a recognized entity are required.
3. You must be able to demonstrate that you have adequate, available, and transferable settlement money to fulfill settlement requirements.
4. You must show that you will be able to satisfy the requirements for Self-Employment within a year of receiving your temporary residence visa.
5. To be eligible for the startup visa, you must be able to demonstrate that you have sufficient finance to enable you and your dependents, if any, to settle comfortably in the Netherlands before your business begins.

Types of Netherlands startup visa program

There are two (2) types of Netherlands visa routes for startup founders: 

First, startup visa schemes this path permits third-country citizens to get a temporary residence visa in the Netherlands to establish an innovative business. 

However, the prerequisite of this visa is that a reliable facilitator in the Netherlands must coach the third-country national.

1. Self-Employment visa scheme

This path enables a third-country national to receive a temporary residence visa to establish an “innovative firm.” 

To acquire admittance into the Netherlands, the third-country citizen must receive enough points for personal experience, business strategy, and contribution to economic growth.

Netherlands startup visa requirements

We need some vital information to answer the question, “What are the Netherlands startup visa requirements?” 

 However, several documents are required for the application procedure. Here are the startup visa requirements for the Netherlands that you should be aware of:

• A valid passport or travel document
• MVV application form
• A completed Form for Residence ‘Startup’ operating on a self-employed basis (foreign citizen).”
• Proof of Commercial Register registration
• A systematic plan: You must submit a systematic plan that explains your involvement in the startup and the further structure of your organization, the roles and responsibilities, the legal form, people, and the goal of the firm.

 Furthermore, the concept for the product or service that the startup will provide must be outlined.

• A written agreement was signed by both you and the facilitator.
• Bank statements or other documentation demonstrating that you have enough money in your account to maintain yourself and any dependents.

When you arrive in the Netherlands, you will need a translated copy of your birth certificate to register your address.

In addition, when you arrive in the Netherlands, you must undergo a tuberculosis test.

Steps to apply for a Netherlands startup visa 

1. Determine your eligibility for the Netherlands startup visa program
2. Download and fill out the application form.
3. Submit all necessary paperwork
4. Travel to the Netherlands

Step 1: Determine your eligibility for the Netherlands startup visa program

First, you must determine your eligibility for the Netherlands startup visa before proceeding with your application.

These include having a qualified business, a letter of support, and sufficient finances to maintain oneself and one’s family after arriving in the Netherlands.

You can go on to the next phase if you have met all the conditions.

Step 2: Download and complete the application form

This step requires an internet-connected computer. Next, you must obtain an application form and fill out all of the areas on it.

Then, click validate and print the application form. However, some fields require your signature and date.

Step 3: Submit all necessary paperwork

At this point, you must provide your supporting papers following a document checklist that you must download and print.

You must submit them in the sequence specified on the checklist. 

As a result, place all necessary documents, including the document checklist, in an envelope.

In addition, you must check all provided documents on the checklist and sign them.

Again, you will certainly be requested for authentication, such as fingerprints and photographs.

Step 4: Travel to the Netherlands

After completing the initial application stages for the Netherlands startup visa, you will have to wait for a decision on your startup visa application.

Instead of waiting, you can travel to the Netherlands with a temporary work permit. With this, you can get started on your company concept.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the processing time for a Netherlands startup visa?

The processing time for the Netherlands startup visa is approximately eight weeks.

Applicants must submit an application through the government website, provide documentation of their business plan, and pay the application fee.

Once approved, applicants will receive a permit they must carry when traveling to the Netherlands.

Can I travel to the Netherlands while my permanent residence is still under processing?

If you are still under processing of your permanent residence in the Netherlands, you may be able to travel to the country while your application is pending. 

This is predetermined by factors such as how long your application has been pending and whether you meet the requirements for a visa. 

Therefore, you should speak to an immigration lawyer or consulate to find out if you are eligible can apply.

Can a foreigner start a business in the Netherlands?

Foreigners can start businesses in the Netherlands, but there are a few things to keep in mind. 

First, you will need to obtain a business permit. Next, you will need to find an accountant and lawyer who can help you set up your business and navigate the Dutch bureaucracy. 

Finally, start early and build a strong foundation for your business before seeking outside investment.

Can the investment support money be used for living expenses?

No, you cannot utilize the funds obtained from the approved firm for any other reason, including living costs.

Can I work with a startup visa in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands offers several visa options for foreigners wishing to work in the country. Most visas require the applicant to have a job offer from a Dutch company, but few startup visas are available. 

The Netherlands startup visa allows foreigners to work in the country for one year.

Can I move to the Netherlands self-employed?

To establish yourself in the Netherlands as a self-employed individual, you must have a solid business plan and plenty of perseverance. 

Additionally, you will need to be aware of Dutch regulations and ensure that you abide by them at all times.

How do I become an entrepreneur in the Netherlands?

Before you become an entrepreneur, there are several factors to consider, such as the type of business, the resources available to you, and your ability to market and export your product or service. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Netherlands Startup Visa is an opportunity for entrepreneurs who want to start a business in the Netherlands. 

The visa has several benefits, including fast-track processing and a reduced fee. To be qualified, you must have a business idea and meet the requirements. 

The application process is straightforward, so do not hesitate to apply if you want to start a Netherlands business.