Netherlands DAFT Visa (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty)
Netherlands NLD
The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) Visa is a residence permit available exclusively to US citizens who wish to establish or run a business in the Netherlands. It requires a minimum deposit of €4,500 in start-up capital in a Dutch bank account and evidence of a viable business plan. After five years of continuous residence and business operation, holders can apply for a permanent residence permit.
Program Details
- Category
- Entrepreneur
- Processing Time
- 3 months
- Application Fee
- $380
- Minimum Income
- $4,900/yr
- Minimum Investment
- $4,900
- Family Included
- Spouse and minor children may apply for dependent residence permits; the spouse may be granted work authorization separately
- Path to PR
- Yes — 5 years
- Path to Citizenship
- Yes — 5 years
- Physical Presence
- Continuous residence required; must actively operate the business. Extended absences can affect renewal eligibility and the qualifying period for permanent residency.
- Dual Citizenship
- Not allowed
- Tax Impact
- Holders become Dutch tax residents and are subject to Dutch income tax (Box 1, with rates up to 49.5%) and social security contributions. Self-employed individuals may benefit from the self-employment deduction (zelfstandigenaftrek). The 30% ruling may apply if conditions are met.
- Renewal Cost
- $380
A capital deposit of €4,500 in a Dutch bank account is required as proof of business start capital. This is a one-time deposit, not a continuous income requirement, but applicants must also demonstrate the business will generate sufficient income.
Key Requirements
- ✓Must be a US citizen (this visa is exclusively available to American nationals)
- ✓Business registration with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK)
- ✓Minimum €4,500 capital deposit in a Dutch bank account
- ✓Viable business plan
- ✓Valid health insurance in the Netherlands
- ✓Registered address in the Netherlands
- ✓Application submitted to the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service)
Nationality Restrictions
This program restricts applications from nationals of: Exclusively available to US citizens — this is the defining characteristic of the treaty