FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Any other questions? We reply within one business day.

Can I start a company in the Netherlands if I am not living there?

Yes, you can absolutely start a company in the Netherlands even if you don’t live there! The Netherlands welcomes foreign entrepreneurs, and Dutch Incorporation Service guides you through the incorporation process.

Do I need a Dutch business address to register a company in the Netherlands?

You will need a registered Dutch business address. This is your company’s official address and appears in the public records of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.

Is there a minimum share capital in the Netherlands?

There’s no minimum amount of money you need to invest upfront when starting a Dutch B.V. While the official minimum is just €1, it is recommended to contribute a bit more for better financial credibility.

Do I need a local Dutch director?

Not necessarily! You, as a foreign entrepreneur, can be the director of your Dutch company, even if you don’t live in the Netherlands. Substance requirements matter for tasks like getting a Dutch VAT number or bank account, and having a local director or staff can strengthen your case. While a local director isn’t mandatory, it can offer advantages for certain situations.

What is the cost of incorporation of a BV company in The Netherlands?

Incorporating your BV company in the Netherlands remotely costs €1250 excluding VAT. This covers all costs from notary fees to registration with the Chamber of Commerce and is considered a business expense for your new company. You will receive an invoice for the incorporation once the company is incorporated and registered.

What will Dutch Incorporation Service assist me with?

Dutch Incorporation Service will handle the incorporation of your Dutch entity. This covers everything from incorporating the legal entity up to registration with the Chamber of Commerce. We handle the entire process, from checking your ID and preparing paperwork to registering your company with the Chamber of Commerce. You’ll get all the incorporation documents and we can even help with extras like VAT numbers, accounting, and taxes.

What company types are there in The Netherlands?

In the Netherlands, you can choose from several company types. The most common option for foreign entrepreneurs is the Dutch BV, similar to a limited company. This is the preferred choice for 99% of our clients. If your goal is charity work, a Dutch Foundation might be a better fit. For large, publicly traded companies, the Dutch NV structure is also available.

How does the process of incorporation work if I am not a resident in the Netherlands?

Even if you’re not a resident, you can incorporate your company remotely. We handle the entire process, including video legalization or power of attorney legalization, so you don’t need to visit the Netherlands.

How long will the incorporation take?

Incorporation typically takes about 5 business days from the time we receive all your paperwork.

Can I be the shareholder and director (as a non resident)?

Yes, you can be both the shareholder and director of a Dutch company, even if you are not a resident of the Netherlands. Dutch law only requires a minimum of one director and one shareholder, and these can be the same person.

How do I appoint or resign additional directors?

The first directors of a Dutch company are appointed by the incorporators during the company’s formation. After that, the shareholders decide the number of directors unless the Articles of Association state otherwise, and the company must always have at least one director. A director does not need to be a Dutch citizen or resident, and a legal entity or foreign company may also be designated as a director. Appointing or removing a director requires a Chamber of Commerce form, minutes of the general meeting, a legalized passport copy and proof of address, and the change must be reported to the Chamber of Commerce within 8 working days. We can prepare the resolutions and forms, check whether the UBO register needs updating, file everything by registered post, and send you the updated company extract.

Can you invoice my holding company for the initial company formation?

Absolutely! If you’d like, we can invoice your holding company for the initial company formation fee.

What are the payment methods you accept?

We accept two convenient payment methods: bank transfer and credit card. This allows you to choose the option that best suits your needs.

Are your services tax deductible?

Absolutely! Because our services are considered a business expense, you can deduct the full cost on your corporate taxes.

Is the VAT on invoices tax deductible?

You can reclaim the VAT you pay on business purchases. This means the VAT amount on your invoice acts like a credit you can subtract from your total tax bill.

What is the corporate tax rate in The Netherlands?

The Netherlands has a two-tier corporate tax system. Companies pay a lower rate of 19% on profits up to €200,000, and a higher rate of 25.8% on profits exceeding that amount.

How does the Dutch VAT system work?

In the Netherlands, businesses with VAT activities register for a VAT number. They charge VAT on applicable sales, collect it from customers, and then pay it to the tax authorities. The VAT they pay on their own purchases is refundable. This system ensures VAT is ultimately paid by the end consumer, not the business itself.

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Frequently asked questions