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Highly Skilled Migrant

Spouse/Partner Family Visa

Corporate & Executive Relocation

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Highly Skilled Migrant

Spouse/Partner Family Visa

Corporate & Executive Relocation

Login Account

Folder: Visa Pathways

Highly Skilled Migrant

Spouse/Partner Family Visa

Corporate & Executive Relocation

Login Account

100%

Relocation Success

Every client relocated safely, legally, and stress-free.

98%

Client Satisfaction

Based on post-move surveys and client feedback.

150+

Americans Relocated

Professionals, families, entrepreneurs, and LGBTQ+ expats.

DAFT Visa Overview - Relocate with Lux

What is the DAFT Visa?

Dutch American Friendship Treaty

The Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) offers U.S. citizens a streamlined path to Dutch residence through entrepreneurial activity. No job offer required. No large-scale investment needed. Simply start your small business and establish residency legally in the Netherlands with privileged treaty status.

Unlike many other European residence options, DAFT is widely regarded as one of the most accessible pathways for American entrepreneurs seeking to live and work in Europe.

Key DAFT Benefits

95% Approval Success Rate

€4,500 Required Capital

2-4 Months Processing

2 Years Initial Term

Average Processing Timeline
(While already in the Netherlands)

Application Submitted IND Review Decision Received

100%

Client Success Rate

Our proven expertise and meticulous preparation process ensures the highest approval rates in the industry for DAFT visa applications.

DAFT Visa Eligibility Requirements - Relocate with Lux

Navigating DAFT Visa Eligibility for Americans

Understanding the precise DAFT visa requirements is the first critical step for Americans aspiring to live and work in the Netherlands. At Relocate with Lux, our team of IND specialists and experienced expats simplifies this complex process, ensuring your application is meticulously prepared for success. We guide you beyond the paperwork, providing insights into establishing your entrepreneurial presence under the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty.

General Eligibility Criteria

U.S. citizenship (valid passport required)
Clean legal and immigration history (no criminal record or history of illegal stay in the Netherlands)
Minimum age of 18 years
Intent to establish or genuinely develop a business in the Netherlands
Sufficient financial means to support yourself (typically met by the business capital)

Supporting Documents Overview

Valid U.S. passport (all pages with stamps)
Apostilled birth certificate (and marriage certificate if applicable)
Proof of business registration (KvK extract)
Dutch business bank statement showing the €4,500 deposit
Proof of housing registration (required for municipality registration)

Selecting Your Business Structure

Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)

Liability: Unlimited (personal assets are at risk for business debts).

Setup & Admin: Simpler to establish and manage, registered directly with the KvK.

Taxation: Profits taxed as personal income, eligible for entrepreneurial deductions.

BV (Besloten Vennootschap)

(Dutch Private Limited Company / Corporation Equivalent)

Liability: Limited (personal assets are separate, protecting you from business debts).

Setup & Admin: More complex to incorporate, requires a civil-law notary, and more administrative overhead.

Taxation: Profits subject to corporate tax, with dividends taxed separately. Often advantageous for employees (including director-shareholders) meeting specific criteria, potentially qualifying for the 30% ruling.

Learn more about choosing the best structure for you.

Important Additional Notes for Your Application

When applying for your DAFT visa Netherlands, keep these key points in mind:

U.S. passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Family members, including your spouse/registered partner and unmarried minor children, can be included in your DAFT visa application. Additional documentation will be required for each accompanying family member.

How Relocate with Lux Ensures Your Success

Navigating the intricate Dutch-American Friendship Treaty visa requirements can be overwhelming. Our dedicated team, comprised of IND specialists, experienced American expats, and relocation experts, provides comprehensive support. We meticulously prepare all your DAFT visa for US citizens documentation, from advising on your business registration (whether Eenmanszaak or BV) and assisting with Dutch bank account setup, to ensuring every detail aligns with IND compliance. Trust us to streamline your path to living and thriving in the Netherlands.

Start Your DAFT Visa Journey Today with Relocate with Lux

DAFT Visa Journey - Relocate with Lux

How Does the DAFT Visa Application Process Look Like?

Our expert-guided process breaks down the DAFT visa application into clear, manageable steps, ensuring a smooth and successful transition to your new life in the Netherlands.

1. Personalized Consultation

We meticulously assess your eligibility and create a tailored roadmap, saving you confusion and ensuring you start on the right path.

2. Business Registration (KvK)

We handle the KvK registration, help you choose the right business structure (Eenmanszaak vs. BV), and ensure compliance with Dutch regulations, simplifying overwhelming bureaucracy.

3. Bank Account Setup

We guide you through opening a Dutch business bank account, including meeting the €4,500 deposit requirement, streamlining this often challenging step for non-residents.

4. Application Preparation

Our team meticulously compiles and reviews all required documents, including translations, ensuring IND compliance to avoid costly delays or rejections.

5. IND Submission

We schedule your IND appointment and ensure all paperwork is submitted correctly, making this intimidating step stress-free so you can focus on your move.

6. Municipality Registration

We assist with registering at your local Gemeente (municipality) to obtain your essential BSN number and ensure housing registration is in place.

7. Biometrics Appointment

We guide you through attending your essential biometrics appointment for fingerprints and photo at the IND.

8. Visa Approval & Support

Celebrate your visa approval with confidence, knowing our dedicated support extends far beyond this milestone, ensuring seamless integration into your new Dutch life.

Experience a Stress-Free Relocation

Let us handle the intricate details and bureaucratic hurdles of your DAFT visa application for US citizens. Our expert team ensures compliance, avoids delays, and saves you invaluable time and effort, so you can focus on starting your new life and thriving in the Netherlands. We bring the expertise of IND specialists and seasoned expats to your journey.

Book Your Consultation Today

Client Testimonials - Relocate with Lux

What Our Clients Say

Real stories from people who transformed their lives in the Netherlands

© 2025 Relocate with Lux. A Luxsevita Company.

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