Netherlands
30% ruling & DAFT visa
The Netherlands offers the 30% ruling tax advantage, the DAFT visa for Americans, and a straightforward immigration system. High quality of life, English-speaking environment, central European location.
Immigration Overview
The Dutch immigration system is efficient and transparent. Whether you're an entrepreneur (DAFT), knowledge migrant, or family member, the process is relatively streamlined compared to other EU countries.
The 30% ruling makes the Netherlands particularly attractive for high earners: 30% of your salary is tax-free for up to 5 years. Combined with DAFT (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty) for US entrepreneurs, it's one of the best deals in Europe.
Visa & Residency Pathways
DAFT Visa
Dutch-American Friendship Treaty residence for US entrepreneurs
- €4,500 capital investment required
- Must start/run Dutch business
- 2 year renewable residence
- Path to permanent residence in 5 years
Knowledge Migrant Visa
Employment-based for skilled workers with recognized employers
- Employer must be IND-recognized sponsor
- Minimum salary requirements (€4,670/month)
- 30% ruling eligible
- Family members included
Family Reunification
Join Dutch resident or citizen family members
- Spouse, registered partner, or minor children
- Income requirements apply
- Integration exam required
- Work permit included
Dutch Naturalization
After 5 years of continuous legal residence
- 5 years standard
- Civic integration exam required
- Must renounce other citizenship (exceptions exist)
- Full EU citizenship
Why Netherlands?
30% Ruling
30% of salary tax-free for 5 years. €100k salary = €30k tax-free annually.
English Fluent
90%+ English proficiency. Work and socialize in English without issue.
Quality of Life
Excellent infrastructure, healthcare, education. Work-life balance culture.
Central Location
Amsterdam-Paris: 3 hours. London: 1 hour flight. Brussels: 2 hours drive.
Business Hub
Major European business center. Tech scene, startup ecosystem, multinational HQs.
DAFT for Americans
Only €4,500 deposit. Easiest entrepreneur visa in Europe for US citizens.
General Requirements
Common requirements for Dutch residence:
- Valid passport
- Apostilled birth certificate
- Criminal record certificate (Certificate of Conduct)
- Health insurance (EU-compliant coverage)
- Proof of income/financial means
- Dutch address registration (gemeenteafter arrival)
- BSN (Burgerservicenummer - Dutch social security number)
DAFT-specific: €4,500 deposit into Dutch business account, business plan, registration with KVK (Chamber of Commerce).
Ready to explore Netherlands?
Join the private waitlist to get an invite window. We’re opening access in cohorts so each invite comes with momentum.
Free to start. Upgrade for document uploads and packet generation.