Netherlands · freelancer
DAFT lets US citizens establish a business in the Netherlands with just EUR 4,500 in capital. Schengen access, family included, PR possible after 5 years.
Who is this for?
US citizens wanting to live in Europe via self-employment. Freelancers, consultants, and small business owners.
Pros
Only EUR 4,500 capital needed
Schengen access
Great quality of life
Family can work
30% ruling may apply
Cons
US citizens only
Must actually run a business
Must renounce US citizenship for Dutch passport
High cost of living
Assumed clean — update in profile if needed
Must obtain health insurance before/during application
Typical: 60 days (30–90)
Must be US citizen
From: State Department · ~14d
For your Dutch-registered business
From: Self · ~7d
Bank statement showing deposit
From: Dutch bank · ~7d
Dutch basic health insurance
From: Dutch insurer · ~3d
You keep
€21,252/yr
€1,771/mo
Based on €60,000/yr income
Special Regimes
• 30% ruling: 30% tax-free allowance for skilled migrants
Permanent Residency
After 5 years
Language: Dutch (A2)
Citizenship
After 5 years
Language: Dutch (A2)
Requires renunciation
Dual citizenship: Conditional
• Must renounce US citizenship for Dutch nationality
Last updated: 2025-11-01 · Verified: 2025-11-01 · Always verify with official sources.