Start a business in The Netherlands

Learn Everything You Need to Know About Starting a Business in the Netherlands

Start a business in The Netherlands

How to Set Up a Business in the Netherlands

Starting a business in the Netherlands offers immense opportunities. With a strong entrepreneurial climate, favorable tax benefits, and an international reputation as a trading hub, the Netherlands is the ideal place to realize your business ambitions. But where do you start, and what should you consider when setting up a business in the Netherlands? Should you begin with a sole proprietorship, or would a private limited company (BV) be more advantageous? After reading this guide, you’ll have answers to these questions and more. From A to Z, you’ll understand exactly how to proceed and which pitfalls to avoid.

If you prefer to delegate the entire process to a specialist after reading this guide, we are here to assist you!

1. A Business Plan is Essential

The first step to building a successful business is crafting a well-thought-out business plan. A business plan is more than a formality; it serves as the foundation for your success. It outlines your goals, target audience, financial planning, and strategy. Not only does this document keep you focused and goal-oriented, but it’s often essential for convincing investors or securing financing. Take the time to clearly document your ideas and work out your strategy in detail.

2. Conduct Market Research: Identify Your Opportunities

Before launching your business, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand your market. Who are your potential customers? What are your competitors doing? What trends are shaping your industry? Market knowledge allows you to operate strategically and address your customers’ pain points effectively, leading to faster results. A thorough market analysis provides the insights needed to position your business and serve your customers better.

3. Choose the Right Legal Structure for Your Business

The legal structure of your business determines your liability, tax obligations, and administrative requirements. In the Netherlands, you can choose from several legal forms, such as:

  • Sole Proprietorship: Easy and quick to set up but with personal liability.
  • BV (Private Limited Company): Offers limited liability and is suitable for growing businesses.
  • NV (Public Limited Company): Ideal for large businesses with tradable shares.
  • Partnerships (VOF or CV): Suitable for collaborations with one or more partners.


Consider your current situation and make a choice based on your needs. For example, if you’re starting solo without employees, a sole proprietorship might be the best choice initially. You can always transition to a BV later. If you’re starting a business with a partner, a VOF or CV could be a better fit.

4. Choose a Unique and Recognizable Business Name

Your business name is your calling card. Ensure it is distinctive, relevant, and legally available. Avoid overly complex or lengthy names that are hard to remember.

Check with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK) to ensure the name isn’t already in use, preventing future legal issues.

5. Register Your Business with the KvK

Registration with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK) is a critical step. You’ll receive a KvK number and, if applicable, a VAT number. During registration, you’ll also select an SBI code to describe your business activities. This step officially establishes your business under Dutch law, but there are additional considerations to keep in mind.

6. Get Your Taxes and Administration in Order

After registering with the KvK, the Dutch Tax Authority automatically links your business to a VAT number. Ensure you’re aware of your tax obligations, including VAT returns and income tax. Avoid late filings or payments.

Good administration is not only legally required but also vital for your business’s success. Consider using accounting software or hiring an accountant to save time and minimize errors.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

A business bank account is essential for maintaining a professional image and keeping your personal and business finances separate. This separation simplifies bookkeeping and ensures a clear financial overview.

8. Protect Your Business with the Right Insurance and Terms

Unforeseen events can harm your business. Consider insurances such as liability insurance, legal assistance, or disability insurance to mitigate risks and build your business with greater security.

By drafting general terms and conditions, you establish clear agreements with customers, reducing disputes and ensuring clarity about matters like delivery terms, guarantees, and payment agreements.

What our clients say about us

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JuridConsult provided one of the best experiences I have encountered. The scope of service and timelines were precisely laid out and communications were superb. Billing was precisely as quoted and opportunities to reduce the fees were also presented. Excellent job, JuridConsult Team!Monica Ray Hoogkamer and Sunandan Ray, New York, USA December 24, 2024
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22:11 13 Dec 24
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15:46 26 Nov 24
I found JuridConsult online as I needed an intermediary to legalise documents in The Netherlands as I'm not in the country. The team provided a speedy, professional service with clear communication.
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14:43 30 May 24
KHURRAM IQBAL
08:04 28 May 24
Applying for VOG in the Netherlands was a big task for me but this firm helped me in a very professional way. Thank you very much Ms Diana. Highly recommended.
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Luis and his team deserve 5 starts! We found them through youtube when I was puzzled with all rules and regulations for my apostille for my birthcertificate which I needed very fast! His movies explained easily what it was, and what needed to be done. We decided to make use of his services, there are many providers but all of them request you sending your birth certificate across seas. I didnt feel comfortable with this but with Luis he accepted a photocopy and organized everything for us within 3 days! I was very amazed by the quickness and the updates from his side. The price was also the best price which I could find on the internet with the best service.
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Professional service! I used the service to obtain a Tax Residency Certificate. Juridic Consult has experience in this field and has a solid track record of success in handling similar cases. The team is responsive, communicates well and takes the time to understand your unique situation and needs. The cost of the consultation is also reasonable.
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One satisfied customer here 🙂 Quick communication, reasonable pricing, all translation accepted – I do recommend.
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Register a company in the Netherlands

Would you prefer to outsource the entire process of starting a business in the Netherlands, including business registration, to a specialist? Whether you want everything handled flawlessly or wish to focus on other aspects of launching your business, JuridConsult is your expert partner.

  • Everything under one roof
  • Tailored answers within one business day
  • Personalized attention
  • Fast and efficient service
  • Expertise in language and legal matters


Let JuridConsult guide you seamlessly through the process of starting your business in the Netherlands.

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