Self-Employed Residence Permit
Netherlands
Last updated: December 27, 2025
2 years (renewable)
$1708
3-6 months
High
About this Visa
This visa lets you work as your own boss in the Netherlands. You start a business and run it independently (not as an employee). It's designed for people from countries outside Europe who want to be entrepreneurs in the Netherlands. What makes it special: It's hard to get, but some nationalities have much easier paths. American, Japanese, and Turkish citizens can skip most of the difficult requirements. What you can do: Run your own business, bring your spouse and children, work as much as you want.
Key Benefits
- Work your own business with no limits
- Bring spouse and children
- Family can work as employees or self-employed without extra permission
- Get Dutch health insurance
- Travel freely throughout Europe
- Apply for permanent residency after 5 years
- Eligible for Dutch citizenship after continuous residence
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 or older
- No serious criminal record
- 2-3 years work or business experience recommended
- Minimum $1,667 monthly business income
- Must register business in Netherlands
- Have at least $5,300 in savings
- Not banned from entering European countries
- No previous illegal residence in Netherlands
Financial Requirement
Must make at least $1,667 per month from your business. Prove with bank statements, business records, and accountant-signed documents.
Documents
- Valid passportCopy of all pages
- Criminal record statementSigned declaration of no serious crimes
- TB test or exemptionHealth test or proof exemption applies
- Business registration proofFrom Dutch Chamber of Commerce
- Business planWhat you will do, target customers, financial projections
- Bank statementsProof of savings and business funds
- Work experience documentsPast job contracts, degrees, business records
- Accountant statementProfessional confirmation of financial numbers
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.