Residence permit for foreign startups

Published on:
16 February 2022
Last checked on:
28 June 2022

The Netherlands has traditionally been a country that welcomes entrepreneurial initiatives. After centuries of enterprise and ingenuity, the combination of innovation, trade and entrepreneurship remains a driving force within the nation's economy. It is a crucial source of economic renewal and job creation. As such, entrepreneurs stimulate economic growth.

handelsmissie zuid-italie luchthavens

Are you interested in starting a company in a competitive environment with a well-qualified workforce? Would you like to experience the high standard of living in the Netherlands? Read more about the advantages the Netherlands offers entrepreneurs.

Finding a facilitator

To qualify for a Residence permit for startups, you must meet several criteria. The innovativeness of your product is one, as is the age of your company. Check all the criteria before you apply.

Ambitious entrepreneurship

Under this scheme, we offer startups the necessary support to develop into mature enterprises. Read more about how the Dutch government supports ambitious entrepreneurship.

Applying

If you apply for a residence permit for foreign startups you will need to know where to submit your application and who will be reviewing it. Your country of origin also determines what application process you will need to follow.

Extension of the permit

After the first year, the residence permit may be extended by applying to the Dutch government's self-employment scheme. The startup entrepreneur must receive a statement from the startup facilitator. Or they must meet the standard requirements applicable to the self-employment scheme. Find an overview of these requirements on the Immigration and Naturalisation Services (IND) website.

Commissioned by:
  • Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy
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