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The Entrepreneur's Guide  
Into The Netherlands

Company formation in the Netherlands will be a breeze, using this guide.

We will help you to determine the best corporate structure, and show you how you can start your business in the Netherlands, without even setting up a local legal entity (the BV), unless you want to, ofcourse!

Our Guide tackles all issues from Company Formation to obtaining a Residency permit in the Netherlands. You can download the full guide in PDF below. 

Are you planning to start a company in the Netherlands? Then you should contact us, to discuss the options.

House of Companies is agent-independent, and provides a dedicated Company Portal, whichever solution, or agent, you end up with.

Guide Chapters

categories
The Netherlands | Business Formation
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This article will inform you on the different types of Dutch legal entities

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Get all the information you need to start a Dutch BV yourself!

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Get all the information you need to start a Dutch NV yourself!

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Start a branch in the Netherlands without involving a notary!

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How to start a sole proprietorship in the Netherlands in a few simple steps.

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A holding company is really just a BV (Private Limited Company).

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In this article we will explain you the details of the Formation Deed, and why they are so important.

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A company name is officially called a 'trade name'.

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Local Registered Address

Get your Dutch address in a heartbeat! And understand why!

Read Full Article

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Start a Dutch NGO

Do you aim to have NO profit? The Dutch Stichting is perfect as NGO!

Read Full Article

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Registered address requirement

The legal requirements and conditions of your Dutch virtual office.

Read Full Article

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Company Formation Netherlands

Company Formation Netherlands explained in detail.

Receive a Full PDF Version of the Guide

 Company Formation in the Netherlands

The team of House of Companies has over 12 years of experience in setting up companies in the Netherlands.

Did you know that you can register a branch in 1 day?

That a notary is not required to register a branch?

We guarantee the opening of an IBAN payment account for all entrepreneurs that use our Entity Portal to run their business in the Netherlands. 

The registration of the branch in the Netherlands is becoming more popular then the formation of a local entity, such as the BV. House of Companies is one of the frontrunners to facilitate this empowerement for global entrepreneurs. Be less dependent on notaries and expensive consultants, and set up your Dutch business with House of Companies!

The Best Legal Structure for Global Entrepreneurs Starting a Business the Netherlands

When it comes to company formation in the Netherlands, there are a few different options available to you. One popular choice is to establish a legal entity in the form of a BV, or Besloten Vennootschap. This type of company offers limited liability and is a separate legal entity from its owners, providing a layer of protection for your personal assets. On the other hand, if you already have an existing business and want to expand into the Netherlands, you can opt for a branch registration. This option allows you to operate under the umbrella of your existing company, offering a quick and efficient way to establish a presence in the Netherlands. While a branch may not have the same level of independence as a BV, it can be a cost-effective and efficient option for expanding your business into a new market.

House of Companies has vast experience in registering a local branch, obtaining local company numbers or VAT numbers, and ofcourse in the formation of Dutch BV's. 

However, Compliance procedures have become more strict, and the notaries in the Netherlands are not eager to incorporate Dutch entities on behalf of overseas Founders. 

Furthermore, the Dutch BV no longer has an advantage when opening a bank account in the Netherlands. Instead, the majority of companies applies for an IBAN Payment Account, issued by an online bank/EMI, which is more familiar with international structures.

The Dutch LTD (BV)  vs. the Branch

Are you considering expanding your business to the Netherlands but feeling unsure about the best approach? On one hand, you have the option of establishing a Dutch BV subsidiary of your current business. This offers the advantage of creating a separate legal entity with its own liabilities, allowing for more autonomy and independence. On the other hand, you could choose to enter the Netherlands market by registering a branch instead. This option provides the opportunity to expand your business while remaining under the control of the parent company. This means you can benefit from the parent company’s assets, making it easier to set up and operate. 

A branch in the netherlands does not pay taxes on outgoing dividends.

A branch in the Netherlands can easily open a IBAN payment account at House of Companies.

A branch in the Netherlands does not require the involvement of a notary, and can be incorporated remotely, within one day. 

However, any liabilities resulting from the operations by the branch, will be borne by the 'head office'. If you expect liabilities, such as the payment of salaries, or a longterm rental agreement, it might be better to add an extra corporate veil. This does not have to be the Dutch BV. Instead, you can opt to establish an EU Legal Entity, such as the UK or Estonia LTD, which will then be registered as branch in the Netherlands. 

This way, uou enjoy the upsides of the branch, while you don't suffer the disadvantages of a branch in the Netherlands. 

5 Steps to Start a Business in the Netherlands

If you are looking to start a business in the Netherlands, there are several important steps that you need to follow in order to ensure that your business is set up correctly and legally.

 

The first step is to determine the corporate structure of your business. Most of our members opt for either the Branch Registration or the Dutch BV. 

 

Once you have determined the corporate structure of your business, the next step is to start the Customer Onboarding Procedure.

This procedure will involve obtaining the necessary documentation and information from the shareholders and/or directors of your organisation in order to establish a business relationship, as per Dutch compliance requirements. We will also request a short background on your activities and expectec transactions, so we can already approve your profile for the purpose of issueing an IBAN account, as well.

After completing the Customer Onboarding Procedure, the next step is to register your business with the appropriate government authorities. This will involve submitting the necessary paperwork and paying any required fees in order to officially establish your business in the Netherlands.

Optionally you visit our office in the Netherlands, or we deal with the formation of the business remotely. For remote formation procedures, please consider that we need to identify the signature (and idendity) of each Founder).

Once your business is registered, the next step is to open an IBAN account using our Entity Portal. This will involve providing the necessary information and documentation to a bank or financial institution in order to open a business account. Finally, the last step is to apply for tax numbers for your business. This will involve obtaining the necessary tax identification numbers and registering your business for tax purposes with the Dutch tax authorities.

 

By following these five important steps, you can ensure that your business is set up correctly and legally in the Netherlands, allowing you to focus on building and growing your business in the Dutch market.

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Can I form a company in Holland even if I'm not a resident?

Got questions?
Let’s talk about your options

Absolutely! The Netherlands is a great place to start a company, and the good news is that you don't have to be a resident to do so. As long as you have a valid address in the country and are able to fulfill the necessary legal requirements, you can definitely form a company in Holland. This includes having a legal representative in the country and registering your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.

 

The process may seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance and support, you can navigate through the steps and set up your business in no time. The vibrant economy, strategic location, and business-friendly environment make Holland an attractive destination for entrepreneurs from around the world.

So don't let the fact that you're not a resident hold you back—take advantage of the opportunities available and make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality in the Netherlands! 

The Branch or the BV?

Got questions?
Let’s talk about your options

Setting up a representative office can be an effective way to establish a presence in the Netherlands without the need for full company formation.

A representative office serves as a liaison between your current company and potential clients or partners in the Netherlands.

 

It allows you to conduct market research, build relationships, and explore business opportunities. While a representative office cannot engage in profit-generating activities, it provides a low-risk entry point into the Dutch market.

When your rep. office is ready to generate revenue, we can upgrade it to a fully fledged branch, so it can apply for VAT, become an Employer of Record, etc etc. 

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