Step-by-step guide through the DAFT application process including the new 2024 pilot procedure
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The IND has streamlined the DAFT application process. You can now apply with minimal documentation upfront, giving you more time to establish your business after approval.
¶ Step 1: Prepare for Netherlands Entry
- Entry Method: Enter as tourist (90-day limit)
- Documentation: Valid U.S. passport
- Planning: Research housing options and business ideas
- Requirement: Must have Dutch residential address for application
- Options:
- Temporary housing (Airbnb, hotel)
- Rental apartment
- Friend/family address (with permission)
- Timing: Secure before IND appointment
- Method: Online at ind.nl or phone
- Timing: Book as early as possible (can be 2-4 weeks wait)
- Location: Choose nearest IND office
- Cancellation Strategy: Check daily for earlier slots due to cancellations
Required Documents:
- Valid U.S. passport (original + copies)
- Completed DAFT application form
- Proof of Dutch address
- Application fee: €380
What You DON'T Need Anymore:
KvK registrationBusiness bank accountBalance sheetBusiness plan
¶ Step 5: Biometrics and Payment
- Biometrics: Photo, fingerprints, signature
- Payment: €380 (cash EUR or Dutch debit card)
- Receipt: Residence sticker placed in passport
- Extension: Legal stay extended to 6 months while awaiting decision
- Timeline: 1-3 months typically (up to 6 months maximum)
- Notification: Letter or email with decision
- Positive Decision: Approval letter with further instructions
- Negative Decision: Appeal options available
- Required: Must register within 5 days of approval
- Purpose: Obtain BSN (Burgerservicenummer)
- Documents: Passport, residence permit, address proof
- BSN Uses: Banking, healthcare, taxes, employment
KvK Registration:
- When: Within 6 months of IND approval
- Process: Online appointment at kvk.nl
- Cost: ~€50
- Documents: Passport, address proof, business details
Business Bank Account:
- Requirement: Open dedicated business account
- Options: Bunq, ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank
- Timeline: After KvK registration
- Deposit: €4,500 immediately upon opening
- Requirement: Mandatory within 4 months
- Cost: €100-130 per month
- Coverage: Basic package meets legal requirements
- Providers: Zilveren Kruis, CZ, VGZ, etc.
- Week 1-2: Arrive in Netherlands, secure address
- Week 3-4: Apply at IND, receive residence sticker
- Month 2: Wait for decision (may extend to month 3)
- Receive approval
- Register with municipality (BSN)
- Register business (KvK)
- Open business bank account
- Deposit €4,500
- Obtain health insurance
- 6 Months Post-Approval: Complete business setup and deposit
- 4 Months Post-BSN: Obtain health insurance
- 5 Days Post-Approval: Register with municipality
- Ongoing: Maintain €4,500 in business account
- 3 Months Before Expiry: Can submit renewal application
- Required: Certified balance sheet showing €4,500 maintenance
- Income Proof: Demonstrate ability to sustain yourself
- Activity Proof: Show active business operations
- Early Booking: Schedule IND appointment ASAP
- Slot Monitoring: Check daily for cancellations to get earlier appointments
- Documentation: Keep all documents organized and accessible
- Address Proof: Ensure address documentation is current and valid
- Late Registration: Missing municipality registration deadline
- Insufficient Deposit: Failing to deposit full €4,500
- Wrong Account Type: Using personal instead of business account
- Insurance Delays: Not obtaining health insurance within 4 months
- International Transfers: Use services like Wise (formerly TransferWise)
- Lower Fees: Significant savings compared to traditional banks
- Speed: Typically 1-3 business days
- Verification: Keep transfer documentation for IND records
- Collection: Pick up physical card from IND office
- Duration: Valid for 2 years initially
- Renewal: 5-year renewals thereafter
- Travel: Allows free travel within Schengen area
- Start Date: Can begin business activities immediately after setup
- Invoicing: All work must be invoiced through Dutch business
- Client Base: Worldwide clients acceptable
- Documentation: Maintain detailed financial records
2024 Pilot Process Key Benefits:
- Simplified Documentation: No upfront KvK/bank statements required
- Faster Application: Streamlined initial process
- Flexible Timeline: 6 months to complete business setup
Application Requirements:
- US Passport: Valid passport (original + copies)
- Dutch Address: Residential address required
- Application Fee: €380 (cash EUR or Dutch debit card)
- Biometrics: Photo, fingerprints at IND appointment
Critical Post-Approval Deadlines:
- 5 Days: Register with municipality (get BSN)
- 4 Months: Obtain Dutch health insurance
- 6 Months: Complete KvK registration and €4,500 deposit
IND Appointment Tips:
- Book Early: Appointments can have 2-4 week wait
- Check Cancellations: Monitor daily for earlier slots
- Bring Cash: €380 fee in cash EUR or Dutch debit card
- Complete Documentation: Ensure all documents are ready
This guide covers the application process. Next, learn about maintaining your DAFT status and preparing for renewal.
📍 Current Location: DAFT Application Process
🏠 Back to Home | ⬅️ Previous: Requirements & Setup | ➡️ Next: Maintaining DAFT Status