Introduction
Setting up a firm in the Netherlands, like anyplace else, requires some paperwork. For more information, you can also check out Intercompany Solutions. Below mentioned are some of the things to keep in mind that will walk you through everything you need to do to get your firm up and operating in for example the Dutch capital, Amsterdam.
Location
The Netherlands is divided into 12 provinces. While the legislation in the Netherlands appears to be rather uniform, each province’s requirements and processes may change. The information gathered was targeted at providing generic Netherlands-wide information; however, it may have been based on Holland in certain circumstances.
Language
Language may be an issue for certain entrepreneurs. While English is widely spoken (reportedly 87 percent of the time), Dutch is the official national language. Furthermore, regional languages such as Frisian exist. Yet, as an international business you will get around with English. It will be quite easy to attract Dutch staff who speak English fluently.
Visas
The Netherlands, as an EU member state, enables free movement of products and labor from and to other EU member states. However, the conditions for working and residing in the Netherlands for non-EU or EEA nationals or residents will be more difficult. If you are not a citizen of the European Union, you will require a residence permit (MVV). You may also need to apply for a work permit in some situations (TWV). If you are not a resident of the EU, you should first visit the IND. Everything you need to know to apply for a stay in the Netherlands is available on the website.
‘Holland’ vs. ‘The Netherlands’
Historically, the Netherlands as a whole has been referred to as ‘Holland.’ However, this is an older practice that arose as a result of the two provinces, North and South Holland were the state’s most significant economic and political regions. In today’s world, referring to the Netherlands as Holland is actually erroneous, and the term “Holland” now solely refers to North and South Holland, two of the country’s twelve provinces. Nevertheless, it still happens.
Recognized Qualification Requirement
In the Netherlands, several occupations are regulated and need a recognized certification. This should be considered for individuals such as single proprietors, representatives, managing directors, and others. The Netherlands Organisation for International Cooperation in Higher Education (NUFFIC) offers a foreign qualification accreditation service that will certify whether your qualifications fulfil the criteria necessary for doing business in the Netherlands.
- The Netherlands is well-known for its long history of international commerce dating back to the time of colonisation. The Dutch are considered internationally oriented, and the labour market is characterised by a low level of unemployment, a high level of education, and good language skills (reportedly the highest percentage of a good command of the English language outside of an English speaking country – though the same is often said of countries such as Sweden and Norway). In addition, the Netherlands has a high level of political and legal stability, as well as a well-developed financial and economic infrastructure. You need some documents for registering a firm in the Netherlands.
- In the Netherlands, there are no specific limits on foreign-owned corporations, and a large variety of tax treaties prevent double taxation and frequently give additional tax benefits.
- Many international enterprises regard the Netherlands as an appropriate site from which to penetrate markets throughout Europe, the Middle East, the Far East, Africa, and beyond.
- If you are from outside the European Union and plan to start a business or relocate foreign employees to the Netherlands, you will require a residence permit (MVV). You may also need to apply for a work permit in some situations (TWV).
