Kingdom of the Netherlands · entrepreneur
Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) entrepreneur
Treaty-based self-employment residence for US nationals starting a business in the Netherlands.
Last reviewed:
Overview
DAFT is a bilateral treaty allowing US nationals to live in the Netherlands as self-employed business owners with a relatively low capital investment (€4,500 held in the business). The route also extends under equivalent treaties to Japanese nationals (the Dutch-Japanese friendship treaty).
Government fees
Around €1,500.
Typical duration
Initial 2 years, renewable for 5; leads to permanent residence.
Primary source
IND — Self-employed person (DAFT / Dutch-Japanese friendship treaty) · Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
US or Japanese nationality.
€4,500 held in a Dutch business bank account.
Registration of a Dutch company with the Chamber of Commerce.
Common blockers
Non-US/Japanese nationality.
Lack of Dutch company registration at application time.
Typical evidence
US or Japanese passport.
KvK registration.
Bank statement showing €4,500.
Application pathway
Step 1
Register Dutch company
Most DAFT applicants set up as eenmanszaak (sole proprietorship) or BV.
Step 2
Deposit €4,500 in business account
Capital must be retained during the permit.
Step 3
Apply with IND
DAFT route is self-sponsored.
Step 4
Live and trade
Renew at year 2; permanent residence option after 5 years.
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Frequently asked questions
Is DAFT only for US citizens?
DAFT itself is for US nationals. Japanese nationals access an equivalent self-employment route under the Dutch-Japanese friendship treaty. Other nationalities fall under the general Dutch self-employment points system, which is more demanding.
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