For founders from outside the EU with an innovative idea – one year to build your company in the Netherlands, guided by a recognised facilitator.
Five conditions – the facilitator and the innovation carry the most weight.
Two business routes. The stage of your company decides which one fits.
| Start-up visa | Self-employed permit | |
|---|---|---|
| Stage of your business | New, innovative idea | Running business with a proven plan |
| Facilitator | Required (RVO-recognised) | Not required |
| Assessment | RVO checks innovation and plan | Points system: experience, business plan, value for the Netherlands |
| Duration | 1 year, not renewable | 2 years, renewable |
| After the permit | Switch to the self-employed permit | Continue, and later long-term residence |
It starts with a free 30-minute consultation.
We test your idea against the innovation criteria and look at your finances.
We help you find a suitable RVO-recognised facilitator and agree the support package.
We prepare the plan, KVK registration and IND application – with the MVV entry visa where needed.
You build your company in the Netherlands. Before the year ends, we prepare your switch to the self-employed permit.
It is a one-year residence permit. Most nationalities first receive an MVV – a 90-day entry visa – and then collect the residence card in the Netherlands. Some nationalities are exempt from the MVV.
RVO publishes the list of recognised facilitators. We help you choose one that fits your sector and check the agreement before you sign.
The start-up permit cannot be extended. If your company is on track, you switch to the residence permit for self-employed persons. We plan this with you from the start.
Yes, your partner and children can apply with you. You then need to show more income – we calculate the exact amount for your situation.
RVO looks at whether your product or service is new to the Netherlands. Book a free consultation and we will give you an honest first assessment.
The first 30 minutes are free. Send your details, or contact us directly.