A 2024 Guide: Applying for a VAT Number in Netherlands for your Dutch company
If you are a non-resident operating a Dutch business from abroad, understanding and navigating VAT (Value Added Tax) registration in Netherlands is crucial for smooth operations within the Netherlands.
In this guide, we will walk you through the essentials of applying for a Dutch VAT number and checking whether a VAT number is valid, specifically tailored for Dutch companies owned by non-residents in 2024
We’ll examine VAT rates, registration requirements, how to apply for a VAT certificate, and the processes needed to ensure compliance with the latest regulations
Key Takeaways
VAT rates – Standard rate of 21%; reduced rate of 9% for specific goods and services; special 0% rate under certain conditions.
Registration Requirements -Mandatory for engaging in taxable supplies within the Netherlands; specific conditions apply to foreign companies
VAT Number Format – NL followed by 9 digits and B01
VAT Reporting – Monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on the business’s VAT liability
VAT Rates: Navigating Through the Dutch VAT System
Conversely, a reduced rate of 9% applies to select items, such as food products, water supply, and specific pharmaceutical products
The Netherlands offers a tiered VAT rate system to cater to various goods and services. The standard rate is set at 21%, covering most goods and services.
VAT Registration Number: When and How to Apply
For non-resident directors and shareholders, the process of applying for a VAT number in the Netherlands differs slightly.
Within one week of incorporating a new BV, the tax authority will send a letter containing a questionnaire for VAT number registration.
This 8-page questionnaire, in Dutch, asks for company information, core business details, and information about your customers and suppliers inside and outside the EU.
This 8-page questionnaire (in Dutch) will request the following:
- Company information,
- Core business details,
- Information about customers and suppliers both inside and outside the EU.
- Fixed office
- Employment
- Warehouse
The Dutch tax authority may also ask for evidence of your business activities in the Netherlands, such as invoices, contracts, or import documents. Based on this information, they will decide whether to grant you a VAT number.
Our all-in-one package includes assistance with this entire process to ensure you receive your VAT number as efficiently as possible.
Obtaining a VAT certificate
Typically requested by foreign companies and customers, such as Amazon for eCommerce businesses, a VAT certificate serves as proof of registration with Dutch VAT authorities.
This certificate can be requested in specific languages and for particular years.
How to Verify a VAT Registration Number?
You can easily verify a VAT ID or look up a VAT number using the EU’s VAT Information Exchange System (VIES). This system allows you to check the validity of a VAT registration number across all EU member states.
If the VAT number is valid: The system will confirm that the VAT number is registered and active in the Member State you selected. You will also receive basic information about the business, such as its legal name and address.
If the VAT number is invalid: The system will notify you that the VAT number is either incorrect or not registered in the Member State.
In this case, double-check the VAT number you entered and try again. If the number is still invalid, it may be necessary to contact the company or the relevant tax authority for further investigation
Why You Should Perform a VAT number Check?
Performing a VAT number check or VAT ID verification is essential for businesses involved in cross-border trade within the EU. Verifying a VAT registration number helps ensure that your customers, vendors and supplier are correctly registered for VAT and minimizes the risk of fraud.
Additionally, using a VAT check tool allows you to confirm that your company is dealing with legitimate, VAT-compliant businesses, which is especially important for B2B transactions across different EU Member States.
Need help checking the VAT number of your customer or business partner? Fill in the information below for a free check.
Reporting and Compliance: Ensuring Timely VAT Returns
Once registered, filing VAT returns accurately and on time is crucial for compliance. Depending on your VAT liability, you may need to file returns monthly, quarterly, or annually. These returns detail your total sales, VAT charged, and VAT paid, with any excess VAT either refunded or paid to the tax authorities
With the shift to electronic filing, submitting your VAT returns and payments has become more efficient, ensuring that your business complies with all Dutch tax regulations.
Our services
Our comprehensive tax filing and VAT return services for Dutch businesses include:
- Preparation and submission of corporate tax returns: We handle everything from preparing your accounts to filing your returns, ensuring you meet all legal requirements.
- VAT return services: Whether monthly, quarterly, or annually, we ensure accurate and timely submissions of VAT returns to avoid penalties and interest charges.
- Tax refund assistance: We help you claim VAT refunds quickly and easily, so your business benefits from any recoverable VAT.
Frequently Asked Questions
VAT (Value-Added Tax) is a consumption tax added to goods and services. If you run a business in the Netherlands, you’re required to file VAT returns regularly (monthly, quarterly, or annually) depending on your business size and structure. Filing VAT returns ensures you comply with Dutch tax laws and either pay or reclaim VAT.
Most businesses in the Netherlands file VAT returns quarterly. However, some companies may need to file monthly or annually, depending on their circumstances. We can help you determine the correct filing frequency for your business and ensure timely submissions.
Late VAT filings can result in penalties, interest charges, and increased scrutiny from the Dutch Tax Authority (Belastingdienst). To avoid these issues, our team ensures your VAT returns are always filed on time.
Yes, even if you have no trading activity and your return is zero, you are still required to file a VAT return if your business is registered for VAT. It’s a common misconception, especially among foreign directors, that no transactions mean no need to file. However, the Dutch tax authorities expect a VAT return every period, even if it’s a zero return. Failure to submit your return, even with no activity, can result in penalties or fines.
Yes, if the VAT you’ve paid exceeds the VAT you’ve collected, your business may be eligible for a VAT refund. We can handle the refund process for you and ensure the refund is credited directly to your bank account.
To file taxes and VAT returns, you’ll need financial records such as invoices, receipts, bank statements, and previous tax filings. We’ll work with you to ensure all necessary documents are prepared and submitted accurately.
We specialize in assisting international businesses operating in the Netherlands. Our team provides comprehensive tax filing and VAT return services, ensuring that your business complies with Dutch regulations, even if you’re unfamiliar with the local tax system.
Yes, we offer services for both corporate tax filings and VAT returns, ensuring that all your tax obligations are met efficiently and on time.
Simply contact us, and we’ll guide you through the process of preparing and submitting your tax and VAT returns. We make tax filing simple and hassle-free, so you can focus on running your business.