What documents do you need to set up a Dutch B.V. as a foreigner?
Depending on where the shareholder is located, we have two different guides to set up a Dutch B.V:
- How to register a company in the Netherlands for UK companies specifically for companies based in the UK that want to set up a Dutch company in the Netherlands.
- Dutch BV formation tailored for US companies is for companies based in the US.
Dutch B.V.
The Besloten Vennootschap or the Dutch B.V. is one of the most common company structures in the Netherlands.
It represents a private limited liability company frequently used by both foreign and local investors to carry out business activities in the Netherlands.
Setting up a Dutch BV corporation has become easier and more affordable.
For example, in July 2011, changes to Dutch company law abolished the need for a ministerial “Declaration of No Object”, which shortened the Netherlands company formation process and lowered the costs.
Then in October of 2012, the Flex B.V. Act came into force which eliminates the minimum share capital requirement to set up a Dutch BV company—this was previously set at €18,000.
Company registration process
To set up a Netherlands company, you’ll need to fill out the required paperwork.
This typically means that a public notary will draft your Deed of Incorporation (similar to an Articles of Association, which need to be in Dutch).
These contain information such as your business activities, regulation of a company’s operation shareholders, define the responsibility of the director, minimum share capital, registered address, and your management boards.
From there to complete your Netherlands legal entity registration, you need to
- verify the company name,
- collect due diligence documentation,
- submit your notarized documents and deed of incorporation,
- register with the tax authorities and commercial registry (also known as KVK),
- and open a bank account.
Once all of that is squared away, you’re going to start operating in the Netherlands.
What you need to set up a dutch company:
- Proof of your identity—copies of notarized passports of the director(s) and shareholder(s) of your new Dutch BV.
- Proof of address—required for both your director(s) and shareholder(s) of the BV. This could include something simple like a utility bill or a bank statement.
- Address in the Netherlands—your Netherlands BV will need a registered office with an address that is located in the country for formal correspondence.
What you don’t need to set up a dutch company:
- Dutch local director—a foreign person can be appointed as the director of a Dutch company.
- Travel to the Netherlands — 100% online.
- Dutch bank account—while this is also not compulsory, having one will make it much easier to do business in the Netherlands and other European countries. Get more information about opening a bank account in the Netherlands
Documents required
- legalised power of attorney signed by the shareholder of the B.V.
- data card
- UBO declaration
- Deed of incorporation
Additional features exclusively for international clients
For our international clients, we offer below additional services (with no extra costs) specifically designed for non-local non-residents.
1. Dutch company address
As part of our international company formation in the Netherlands package, we will look for and arrange a virtual office for you at no extra charge (essential if you’d like to register your B.V. in the Netherlands).
This address will be used to receive any official letters sent from the dutch commercial register or the tax authority for example.
2. Virtual bank
We also provide FREE advice on choosing virtual banks in the Netherlands.
Why is it so special? It is because not all virtual banks accept non-residents director and rates and benefits might vary across providers.
To save you time and money, we will help you navigate the Dutch system, providing tailored recommendations on the best virtual banks to use for your Dutch company.
After setting up a B.V.
After your BV is registered, a VAT number is essential for companies to conduct their business.
If you are not a resident, the VAT number is not automatically granted to the BV.
The process for non-residents involves additional documentation and scrutiny by the Dutch tax authorities to verify the legitimacy of the company’s activities.
It is important to provide accurate and complete information during the application process to avoid delays or rejection.
This blog post, Applying for a VAT Number in the Netherlands for Your Dutch Company, will help you understand the process in more detail and guide you through the necessary steps.
Why Choose Us?
| Benefit | What We Offer | Value to You |
|---|---|---|
| 10+ Years of Experience | Expertise in setting up BVs for non-residents, including additional services like finding a virtual office that accepts non-residents. | Save time and gain peace of mind with proven, high-quality service backed by client testimonials. |
| Virtual Bank Solutions | Tested and reliable options for virtual banks that accept non-residents, based on prior client experiences. | Avoid the hassle of searching for compatible banking solutions and focus on starting your business. |
| Service-Oriented Approach | Commitment to responding to inquiries within one business day. | Receive timely assistance to ensure smooth and efficient processes. |
| Fixed Fee, No Hourly Rate | Transparent pricing ensures you know exactly your budget without surprises. | Plan your costs confidently without worrying about unexpected charges. |
Confused with all the information available online?
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a dutch private limited liability company used by foreign and local investors to carry out business activities in the Netherlands.
The BV abbreviation business stands for Besloten Vennootschap. A Dutch B.V. is a limited liability company, which means that its shareholders are not personally responsible for the company’s debts.
Registering a Dutch BV involves several steps. For non-residents, the process begins with completing a Know Your Customer (KYC) check, which differs from the process for Dutch residents. Once our compliance department gives the green light, we prepare the necessary documents, including the Power of Attorney (POA), the deed of incorporation, and the data card. When all documents are in order, we proceed with registering the new BV with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK).
For more details, please contact us.
Yes, a Dutch BV is a legal entity which is legally a separate and distinct entity from its owner. A Dutch BV has the same legal rights and responsibilities as individual.
Yes, a Dutch B.V. is a private limited liability company.
The Netherlands is a great place to incorporate a company for a number of reasons. Some UK ccompanies set up a dutch company because the costs of selling to EU customers have gone up at least two times after Brexit. Others decide on a company formation in the Netherlands because they are looking to test the market, gain access to the EU business channels.
Some companies open a company in Netherlands in order to apply for a VAT deferment licence for the convenience of their import and export business. The Netherlands is a great place to start. Not only that, but its one of the top English-speaking countries in the EU.