Setting up a company in the Netherlands

Setting up a business in the Netherlands involves many moving parts, from legal structuring to tax compliance, employment- and regulatory registrations. With Crowe, you gain access to a full-service team of legal, financial and tax experts who handle every step of the process. Whether opening a completely new business or establishing a Dutch subsidiary, we help you choose the right legal structure and ensure full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.   

Full guidance for Dutch incorporation

• Company formation and structuring: Selecting the right legal entity and optimizing your corporate setup.   
• Regulatory and tax compliance: Managing registrations, tax filings and reporting obligations.   
• Employment and payroll support: Ensuring full compliance with Dutch labor laws and social security.   
• Business licensing and sector-specific approvals: Obtaining the necessary permits for your industry.   
• Ongoing financial and legal advisory: Helping you stay compliant as your business evolves. 

Get in touch via the contact form to discuss your business setup needs and explore how we can assist with the process.

5 steps to start a business in the Netherlands

To help you get started, we have outlined five essential steps for setting up a company in the Netherlands. Submit your contact details via the form below to receive the full guide directly by email.

Establishing an entity, structuring and registering with the Chamber of Commerce   

The first step in setting up your business is selecting the right legal entity. The most common choice for international businesses is the private limited company (bv) due to its flexibility and limited liability. However, alternative options, such as subsidiaries and branch offices, may better suit specific business models. A subsidiary is a separate legal entity, typically structured as a bv, offering limited liability and tax benefits. However, it requires full compliance with Dutch corporate regulations. A branch office, by contrast, is an extension of the foreign parent company, making it easier to set up but exposing the parent company to potential liabilities in the Netherlands.   

For businesses looking to relocate their headquarters to the Netherlands, structuring your corporate presence correctly from the outset is crucial. The Netherlands provides a stable business climate with a strong financial sector, robust legal protections and access to extensive tax treaties. Whether you need a standalone entity or a multi-company structure, Crowe Peak supports your setup to align with your operational, legal and financial objectives.

Additional registrations and compliance requirements   

Following the registration of your entity, additional registrations might be necessary to guarantee full compliance. These depend on your business model, typically involving: 

• VAT registration: Required if your business supplies taxable goods or services in the Netherlands or the EU.   
• Sector-specific permits and licenses: Businesses in finance, healthcare, transport and food industries may need additional approvals.
• Social security and employee insurance registration: Mandatory if you plan to hire employees in the Netherlands.   

Taxation and financial obligations   

The Dutch corporate tax system is structured to support business growth but comes with specific compliance requirements. Tax structuring is essential for minimizing liabilities and optimizing financial efficiency.   

Important considerations regarding tax include:   

• Tax treaties: The Netherlands has an extensive network of tax treaties that reduce withholding taxes on international transactions.  
• VAT obligations: Businesses must file periodic VAT returns and comply with EU invoicing regulations.   
• Payroll taxes and withholding obligation: If employing staff, businesses must deduct and pay employer contributions.   
• Transfer pricing: Transactions between related entities must comply with the arm’s length principle and be documented according to Dutch and international regulations. 
• Innovation box regime: Eligible companies benefit from a lower tax rate on profits from intellectual property.   

While these are the primary tax factors, each company has unique financial and legal circumstances. Crowe Peak ensures that your tax structure is optimized for compliance and efficiency, while minimizing administrative burdens.   

Social security and employment regulations   

If you plan to hire employees, compliance with Dutch labor laws and social security regulations is mandatory. Employment contracts must align with Dutch law, covering working hours, leave policies and dismissal procedures. In certain industries, collective bargaining agreement (CAOs) may impose additional requirements on wages, benefits and pension contributions.   

Key employment considerations include:   

• Health insurance: Employees are required to have Dutch health insurance and employers must comply with related obligations.   
• Expat tax benefits: The 30% ruling allows eligible expatriates to receive a tax-free allowance for up to 30% of their salary, reducing employer costs.   

Free initial consultation

We offer a free initial consultation to better understand your situation. During this meeting, we will discuss the specifics of setting up your business in the Netherlands and provide guidance on the best approach for your needs. You can easily request an appoint via the contact form.