Opening a company in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has long been a favorite destination for foreign investors looking to set up a company abroad. It boasts a stable and well-established economy, as well as one of the most open trade and investment policies in the world. This is why thousands of international companies have established their businesses in the Netherlands. For more information on setting up a company in the Netherlands, please contact us to find out how you can enter this thriving market.
What does it mean to set up a Dutch company?
The Netherlands enjoys a liberal tax regime that includes generous participation exemptions—dividends received and capital gains realized are exempt from Dutch tax revenues. There is also a dense network of bilateral tax treaties. There are many other aspects of Dutch tax law, but as always, specific advice is required. We can put you in touch with one of our local tax specialists for a tax audit.
What are the main types of companies in the Netherlands?
The main corporate forms provided for by Dutch law are the following:
- Joint Stock Company (NV)
- Limited Liability Company (BV)
- Partnership
- Branches
What are the main characteristics of an NV?
- The minimum capital required is €45,000
- At least 20% of the capital must be placed
- It is recommended for those who need to raise funds and capital on the market
- There are no restrictions on the nationality of members
- Accounting must be audited and submitted to the Chamber of Commerce
What are the main characteristics of a BV?
- Minimum capital of €1
- The liability of the members is limited to the value of the capital
- It is the most common corporate form in the Netherlands.
- There are no restrictions on the nationality of members
- The accounts must be submitted to the Chamber of Commerce
What are the main characteristics of a Partnership?
It exists in general, professional or limited liability versions:
- General partnership has unlimited liability
- Professional partnerships require each partner to be responsible for his or her own debts
- Limited partnership has limited liability
What are the main characteristics of a Branch?
- It is the most common form for foreign companies opening in the Netherlands.
- The parent company abroad is responsible for all the commitments of the branch
- The branch must be registered with the Chamber of Commerce
- At least one administrator is required, accounting is not required
Why invest in the Netherlands
Is it easy to hire staff in the Netherlands?
The unemployment rate in the Netherlands, although rising, remains low compared to other European countries. This makes recruiting difficult compared to other countries; our local recruitment specialists will be happy to assist you with this task. The Dutch are renowned for their ability to speak several languages, and their educational background and job skills are very high. Please contact us for further information.
What is the applicable regulatory and legislative framework?
Reasonably comfortable with foreign investments and taxation, but certainly not when it comes to labor laws. The Dutch labor market is heavily regulated and generally pro-worker. Companies with more than 35 employees are required by law to establish a workers’ council, which must be consulted on a wide range of issues. If you need to fire an employee, you should consider the intervention of the civil court or a government agency. It’s advisable to consult with specialists before entering into any type of employment contract—contact us for further information: our network of Dutch legal and recruitment experts is at your disposal.
Are there funding and incentives for those investing from abroad?
The Dutch government and local authorities offer incentives to foreign investors wishing to establish a company in the Netherlands, taking into account various factors, particularly the region where the new company intends to establish itself. European Union funds are available. The key agencies in this country are the government agencies—they guide the regional development of companies, can encourage the launch of new businesses, and act as risk mitigation partners.
Opening a bank account in the Netherlands
What are the banks like?
Amsterdam is one of the most important financial centers, and most international banks have offices there. The Netherlands has many specialized agencies that provide financing. The National Investment Bank specializes in medium- and long-term loans, equity investments, and capital markets activities. The Industrial Fund provides grants to major technology companies. If you are thinking of setting up a company in the Netherlands, you will also need to open a local bank account, and we can help you do so. Read the details on our bank accounts page.
How can I find out more about setting up a company in the Netherlands?
Our Company Formation service will make it easy for you to start your project in the Netherlands. For more details on how to open a company in the Netherlands, contact us .