The Netherlands has introduced an intriguing new update for international business owners, featuring the Self-Employed Residence Permit Eligibility Checker Tool for the 2026 request cycle.
If you have ever desired to develop your own business in one of Europe’s most creative-friendly nations, this tool is your best friend. Formed to facilitate the requested journey, this online checker helps you immediately determine whether you meet the Dutch government’s requirements to settle and work as a self-employed expert.
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Meaning Of Self-Employed Residence Permit
The Self-Employed Residence Permit authorizes non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to settle in the Netherlands and:
- Introduce their own business
- Get employed as a freelancer
- Work as a partner/director in a firm (including startups).
Whether you are a tech developer or a wellness consultant, this permit grants you full legal rights to operate your own business in the Netherlands.
The Type Of Employment Allowed
The Netherlands offers excellent flexibility in terms of the types of jobs you can undertake under the self-employed residence permit. You are accepted to participate in freelance services, whether as a designer, consultant, developer, content creator, or independent expert.
You can also operate import/export enterprises, introduce online forums or e-commerce shops, or develop startup businesses, mainly if you are working on creative ideas. Furthermore, people engaged in culture, the arts, or academic-based companies are also motivated to apply, regardless of their focus; as long as their business aligns with the Dutch market’s values, it can succeed under this visa pathway.
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Who Can Make An Application
Anyone from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland who possesses a solid business idea or is prepared to work freelance in their area can apply. Special fast-track or eased routes exist for:
- United States nationals through the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty.
- Japanese nationals through the Dutch-Japanese Trade Agreement.
If you do not come from these nations, do not worry. The Netherlands utilizes a points-based system to evaluate your business. Score high points, and you are in.
Qualification Measure For Netherlands Self-employed Residence Permit
You can review your qualification based on your nationality here (), while you can also review the fundamental qualification information below:
| Standard | What to indicate |
| A robust business plan | Your business notion is required to:
|
| Certifications and skills | You obtain points depending on the following:
|
| Financial independence | You are required to demonstrate the ability to support yourself and your family without relying on public assistance.
|
| Points-based evaluations | You are required to score a minimum of 90 out of 300 points:
RVO.nl checks business plans unless you are from the United States or Japan. |
- Individual experience and certifications
- Quality and possibility of the business plan
- Economic worth to the Netherlands.
RVO.nl reviews business plans, except for those from the United States or Japan.
Coming With The Family
One of the best aspects of the Netherlands’ Self-Employed residence permit is that it is not only for you but also for your family. You can bring your partner, spouse, and children under the age of 18 to stay with you in the Netherlands.
Additionally, your partner is permitted to work freely without requiring a separate work permit. This implies that the two of you can develop your professions or enterprises while living in the Netherlands. From top-notch studies and world-class healthcare to secured cities, your entire family can succeed together in the Netherlands.
Step-By-Step Application Procedure For 2026
Below are your directives to get started:
1. Develop A Good Business Plan
This has to do with:
- Your special selling point
- Executive Overview
- Costing, promotion, and income forecast
- Market research (Dutch market request)
2. Enroll Your Business At The KvK (Chamber of Commerce)
You are required to possess a Dutch address for enrollment.
3. Make An Application Online Or Through The Dutch Embassy
Present your complete request package to IND or via your closest Dutch embassy.
4. Upload Needed Documents
- Evidence of certifications and skill
- Passport
- Business plan
- Financial projections or agreements
- KvK enrollment
- Pay the fees demanded
- Relocate to the Netherlands
Once endorsed:
- Carry your residence card
- Enroll with your local city (GBA)
- Obtain Dutch health insurance
- Start your new life.
Your first Dutch Self-Employed Residence Permit is valid for 24 months and can be renewed as long as your business remains active. After 5 years, you can make an application for:
- Permanent residency
- Dutch citizenship
