DAFT Checklist: Every Step From Applying to Renewal

Every step from preparation to your first renewal, in order. Tick them off as you go: your ticks are saved in this browser only, nowhere else.

Before you apply

Check you're a US citizen with a valid passport.Requirements →
Choose a sole proprietorship (ZZP / eenmanszaak) or a BV.ZZP vs BV →
Set aside at least €4,500 of your own money for the business. A loan doesn't count.The €4,500 rule →
Collect your documents, with legalisation and translation where the IND asks for it.Documents →

The application

Get your application to the IND within 3 weeks of the date on the embassy form.How to apply →
Pay the €423 fee within the same window.Costs →
Wait for the decision: up to 90 days, sometimes extended.Timeline →

Within 6 months of your decision letter

Register with your municipality and get your citizen service number (BSN).
Register your business with the KVK (Chamber of Commerce).The 6-month window →
Open a business bank account and invest the €4,500.
Have an opening balance sheet prepared that shows the €4,500 as equity.Opening balance sheet →

Every year

Keep your bookkeeping up to date, and keep equity above €4,500.
Close the year with annual accounts and a balance sheet or income statement.
File your US federal return.US taxes →
File the FBAR if your foreign accounts together exceeded $10,000: due April 15, automatic extension to October 15.FBAR →
File your Dutch tax return.

Renewal (your first permit lasts up to 2 years)

Apply for the extension before your permit expires, but not earlier than 3 months before.Extension →
Include your annual accounts and a balance sheet or income statement.What the IND checks →
If your family joined you, check their permits' renewal dates too.Partner & family →

This page provides general information only. It is not legal or tax advice. Rules change and individual circumstances vary. Always verify details with the IND or a qualified adviser before acting.

The DAFT checklist

Before you apply

The application

Within 6 months of your decision letter

Every year

Renewal (your first permit lasts up to 2 years)

Ready to start your opening balance sheet?