Setup your Dutch Business
Setting up a Dutch business (BV)
Setting up a Dutch private limited company (BV) is an attractive option for entrepreneurs who want a flexible and internationally respected business structure in the Netherlands.
This page explains the key reasons to choose a Dutch BV, the basic steps involved, and the main advantages and disadvantages.
Why choose a Dutch BV?
• A Dutch BV is a separate legal entity, which limits the personal liability of the shareholders.
• The BV structure is widely recognised and trusted in international business, which can make doing cross-border business easier.
• The Netherlands has a stable legal system, good infrastructure, and a highly international business climate, which is attractive for both small and medium-sized companies.
Key steps in setting up a Dutch BV
• Choose a company name and check if its available.
• Draft and sign the deed of incorporation and articles of association with a Dutch civil law notary.
• Registering the BV with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK) and obtaining a registration number.
• Arranging tax registrations (such as corporate income tax and VAT) and setting up a Dutch business bank account.
You can handle some of these steps yourself, but most entrepreneurs choose to work with local advisors to save time and avoid mistakes.
Advantages of a Dutch BV
• Limited liability: Shareholders are, in principle, only liable up to the amount of their investment in the company.
• Flexible share structure: You can work with different types of shares and profit rights, which is useful for investors, business partners, or employee participation.
• Professional image: A BV often looks more professional to customers, suppliers, and investors than a sole proprietorship.
• Transferability: Shares in a BV can be transferred relatively easily, which can make succession or sale of the business more straightforward.
Disadvantages and points of attention
• Incorporation costs: Setting up a BV requires a notarial deed and registration, which involves initial legal and advisory costs.
• Ongoing obligations: A BV must keep proper accounts, file annual financial statements and comply with corporate and tax regulations.
• Director’s responsibilities: Directors have statutory duties and can be held personally liable in cases of mismanagement.
• Tax and salary requirements: As a director-major shareholder, you must consider Dutch tax rules and minimum salary requirements, which can affect your cash flow.
Virtual Offices
Looking for a professional Dutch business address without the cost of a physical office? Our virtual office solutions give you a credible company address, mail handling and optional support services, so you can focus on growing your business in the Netherlands. Explore our virtual office options and find the setup that fits your company.
Softlanding support
If your company is ready to enter the European market, the Netherlands is the perfect launchpad. MKB Trade Office helps international businesses establish a first foothold in the Dutch market through our Soft Landing Program in co-operation with East Netherlands Development Agency (OOSTNL) and the expertise of our service partners.
Setting up a Dutch BV can be a powerful step to growing your business in Europe. If you are considering opening a branch or subsidiary in the Netherlands, this is the right moment to explore your options and understand the practical, legal and tax implications.
Get in touch to discuss your plans, ask your questions and receive clear, concrete guidance on how to structure and register your Dutch company in the most efficient way for your business.
Whether you’re looking for co-creation, export partnerships or local market insight: we’d love to welcome you to the Netherlands or explore your region together.
Let’s start the conversation.
MKB Trade Office
Email: info@mkbtradeoffice.nl
KvK: 81843011
Visiting adddress
Gasfabriek Gebouw X
Zutphenseweg 6E
7418 AJ Deventer
the Netherlands