Building a tech startup in Europe requires the right residency pathway, entity structure, and R&D incentives. We help founders navigate Startup Visas, set up investor-compatible companies, and access the Netherlands and Nordics innovation ecosystems.
1-year residence permit for innovative entrepreneurs. Requires facilitator partnership and business plan approval.
2-year permit for scalable, innovative ventures. Business Finland evaluates your business plan for growth potential.
Longer processing but access to Stockholm's VC scene. Requires SEK 200k+ in funds and viable business plan.
US founders can bypass Startup Visa requirements entirely via DAFT Treaty. Lower barrier, faster processing.
The standard for EU-based startups. Compatible with SAFEs, convertible notes, and priced equity rounds. Quick to incorporate, flexible share classes.
Personal holding BV owns shares in OpCo. Enables tax-efficient dividend extraction, liability separation, and cleaner cap table for investors.
Simple Agreement for Future Equity works with Dutch BVs. We adapt YC templates for European legal requirements.
The Netherlands and Nordics offer aggressive R&D tax benefits for tech startups. As covered in our R&D incentives comparison:
| Incentive | Country | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Innovation Box | 🇳🇱 Netherlands | 9% tax rate on qualifying IP profits |
| WBSO | 🇳🇱 Netherlands | R&D wage tax credit (up to 40%) |
| SkatteFUNN | 🇳🇴 Norway | 19% R&D tax credit (SMEs) |
| R&D Tax Incentive | 🇫🇮 Finland | 150% deduction on R&D collaboration |
Attracting talent with equity requires understanding local tax treatment. As analyzed in our stock options comparison, the Netherlands offers favorable deferral on option exercise.
Tax at exercise or sale (election available). Startup-friendly deferral regime introduced 2023.
Favorable regime for unlisted company options. Tax at sale, not exercise.
QESO (Qualified Employee Stock Options) regime for startups. Capital gains treatment if conditions met.
Leonor guides founders through Dutch Startup Visa applications, facilitator connections, and the transition to long-term residency. She specializes in tech founders relocating from the US, UK, and Asia.
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