Brexit eliminated frictionless EU trade for UK businesses. We help you re-establish Single Market access through a properly structured EU subsidiary—typically via the Netherlands—without relocating your team or disrupting UK operations.
The most common structure for UK companies. Full EU legal entity with VAT, banking, and contracting capacity.
No entity needed—just VAT registration via a fiscal representative. Ideal for e-commerce or import/export without local presence.
The Netherlands works for most UK companies, but some sectors benefit from a different base:
UK goods now require customs declarations, duties, and Rules of Origin documentation for EU delivery. An EU entity eliminates this for EU-to-EU trade.
UK service providers lost automatic EU market access. Many sectors now require local establishment or specific authorizations.
UK businesses can no longer use EU VAT schemes (OSS, IOSS). Import VAT now applies at EU borders, creating cash flow issues.
UK companies face restrictions on EU public tenders. An EU subsidiary restores eligibility for government contracts.
Incorporate a Dutch BV as a subsidiary of your UK Ltd. Remote incorporation via Power of Attorney—no travel required.
VAT registration and EU business banking. Optional: Article 23 license for import VAT deferment.
Registered office, business address, and local director arrangements to meet EU substance requirements.
Dutch accounting, annual filings, and transfer pricing documentation between UK parent and Dutch sub.
As analyzed in our Brexit destination comparison, the Netherlands consistently ranks as the top choice for UK businesses re-entering the EU. See our full Netherlands business guide for details.
| Factor | Netherlands | Ireland | Germany |
|---|---|---|---|
| English proficiency | 95%+ fluent | Native | 56% fluent |
| Incorporation speed | 2-3 weeks | 3-4 weeks | 4-8 weeks |
| Port access | Rotterdam (#1 EU) | Dublin (limited) | Hamburg (#3 EU) |
| Corporate tax | 19-25.8% | 12.5% | ~30% |
| Treaty network | 100+ treaties | 70+ treaties | 90+ treaties |
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