Process - How does it work?

Set up your company in the Netherlands in no-time

Follow the steps below and have your company all set up and compliant in a matter of weeks. This timeline describes the steps from the very start to a fully operational and ready-to-trade BV company. Do not hesitate to contact us about any of these steps or request a quote straight away.

  1. Choose a business name: In the Netherlands, you will need to choose a business name for your company. The business name must be unique and cannot be used by any other company in the country.
  2. In case of a limited liability company (BV), you register the company at a notary public first. The notary drafts the deed of incorporation. This document will outline the basic details of your company, such as its name, purpose, and shareholders.
  3. Register with the Chamber of Commerce: In order to register your company in the Netherlands, you will need to register with the Chamber of Commerce (KvK). In case of a sole proprietorship you go straight to the chamber of commerce. This is the organization that oversees business registrations in the country. Registration costs 75 euros.
  4. Obtain a tax number: To do business in the Netherlands, you will need to obtain a VAT tax number from the Dutch Tax Authority. This number is used to identify your company for tax purposes.
  5. Register with social security: You will also need to register with social security in order to pay employee social security taxes.
  6. Open a bank account: In order to conduct business in the Netherlands, you will need to open a bank account for your company. This Dutch bank account must be in the name of your company and it must be denominated in Euros.

5 steps to incorporating a BV in the Netherlands

Introduction

Reach out to us and discuss your needs

After an introductory e-mail or call we will send you a personalised quote, based on the information provided to us.

Decision

Choose preferred legal structure

When starting a new company, founders should first select the preferred legal business structure. For example a BV holding structure or a single BV. Perhaps a BV is not the right decision for you and we can help you with a different type of entity.

Compare legal entities and structures

choose legal structure
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Preparation

Collecting your documents

We usually invoice in two instalments so you do not need to pay everything at once. After that first instalment is invoiced (+/-50% of the total incorporation sum), we will help you collecting the required documents. A secure form is used to efficiently gather your data and documents.

 

 

 

Execution

Notary drafts the deed

The Notary drafts the Deed of Incorporation. After your acceptance, the company is incorporated. You will receive the Deed of Incorporation, Articles of Association (English translation) and a Chamber of Commerce Excerpt.

 

 

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Registration

Registration at the Chamber of Commerce

Within 24 hours after the incorporation your company will be automatically registered at the Chamber of Commerce. You do not have to do anything for this. You will be able to find you Chamber of Commerce number (kvk-nummer) in the KvK-database.

Get ready to trade

Registering for a VAT number

After the registration at the Chamber of Commerce, your company details will automatically be forwarded to the Dutch Tax Authorities (Belastingdienst). They will send you your VAT number within 5 working days if you meet their requirements. If not, they will send you a letter to request additional details. If you are importing goods into the Netherlands from outside the EU, you will probably need an EORI number. Finally, if you are selling goods of less than 150 euros cross-border to consumers, you should take a look at the IOSS, one-stop-shop solution cross-border for VAT reporting.

 

 

 

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bank

Opening a Bank Account

With the Chamber of Commerce registration number (kvk-nummer) you can visit a bank to open a bank account. Some banks offer an online intake procedure. However, it is recommended to visit the bank in person. We can guide during this process.

How to open a Dutch business bank account

Compliance

Arrange legal contracts and become fully compliant

After the BV is operational, it is practical to make sure your business is legally watertight with our contract and compliance services. If you have incorporated a BV holding structure, now is a good time to set up a current-account agreement and management agreements. Additionally, consider setting up General Terms and Conditions and labour contracts. Finally, make sure you are fully compliant with EU privacy laws (GDPR).

Visit out legal catalogue for a full overview

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Set up Administration

You are required to set up and maintain an organized administration. You will have to file for a quarterly VAT return and publish annual financial reports. Legalee and its partners can assist you. Calculate a price estimate on our page about accounting and tax returns in the Netherlands.

Company insurance

In many cases it is advisable to insure yourself against possible risks, when you are operating a Dutch BV company. Every business is different: a consulting firm has different insurance needs than a transport company. In the Netherlands, insurance is taken out with private insurance companies. We partner with an insurance provider to get you the best insurance deal for your new Dutch company.

Read more on company insurance in the Netherlands

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Take the next step with starting your business in The Netherlands

Starting a business in the Netherlands is a relatively easy process. Still you need to know what you are doing. That is exactly where Legalee helps you out. We guide you through the entire setup process and beyond to make sure your new Dutch venture has the right shape and form and is fully compliant with Dutch and European regulations.

Get in touch with us today