DAFT Visa Requirements: How Americans Can Qualify for Residency in the Netherlands in 2026

The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows U.S. citizens to apply for a residence permit in the Netherlands by starting a business. The required investment is lower than for other non-EU entrepreneurs.

This route is known as the DAFT residence permit. It is popular with freelancers, consultants, and founders who want legal residence without a large capital commitment.

Below we explain the rules, documents, and steps as they apply going into 2026.

Who Can Apply Under DAFT

To qualify for a DAFT residence permit, you must meet the following criteria:

• U.S. Citizenship: You must hold a valid U.S. passport.
• Business Ownership: You must start a new business or represent a U.S. company in the Netherlands. You must own at least 25% of the business.
• Minimum Investment: You must deposit at least €4,500 into a Dutch business bank account. (This capital must remain in the account for the duration of your permit.)
• Professional Status: You must work as a self-employed entrepreneur or freelancer. You cannot be a regular employee for another Dutch company.
• Clean Record: You must not pose a risk to public order or national security and should have no criminal history in the EU.

Required Documents

• Valid Passport: Including copies of all pages with travel stamps.
• Apostilled Birth Certificate: Must be legalized with an apostille from the state where you were born.
• KvK Registration: Proof that your business is registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK).
• Financial Proof: A bank statement showing the €4,500 deposit and an opening balance sheet signed by a Dutch accountant (holding a BECON number).
• Health Insurance: Proof of a valid Dutch health insurance policy.

Application Steps and Timing

1. Enter the Netherlands: U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. You typically apply for the permit after arrival.
2. Submit IND Application: File your request with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). The 2026 application fee is €423 for the main applicant.
3. Obtain a BSN: Register with your local municipality (gemeente) to receive a Citizen Service Number (BSN).
4. Register Business: Finalize your company registration at the KvK and open a business bank account.

Eligibility for Family Members

Family members can apply for residency at the same time as the main applicant.

• Direct Family: Spouses, registered partners (same-sex included), and minor children (under age 18) qualify automatically.
• Unmarried Partners: You must prove a durable relationship (e.g., shared housing for at least 6 months or a shared bank account).
• Adult Children (18+): They generally do not qualify under your DAFT permit unless they are medically or mentally dependent on you.

Application Costs for Family Members in 2026

Each family member requires an individual separate application with the following fees:

• Spouse/Partner: €254.
• Child (under 18): €85.

Required Documents for Family Applications

In addition to your own business documents, you must provide:

• Apostilled Marriage Certificate: For spouses.
• Apostilled Birth Certificates: Required for all joining children.
• Consent Proof: If you are bringing a child from a previous relationship, you need a court order or signed/notarized consent from the other parent.
• Health Insurance: Every family member must have their own valid Dutch health insurance.

What to Expect After Approval

The DAFT residence permit is issued for two years. It can be renewed if all conditions remain met. The IND checks that the business is active. They also check that the required capital remains available. This permit allows legal residence and self-employment in the Netherlands. It does not allow salaried employment.