Who it is for
Founders and freelancers from outside the EU who want to run their own business from the Netherlands. Your business must be of essential interest to the Dutch economy, which means it should be new to the Netherlands and add something the market does not already have.
The main requirements
- RVO points test. RVO scores three areas: your personal experience, your business plan and the added value for the Netherlands. You need at least 30 points in each area, or 45 points for experience and 45 for the business plan.
- KVK registration. Your business must be registered in the Trade Register of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.
- Income. Your business plan must show that you will earn enough to support yourself.
- Licences. You need any permit or registration your profession requires, for example the BIG register for healthcare work.
- Freelancers need one or more commissions in the Netherlands.
- Provisional residence permit (MVV) if your nationality requires one.
Turkish nationals, long-term EU residents of another EU country and some independent professions are assessed differently, without the points test. US citizens can use the DAFT route instead.
How long it takes
The IND must decide within 90 days. It can extend this by up to 6 months when it asks RVO for advice, and longer if the file is incomplete. A strong, complete file is the best way to avoid delays. The first permit is valid for up to 2 years and can be extended if your business keeps meeting the conditions.
How Ascend helps
We write your business plan to the RVO scoring criteria, prepare the full application file and register your business. Your package includes an independent accountant for the financial forecast. Legal advice, objections and appeals are handled by an independent lawyer, billed directly by the lawyer.
Our founder went through this route himself. His permit was refused, won on appeal, approved and later extended, so we know what RVO and the IND look for.
Questions people ask
How many points do I need for the Dutch self-employed permit?
RVO scores personal experience, the business plan and added value for the Netherlands. You need at least 30 points in each of the three areas, or 45 points for personal experience and 45 points for the business plan.
Do I need to register with the KVK before I apply?
Yes. Your business must be registered in the Trade Register of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KVK) as part of the conditions for the permit.
How long is the self-employed permit valid?
The IND issues the first permit for a maximum of 2 years. You can extend it if your business still meets the conditions.
Can Ascend guarantee approval?
No. The IND decides every application. We prepare the strongest possible plan and file and tell you honestly in the clarity session whether your case is ready.
Rules checked October 2026. Immigration rules change; we confirm the current rules for your case in your session.