Netherlands Upgrades Its Startup Regime As Visa Approvals Hit 90%
The Netherlands is home to about 4,500 startups, with 1,000 more launched each year.
More and more entrepreneurs from around the world are making use of the country's business-friendly policies and access to the EU market.
MIAMI, FL, UNITED STATES, December 11, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Celebrated as one of the happiest countries in the world, the Netherlands is cherished for its progressive values, picturesque landscapes, and a lifestyle that neatly balances work, leisure, and well-being.
The low-lying country is also home to about 4,500 startups, with 1,000 more launched each year. The Dutch capital Amsterdam hosts regional headquarters for companies such as Netflix and Uber while serving as a major hub for hundreds of international tech companies that benefit from a vibrant startup ecosystem shaped by the Dutch government's recent refinement of its startup regime centered around the Netherlands Startup Visa.
The well-established program, offered by the Dutch government for over a decade, hit an approval rate of 90% when working with an experienced facilitator and immigration representative, creating a fast-track gateway for innovative foreign entrepreneurs wishing to start a business in a location known for cutting-edge research, targeted government initiatives, and world-class infrastructure.
FAST & FOUNDER FRIENDLY
The Dutch Startup Visa is an innovative program designed to attract entrepreneurs from around the world. It grants a one-year residence permit to those looking to establish an innovative business in the Netherlands in partnership with a government-approved facilitator.
After the initial year, successful founders have the opportunity to transition to a two-year renewable self-employed residence permit. This extension allows them to continue growing their company and solidifying their presence in the Dutch market. After five years of continuous legal residence in the Netherlands, entrepreneurs can apply for permanent residency or even citizenship, provided they meet certain language and integration requirements.
Unlike many traditional “golden visa” or entrepreneur routes, the Dutch Startup Visa has no upper age limit for applicants, no language proficiency criteria and does not impose any personal net worth requirements or minimum business investment requirement.
Instead, applicants are expected to demonstrate “reasonable funds” to operate the business until it generates sufficient revenue to sustain itself. Applicants must also have sufficient funds to enroll in the incubation program of a recognized facilitator and to support their stay in the Netherlands. A gross income of at least EUR 35,868 for personal living costs is a realistic planning benchmark.
Family members, including spouse or partner and children under 18, can be included, allowing them to live, work, and study in the Netherlands with Schengen wide travel access. This makes the program particularly appealing for those wanting to relocate as a family unit.
Another standout feature of the Dutch Startup Visa is its fast processing time, which typically ranges from 3 to 8 months, from business plan preparation and facilitator onboarding to IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) decision and residence permit issuance. This efficiency allows entrepreneurs to commence their business endeavors without prolonged waiting periods.
The Netherlands also boasts a robust economic environment with a GDP per capita of EUR 63,000, significantly higher than the EU average of EUR 39,700. This strong purchasing power, combined with deep capital markets and an English-friendly business infrastructure, creates an attractive landscape for entrepreneurs. The customer base in the Netherlands is familiar with international business practices, providing a conducive environment for startups aiming to scale globally.
HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS
To qualify, applicants must be at least 18, present an innovative business idea that is new to the Dutch market or uses new technology or organizational methods, and work under the guidance of a recognized Dutch facilitator such as an incubator or accelerator.
The facilitator serves as a mentor, guiding applicants in developing the startup and providing tailored support to address specific needs during your stay in the Netherlands.
The application must include a detailed step by step business plan, evidence of sufficient funding to develop the startup and support the founder and family, and a signed agreement with the facilitator confirming enrollment in its incubation program.
Once approved, founders receive a one year residence permit, during which they must establish their start-up company, maintain their primary residence in the Netherlands, and actively develop the business in accordance with the business plan submitted to the Dutch immigration authority.
After the first year, qualifying founders can transition into the self employed residence category and continue along the five year track to permanent residency or citizenship, provided they meet specific language, integration and financial criteria.
PREPARATION = SUCCESS
The Dutch Startup Visa has become one of the most reliable residency options for serious founders, with an approximate 90% success rate when applications are properly structured and supported by reputable facilitators, according to HLG’s analysis.
“Developed countries, including the Netherlands, are increasingly looking to reward innovation over passive investment. The Dutch Startup Visa is a perfect example of this shift, promoting entrepreneurial creativity as a vital driver of economic growth and competitiveness,” said Jean François Harvey, Global Managing Partner at Harvey Law Group.
“One of the significant advantages of the Dutch Startup Visa is its predictability. When founders have a solid business concept and their application is thoughtfully prepared, it becomes one of the most reliable pathways for them and their families to secure EU residency while building a thriving company,” Harvey added.
Although the program has gained popularity over the years, the process is not without challenges. With over 30 recognized government approved facilitators, some cater exclusively to niche sectors, and each facilitator has distinct selection criteria, complicating the process of finding the right match for an applicant's startup business.
The challenge doesn’t end with finding a suitable facilitator; preparing a thorough and well-crafted immigration application is equally important. Attention to detail in documentation, clarity in the business plan, and a solid presentation of financial projections are key elements that can make or break an application.
“Where applications might fail is not the business idea itself, but insufficient documentation, unclear financials, or a mismatch with the chosen facilitator,” HLG lawyer Polly Ho said.
“A successful founder will translate their vision into a file that satisfies Dutch authorities and facilitators with clear innovation, credible financial projections, and a step by step plan to build a business,” she added.
ABOUT HARVEY LAW GROUP
Founded in 1992, Harvey Law Group (HLG) is a premier multinational law firm specializing in immigration and business law. With over 20 offices globally, HLG is dedicated to providing trusted legal counsel and tailored, practical solutions for a diverse clientele, including entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, families, and international corporations.
Our experienced team, with their established network and partnerships, specialises in reviewing business plans, structuring applications and matching founders with the right facilitator, streamlining acceptance into the facilitator’s incubation program while meeting both immigration and commercial expectations.
For more information and a detailed breakdown of how to secure a startup visa residence permit, visit: https://harveylawcorporation.com
Jean François Harvey
Harvey Law Group
+ +852 2116 1333
contact@harveylawcorporation.com
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