The Dutch residence permit for start-ups gives a founder from outside the EU one year to build an innovative company in the Netherlands, guided by an experienced mentor called a facilitator. The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) assesses the business plan. The application costs 423 euros, the IND decides within 90 days, and applications are accepted all year.
Who can apply
Nationality
The IND sets no nationality list for this permit: it is for founders from outside the EU who need a residence permit. A Tunisian founder qualifies if the other conditions are met.
Facilitator
A signed contract with an experienced, financially sound facilitator who does not hold a majority stake and is not a close relative. The RVO must give positive advice.
Business and funds
An innovative product or service, a step-by-step plan, registration with the KvK, an active role in the company and enough money to live on for the year.
Funding and what it does not cover
The IND charges 423 euros for the application. The founder pays living costs for the year from own funds or funds from the facilitator.
You pay
Living costs for the year, which the founder must cover
