Just a few kilometres upstream from Zaandam’s fascinating architecture and the Zaanse Schans’ beautiful windmills, there is a small stretch of land packed with history, nature, and fun — the Zaan Curve.
In recent years, the Zaanstreek, the region comprising Zaandam and its surrounding towns, has finally received the recognition it deserves, becoming a popular tourist destination in the Netherlands.
The region’s proximity to Amsterdam, as well as its unique combination of natural landscapes and traditional Dutch architecture, has prompted many to hop on a train and explore all of the Zaanstreek’s best spots… or almost all of them. 👀
You might have missed out on the beautiful Zaan Curve, so it’s time to remedy that!
What is the Zaan Curve?
The Zaan Curve, or Zaanbocht in Dutch, is a curved stretch of land nestled along the Zaan River in North Holland.
It owes its name to its location along a section of the Zaan where the river makes an abrupt bend to the East, between the towns of Wormerveer and Wormer.
While often overlooked by visitors in favour of its more famous neighbouring sights, locals actually consider the Zaan Curve as one of the most beautiful stretches of the Zaan.
The main reason is its unique landscape, featuring two waterfront towns dotted with historical landmarks that blend seamlessly with the surrounding nature.
Curious to learn more about what the Zaanstreek has to offer? Check out Zaans.nl for the best tips on what to do, see, and eat in the region — in English, too. 😉
What is there to do in the Zaan Curve?
Love me a cheeky riverside walk. 🥰 Image: Zaans.nl/Supplied
For such a small stretch of land, the Zaan Curve really packs a punch when it comes to activities.
The area offers a dive into Dutch industrial history, a taste of the beautiful Zaanse nature, and a wide selection of trendy shops, eateries, and accommodation facilities.
Explore Europe’s oldest industrial area: the Wormerveer hike
If you’re feeling active, we recommend going on the Wormerveer hike, a 6.5-kilometre circular walking route.
Starting at the Wormerveer Station, you’ll pass all the most interesting local historical landmarks and learn everything about the Zaan Curve’s past as *drumroll*… Europe’s oldest industrial area!
During the colonial era, the Zaan Curve became a hub for processing materials shipped from the so-called “East Indies”, a period when most of its fascinating architecture was built.
The Adelaar
You know who to blame if you feel watched during your trip to the Zaan Curve. 👁️🦅👁️ Image: Zaans.nl/Supplied
The Adelaar, or “The Eagle” in English, is perhaps the most symbolic building in the Curve, embodying the area’s history of reinventing itself through time.
It is also the most recognisable building, with the eagle statue on its roof serving as one of Wormerveer’s most iconic landmarks.
Built in 1896 as a soap factory, the Adelaar had a troubled life: it was destroyed by a fire, rebuilt from scratch, converted into a warehouse, and finally abandoned in the 1980s. At one point, the building’s state was so dire that the eagle’s head even fell off.
In 2004, however, its classification as a provincial monument changed everything, prompting a major renovation.
Today, after changing hands several times, the Adelaar houses the headquarters of a Dutch fashion brand and has been restored to its former glory, eagle head and all!
The Boon Tower
Would you guess that this building is over a hundred years old? 🤯 Image: R&@E/Wikimedia Commons/CC2.0
The Boon Tower (Bean Tower), also known as cacaotoren (Cocoa Tower), is the Willy Wonka of Zaanse landmarks — an old chocolate factory dating back to the late 1910s.
Just like the Adelaar, it was left to decay after it lost its industrial purpose. But don’t worry; the tower got its golden ticket when it was classified as a national monument and given a major makeover. ✨
The Fabriekswand
Who said industrial buildings can’t be beautiful? 😍 Image: Zaans.nl/Supplied
A rice trade hub dating back to when the Zaan was a major artery for trade traffic, the Fabriekswand (Factory Wall) is the crown jewel of the Curve’s past.
The factory is part of the former Hollandia steam rice mill complex, which features buildings named Java, Saigon, and Batavia, revealing the factory’s colonial past.
However, the Fabriekswand’s most notable buildings are the massive, beautifully refined Lassie and Mercury buildings, located right next to the water — and directly across from the stunning waterfront villas where the factory owners once lived.
🚶♀️➡️ Distance: 6.5 kilometres 📍 Starting and ending point:Wormerveer Station 🗺️ Get the route here.
Stroll through Zaanse nature: the Guisveld walk
Are you more of an outdoors lover than a history buff? Geen probleem, the Guisveld walk will quench your thirst for nature. 🌱
The route is a scenic 10-kilometre hike or bike ride through the fields and canals between the Wormerveer and Zaandijk stations, making it very easy to reach by train.
If you want to immerse yourself in the cow-populated, tranquil nature that inspired a generation of Dutch landscape painters, this walk is for you!
After all that walking, you might want to relax. Well, luckily, options for unwinding are plentiful in the Zen, uhm, Zaan Curve.
Still not done exploring? The Zaanstreek has plenty of other hikes to offer, so check out Zaans.nl to find the perfect one for you. 👣
Trendy boutiques: where to shop in the Zaan Curve
Just three friends enjoying a LAWA (Lange Wandeling, long walk) in front of WALA. 🛍️ Image: Zaans.nl/Supplied
Just like one is never too full for dessert, one is never too tired to roam around cute stores. 😉
If, after all that walking, you’ve still got some steps to spare, we recommend you check out the Curve’s many boutiques — you can find everything from jewellery and trendy clothes to local fresh produce, refined furniture, or vintage household articles.
If you’re looking for a place to get a taste of the regional delicacies or buy a healthy and tasty food souvenir, you should head to Heerlijk for some organic bites. And if you’re into pretty rocks, you’ll also appreciate their gemstone collection.
For a nostalgic voyage to the past, instead, you can check out Bij Katrien and get lost in the store’s vast assortment of tastefully selected vintage household and cooking items.
Wining and dining: where to eat in the Zaan Curve
You know those boring sandwiches wrapped in ten layers of tinfoil that your parents insisted you pack with you for every trip? Leave those in your school times memories; you won’t need them in the Zaan Curve.
The area offers a bite for every palate. To satisfy your sweet tooth, head to Buter Patisserie en Chocolaterie for a pastry and a cup of coffee, or to Hemels ijs for a great Italian-style gelato with a view of the Zaan.
If you’re craving something more filling, check out Heerlijk’s tasty soups and sandwiches, or Lokaal de Kroon’s meat and fish courses, maybe accompanied by one of their many varieties of beers and wines.
Unwinding: where to stay in the Zaan curve
Oh, to get a full night of sleep in a riverside Bed&Breakfast…🥰 Image: Indezaanbocht.nl/Supplied
Too tired and full to head back home? Geen paniek, the Curve won’t leave you stranded.
For a restorative night of sleep in a beautiful, historic setting, we recommend staying at Bed&Breakfast Saenliefde, where you can sleep in a fully renovated former warehouse right next to the Zaan.
If a converted warehouse is too secular for you, why not spend the night in a former church? This can be done at the Valerius Boutique Hotel in Wormer — yep, we know, nothing screams “Netherlands” like a repurposed religious building.
Well, well, well, who knew that one small stretch of land could pack so much fun?
Whether you’re looking for a place to learn about history, relax in nature, or shop and eat the week’s stress away, a visit to the Zaan Curve is never a bad idea. 🥰
Have you been to this part of the Zaanstreek? Tell us about your past and upcoming trips in the comments below!
Action, a well-known discount chain in the Netherlands, has announced plans to officially launch in the United States by the end of 2027, hoping to open 100 locations in the next three years.
In their most recent market studies, Action has found that its store format is well-suited to the US retail market.
According to RTL Z, the retail giant will begin its American adventures in the southeastern United States, opening its first store in this region by 2028.
From Enkhuizen to the USA
The major store opened in the small, sleepy Dutch town of Enkhuizen in 1993, over 30 years ago. Now, they have locations all across Europe, from Austria to Poland, Belgium, Switzerland, and more.
According to their website, Action currently has “more than 3,300 stores in 15 countries.”
The majority of their expansion in Europe occurred in the last 15 years: after British investor 3i took over, their store count soared from 250 to the current 3,300.
Now, the company is hoping to bring its success across the pond: according to De Telegraaf, the first stores will open in three states: North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.
Disciplined approach
Rather than barreling ahead at full speed, the company has said it is taking a measured, “step-by-step” approach, reports NOS.
In the same spirit, Action will tailor its goods for the American consumer and work directly with US retail experts.
This is the company’s standard of practice. As a spokeswoman told RTL Z, “We always have local management and local colleagues and collaborate with local experts.”
Ultimately, this expansion is a big, somewhat risky move: it will be a major step for what was once a tiny Dutch company.
What do you think of Action’s expansion? Let us know in the comments!
While there are plenty of things to admire about Dutch men (their ability to reach even the highest shelves, for instance), there’s one element of their look we need to talk about: the hair gel.
You may have noticed it before: a perfectly pleasant Dutchman walking down the street, the spitting image of a Nice Young Man™, except for the monstrosity of a hairstyle he’s chosen.
Indeed, smeared all over that high-flying Dutch head is enough hair product to last most of us a month.
My opinion here is simple. Far too many men out here slather their scalp in sticky hair gel, and it needs to stop.
The Dutch guy starter pack
Just as the preppy Anne-Fleur style is a staple among Dutch women, Dutch men have their own uniform of sorts.
It’s been made fun of before: the skinny blue jeans, oversized white tee, and dirty white sneakers are fair game.
Whatever the practical benefits, there’s just no justifying how strange this looks. No one, no matter how fast they bike, needs a helmet of hair gel on their noggin.
But beyond aesthetics, why does this trend need to die?
First off, it’s terrible for your scalp. Take it from the brands themselves: even Head and Shoulders says product buildup can cause dandruff, dryness, irritation, and even hair loss.
While for some people that’s just a potential risk, it’s got to be a guaranteed side effect for Dutch guys, given how much they use.
Plus, free-flowing hair is in fashion! GQ magazine says men’s hairstyles in 2026 are trending towards 90’s undone looks, and that healthy hair ‘longevity’ is a priority.
And finally, there’s my favourite (and most biased) reason: it looks silly, guys.
I’m here to tell you the cold, hard, shiny (pun intended) truth. It’s time to get a new look.
What do you think of Dutch men’s hairstyles? Let us know in the comments!
Deposits that never come back, service charges that do not add up, and illegal sublets: Welcome to Amsterdam, renter’s hell.
Tenant advisory organisation !WOON released a “State of the Renter” report on March 10, documenting the biggest housing grievances of renters in the Amsterdam region last year.
After reviewing over 80,000 interactions with tenants, experts at !WOON learned that international renters are being taken advantage of far more often than locals.
It seems some landlords view “expat” as a synonym for “someone who doesn’t know the rules.”
They had 203 instances in Amsterdam where a security deposit was either not returned at all or only partially returned.
Your deposit? Some landlords would rather keep it
The report finds that a growing number of private landlords either return deposits partially or not at all.
Also, the number of extreme deposits is on the rise: In 2025, a tenant apparently paid a deposit of a whopping €8,600.
!WOON notes that international renters are more likely to get the short end of the stick.
While the organisation supports the Wet goed verhuurderschap (Good Landlord Act), they argue it has a major flaw. Since there are no fines for withholding deposits, landlords have little reason to return them.
Overcharged on service costs
Throughout 2025, service charge miscalculations were another big theme.
The tenant advisory organisation flagged incorrect costs across several large residential complexes, naming specific owners including Change=, HiCondo, Rockfield (The Cohesion), and XIOR.
With !WOON’s help, renters recovered a portion of overpaid costs, though the organisation criticised the lengthy and time-consuming process.
Although legal proceedings are ongoing, Change= has since sold its two Amsterdam complexes.
The “short stay” workaround
Since July 2024, temporary rental contracts (shorter than two years) have been banned for most Dutch renters. The bill was meant to combat tenant insecurity and rising rent prices.
Yet in 2025, !WOON found dozens of contracts that had no valid legal basis.
The report found that landlords often make up “short stay” arrangements to sidestep the rules entirely.
Ripped-off renters is a story as old as time, but !WOON calls on Minister O’Sullivan to be more vigilant and for rental listings to be more transparent.
Against a background of global geopolitical turmoil, the Dutch cabinet has indicated that mandatory military conscription cannot be ruled out.
State Secretary for Defence Derk Boswijk has indicated that while conscription is not a preferable option, he cannot make any guarantees, reports the NOS.
“I cannot rule it out,” he says.
The statement came during a parliamentary debate on the defence budget, where State Secretary for Defence Boswijk fielded pointed questions about the government’s recruitment plan.
Who is behind this?
The Ministry of Defence has been on a staffing spree with an aim to recruit a total of 122,000 over four years.
That is, until now: the cabinet has included a ‘selective reporting’ requirement in the coalition agreement, in the case that they cannot reach the target number through motivated individuals alone.
While selective conscription is not the harshest form of recruitment, it’s a big step up.
This is much to the dismay of parties like GroenLinks-PvdA, SP, and Denk, who have expressed fears in parliament that young people who avoid any future drafts could face punishment.
What is selective conscription?
Selective conscription is a form of recruitment that calls upon a pre-approved part of the population for mandatory service.
A prime example is Sweden: there, all young men and women must undergo a survey at 17. Following that, a compulsory test is administered to a subset, of which the best candidates are selected and recruited.
As of yet, the Dutch system works differently. According to the government, anyone turning 17 receives a letter about registering for compulsory military service, but they are not “called up.”
That means, while they are conscripted, they are not required to report for duty. All that could change if the selective reporting initiative is adopted.
When the changes could take effect
State Secretary for Defence Boswijk has indicated that selective conscription will be discussed in the coming period. The goal, according to NOS, is to quell fears among the opposition and demonstrate the necessity of this move.
Mandatory conscription for all, however, is still on the table too.
While there are no plans to reinstate this measure anytime soon, Boswijk has said that it can be utilised immediately in an emergency.
For now, selective conscription will proceed in stages: if conscription numbers are inadequate, the procedure will shift from voluntary surveys to mandatory ones. If this also fails to yield enough recruits, more mandatory measures will follow.
In any case, let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.
What do you think about the new measures? Let us know in the comments.
Picture this: you and your Dutch friend are talking about politics, and they start rattling off the names of Dutch political parties. You wait for them to stop, but they keep going. And going. And going.
For a brief minute, you wonder if your friend’s voter list is as long as a restaurant menu from an episode of Gordon Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares.
What is it?
Okay, okay — we jest, the Dutch don’t really have an “extreme” number of political parties. (So you can put those pitchforks down! 😉)
However, to someone unfamiliar with the Dutch political system, the range of possible voting options might seem quite vast.
After all, between a party for animals (Partij voor de Dieren or PvdD), a couple of religious ones such as the ChristenUnie (CU), Christen-Democratisch Appèl (CDA), and Staatkundig Gereformeerde Partij (SGP), and one that focuses on going green (GroenLinks or Green Left), the Dutch are spoilt for choice.
Why do they do it?
Chalk it up to Dutch pragmatism (or perhaps pillarisation), as the Netherlands uses a party-list proportional representation system.
This means that multiple candidates can be elected to seats in the parliament, and voters have a certain amount of influence over which of a party’s candidates are elected.
This is in contrast to the first-past-the-post system used in many countries, where the candidate with the most votes wins the election, even if they’ve received far less than 50% of the total votes.
There are definitely pros and cons of each voting system! Image: Freepik
Another factor is the ease of setting up one’s own political party, which is comparatively simpler in the Netherlands than it is in many other countries.
Aspiring politicians can register their party with the Electoral Council, draw up a notarial deed, and pay a political party registration fee (which ranges from as much as €450 to €112.50).
Why is it quirky?
Those of us from countries with countless political parties that can’t figure out how to butter toast without some bribery or corruption on the side may think the Dutch could use a few more political parties. (Wrong! 🙅🏻♀️)
On the other hand, people from countries with different political systems may be scratching their heads and wondering why the heck the Dutch have so many parties.
However, this is just an example of the Netherlands at its pragmatic best, as this system offers voters more options than a choice between Somewhat Unreliable Candidate #1 and Somewhat Unreliable Candidate #2.
Should you join in?
Well, that depends!
Perhaps you’re sick of having your bike stolen and want to start your own party to make it legal to lock bike thieves to the Erasmusbrug? (We understand the sentiment. 🤬)
With an extreme number of already-existing political parties, your Partij Tegen Fietsendieven (Party Against Bike Thieves) would just add to the range of choices that prospective voters already have.
One of the plagues of learning Dutch is rehearsing something in your head, working up the nerve to say it — and being met with the inevitable response in English.
We get that the Dutch speak great English and are just trying to simplify communication. But seriously: how are we meant to learn Dutch if we never get a chance to speak it?
Well readers, boy do I have a solution for you. A new app has launched that lets you practise your Dutch skills and talk as much as you like.
Meet PraatMet: the app that mimics a normal Dutch conversation
Picture this: an app asks you how you feel today. You respond. The app responds. You respond back! It’s a whole conversation! In your new language!
Say hello to PraatMet, the new app to learn Dutch that harnesses the power of AI to give you a Dutch conversation partner in your pocket.
And best of all? There’s no social pressure if you forget a word or mess up your sentence structure. The app is there to understand and help out.
Want to practise inviting someone for coffee? Ordering at a restaurant? Buying groceries at a supermarket? PraatMet is loaded with real conversations you’ll experience in your day-to-day Dutch life.
From healthcare, to housing, to transport and emergencies, PraatMet is ready to let you practise those conversations again and again.
The intuitive interface gives you a choice of conversation topics. Image: DutchReview
Prefer to go with the flow instead? Dat kan! The Free Conversation option lets you talk about whatever is on your mind, whether it’s your job or how your housemate forgot to feed his goldfish again.
Get instant feedback
So you can speak — but will you improve? Natuurlijk! At the end of each conversation is a full report of your conversation.
In the Feedback section, you’ll see a score and a quick overview in English of what you did well. You’ll also receive areas to work on: my initial conversation picked up that I used “baan” when “werk” was a more natural word, that I missed a bijzin, and that I didn’t use the plural form of gids.
I found it especially useful that the areas to work on were given alongside real examples from my conversation, so I could see exactly where I had to improve.
There is also a full transcript of the conversation available, so if I didn’t know a word the AI said, I could go back and check it later.
Extensive feedback identifies exactly which areas to improve. Image: DutchReview
AI that listens AND adapts
But say you’ve only just started your Dutch learning journey? Or you’re basically fluent but want to practise your business Dutch?
Well that’s the power of AI, baby. The app carefully listens and analyses your speaking patterns and word choices and will automatically slow down, speed up, and change the level of Dutch used to make sure you’re being challenged — but not so challenged you want to throw your phone at a wall.
Whether you’re A1 or C2, PraatMet will find a level that you can work with. The goal isn’t to replace Dutch classes, but support them by giving you the regular conversation practice you need.
Use PraatMet free!
If you’re living in the Netherlands, you’ve probably taken on a few Dutch characteristics by now — so you’ll love knowing that you can use PraatMet absolutely free.
The free version comes with ten minutes of conversation per month. Want more? Upgrade to 200 minutes for as little as €5 a month when taking an annual contract.
The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) visa is one of the most accessible routes to legal residency in the Netherlands for American citizens — and in 2025, almost 700 Americansused it to make the move.
The DAFT visa allows US entrepreneurs and freelancers to live and work in the Netherlands by simply registering a Dutch business and depositing a minimum of €4,500 in starting capital.
There’s no points-based assessment, no employer sponsor required, and no Dutch language requirement. For self-employed Americans, it’s one of the simplest legal pathways to EU residency available anywhere in the world.
It sounds almost too good to be true. As a politically fatigued US-citizen myself, I’ve watched more and more Americans start asking: “Wait, can I actually just… leave?”
Well, if you’re a freelancer, consultant, or entrepreneur, the answer is yes. Here’s everything you need to know.
What is the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT)?
The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty is a bilateral agreement between the Netherlands and the United States, signed in The Hague on March 27, 1956. The treaty was originally signed as part of the Marshall Plan to encourage trade and investment between the two countries.
It’s technically a residence permit — not a visa —, but everyone calls it the DAFT visa, so we will too. In plain terms, it lets American entrepreneurs start a business in the Netherlands and live there legally.
You could be biking to work just like any Dutch businessman! Image: Dreamstime
You don’t need a Dutch employer, a job offer, or an especially impressive business plan. You just need to be American, be self-employed, and meet a few financial requirements. Easy peasy.
How does the DAFT visa work in the Netherlands?
Normally, non-EU nationals who want to work independently in the Netherlands have to pass a points-based evaluation system. The Dutch government assesses your business against strict criteria to determine whether it provides “added value” to the Dutch economy. You need at least 90 points to qualify.
DAFT allows Americans to skip all of that: it exempts them from the points test entirely.
What you’re left with is a much faster and more accessible process: register a business, apply for your permit with the IND (the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service), and renew it every two years.
The headline requirement: you must be a US citizen. That’s a non-negotiable.
Beyond that, you need to start or operate a business in the Netherlands and keep it genuinely active. Passive income, retirement funds, and dormant shell companies don’t count.
This could be you! Ready to make some amazing Dutch friends? Image: Dreamstime
There’s no age restriction, no diploma requirement, no minimum number of Dutch clients, and no business plan requirement. That means you can even serve American clients from Amsterdam!
Can family members join a DAFT visa holder?
Yes, your partner and children under 18 can join you, provided they apply for their own residence permits as dependents. One nuance worth flagging: family members can start working in a self-owned business from the moment they receive their residence sticker, but they can’t enter regular employment until you’ve received the final verdict on your DAFT application. It’s an important distinction, especially if your partner has a job lined up.
If your partner isn’t a US citizen, the process may be slightly more involved — some nationalities require an MVV (machtiging tot voorlopig verblijf).
This is a temporary entry clearance visa that non-exempt nationalities must obtain from a Dutch embassy in their home country before travelling to the Netherlands for a long stay.
DAFT visa requirements for Americans
Here’s what you’ll need to get your DAFT permit.
Minimum investment requirement
You must deposit a minimum of €4,500 into your Dutch business bank account. Keep in mind that this isn’t a fee or a one-time payment — it’s a capital requirement that must stay in the account for the full duration of your permit.
Business requirements
You need to register your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce, known as the Kamer van Koophandel (KVK). You must operate as a self-employed entrepreneur (ZZP) or company owner (BV), and the business must be active and generating real revenue at the time of application.
Documents required
Valid US passport (copies of all stamped pages)
Apostilled birth certificate (and marriage certificate or certificate of unmarried status, if applicable)
Business registration documents
Proof of the €4,500 deposit and an opening balance sheet from a BECON-registered Dutch accountant
Rental agreement or consent declaration for your Dutch address
Proof of health insurance
How to apply for the DAFT visa step by step
Before you get into the steps, there’s one decision you need to make first: which type of business are you setting up? This matters more than it sounds, because it changes the entire sequence of events.
Your two main options are
a ZZP (zelfstandige zonder personeel): a sole trader, roughly equivalent to being a 1099 freelancer in the US, or
a BV (besloten vennootschap): a private limited company, roughly equivalent to an LLC.
The ZZP can only be registered after you arrive in the Netherlands and have acquired your BSN number.
The BV, on the other hand, should ideally be set up before you move. This is especially important if you want to claim the Dutch 30% ruling, a tax benefit that lets some expats receive 30% of their income tax-free.
It cannot be backdated, so if you want it, you need to act before you board the plane.
Choosing the right pathway is important! Figure out what applies to you. Image: DutchReview
Path 1: ZZP (zelfstandige zonder personeel — sole trader)
This is the simpler setup and most likely the right call if you expect to earn under €69,000 per year.
Step 1: Enter the Netherlands
Arrive on your 90-day visa-free Schengen entry.
Post your DAFT application to the IND. This can also be done from abroad before you arrive. You can skip the BSN and KVK fields for now, as you don’t have those numbers yet.
Step 2: Book your IND appointments and get your residence sticker
Once the IND receives your application, you’ll get a V-number and an invoice for the €423 application fee.
Use your V-number to book two IND appointments: one for biometrics and one for your verblijfssticker (residence endorsement sticker). They’re separate appointments but can usually be booked back-to-back.
Your verblijfssticker goes straight into your passport and immediately grants you the right to live and work in the Netherlands while your full permit processes.
Step 3: Register at the gemeente (municipality) and get your BSN
This must happen after your IND sticker appointment because you need to show the sticker to register.
Bring your passport, apostilled birth certificate, rental agreement, and IND confirmation letter.
Your burgerservicenummer (BSN) — your Dutch citizen service number, needed for taxes and banking — arrives by post within a few days.
Step 4: Register your business with the KVK
Now that you have your BSN, you can register your eenmanszaak (sole proprietorship) with the Chamber of Commerce. The KVK registration fee is €80.10.
Open a business bank account in your company’s name.
Step 5: Deposit €4,500 and get your opening balance sheet
Deposit the minimum investment into your business bank account.
Obtain an opening balance sheet from a BECON-registered Dutch accountant (a Dutch accounting register that verifies professional qualifications).
All of this must be in place within 6 months of IND approval.
Important: the IND is currently running an expedited pilot that allows you to submit your application without these documents upfront. This may revert during 2026. If it does, KVK registration, balance sheet, and bank statements will need to be submitted before IND approval. Double-check the current situation when you apply.
Step 6: Receive your full residence permit
Expect the final verdict within one to two months of submitting your application.
Your permit is valid for two years.
Joining family members can live in the Netherlands from the moment they receive their own sticker and can work in a self-owned company from that point, but can only enter regular employment after the final DAFT verdict.
Here’s a sneak peek of the views your kids could be enjoying! Image: Freepik
This is the route to take if you expect to earn over €69,000 per year in wages from your company and want to access the 30% ruling. The front-loading is more work, but the tax savings can be substantial.
Step 1: Set up your BV before you move
Incorporate your BV and sign an employment contract with it before migrating. This is a hard requirement for 30% ruling eligibility — it cannot be backdated.
Be aware that setting up a BV costs considerably more than a ZZP. In addition to the KVK registration fee (€82.25), you’ll need a civil-law notary to draft the deed of incorporation. Notary fees typically run €500–€1,500, bringing the total setup cost to roughly €1,200–€2,000 for a standard single-founder BV.
Open a business bank account.
Deposit at least €4,500 into your BV’s business bank account and obtain an opening balance sheet from a BECON-registered Dutch accountant. Since your BV is already set up, this can and should be done before you arrive.
Important caveat: the BV and pre-arrival employment contract are only required if you want the 30% ruling. The ruling has a salary minimum of €69,000 in 2026. If you won’t meet that threshold, you don’t need to set up the BV pre-arrival.
Step 2: Enter the Netherlands and submit your DAFT application
Arrive on your 90-day visa-free Schengen entry.
Submit your application to the IND. Since your BV is already set up, you can also do this from abroad before you even arrive.
Step 3: Book your IND appointments and get your residence sticker
Use your V-number to book biometrics and sticker appointments — two separate appointments, bookable back-to-back.
Receive your verblijfssticker, which lets you live and work immediately.
Pay the €423 IND fee.
Step 4: Register at the gemeente and get your BSN
Must happen after your IND sticker appointment.
Bring a passport, an apostilled birth certificate, a rental agreement, IND confirmation letter.
BSN arrives by post within a few days.
Step 5: Receive your full residence permit
Expect the final verdict within one to two months.
The permit is valid for two years.
Joining family members can live in the Netherlands from the moment they receive their own sticker and can work in a self-owned company from that point, but can only enter regular employment after the final DAFT verdict.
How long does the DAFT visa last?
Your initial permit lasts for two years. After that, you can renew provided your business has been active, and your minimum of €4,500 has stayed in the account. The renewal then lasts for five years.
Keep in mind that when it’s time to renew your permit, the IND will check your financials. While there’s no strict benchmark, some recommend showing you’ve earned at least €1,700 per month between the seventh and 24th months.
So while nobody’s checking your revenue on day one, don’t treat the first two years as a free ride. It could be catastrophic later on.
Can DAFT lead to permanent residency?
Yes. After five years of legal residence in the Netherlands, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency — or even Dutch citizenship, if you meet the additional requirements (including passing a Dutch language and integration exam, known as inburgering).
Imagine raising your kids in this beautiful country! Image: Dreamstime
Worth knowing: permanent residency lets you keep your US passport while living in the Netherlands indefinitely.
Dutch citizenship is a bigger step; the Netherlands generally requires you to renounce your US citizenship as part of the naturalisation process, unless you qualify for one of a limited number of exceptions.
Examples of businesses Americans start under DAFT
The beauty of DAFT is that there are no restrictions on the type of business you run or where your clients are based. You can invoice American clients from an Amsterdam apartment — plenty of people do. Here’s who typically takes this route:
Freelancers and consultants: writers, designers, strategists, coaches
Remote workers: anyone with a US employer willing to hire them as a contractor
In short, if you can work independently and remotely, DAFT would probably work for you. Who knew moving to the Netherlands from the US was so achievable?
Pros and cons of the DAFT visa
The advantages
No points-based evaluation; you don’t have to prove your business “adds value” to the Dutch economy
Low investment requirement (€4,500) compared to most entrepreneur visas worldwide
Fast processing; currently 6–8 weeks under the expedited pilot
Flexibility on business type and client location
Potential access to the Dutch 30% ruling — one of the most generous expat tax benefits in Europe
Family can join, and your partner can work
The challenges
You must keep the business genuinely active; passive income or shell structures won’t cut it
Dutch bureaucracy takes some getting used to. Apostilles, BECON accountants, BSN numbers — there are a lot of acronyms to learn
Exclusive to US citizens: your non-American partner can’t use DAFT as their own immigration route, though they can apply to join you as a dependent once your permit is approved.
At renewal, you’ll need to show the business has been financially productive
DAFT vs other ways to move to the Netherlands
If you’re not sure whether DAFT is right for you, here’s how it stacks up against the other main options.
Make sure you weigh your options before choosing DAFT! Image: DutchReview
DAFT vs Dutch self-employed visa
The standard Dutch self-employed visa requires you to pass a 90-point evaluation of your business concept. It’s time-consuming, difficult, and routinely rejected. DAFT removes that requirement entirely for Americans.
Personally, I’ve seen multiple friends and family members get rejected on this basis. There’s no contest: DAFT is an easier route.
DAFT vs highly-skilled migrant visa
The highly skilled migrant (HSM) visa is for Americans who have a job offer from a Dutch employer. It’s a strong option if you’re going the employment route, but it requires a sponsor and a salary above a set threshold.
If you’re self-employed or want to run your own business, DAFT is the better fit. If you’ve got a cushy job offer and sponsorship, don’t overcomplicate things, though!
DAFT vs Startup visa
The startup visa is aimed at innovative, scalable businesses. It requires a Dutch “facilitator” (an approved mentor organisation) and only runs for one year.
DAFT is less restrictive, more flexible, and available to a much broader range of business types.
Thinking about making the move? Share your questions or experiences in the comments below.
Frequently asked questions about the DAFT treaty
How much money do you need for the DAFT visa?
You need a minimum of €4,500 deposited in your business bank account to qualify for the DAFT visa. This amount must stay there for the duration of your permit.
Do you need to speak Dutch for DAFT?
You don’t need to speak Dutch to apply for or hold a DAFT permit. The Netherlands is one of the most English-friendly countries in the world, so day-to-day life and running a business in English is very manageable. You will need to pass a Dutch language exam (inburgering) if you later apply for permanent residency or citizenship — but that’s years down the line, and there are plenty of resources to help you pass!
How long does the DAFT application process take?
Under the current IND expedited pilot, you can expect a verdict within six to eight weeks of submitting your application. You’ll receive your residence sticker within a couple of weeks of arriving in the Netherlands, which allows you to live and work immediately while you wait for the final decision.
Can you work as a freelancer under DAFT?
Yes, freelancing is one of the most common uses of the DAFT visa. You can serve clients anywhere in the world, including your existing US clients, as long as you invoice them through your Dutch business.
Can you bring your partner or family?
Your partner and children under 18 can apply for dependent residence permits alongside your DAFT application. Your partner will be able to work in the Netherlands without a separate work permit once the final DAFT verdict comes through. If your partner is not a US citizen, additional steps may apply depending on their nationality.
According to DNB (De Nederlandsche Bank) Director Olaf Sleijpen, the latest energy crisis, driven by the ongoing war in the Middle East, could push the Netherlands into an economic crisis.
Sleijpen called the situation for the Netherlands a “code orange, perhaps dark orange,” reports RTL Nieuws.
According to the DNB, high energy prices caused by the foreign conflict create a risk of persistent inflation and higher unemployment. Low-income earners would be most impacted.
In their analysis, the DNB laid out different scenarios: ‘unfavourable’ and ‘severe’. Let’s break them down.
A severe scenario
In the face of persistent war and rising energy costs, the Dutch economy could be severely impacted.
In this situation, high energy costs lead to economic stagnation, RTL Nieuws reports. When economic growth slows, there is a risk of highly increased inflation.
This domino effect continues: high inflation prompts Dutch workers to demand wage increases, driving inflation even higher. So, even when wages do increase (as DNB says they will in the coming year), pay increases won’t be enough to offset the costs of high inflation.
Ultimately, in this scenario, the Dutch wallet is hit hard, and the average worker’s income declines.
An ‘unfortunate’ scenario
Unsurprisingly, when income decreases, people spend less.
That also means companies suffer and become more conservative in their investments.
While in the severe scenario, the lack of investment spirals and companies across all different sectors are hit, Sleijpen also presented a milder ‘unfortunate’ scenario.
In this case, the primary victims are industrial companies. While losing industrial output is far from ideal, it’s a narrower hit than a full economic slowdown.
There is, however, a more optimistic possibility.
Mild scenario
Another possibility is that prices return to normal within the year. In this more positive situation, the domino effect is stymied, and economic growth is not impacted for long.
Inflation would still rise slightly, but the overall economic impact would be far less worrying.
Unfortunately, it all depends on how long this foreign conflict continues. If energy costs are impacted for long enough, the chain reaction of negative economic consequences is hard to avoid.
What now?
For now, says Sleijpen, government intervention should be selective and not immediate. Rather than offering a wide-reaching aid that ultimately does little for the average Dutch earner, any help from the cabinet should specifically support those who need it most.
Furthermore, the DNB has assured the public that, regardless of how the situation plays out, the energy impacts will not be as severe as during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
In the end, Sleijpen’s advice is simple: the Netherlands needs to address some of the more familiar economic ‘bottlenecks,’ such as the nitrogen crisis, to give companies room to grow and create better jobs for the population, reports AD.
Alas, that provides limited comfort for Dutch workers in the short-term.
What do you think of the code orange? Let us know in the comments.
Eindhoven Airport has confirmed it will shut down completely for nearly half a year due to a major runway renovation.
The dates are confirmed: the airport will be fully closed to air traffic from February 1 to July 19, 2027. That covers both commercial and military operations, so expect a much quieter sky over Eindhoven for the better part of the year.
What does this mean for passengers?
Unfortunately, all airlines have cancelled or suspended all flights scheduled for this period.
You might be wondering, “Can I still find cheap tickets in 2027?” Well, you still can.
According to RTV Maastricht, all flights normally departing from Eindhoven will temporarily move to Maastricht Aachen Airport.
Meanwhile, the bus to Eindhoven Airport will run on a limited schedule, and only the P1 lot will remain open for short-term parking.
Why does the runway need this much work?
Over at Eindhoven Airport, the runway is getting a complete reconstruction from scratch.
The airport has just one runway, so it needs to be fully out of service for the job to be done properly.
To those who hate flying from Eindhoven, the revamped airport will hopefully change your mind.
As part of the renovation, the runway will be widened, an extra taxi track will be added, and, best of all, a brand new Category 3 Instrument Landing System will be implemented.
This technology allows an aircraft to take off and land in extremely dense fog. Meaning, passengers can expect fewer delays and headaches when flying from Eindhoven Airport.
Are you a regular Eindhoven flyer? Does this closure affect your 2027 travel plans? Let us know in the comments below.
