DAFT Visa Renewal: Everything You Need to Know in 2026

Your initial Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) residence permit lasts two years. That feels like a long time when you first get it. It's not.

Before you know it, you're Googling "DAFT visa renewal" at midnight, wondering if you've met all the requirements. We've been there. Here's what you actually need to know.

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When to Start the Renewal Process

The IND recommends starting your renewal at least three months before your current permit expires. We'd say start thinking about it six months out.

Why? Because you need to make sure your business activity, financial records, and documents are in order. If anything needs fixing, you want time to fix it without a deadline breathing down your neck.

Pro Tip: Set a calendar reminder for six months before your permit expiration date. Label it "Start DAFT renewal prep." Your future self will thank you.

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What the IND Checks at Renewal

The renewal process is less involved than your initial application, but the IND does verify a few key things.

1. Active Business

Your business needs to be active. This means you've been doing actual work, generating some revenue, and operating through your registered KVK entity.

The IND doesn't expect you to be earning six figures. But they want to see that your business isn't just a registration that sits there doing nothing. Invoices, contracts, a website with real content, social media activity---all of these demonstrate an active business.

2. Financial Records

You'll need to show basic financial documentation. This typically includes:

• Annual accounts or a financial summary from your bookkeeper
• Tax returns filed with the Belastingdienst (Dutch tax authority)
• Proof that the 4,500 euro investment was made and used for business purposes

If you've been keeping up with your annual business requirements, this should be straightforward.

3. Tax Compliance

Have you filed your taxes? Are you up to date with the Belastingdienst? The IND may check whether you've met your tax obligations.

This is one reason to have a Dutch accountant. They keep you compliant and can provide documentation quickly when renewal time comes. For more on Dutch taxes, see our guide on Dutch taxes for DAFT business owners.

4. Continued Residence

You should be actually living in the Netherlands. Extended absences (more than a few months) can raise questions. The IND expects you to be resident in the country where you hold your permit.

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Documents You'll Need

Here's the renewal document checklist:

• Valid passport (must be valid for duration of new permit)
• Current residence permit (the one you're renewing)
• KVK registration (showing active business)
• Financial records (annual accounts, tax filings)
• Health insurance proof (Dutch basic health insurance, not travel insurance this time)
• Passport photos (biometric specifications)
• Completed renewal application form

What We Wish We Knew: Unlike the initial application, you probably won't need new apostilled documents. The birth certificate and FBI check from your first application usually aren't required again. But check the current IND guidelines to be sure.

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The Renewal Process Step by Step

Step 1: Gather Documents (Month 1-2)

Start collecting your financial records, tax documents, and updated business information. If you've been organized throughout the year, this takes a few days. If not, give yourself several weeks.

Step 2: Submit the Application (Month 2-3)

You can submit your renewal application online through the IND portal or by mail. The IND will send you a payment request for the application fee.

Step 3: IND Appointment (If Required)

Not every renewal requires an in-person appointment. Some are processed entirely by mail. If the IND does want to see you, they'll schedule an appointment.

Step 4: Wait for the Decision

Processing typically takes 2-8 weeks. You can check your status online. Your current permit remains valid while your renewal is being processed, as long as you submitted before it expired.

Step 5: Collect Your New Permit

If approved, you'll pick up your new residence permit at the IND office.

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Common Renewal Questions

What if my business didn't make much money?

Low revenue isn't automatically a problem. The IND understands that businesses have ups and downs. What matters is that you're actively working and making a genuine effort. If you earned very little, be prepared to explain why and what your plan is going forward.

Can I change my business for the renewal?

Yes. Your business can evolve. Many DAFT holders pivot their business model during the first two years. Just make sure whatever you're doing now is registered with the KVK and reflected in your records.

What if I forgot to file taxes?

File them immediately. Late filing is better than no filing. Talk to a Dutch accountant about getting caught up. The IND takes tax compliance seriously.

How much does renewal cost?

The application fee for renewal is similar to the initial application---around 350 euros as of our last check. Plus whatever you pay your accountant to prepare financial documents.

What if I'm denied?

Denial at renewal is uncommon if you've been running your business and filing taxes. If it happens, you'll receive a letter explaining why and you'll have the opportunity to respond or appeal. An immigration lawyer can help if you find yourself in this situation.

For guidance on maintaining your DAFT business requirements throughout the year, we've put together a separate guide.

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How to Make Renewal Easy

The best renewal strategy is simple: run your business properly all year long.

• File your taxes on time
• Keep receipts and records organized
• Maintain your KVK registration
• Stay on top of health insurance
• Keep your accountant in the loop

If you do these things consistently, renewal is a formality. If you scramble at the last minute, it becomes stressful.

Reality Check: We've heard of people who let their business go dormant and then tried to show activity right before renewal. The IND isn't fooled by a flurry of invoices in month 23. Consistent activity throughout your permit period is what they want to see.

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We're not immigration lawyers---just Americans who did this. Requirements change, so verify with official sources.