Best Business Ideas for the DAFT Visa in 2026 (Tested)
Before we moved to the Netherlands, we spent weeks overthinking what kind of business to register. Would the IND reject a consulting business? Did we need something more "serious"?
Turns out, the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) is remarkably flexible about what business you can run. The IND cares that your business is real, not that it fits some narrow mold.
Here are business ideas that actually work well for DAFT entrepreneurs, based on what we've seen succeed.
What Makes a Good DAFT Business?
Before jumping into ideas, it helps to understand what the IND looks for at renewal time. They want to see:
- Active business registration at KVK
- Revenue coming in (even modest amounts in the first year)
- The €4,500 still in your business bank account
- Tax filings up to date
That means the best DAFT businesses are ones you can actually start generating income from quickly. Businesses that require years of investment before earning anything are riskier from an immigration standpoint.
For a full breakdown of what's required, check our guide on annual requirements for your DAFT business.
Service-Based Businesses
These are the most common DAFT businesses, and for good reason. Low startup costs, quick revenue, and easy to explain to the IND.
Freelance consulting. If you have experience in marketing, strategy, operations, finance, HR, or any business function, you can consult for Dutch or international companies. Many US expats consult remotely for their former US employers while building a local client base.
Web development and design. The Netherlands has a strong tech scene, and there's steady demand for English-speaking developers. Rates for experienced developers run €75-150 per hour.
Content creation and copywriting. Dutch companies need English-language content constantly. Blog posts, website copy, social media content, and marketing materials are all in demand. Native English speakers have a real advantage here.
Translation and localization. If you speak Dutch (or another language), translation services are straightforward to set up and always in demand.
Coaching and training. Executive coaching, career coaching, and corporate training are well-established industries in the Netherlands. The Dutch value personal development and companies regularly invest in coaching for employees.
Creative Businesses
Graphic design and branding. Amsterdam and Rotterdam especially have thriving creative industries. International companies based in the Netherlands need designers who understand both US and European design sensibilities.
Photography and videography. Commercial photography, corporate headshots, event photography, and video production all work well. Startup costs are higher (equipment), but rates are strong at €100-200 per hour for commercial work.
UX/UI design. With companies like Booking.com, Adyen, and dozens of startups based in the Netherlands, UX designers find steady work. You can freelance for multiple clients or land a long-term contract.
Online and Remote Businesses
One of the biggest advantages of DAFT is that your business doesn't need to serve only Dutch clients. You can run a location-independent business from the Netherlands.
E-commerce. Running an online store is perfectly valid. Whether you sell physical products (using Dutch fulfillment centers) or digital products, this counts as a real business. Just make sure you understand VAT requirements for selling within the EU.
SaaS and digital products. If you build and sell software, online courses, templates, or other digital products, this works great for DAFT. Revenue is trackable and the business model is easy for the IND to understand.
Online tutoring and teaching. Teaching English online, offering music lessons, or tutoring in academic subjects are all viable. Platforms exist, but you can also build your own client base for better margins.
Affiliate marketing and blogging. This one comes with a caveat: it can take months to generate meaningful revenue. If this is your primary business, have savings to cover the gap and be prepared to explain your revenue model at IND renewal.
Businesses That Need Extra Thought
Some businesses are perfectly legal under DAFT but require additional steps:
Food service. You can start a food business, but you'll need hygiene certifications and potentially specific permits depending on your municipality. Costs add up quickly.
Regulated professions. Accounting, legal services, healthcare, and financial advice may require Dutch certifications even if you're qualified in the US. Research credential recognition before committing.
Import/export. Viable, but VAT and customs rules for EU trade add complexity. Worth it if you have experience, but steep learning curve if you don't.
For more details on what types of businesses are allowed, read What Kind of Business Can You Start with DAFT?
How to Choose
If you're stuck deciding, ask yourself these questions:
- Can I earn money in the first 3 months? The faster you generate revenue, the better your position at IND renewal.
- Do I have existing skills or clients? Starting a brand-new career and a new country simultaneously is hard mode.
- Can I explain this to a government official? If the IND asks what your business does, can you answer in one clear sentence?
- Are startup costs manageable? Remember, you need €4,500 in your business account. Big upfront investments eat into that buffer.
What We Wish We Knew: Your business doesn't have to be your passion project. It needs to be legitimate and generate income. You can always pivot later once you're settled. Many people start with consulting and evolve their business over time.
The best approach: start with what you already know how to do. You can always expand, add services, or change direction after your first year. For help structuring your idea, see our guide on how to write a DAFT business plan.
Getting Registered
Once you've chosen your business idea, the actual registration at KVK is straightforward and free for an eenmanszaak. Our KVK registration guide walks you through exactly what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I run multiple businesses under one KVK registration? A: Yes. You can register multiple SBI codes (activity descriptions) under a single eenmanszaak. Many DAFT entrepreneurs register 2-3 related activities. For example, "web development" and "IT consulting" under one registration.
Q: Do I need Dutch clients, or can I work for US companies? A: You can work for clients anywhere in the world. Many DAFT entrepreneurs primarily serve US clients, especially in the first year. The IND doesn't require Dutch clients specifically.
Q: What if my business idea changes after registration? A: You can update your business activities at KVK anytime. Adding or changing SBI codes is free. Just keep your business description consistent with what you told the IND.
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We're not immigration lawyers—just Americans who did this. Requirements change, so verify with official sources.