What Kind of Business Can You Start with a DAFT Visa?
"What kind of business should I start for DAFT?" is probably the most common question we get from Americans planning to move to the Netherlands. People worry their idea isn't "good enough" or won't qualify.
Here's the truth: the Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) is flexible about business types. The IND cares that your business is legitimate and active—not that it's revolutionary or hugely profitable.
What the IND Actually Wants
Before diving into ideas, let's clarify what the IND (Dutch immigration service) is looking for:
They want to see:
- A legitimate business activity
- Genuine intent to operate the business
- The €4,500 investment in the business
- Some path to generating revenue
They don't require:
- Profitability (especially not immediately)
- Minimum revenue targets
- Specific business types
- Previous business experience
We spent weeks worrying if our business idea was "DAFT-worthy." Turns out, the bar is much lower than we thought. If it's a real business that you're actually running, you're probably fine. For the complete list of requirements, see our DAFT requirements guide.
What "Active Business" Means
The IND wants an "active" business, not a shell company.
Signs of an active business:
- Regular client work, product sales, or marketing
- Business expenses and bank transactions
- A functioning website or business presence
Signs of an inactive business:
- No transactions for extended periods
- No clients or customers
- Registration only, no actual work
You don't need massive revenue. You need to show you're genuinely operating a business.
Business Types That Work
Digital Services
These are ideal for DAFT because they're location-independent. You can serve US, European, or global clients from anywhere in the Netherlands.
- Freelance web development - Build websites for clients
- Graphic design - Logos, branding, marketing materials
- Digital marketing - SEO, social media, paid advertising
- Content writing/copywriting - Blog posts, website copy
- Social media management - Manage accounts for businesses
Consulting & Professional Services
- Business consulting - Strategy and operations advice
- IT consulting - Technical guidance for companies
- Coaching - Executive, business, or career coaching
- Financial consulting - Planning and advice (check licensing requirements)
E-Commerce
- Dropshipping - Sell products without holding inventory
- Handmade/artisan products - Crafts, art, custom items
- Print-on-demand - Custom-designed products
- Import/export - Source products for different markets
Creative Services
- Photography - Portrait, product, event
- Videography - Video content for businesses
- Music production/audio - Podcasts, voiceovers
- Illustration/art - Digital or traditional
Online Education
- Online courses - Teach your expertise
- Coaching/tutoring - One-on-one instruction
- Content creation - YouTube, podcasting
Choosing the Right Business for You
Not every business idea is right for everyone.
Consider your skills. What are you already good at? Using existing expertise is easier than starting from scratch.
Consider your financial runway. Digital services can generate revenue quickly. Content creation takes much longer to monetize.
Consider your lifestyle goals. Why are you moving to the Netherlands? Maximum flexibility points toward online services. If you want client interaction, consulting or coaching might be better.
The "best" DAFT business is one you'll actually run. A perfect business plan for something you won't stick with is worse than a simple plan for something you enjoy. Wondering how DAFT compares to other visa options? See our DAFT vs other visas comparison.
Need Help Choosing Your Business?
Go at Your Own Pace
Templates, checklists, and a step-by-step timeline for your entire DAFT move—the practical toolkit we built from our own experience.
- 20+ proven business ideas for DAFT
- Business plan templates included
- Or book a consultation for personalized guidance
Talk Through Your Situation
Have specific questions? Unusual circumstances? Or just want to hear from someone who did this? Let's get on a call.
- 20+ proven business ideas for DAFT
- Business plan templates included
- Or book a consultation for personalized guidance
Our Story
When we were planning our DAFT move, we went back and forth on business ideas. Joint marketing agency? Too complicated. Dropshipping? Not our expertise. YouTube channel? Too slow to monetize.
What we did: each registered an eenmanszaak in our respective fields. Clayton does web development and consulting. Dannie does content and copywriting.
It wasn't glamorous. It was practical. And it's worked—we have clients, we're active, and our businesses satisfy DAFT requirements.
We overcomplicated this. The business you should start is the one that uses your existing skills and can generate revenue.
What to Avoid
Regulated Industries
Some fields require Dutch or EU licensing: medical services, legal services (Dutch law), financial services (investments, insurance), real estate brokerage. You can sometimes offer consulting without the regulated activities, but research carefully.
Creating a Shell Company
A business that exists only on paper, with no real activities, won't satisfy DAFT requirements.
Relying on a Single Employer
If your "business" is really just employment for one company that controls your work, that's disguised employment—not self-employment.
Planning to Not Work
DAFT requires an active business. "I'll start it someday" isn't a plan.
Can You Change Your Business Later?
Yes. Your business can evolve.
You can update your KVK registration to add or change activities—this is normal business growth. If your original idea isn't working, you can pivot. The key is that you always have legitimate business activities.
What you shouldn't do: let your business go inactive without a plan. If you're not running any business, your DAFT status could be at risk during renewal.
The Bottom Line
The best DAFT business is one that:
- Uses skills you have
- Can generate revenue
- You'll actually run
That's it. It doesn't have to be innovative. It doesn't have to scale. It has to be real, active, and legitimate.
We know DAFT holders running simple freelance businesses and loving life in the Netherlands. The business is the vehicle; the destination is your new life. For detailed planning resources, see our complete DAFT guide.
Ready to register your business? See our KVK Registration Guide for the step-by-step process. Once your business is running, learn about maintaining your DAFT business annually.
Digital Guide — $199
We're not immigration lawyers—just Americans who did this. Requirements change, so verify with official sources.