Can Accountants Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, accountants can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) is a great fit for accountants who want to run their own practice from the Netherlands. You can serve US clients remotely, take on Dutch clients, or both.
Accountants bring a unique advantage to the DAFT process: you already understand business registration, tax compliance, and financial reporting. That knowledge translates directly to running your own business in the Netherlands.
DAFT Eligibility for Accountants
Status: DAFT Eligible
Accounting is a strong profession for DAFT. You can offer bookkeeping, tax preparation, advisory services, and financial consulting to clients worldwide.
Key points:
- Remote work friendly - can serve US clients from the Netherlands
- US tax knowledge is in high demand among American expats
- Dutch market demand: Moderate to High (especially for US tax work)
- Typical income range: €50,000-€100,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
Most accountants on DAFT start with an eenmanszaak. It keeps things simple while you build your client base and learn the Dutch business environment.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. May be worth considering if you plan to take on employees or want liability protection as your practice grows.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Accounting Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For accountants, this typically includes:
- US tax preparation and planning for expats
- Bookkeeping and financial reporting
- Business advisory and consulting
- Forensic accounting or audit support
Step 2: KVK Registration Register your business with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. You'll need:
- Valid residence permit (or proof of DAFT application)
- Proof of address in the Netherlands
- Description of your business activities
- €75 registration fee
See our KVK registration guide for the full walkthrough.
Step 3: Tax Registration After KVK registration, you'll automatically be registered with the Belastingdienst (Dutch tax authority) for:
- Income tax
- VAT (BTW) - you may be exempt if under €20,000/year
Common Challenges & Solutions
Challenge: Understanding Dutch accounting standards Solution: Dutch GAAP differs from US GAAP. If you plan to serve Dutch clients, invest time learning the differences. For US-facing work, your existing knowledge applies directly.
Challenge: Licensing and credentials Solution: Your US CPA license doesn't automatically transfer to the Netherlands. However, for serving US clients with US tax work, your CPA remains valid. Dutch accounting work may require additional credentials depending on the services you offer.
Challenge: Building a client base from scratch Solution: The American expat community in the Netherlands is large and growing. Many need US tax help. Start there and expand.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €50,000-€100,000/year
Tax obligations:
- Dutch income tax (progressive rates, 36-49%)
- US tax filing required (as a US citizen)
- Foreign Earned Income Exclusion may apply
- Tax treaty between US and Netherlands prevents double taxation
VAT (BTW):
- Services to US/non-EU clients: 0% (reverse charge)
- Services to Dutch clients: 21% VAT
- Small business exemption if under €20,000/year
See our US Taxes While Living in Netherlands guide.
Finding Clients as an Accountant
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships
- Market to American expats in Europe who need US tax filing help
- Join expat groups and forums where people ask about tax obligations
Dutch clients:
- Network at business events in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht
- Partner with Dutch accountants who need US tax knowledge
- Build a presence in local business directories
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. US expat tax season (January-April) creates predictable demand if you market early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use my CPA license in the Netherlands? A: Your CPA remains valid for US tax work regardless of where you live. However, to perform Dutch statutory audits or certain regulated services in the Netherlands, you'd need Dutch credentials. Most DAFT accountants focus on US-facing work.
Q: Do I need Dutch clients to qualify for DAFT? A: No, DAFT does not require Dutch clients. Many accountants on DAFT work primarily with US clients and American expats across Europe.
Q: Is there demand for US-trained accountants in the Netherlands? A: Yes. The growing American expat community needs help with US tax obligations, and multinational companies value people who understand both US and Dutch financial systems.
Related Professions
If accountant isn't quite right for your situation, consider these related professions that also work with DAFT:
Next Steps
- Evaluate your situation - Do you have clients? Income? A viable business plan?
- Read the DAFT requirements - Understand all requirements
- Prepare your documents - Start the apostille process early
- Plan your timeline - Most people need 3-6 months to prepare
Digital Guide — $99
We're not immigration lawyers—just Americans who did this. Requirements change, so verify with official sources.