Can Astrologers Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, astrologers can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to run any legitimate business from the Netherlands, and astrology practices absolutely qualify. If you do readings, write horoscopes, or offer consulting — you can build that business here.
The Netherlands is one of the more open-minded countries in Europe when it comes to alternative and spiritual practices. That works in your favor.
DAFT Eligibility for Astrologers
Status: DAFT Eligible
Astrology falls under personal consulting and spiritual services. You can serve clients online from anywhere, which makes it a solid fit for DAFT.
Key points:
- Remote work friendly - can serve clients worldwide via video calls
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Moderate (strong among expats and younger demographics)
- Typical income range: €25,000-€60,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
For astrologers, an eenmanszaak is almost always the right choice. The overhead is minimal and matches the typical scale of an astrology practice.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Rarely necessary for astrologers unless you are running a large-scale content or product business alongside your readings.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Astrology Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For astrologers, this typically includes:
- Birth chart readings and consultations
- Transit and progression reports
- Written horoscope content for publications or your own platform
- Workshops and online courses
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
When describing your business at KVK, use language like "personal consulting" or "astrological consulting services." The KVK staff are used to a wide variety of businesses.
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: Proving business viability to immigration authorities Solution: Prepare a clear business plan showing your income history, client base, and revenue projections. If you already have a following or existing clients in the US, document that. The IND (Dutch immigration service) wants to see you can support yourself — the specific profession matters less than the financial viability.
Challenge: Building income in the early months Solution: Most astrologers on DAFT keep their existing online client base. Since readings happen over video calls, your clients do not need to be local. Time zones actually work well — you can do US client readings in the evening (Dutch time).
Challenge: Being taken seriously as a business Solution: The Netherlands treats all registered businesses equally. Once you have a KVK number, you are a legitimate Dutch business. Focus on professional presentation and consistent income.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €25,000-€60,000/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
- Digital products (courses, ebooks) may have different VAT rules
See our US Taxes While Living in Netherlands guide.
Finding Clients as an Astrologer
International clients:
- Maintain your existing US client base — video readings work from anywhere
- Social media (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube) remains your primary marketing channel
- Sell digital products like birth chart reports or courses globally
- Podcast appearances and collaborations expand your reach
Dutch and European clients:
- The Netherlands has an active spiritual and wellness community
- Cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht have wellness events and markets
- European clients appreciate working with an English-speaking astrologer
- Partner with local yoga studios, wellness centers, and bookshops for workshops
Best practice: Start DAFT with an established online presence and existing revenue. Astrology is one of those professions where your clients come to you, regardless of where you live.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the Dutch government take my astrology business seriously? A: Yes. The KVK registers all types of businesses without judgment. What matters to the IND and tax authorities is that you are running a legitimate operation, filing taxes, and supporting yourself financially.
Q: Can I do in-person readings in the Netherlands? A: Absolutely. You can rent space in a wellness center, work from home (check your lease for business use restrictions), or meet clients at co-working spaces. Many astrologers blend online and in-person work.
Q: Do I need to charge in euros? A: You should invoice in euros for Dutch and EU clients. For US clients, you can invoice in dollars or euros — just keep clear records for your tax filings.
Related Professions
If astrologer 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? An online presence?
- Read the complete DAFT guide - Understand all DAFT 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.