Can Business Coaches Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, business coaches can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) works well for business coaches. Coaching is done primarily over video calls, which means you can serve your existing clients from the Netherlands without missing a beat.
The Netherlands has a strong coaching culture, and many Dutch companies invest in professional development for their teams. That said, most business coaches on DAFT keep their US client base as their primary revenue source.
DAFT Eligibility for Business Coaches
Status: DAFT Eligible
Business coaching is consulting work that requires no special Dutch licensing. You can coach clients in any country from the Netherlands.
Key points:
- Remote work friendly - can serve clients worldwide via video calls
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Moderate to high
- Typical income range: €40,000-€100,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
For business coaches, an eenmanszaak keeps things straightforward. You can always upgrade to a BV later if your revenue justifies it.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Consider a BV if you plan to offer group programs at scale or hire other coaches.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Business Coaching Practice
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For business coaches, this typically includes:
- One-on-one executive coaching
- Group coaching programs
- Workshop facilitation
- Online courses and digital products
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
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: Time zone management with US clients Solution: The Netherlands is 6-9 hours ahead of US time zones. Many coaches schedule US client sessions in the late afternoon or evening Dutch time. This actually frees up your mornings for deep work, content creation, or local networking.
Challenge: Maintaining credibility from abroad Solution: Your US business experience is an asset, not a liability. Many coaches find that living abroad actually adds to their credibility — you have taken a big leap yourself. Use your relocation story as part of your brand if it fits.
Challenge: Pricing for different markets Solution: If you add Dutch or European clients, be aware that coaching rates in Europe can differ from US rates. Many coaches maintain US pricing for US clients and adjust slightly for the European market. Keep it simple.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €40,000-€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
- Digital products (courses, ebooks) may have different VAT rules
See our US Taxes While Living in Netherlands guide.
Finding Clients as a Business Coach
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships — this is your biggest advantage
- Continue your content marketing (podcasts, LinkedIn, newsletters)
- Online coaching platforms and referral networks
- B2B services to US clients are often easiest to maintain
Dutch and European clients:
- The Netherlands values professional development and coaching
- Network at business events in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague
- Join the Dutch coaching associations like NOBCO
- Many international companies headquartered in the Netherlands hire English-speaking coaches
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients. Business coaching is one of the most portable professions — your clients care about your skill, not your postal code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a coaching certification to practice in the Netherlands? A: No certification is legally required. However, having an ICF credential or similar certification adds credibility, especially if you want Dutch corporate clients. Many Dutch companies specifically look for ICF-accredited coaches.
Q: Can I run group coaching programs and sell courses from the Netherlands? A: Yes. Digital products and online programs are a great revenue stream. Be aware of VAT rules for digital products sold to EU consumers — you may need to charge the customer's local VAT rate. Your tax advisor can help set this up.
Q: Is the Dutch coaching market competitive? A: Yes, but the market is also large. The Netherlands has one of the highest per-capita rates of coaching usage in Europe. Your US perspective and experience give you a distinct niche, especially with international companies.
Related Professions
If business coach 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? A coaching practice with revenue?
- 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.