Can Career Coaches Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, career coaches can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) is a strong option for career coaches who want to run their practice from the Netherlands. You can coach US clients over video calls, take on European clients, or build a mix of both.
Coaching is one of the most portable professions out there. All you need is a reliable internet connection and your ability to help people figure out their next career move.
DAFT Eligibility for Career Coaches
Status: DAFT Eligible
Career coaching is a great fit for DAFT. The work is fully remote-capable, requires no physical inventory, and clients are everywhere.
Key points:
- Fully remote-friendly - coaching sessions work perfectly over video
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: Moderate (growing interest in coaching culture)
- Typical income range: €40,000-€90,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
Most career coaches on DAFT start with an eenmanszaak. Minimal overhead keeps your costs low while you build your client base.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Rarely necessary for solo coaching practices unless you plan to scale with 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 Career Coaching Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For career coaches, this typically includes:
- One-on-one career coaching sessions
- Resume and LinkedIn profile optimization
- Interview preparation and salary negotiation coaching
- Group workshops and career transition programs
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: Scheduling across time zones Solution: The time difference with the US means your afternoon and evening slots align with US business hours. Some coaches dedicate mornings to European clients and afternoons to US clients. This split works well once you establish the rhythm.
Challenge: Building credibility in a new market Solution: Your US career market knowledge is valuable to Americans abroad and to European professionals targeting US companies. Start with the expat community and expand from there. Testimonials and case studies travel across borders.
Challenge: Scaling beyond one-on-one sessions Solution: Consider creating online courses, group coaching programs, or digital products to supplement your income. These scale without requiring more of your time and can reach clients in any time zone.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €40,000-€90,000/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 a Career Coach
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships
- Market through LinkedIn (it's massive in the Netherlands too)
- Create content that showcases your approach - blog posts, videos, podcast appearances
Dutch clients:
- Join expat communities in Amsterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht
- Partner with relocation companies and international organizations
- Offer workshops at co-working spaces and business events
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. Career coaching income can be variable, so having a stable client base before you move reduces financial stress during the transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I coach US clients from the Netherlands on DAFT? A: Yes, you can work with US clients as an independent contractor. You bill them as a Dutch business. Video coaching sessions work the same from the Netherlands as from the US.
Q: Do I need Dutch clients to qualify for DAFT? A: No, DAFT does not require Dutch clients. Many coaches on DAFT work primarily with US clients.
Q: Do I need a coaching certification? A: DAFT has no certification requirements. Certifications like ICF (International Coach Federation) can help with credibility and client trust, but they're not legally required in the Netherlands.
Related Professions
If career 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? 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.