Can Compliance Consultants Use the DAFT Visa? Here's How
Yes, compliance consultants can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) works well for compliance professionals who want to consult independently from the Netherlands. You can advise US companies on regulatory requirements, help European firms with US compliance, or work across both markets.
The Netherlands is one of Europe's top financial and business centers. Amsterdam hosts major banks, fintech companies, and the European offices of many US corporations. Compliance expertise is in steady demand.
DAFT Eligibility for Compliance Consultants
Status: DAFT Eligible
Compliance consulting is a strong DAFT profession. The work is advisory, deliverables are digital, and the demand for cross-border compliance knowledge is growing.
Key points:
- Remote-friendly - advisory and audit work can be done remotely
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands (though certifications help)
- Dutch market demand: High (financial services, GDPR, anti-money laundering)
- Typical income range: €60,000-€120,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
Most compliance consultants on DAFT start with an eenmanszaak. It's fast to set up and lets you focus on building your practice.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup. Given the advisory nature of compliance work and potential liability, a BV can be worth the extra effort, especially for larger engagements.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your Compliance Consultancy
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For compliance consultants, this typically includes:
- Regulatory compliance audits and gap analysis
- Anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) programs
- GDPR and data privacy compliance
- Policy development and staff training
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: Learning EU and Dutch regulatory frameworks Solution: If you're coming from US compliance (SOX, FINRA, SEC), you'll need to learn EU equivalents (GDPR, MiFID II, DORA). The good news is that the underlying principles are similar. Your US compliance background gives you a strong foundation, and understanding both systems makes you more valuable to cross-border clients.
Challenge: Competing with established local consultants Solution: Your differentiator is cross-border knowledge. Many Dutch companies need help with US regulatory compliance, and US companies entering the European market need someone who understands both sides. Position yourself in that gap.
Challenge: Keeping up with regulatory changes in two jurisdictions Solution: Subscribe to regulatory updates from both US and EU authorities. Join professional organizations on both sides of the Atlantic. The time investment in staying current is real, but it's what makes your cross-border expertise valuable.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €60,000-€120,000/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 Compliance Consultant
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships
- Target US financial institutions and fintechs expanding into Europe
- Use LinkedIn and professional networks to connect with compliance officers
Dutch clients:
- Network with financial services companies in Amsterdam's Zuidas business district
- Join the Dutch Compliance Institute (NCI) or similar organizations
- Attend fintech and banking events - the Netherlands has a strong financial sector
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. Compliance engagements often involve ongoing advisory relationships, so bringing a client or two with you provides reliable income from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I advise US companies on compliance from the Netherlands? A: Yes, you can work as an independent contractor for US companies. You bill them as a Dutch business. Advisory work on US regulations like SOX, FINRA, or HIPAA doesn't require you to be physically in the US.
Q: Do I need Dutch clients to qualify for DAFT? A: No, DAFT does not require Dutch clients. Many compliance consultants on DAFT work primarily with US or international clients.
Q: Are compliance certifications recognized in the Netherlands? A: US certifications like CRCM, CAMS, or CISA are recognized internationally and valued by Dutch employers and clients. EU-specific certifications can complement your US credentials and strengthen your cross-border positioning.
Related Professions
If compliance consultant isn't quite right for your situation, consider these related professions that also work with DAFT:
- Can Business Consultant Use DAFT?
- Can Financial Advisor Use DAFT?
- Can Management Consultant Use 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.