Can CX Consultants Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, customer experience consultants can use DAFT. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) allows US citizens to start a business in the Netherlands, and CX consulting is a great fit. You can advise companies on customer journeys, service design, and experience strategy from anywhere in the Netherlands.
CX consulting is service-based, remote-friendly, and increasingly valued by European companies. Dutch businesses in particular have a reputation for being customer-focused.
DAFT Eligibility for Customer Experience Consultants
Status: DAFT Eligible
CX consulting requires no special Dutch licensing. You register as a freelance consultant and can start working with clients right away.
Key points:
- Remote-friendly — workshops, audits, and strategy sessions work well over video
- No Dutch licensing or certification required
- Dutch market demand: Moderate to High
- Typical income range: €55,000–€110,000/year
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here because the setup is fast and the administrative burden is low.
CX consultants on DAFT typically choose this option, especially when starting out.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and a notary. More complex setup. Consider this if you're taking on large enterprise contracts where liability protection matters.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your CX Consulting Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly outline what you offer. For CX consultants, this typically includes:
- Customer journey mapping and analysis
- Voice of Customer (VoC) program design
- Service design and process improvement
- CX strategy and measurement frameworks
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: Running workshops remotely Solution: Many CX consultants have shifted to virtual workshops using Miro, FigJam, or similar tools. For Dutch and European clients, you can also travel for in-person sessions — distances are short.
Challenge: Demonstrating value without a local track record Solution: US CX experience translates well to European markets. Bring case studies and measurable outcomes. NPS improvements and customer retention numbers speak a universal language.
Challenge: Different customer expectations in Europe Solution: European customers have different privacy expectations (GDPR) and cultural norms. Spend time learning these differences — it becomes a strength when you can bridge US and European CX practices.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €55,000–€110,000/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 CX Consultant
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships
- Position yourself as a bridge between US and European CX practices
- Use LinkedIn and industry conferences to build visibility
Dutch/European clients:
- Dutch companies like KLM, Philips, and ING invest heavily in CX
- Attend CX-focused events and meetups in Amsterdam or Utrecht
- Join professional networks like the Customer Experience Professionals Association (CXPA)
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients. CX consulting engagements are often multi-month, so a couple of ongoing contracts give you solid income stability while you build a European presence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I consult for US companies on customer experience while living in the Netherlands? A: Yes. You invoice them as a Dutch business. Many CX consultants on DAFT work primarily with US clients remotely.
Q: Do I need to understand Dutch consumer behavior to consult here? A: Not to start. Many Dutch companies operate internationally and want English-speaking CX help. As you learn the local market, you can expand into Dutch-focused consulting.
Q: How do I handle GDPR when doing CX research for European clients? A: GDPR affects how you collect and process customer data. Work with a local privacy consultant if needed, and build GDPR compliance into your research methodology from the start.
Related Professions
If customer experience consulting 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 complete DAFT guide — 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.