Can E-commerce Sellers Use the DAFT Visa? Yes — Here's How
Yes, e-commerce sellers can use DAFT. E-commerce is a valid business activity for DAFT, whether dropshipping, own products, or Amazon FBA.
E-commerce entrepreneurs can run online stores selling products to customers worldwide.
DAFT Eligibility for E-commerce Sellers
Status: DAFT Eligible
E-commerce is a valid business activity for DAFT, whether dropshipping, own products, or Amazon FBA.
Key points:
- Remote work friendly - can serve clients worldwide
- No special licensing required in the Netherlands
- Dutch market demand: High
- Typical income range: €30,000-€100,000+/year (highly variable)
Business Structure Options
Recommended: Eenmanszaak (Sole Proprietorship)
Simplest structure. You are personally liable. Most DAFT applicants start here.
Most e-commerce sellers on DAFT start with this structure. It's simple to set up and has minimal requirements.
Other Options
BV (Private Limited Company) Limited liability but requires €0.01 capital and notary. More complex setup.
Registration process:
- Apply for DAFT residence permit
- Register with KVK (Chamber of Commerce)
- Receive your KVK number and start operating
Setting Up Your E-commerce Seller Business
Step 1: Define Your Services Clearly define what services you'll offer. For e-commerce sellers, this typically includes:
- Consulting and advisory work
- Project-based deliverables
- Ongoing retainer arrangements
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: EU VAT compliance Solution: Register for VAT OSS (One Stop Shop) to simplify EU-wide sales. Consider EU fulfillment for shipping.
Challenge: Inventory storage Solution: Use fulfillment centers (Amazon FBA Europe, local 3PLs) rather than storing inventory at home.
Income & Tax Considerations
Expected income: €30,000-€100,000+/year (highly variable)
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 E-commerce Seller
International clients:
- Maintain existing US client relationships
- Use platforms like Upwork, Toptal, or industry-specific networks
- B2B services to US clients are often easiest to maintain
Dutch clients:
- Network at industry events and meetups
- Join professional associations
- Build local portfolio and testimonials
Best practice: Start DAFT with existing clients or committed projects. This provides income stability while you build your Dutch network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I run an Amazon FBA business on DAFT? A: Yes, Amazon FBA and other e-commerce businesses are valid DAFT activities. You can use Amazon's European fulfillment network.
Related Professions
If e-commerce seller 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.